Arctic Cruise

While each of our voyage operators have their own particular style, many features are common to all the trips. Below we outline these features and provide an overview of expedition voyages. Should you wish for further information, please contact our team.

EXPEDITION VOYAGES EXPLAINED

Expedition voyages use special ice-strengthened vessels and icebreakers to reach areas that are inaccessible to normal cruise ships. They are often former scientific research ships, which have been specially converted to offer comfortable accommodation and a relaxed and informal atmosphere. We also offer a number of vessels suited to passengers looking for a more superior standard of accommodation. Our expedition voyages are based on small groups, often numbering as few as 70-80 people. Small groups make for a more personal experience, allow maximum time on shore (no waiting ‘your turn’!) and importantly minimise the impact on these sensitive and vulnerable environments.

A daily programme of activities is always offered onboard, which, depending on the voyage and the individual day may include lectures, documentary videos, numerous Zodiac excursions (landings and iceberg cruises) and wildlife watching in the company of the experts. There is generally no organised programme of social activities or entertainment as passengers prefer to spend time soaking up the scenery on deck or reading in the well-stocked library. All ships have a bar and lounge and with an unofficial open bridge policy, everyone is welcome to watch the ship negotiate ice-filled channels, though occasionally, for safety reasons, the bridge area is closed. Some of the vessels have a sauna or fitness room.

ONBOARD EXPERTS & PASSENGERS

Your fellow passengers are likely to consist of single travellers, couples and friends in their thirties to sixties, but it is not unusual for passengers to be younger or older than this. What’s great is that everyone aboard is passionate about experiencing these amazing polar landscapes and friendships form very naturally. Groups are of mixed nationality but the main language is English.

Each trip has an expedition leader supported by a team of experts ranging from historians to guest lecturers, who may be specialists in a particular field. Experienced and enthusiastic; these experts are always happy to share their knowledge with visitors.

ITINERARIES & ROUTE

In these parts of the world the weather, sea ice and tides all play a big part in determining the actual itinerary. The itineraries shown under each voyage are typical of what may be achieved during the holiday. Flexibility is what makes expedition voyages adventurous and exciting. All passengers must accept that the captain and expedition leader decide the exact itinerary and shore landings on a daily basis, according to the conditions.

Zodiac Landings the expedition team will make every effort to ensure that you spend as much time as possible out and about in this breathtaking environment. That means up to three landings a day depending on weather conditions and other opportunities that may arise. The voyages offered have all been carefully researched to offer the very best of polar wildlife and scenery. Some are definitely more adventurous than others and as such require a greater degree of flexibility.

WEATHER

In Polar Regions the weather is always an unknown factor and is usually very changeable. Temperatures will be low, though it may not be as cold as you might expect. The range is usually between –15°C and +4°C. The summer average is around 0°C but on calm sunny days it can feel a lot warmer. Wet, windy weather must also be expected from time to time.

SEA CONDITIONS

On many voyages time is spent in the open sea so we recommend following the sailors’ advice – “prepare for the worst and hope for the best”. Most trips encounter some heavy seas but how rough and for how long is an unknown quantity. We advise you to visit your doctor or pharmacist for the most effective medication; however you can also find tips for more natural remedies on our website. Ultimately though, a few days of rough weather is worth it for the experience of a lifetime.

The captain and crew are extremely experienced in navigating safely in polar seas. In addition, the vessels are equipped with all necessary safety equipment. The Zodiacs are operated following strict safety guidelines and life-vests are worn at all times during Zodiac excursions.

HEALTH & FITNESS

All passengers must in good health since the voyages take place in remote areas without access to sophisticated medical facilities. Most shore landings involve using ‘Zodiac’ inflatable boats, climbing in and out of which requires a certain amount of agility, therefore the voyages are not suitable for people with mobility problems or serious health issues. If you’re unsure about whether a trip is right for you, please have a chat with our staff.

EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING

A comprehensive clothing and kit list will be sent to you once you have booked your holiday, but in a nutshell think, practical and comfortable - the layering principle is a great place to start. Sensible, warm and windproof outdoor clothing is essential, along with thermal underwear and a breathable waterproof jacket and trousers. For footwear, Wellington boots are most appropriate for shore landings (there are no jetties in the Poles!), while trainers or comfortable shoes/boots cover most other eventualities onboard. Some voyages provide a parka (yours to keep on specific voyages) and use of wellies for the duration. See our website for some great tips!

ACCOMMODATION & MEALS

A good standard of comfort is an integral part of all voyages, though first and foremost they are about exploring the region. Vessels are selected for their performance and safety in polar waters and provide a warm and friendly base. Some itineraries are specific to a certain vessel while others offer a choice. In these instances how you prioritise your requirements (passenger numbers, level of accommodation, time of year and price) may greatly influence which ship you choose.

International chefs accompany each voyage. Given the restricted availability of fresh ingredients, they do a marvellous job of producing varied and interesting menus (interspersed with delicious cakes, pastries and other goodies). If you are vegetarian, or have any special dietary requirements, it is usually possible to cater for your needs, but please ask us at the time of booking.