To ensure that you have the best possible holiday experience, we ask you to read the following information carefully. If you have any questions, please discuss them with us before you depart.
Hand Luggage – pack essential items for a day or two in your hand luggage, in case your bags go astray and take a few days to catch up with you, especially if you have any tight connecting flights.
Documents – take a copy of your travel insurance policy with you, and leave a copy of your passport with a reliable contact at home, in case the originals are lost or stolen.
Electronic Devices – ensure these are all fully charge before travel, as you may be required to switch them on at airport security.
Mobile Phones – make sure they are set up for international calls and if you plan to use travel apps such as Google Translate or Google Maps, ensure you check your data package with your provider in advance. Alternatively turn off date roaming to avoid large phone bills. Be aware that some rural areas may not have mobile or WiFi coverage.
Clothing – Thermal clothing suitable for Antarctic conditions is essential. Dress in layers including T-shirt, turtleneck top, fleece, lightweight jacket, heavy jacket, hat, scarf, waterproof gloves, woollen sock, thermal underwear & long waterproof trousers. Take rubber-soled sandals & casual clothes for use on board. Also pack hooded rain gear, backpack, sunglasses, lip protection and bio-degradable sunscreen. Used knee-high rubber boots are provided for wet landings. Sanitising hand cleaner and eye drops can also be handy, especially if you wear contact lenses.
Medicines - if you travel with prescription drugs, carry an adequate supply in their original bottles/packaging & keep them in your hand luggage, as if lost they may be difficult to replace.
Accessories – pack your phone (with charger and a spare battery pack), camera (with spare memory cards and batteries – a 200 mm zoom lens is good for wildlife photography) and binoculars (large 8x40 is best). We suggest one pair per person, as it can be frustrating to share. Take a plastic zip-lock bag to protect your camera and binoculars from spray whilst in the zodiacs.
Plugs – most cruise ships use type B (2 flat blades, as used in the USA), but also take an international adaptor.
Books – pack a good travel guide and some books for quiet evenings and when waiting for flights.
Water – drink only bottled water.
Food – Vegetarians and food allergies are well catered for.
Indemnities - please be aware it is likely you will be required to sign indemnities for any potentially hazardous activities.
Tipping – this is not compulsory, but if you wish to tip because you have received good service, we suggest the following per person:
- expedition cruises: $10 per day.
Be aware that Americans generally tip twice the amount that British people do, so when in an environment geared to Americans (eg an expedition cruise) don’t feel obliged to tip the excessive amount often suggested.
Your Safety - consult the UK Foreign Office website for the latest travel advice www.fco.gov.uk.