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Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about polar expedition cruises. Can’t find your answer? Our polar specialists are here to help.
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Getting Started
Planning & Booking
We recommend booking 12-18 months ahead for the best cabin selection and early booking discounts (typically 10-20% savings). Popular departures—especially over Christmas/New Year and peak wildlife seasons—often sell out a year in advance.
However, if you’re flexible on dates and cabin categories, last-minute deals (within 90 days of departure) can offer savings of 20-40%. The trade-off is limited choice and potentially less desirable cabin locations.
The Antarctic season runs from November to March, with each period offering different highlights:
**November (Early Season):** Pristine ice landscapes, penguin courtship and nest building, fewer visitors. Coldest temperatures.
**December-January (Peak Season):** Penguin chicks hatching, longest days (up to 20 hours of daylight), warmest temperatures, most wildlife activity. Highest demand and prices.
**February-March (Late Season):** Best whale watching, penguin chicks fledging, dramatic golden light, retreating ice opens new areas. Fewer vessels.
The Arctic season runs from May to September:
**May-June (Early Season):** Sea ice still present, polar bear hunting on ice, bird breeding season, midnight sun begins.
**July-August (Peak Season):** Warmest temperatures (0-10°C), maximum wildlife activity, 24-hour daylight, best for Svalbard circumnavigation.
**September (Late Season):** Northern Lights return, autumn colours in Greenland, polar bears moving inland, fewer visitors.
Most Antarctic expeditions depart from Ushuaia, Argentina—the world’s southernmost city. From Australia, you’ll fly to Buenos Aires (approximately 17-20 hours via Santiago or Auckland), then connect to Ushuaia (3.5 hours).
We recommend arriving in Buenos Aires 1-2 days early to avoid missing your ship due to flight delays. Many operators offer pre-cruise packages including Buenos Aires accommodation and charter flights to Ushuaia.
Alternatively, fly-cruise options depart from Punta Arenas, Chile, with charter flights directly to Antarctica (2 hours), bypassing the Drake Passage entirely.
**Typically included on all expeditions:**
– Cabin accommodation
– All meals and snacks onboard
– Expedition parka (yours to keep)
– Rubber boot loan
– All zodiac excursions and shore landings
– Expert expedition team and lectures
– Port taxes and landing fees
**Varies by operator:**
– Alcoholic beverages (all-inclusive on luxury lines)
– Gratuities (some include, some don’t)
– WiFi (often free on luxury ships, paid on others)
– Adventure activities (kayaking, camping, etc.)
**Always extra:**
– Flights to embarkation city
– Pre/post-cruise accommodation
– Travel insurance (mandatory)
– Personal expenses and souvenirs
**Antarctica:** No visa required—Antarctica has no government. However, you’ll need appropriate visas for your embarkation country (Argentina or Chile). Australian passport holders can visit Argentina and Chile visa-free for up to 90 days.
**Arctic (Svalbard):** Part of Norway but outside the Schengen Area. No visa required for Australian passport holders.
**Greenland:** Part of Denmark. Schengen visa rules apply, but Australian passport holders can visit visa-free for up to 90 days.
**Russia (some Arctic voyages):** Requires a visa arranged in advance.
You can book either way—the fare is typically the same. However, booking through a specialist agent like Polar Cruise Escapes offers significant advantages:
– **Expert advice:** We know every ship and can match you with the perfect expedition
– **Best price guarantee:** Same price as direct, often with added perks
– **Exclusive benefits:** Onboard credits, cabin upgrades, or added experiences
– **Advocacy:** If issues arise, we advocate on your behalf
– **One-stop planning:** Flights, hotels, insurance, and extensions coordinated
There’s no cost premium for using our services—cruise lines pay us directly.
Where to Go
Destinations
**Antarctica (South Pole region):**
– A continent covered in ice, surrounded by ocean
– No indigenous human population
– Penguins, seals, whales—no polar bears
– More dramatic ice landscapes and massive icebergs
– Season: November to March
– Access: Primarily from South America
**Arctic (North Pole region):**
– Frozen ocean surrounded by continents
– Indigenous communities (Inuit, Sami) with rich cultures
– Polar bears, walrus, reindeer, muskox—no penguins
– Midnight sun in summer, Northern Lights in shoulder season
– Season: May to September
– Access: From Norway, Iceland, Canada, or Greenland
Both offer extraordinary wildlife and landscapes—the choice depends on what you most want to experience.
Absolutely—for wildlife enthusiasts, South Georgia is often the highlight of an Antarctic voyage. Known as the “Serengeti of the Southern Ocean,” it hosts:
– 450,000+ breeding pairs of king penguins (30% of the global population)
– 4 million Antarctic fur seals
– Massive southern elephant seal colonies
– Wandering albatross with 3.5m wingspans
– Historic Shackleton sites
Adding South Georgia typically adds 5-7 days and $5,000-$10,000 to an Antarctic voyage. Most travellers who’ve been say it was their most memorable wildlife experience ever.
The Antarctic Triple Crown combines three distinct sub-Antarctic and Antarctic destinations in a single voyage:
1. **Falkland Islands:** Rockhopper and Magellanic penguins, black-browed albatross
2. **South Georgia:** King penguin mega-colonies, elephant seals, Shackleton history
3. **Antarctic Peninsula:** Dramatic icebergs, gentoo and chinstrap penguins, glaciers
These comprehensive voyages typically run 18-24 days and offer the greatest wildlife diversity and variety of landscapes. You’ll see 5+ penguin species and experience three vastly different polar ecosystems.
The Drake Passage—the 1,000km stretch between South America and Antarctica—has a legendary reputation. You’ll experience either the “Drake Shake” (notorious rough seas) or the “Drake Lake” (surprisingly calm).
**Reality check:**
– Modern expedition ships have stabilisers and are built for polar waters
– Crossings take approximately 2 days each way
– Captains monitor conditions and adjust speed for comfort
– Most passengers find it far more manageable than expected
– Seasickness medication is effective for most people
**If concerned:** Consider fly-cruise options that bypass the Drake entirely, flying directly to Antarctica from Chile.
Yes, though not all voyages go that far south. The Antarctic Circle (66°33’S) marks where the sun doesn’t set on the summer solstice.
Voyages that cross the Circle typically:
– Are longer (12-14 days minimum)
– Cost more than standard Peninsula voyages
– Offer bragging rights and a special ceremony
– Reach areas with more dramatic ice and fewer vessels
If crossing the Circle is important to you, specifically request itineraries that include this milestone.
Greenland is part of the Arctic region but offers a distinct experience:
– **Greenland:** World’s largest island, massive icebergs (larger than Antarctica’s), Inuit culture and communities, accessible from Iceland or Denmark
– **Svalbard/Arctic:** Norwegian archipelago, polar bear territory, no permanent indigenous population, midnight sun
Many travellers combine both—visiting Svalbard for polar bears and Greenland for icebergs and culture. Some voyages transit between the two regions.
Your Expedition Vessel
Ships & Onboard Experience
Expedition cruises are fundamentally different from traditional ocean cruises:
**Traditional Cruise:**
– Large ships (2,000-6,000 passengers)
– Entertainment-focused (shows, casinos, pools)
– Fixed itineraries visiting ports
– The ship IS the destination
**Expedition Cruise:**
– Small ships (50-500 passengers)
– Exploration-focused (wildlife, landings, zodiacs)
– Flexible itineraries responding to conditions
– The destination IS the experience
On expedition ships, you’ll have naturalist guides, educational lectures, multiple daily excursions, and intimate wildlife encounters—not midnight buffets and deck parties.
Ship size directly impacts your experience due to IAATO regulations limiting shore parties to 100 people at a time:
**Under 100 guests:** Everyone goes ashore together. Maximum landing time, most intimate wildlife encounters. Higher staff-to-guest ratios.
**100-200 guests:** Split rotations (half ashore, half on zodiac cruises). Good balance of amenities and landing frequency. Most common size.
**200-500 guests:** Multiple rotations needed. More onboard amenities but less time ashore per landing. Often lower per-night costs.
**Over 500 guests:** Cannot make ANY landings in Antarctica. Cruise-only, scenic sailing—not recommended for true expedition experiences.
Ice class ratings indicate how well a ship can navigate icy waters:
– **PC6/PC5 (Polar Class):** Purpose-built for heavy polar ice. Best for reaching remote areas.
– **1A Super/1A:** Strong ice capability, suitable for most polar voyages.
– **1C/1D:** Light ice capability, fine for standard summer voyages.
For most Antarctic Peninsula voyages during summer, even moderate ice ratings are sufficient. Higher ratings matter for:
– Voyages deep into pack ice
– Early/late season expeditions
– Routes requiring ice navigation (e.g., Ross Sea)
Only PONANT’s Le Commandant Charcot (PC2) is a true icebreaker capable of reaching the North Pole.
Dining on expedition ships ranges from excellent to exceptional, depending on the vessel:
**All ships typically offer:**
– Buffet breakfast with hot and cold options
– Lunch (buffet or served)
– Three-course dinner
– 24-hour tea, coffee, and snacks
– Dietary requirements accommodated
**Luxury ships add:**
– Multiple specialty restaurants
– À la carte fine dining
– Open bars with premium beverages
– Butler service in suites
Don’t expect cruise ship buffet excess—expedition dining is refined, often locally inspired, and designed to fuel your adventures rather than overwhelm.
**WiFi:** Most expedition ships offer satellite WiFi, though:
– Speeds are slower than home (satellite limitations)
– Often metered/paid on standard ships
– Usually free on luxury vessels
– Can be unreliable in extreme polar latitudes
**Phone signal:** Essentially non-existent in polar regions. Some ships offer satellite phone services at premium rates.
**Our advice:** Consider this an opportunity to disconnect. Download entertainment before departure, bring books, and embrace the digital detox. You’ll be too busy watching whales and penguins to scroll social media anyway.
Expedition cruises attract like-minded adventurers and foster natural connections:
– **Open seating dining:** No assigned tables—meet new people at every meal
– **Shared experiences:** Zodiac rides and landings create instant camaraderie
– **Expedition team:** Guides and naturalists often dine with passengers
– **Common areas:** Observation lounges encourage mingling
– **Solo travellers:** Very common and well-accommodated
Most passengers describe making lifelong friends during their polar voyages. The shared awe of witnessing pristine wilderness creates powerful bonds.
Sea days (like Drake Passage crossings) and evenings are filled with enrichment:
**Daytime:**
– Expert lectures on wildlife, history, geology, photography
– Wildlife spotting from observation decks (albatross follow the ship!)
– Science activities and citizen science programs
– Photography workshops
– Spa and wellness facilities
– Quiet time for reading or journaling
**Evenings:**
– Daily recap and briefing for next day
– Cocktails and socialising
– Dinners with expedition team
– Documentary screenings
– Early nights before dawn landings!
Physical Preparation
Health & Fitness
No extreme fitness is required for standard polar expeditions, but moderate physical ability helps:
**Minimum requirements:**
– Walk 1-2 km on uneven terrain (rocky beaches, snow)
– Step in and out of zodiacs (small inflatable boats)
– Climb ship stairs multiple times daily
– Stand on moving decks in rough weather
**Good to have:**
– Comfort walking on slippery/uneven surfaces
– Ability to get up if you fall
– Core strength for zodiac boarding
**Not required:**
– Marathon-level endurance
– Previous hiking experience
– Swimming ability (life jackets always worn)
Those with limited mobility can still enjoy deck-based wildlife watching, zodiac cruises, and selected accessible landings.
**Minimum age:** Most operators set minimum ages of 8-10 years for Antarctic expeditions due to safety requirements and landing logistics. Some family-focused departures welcome younger children.
**Maximum age:** There is no upper age limit on most expeditions. We regularly book passengers in their 70s, 80s, and beyond. The key is physical capability rather than age.
If you have concerns about mobility or health conditions, discuss these with your doctor and our specialists. We can recommend ships with better accessibility features and itineraries with easier landings.
Seasickness is possible, particularly during Drake Passage crossings, but most passengers manage well:
**Prevention strategies:**
– Start medication 24 hours before boarding (Dramamine, Bonine, or prescription patches)
– Choose a mid-ship, lower deck cabin (less motion)
– Keep your eyes on the horizon when on deck
– Avoid heavy meals and alcohol before rough crossings
– Ginger, green apples, and dry crackers can help
**Ship features that help:**
– Modern stabilisers reduce motion significantly
– X-Bow designs (Aurora ships) cut through waves more smoothly
– Ship doctors have additional medication available
Many first-timers are pleasantly surprised by how manageable the Drake is. And remember—it’s only 2 days each way, then calm Antarctic waters await.
All expedition ships have onboard medical facilities:
– Licensed doctor or nurse
– Basic treatment capabilities
– Emergency medical supplies
– Stabilisation for evacuation if needed
**Important limitations:**
– No surgical facilities
– Limited diagnostic equipment
– Evacuation can take days from remote polar regions
– Pre-existing conditions must be disclosed
**Requirements:**
– Comprehensive travel insurance with $100,000+ medical evacuation coverage is mandatory
– Medical questionnaire completion before departure
– Some conditions may require doctor’s clearance
If you have significant health concerns, discuss these before booking. Some expeditions may not be suitable for certain conditions.
Many guests with mobility limitations enjoy polar expeditions successfully:
**What’s possible:**
– Deck-based wildlife watching
– Zodiac cruises (with assistance boarding)
– Selected accessible shore landings
– All lectures and onboard activities
**Challenges:**
– Wet landings require stepping into water
– Rocky/uneven terrain at landing sites
– Ship gangways and stairs
– Getting in/out of zodiacs
**Best options for limited mobility:**
– Larger ships with elevators and accessible cabins
– Voyages with more zodiac cruising vs. challenging landings
– Ships with hydraulic boarding platforms
Our specialists can recommend the most suitable ships and itineraries for your specific needs.
**For Antarctica:** No special vaccinations required. Standard travel vaccinations (tetanus, etc.) should be up to date.
**For Arctic regions:** No mandatory vaccinations, though some destinations may recommend specific immunisations.
**General recommendations:**
– Ensure routine vaccinations are current
– Consider flu vaccine before departure
– Consult your doctor about personal health needs
Check with your GP or a travel medicine clinic 6-8 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Have More Questions?
Our polar specialists have visited these destinations and can answer your specific questions. No question is too detailed—we’re here to help you plan with confidence.
What to Bring
Packing & Gear
Good news: you need less than you think! Most ships provide an expedition parka (yours to keep) and loan rubber boots. Focus on layering:
**Base Layer:**
– Thermal underwear (tops and bottoms)
– Moisture-wicking shirts
– Wool or synthetic socks (3-4 pairs)
**Mid Layer:**
– Fleece jacket or pullover
– Insulated vest
– Comfortable hiking/travel pants
– Warm hat (beanie style)
**Outer Layer:**
– Waterproof pants (essential for wet landings!)
– Warm gloves plus liner gloves
– Neck gaiter or balaclava
– Sunglasses with UV protection
**Onboard:**
– Smart casual for dining (no formal nights)
– Comfortable loungewear
– Swimsuit (for ship hot tubs or polar plunge!)
Yes! Most expedition ships provide:
**Included (typically yours to keep):**
– Expedition parka (high-quality, insulated, waterproof)
**Loaned during voyage:**
– Rubber boots (muck boots) for wet landings
– Sometimes: waterproof pants, backpacks, hiking poles
**Available to borrow/rent on some ships:**
– Binoculars
– Kayaking dry suits and gear
– Snowshoes
– Walking poles
Check your specific cruise line’s inclusions, as these vary. Ships will ask your boot size before departure to ensure correct fit.
**Recommended setup:**
– Camera with zoom lens (100-400mm ideal for wildlife)
– Wide-angle lens for landscapes and icebergs
– Extra batteries (cold drains them fast—bring 2-3x more than usual)
– Multiple memory cards
– Weather-sealed camera bag or rain cover
– Lens cloths for spray and condensation
**Don’t forget:**
– Smartphone as backup
– Binoculars for wildlife spotting
– Polarising filter for ice photography
**Pro tips:**
– Keep batteries warm in inside pockets until needed
– Bring camera bag that fits in zodiac between your feet
– Some ships have professional photographers who offer workshops
Yes—protecting pristine polar environments is critical. Before landing, you’ll:
**Vacuum all outdoor clothing:**
– Pockets, Velcro, seams inspected for seeds
– Jacket, pants, backpacks all cleaned
**Boot washing:**
– Boots disinfected before and after every landing
– Mandatory biosecurity stations on gangways
**Restrictions:**
– No food taken ashore
– No picking up souvenirs (rocks, feathers, etc.)
– Stay on marked paths
– Maintain 5m distance from wildlife
South Georgia has the strictest biosecurity due to successful rat eradication—expect thorough bag inspections.
Our most common “wish I’d brought that” items:
1. **Seasickness medication** (start before boarding!)
2. **High SPF sunscreen** (snow reflects UV intensely)
3. **Lip balm with SPF** (polar air is extremely dry)
4. **Extra camera batteries** (cold kills battery life)
5. **Printed travel documents** (don’t rely on phone only)
6. **Journal and pen** (you’ll want to record memories)
7. **Small daypack** for carrying gear on landings
8. **Hand warmers** for camera battery/hands
9. **Neck gaiter** (more versatile than scarf)
10. **Earplugs** (for roommates or ship noise)
Encounters & Adventures
Wildlife & Activities
Wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed—that’s part of wild nature’s magic. However, you’ll almost certainly see:
**Antarctica:**
– Multiple penguin species (gentoo, chinstrap, Adélie at minimum)
– Seals (fur seals, Weddell seals, crabeater seals very common)
– Seabirds (albatross, petrels, skuas)
– Whales (especially Feb-March—humpbacks almost guaranteed)
**Arctic/Svalbard:**
– Reindeer and Arctic fox (very common)
– Seabirds including puffins
– Seals (bearded, ringed)
– Polar bears (high probability but never guaranteed)
– Walrus (depending on location)
Expedition leaders work hard to maximise wildlife encounters, adjusting routes based on real-time sightings.
**The rule:** Maintain 5 metres (15 feet) minimum distance from all wildlife.
**The reality:** Penguins and seals often approach curious visitors! If wildlife comes to you, stay still and enjoy the magical encounter. They haven’t learned to fear humans and are often remarkably curious.
**Guidelines:**
– Never chase, herd, or follow wildlife
– Stay on marked paths at landing sites
– Give animals right of way
– No flash photography
– Keep noise levels low
– Never feed wildlife
These rules protect both animals and visitors—a curious penguin nipping your boot is harmless, but startled wildlife can be unpredictable.
Most expeditions offer adventure add-ons (typically booked in advance):
**Common options:**
– **Sea kayaking:** $500-$1,000 for multiple outings
– **Camping on ice:** $200-$400 per night
– **Snowshoeing:** Often included or $100-$200
– **Paddleboarding:** $300-$500
**Premium experiences (select ships only):**
– **Helicopter flights:** $500-$800 per flight
– **Submarine dives:** $500-$1,000 per dive
– **Scuba diving:** $500-$800 per session
**Usually included:**
– All zodiac excursions and cruises
– Shore landings
– Expert-led hikes
– Photography workshops and lectures
Book adventure activities early—they fill quickly and have limited capacity.
Zodiacs are heavy-duty inflatable boats (RIBs) with rigid hulls, used by military and expedition teams worldwide. They’re:
– Extremely stable and virtually unsinkable
– Operated by trained expedition staff
– Equipped with outboard motors for manoeuvrability
– Capable of landing on beaches without docks
**Safety measures:**
– Life jackets worn at all times
– Step-by-step boarding assistance
– Capacity limits strictly enforced
– Staff positioned in each boat
Zodiacs get you close to wildlife and into places ships can’t reach. Most passengers quickly become zodiac enthusiasts—they’re incredibly fun!
**Wet landing:** The zodiac can’t reach the actual shore. You step into ankle-to-calf-deep water and walk up the beach. This is the most common type in Antarctica. Your rubber boots (provided) keep you dry.
**Dry landing:** The zodiac reaches a dock, rock, or stable surface where you can step directly onto land without entering water.
**What to know:**
– Waterproof pants are essential for wet landings
– Staff assist with every boarding and disembarking
– It’s easier than it sounds—thousands of 80-year-olds do it successfully!
– Specific landing conditions are briefed before each excursion
**Polar plunge:** Many ships offer the famous “polar plunge”—a quick dip in frigid Antarctic waters (usually from a ship gangway into protected water, with safety lines). It’s exhilarating, brief, and entirely optional!
**Snorkelling:** Some operators (notably Aurora Expeditions) offer polar snorkelling with dry suits in Antarctica. You’ll see underwater ice formations, kelp forests, and sometimes curious penguins. Requires booking in advance.
**Swimming pools:** Some luxury ships have heated pools or hot tubs on deck—perfect for soaking while watching icebergs drift past.
Almost certainly not—and that’s actually wonderful. Expedition itineraries are deliberately flexible:
**Weather:** Conditions can change landing plans hourly
**Wildlife:** Ships may detour for whale sightings or wildlife events
**Ice:** Sea ice can open or close routes unexpectedly
**Other ships:** IAATO coordinates to prevent overcrowding
**What this means:**
– You might miss an advertised site
– You might discover somewhere even better
– Expedition leaders adapt to create optimal experiences
– Every voyage is unique
The best mindset: expect nothing specific, be ready for anything. This flexibility is what makes expedition travel magical.
Your Investment
Cost & Value
Polar expeditions are significant investments. Typical ranges:
**Antarctica (10-12 days):** $8,000-$20,000 USD per person
**Antarctica with South Georgia (18-24 days):** $15,000-$35,000 USD
**Arctic/Svalbard (8-14 days):** $5,000-$15,000 USD
**Greenland (8-14 days):** $5,000-$12,000 USD
**Factors affecting price:**
– Ship category (classic expedition to ultra-luxury)
– Cabin type (inside to owner’s suite)
– Season (shoulder season vs. peak)
– Itinerary length and destinations
– Inclusions (all-inclusive vs. à la carte)
**Additional costs to budget:**
– Flights from Australia: $2,500-$4,500
– Pre/post hotels: $200-$500 per night
– Travel insurance: $500-$1,500
– Gratuities: $15-$25 per day (if not included)
– Optional activities: $200-$1,000+
Several factors make Antarctic operations costly:
**Logistics:**
– Ships must be ice-strengthened (expensive to build/maintain)
– Remote operations require fuel, supplies shipped long distances
– Short season (4 months) must cover year-round costs
– Small passenger numbers (50-500 vs. 6,000 on regular cruises)
**Expertise:**
– Expedition teams include scientists, naturalists, historians
– Crew trained for polar conditions
– Multiple zodiacs and specialised equipment
**Regulations:**
– IAATO membership and compliance costs
– Environmental protection measures
– Strict operational requirements
**Included value:**
– All meals and many beverages
– Expert lectures and guided excursions
– Expedition parka ($500+ value)
– Landing fees and permits
When calculated per day, including all meals and activities, expedition cruises often represent good value compared to comparable luxury travel.
Absolutely! Strategies to reduce costs:
**Booking strategies:**
– Book 12-18 months early for 10-20% early booking discounts
– Book last-minute (within 90 days) for 20-40% savings
– Travel in shoulder season (November or March for Antarctica)
**Cabin choices:**
– Lower deck inside cabins cost 30-50% less than suites
– Triple-share cabins on some ships offer significant savings
– Solo travellers: look for reduced single supplements
**Operator choices:**
– Classic expedition ships cost less than ultra-luxury
– Shorter itineraries (10 days vs. 18) reduce total cost
**What we offer:**
– Best price guarantee (match direct booking)
– Exclusive onboard credits and perks
– Group departures with added value
Tell us your budget—we’ll find the best value option that meets your expectations.
No—the cruise fare is the same whether you book directly with the cruise line or through a specialist agent like Polar Cruise Escapes.
**Why book through us:**
– **Same price guaranteed:** No markup on cruise fares
– **Added value:** We often negotiate onboard credits, upgrades, or extras
– **Expert guidance:** We know every ship and can match your needs
– **Advocacy:** If issues arise, we advocate on your behalf
– **Convenience:** Coordinate flights, hotels, insurance in one place
Cruise lines pay agent commissions—there’s no cost passed to you. You get expert service at the same price.
Beyond the cruise fare, budget for:
**Definite costs:**
– Flights to embarkation city ($2,500-$4,500 from Australia)
– Travel insurance with evacuation coverage ($500-$1,500)
– Pre/post cruise hotels ($200-$500/night)
**Variable costs:**
– Gratuities ($15-$25/day if not included)
– Alcoholic beverages (if not all-inclusive)
– Optional activities (kayaking, camping, etc.)
– Spa treatments
– WiFi (on some ships)
– Souvenirs and gifts
**Often forgotten:**
– Airport transfers
– Meals during flights/layovers
– Visa fees (if applicable)
– Checked baggage fees
We provide detailed cost breakdowns before you book—no surprises.
Protection & Peace of Mind
Safety & Insurance
**Yes—comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory** for all polar expeditions. You cannot board without proof of coverage.
**Required coverage minimums:**
– Medical expenses: $100,000+ recommended
– Emergency evacuation: $100,000-$200,000 (critical for polar regions)
– Trip cancellation: Cover your full trip cost
– Trip interruption coverage
**Why it’s essential:**
– No hospitals in Antarctica or remote Arctic
– Medical evacuation can cost $50,000-$150,000+
– Evacuation may take days from polar regions
– Weather can delay evacuations
**Important:** Standard travel policies often exclude polar activities. Ensure your policy specifically covers:
– Antarctic/Arctic expeditions
– Zodiac activities
– Adventure activities you plan to do
We can recommend specialist polar travel insurance providers.
Polar expedition cruising has an excellent safety record:
**Ship safety:**
– Purpose-built ice-strengthened vessels
– Experienced polar captains and crews
– Comprehensive safety drills before departure
– Multiple rescue craft and equipment
**Landing safety:**
– Trained expedition teams at every landing
– Marked paths and boundaries
– Staff-to-guest ratios typically 1:10 or better
– Wildlife behaviour expertise
**Industry oversight:**
– IAATO (Antarctica) sets strict operational standards
– AECO (Arctic) establishes guidelines for Arctic operations
– Regular safety audits and inspections
**Risks to be aware of:**
– Motion sickness during crossings
– Slips/falls on wet or icy surfaces
– Cold weather exposure
– Remote medical facilities
Expedition operators are extremely safety-conscious. Listen to briefings, follow guidelines, and you’ll have a safe adventure.
Every expedition ship has:
– Licensed doctor or medical officer
– Basic medical facility
– Emergency medical supplies
– Satellite communication for consultation
**In case of emergency:**
– Stabilisation onboard
– Consultation with specialist doctors via satellite
– Evacuation if required (helicopter, ship-to-ship, or return to port)
**Reality check:**
– Evacuation from remote polar regions can take days
– Weather may delay evacuations
– This is why comprehensive insurance is mandatory
– Pre-existing conditions must be disclosed before sailing
If you have serious health conditions, discuss suitability with your doctor before booking.
Post-pandemic, protocols have largely normalised but may vary by operator:
**Typical current requirements:**
– Travel insurance covering COVID-19
– Completion of health questionnaire before sailing
– Some operators may require vaccination (check specific requirements)
**Onboard measures:**
– Enhanced cleaning protocols
– Onboard medical support
– Isolation procedures if needed
Requirements change frequently. We’ll provide current guidance for your specific departure when you book.
Trips can be cancelled for various reasons:
**Operator cancellations:**
– Insufficient bookings
– Mechanical issues
– Extreme weather/ice conditions
– Global events
If the operator cancels, you’ll typically receive a full refund or option to rebook.
**Your cancellation:**
– Cancellation penalties increase closer to departure
– Typically: 90+ days = small penalty; under 30 days = significant loss
– Comprehensive travel insurance can cover eligible cancellation reasons
**What your insurance covers:**
– Covered reasons: illness, injury, death in family, certain emergencies
– Not covered: “change of mind,” work conflicts (unless specifically insured)
– Read policy carefully for inclusions/exclusions
We recommend “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage for maximum flexibility.
Yes—Antarctica is one of Earth’s most protected environments:
**Antarctic Treaty System:**
– 56 nations committed to peaceful, scientific use
– No country “owns” Antarctica
– Environmental Protocol (Madrid Protocol) bans mining and sets strict protections
**IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators):**
– Self-regulating tourism organisation
– Sets visitor guidelines and limits
– Coordinates between operators to prevent overcrowding
– Strict biosecurity protocols
**Visitor rules:**
– Maximum 100 people ashore at landing sites
– Ships over 500 passengers cannot land
– 5-metre wildlife distance rule
– No souvenirs taken from Antarctica
– Mandatory boot washing and biosecurity
By visiting responsibly with IAATO operators, you become an ambassador for Antarctic conservation.
Polar Experts
Specialists who’ve visited these regions and can provide firsthand advice.
Best Price Guarantee
Same price as booking direct, plus exclusive perks and onboard credits.
All Ships & Lines
Access to every major expedition operator—we find your perfect match.
Full Support
Guidance from first enquiry through to safe return home.
Still have questions?
Can’t find your answer here? Our polar specialists are happy to answer any questions—no matter how detailed or unusual. We’ve been asked everything from boot sizing to penguin etiquette!
Ready to Start Planning?
Now that you know what to expect, let us help you find your perfect polar adventure. Our specialists will guide you every step of the way.
# FAQ Page – Image Generation Prompts for Nano Banana
Use these prompts to generate images for the Frequently Asked Questions page. This is primarily a text-based resource page, so only one hero image is required.
**Color Palette:** Polar blues and whites, warm expedition parkas (red, orange), natural tones
**Style:** Welcoming, helpful, educational atmosphere—showing experts guiding curious travellers
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## 1. Hero Background Image
**Filename:** `faq-hero.jpg`
**Dimensions:** 1920 × 1080px (16:9)
**Description:**
A warm, welcoming scene showing polar expedition guidance and learning. Options include:
**Option A – Briefing Scene:**
An expedition team member or naturalist speaking to engaged passengers in a ship’s lecture hall or lounge. The presenter could be gesturing toward a screen or map, with passengers looking attentive and interested. Warm lighting, diverse group of travellers, educational atmosphere.
**Option B – Field Guidance:**
An expedition guide pointing out wildlife or features to a small group of passengers at a landing site or from a zodiac. Passengers with binoculars or cameras, guide in expedition gear, polar landscape visible. The feeling should be “expert guidance in the field.”
**Option C – Deck Discussion:**
Passengers gathered around an expedition team member on the ship’s observation deck, perhaps looking at wildlife in the distance. Informal, helpful atmosphere, icebergs or polar scenery visible in background.
**Key elements to include:**
– Expert/guide figure providing assistance
– Engaged, curious travellers
– Polar expedition context (ship, zodiacs, wildlife, or ice visible)
– Warm, helpful, approachable atmosphere
– Diverse group of adults
**Style Notes:** Educational but not stuffy, welcoming and inclusive, “we’re here to help” feeling
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## Image Reuse Note
**Existing image already available:**
– `woman-making-decision.png` (from /wp-content/uploads/2025/10/) – Used for “Still have questions?” section
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## Technical Specifications Summary
| Image | Filename | Dimensions | Aspect Ratio |
|——-|———-|————|————–|
| Hero | faq-hero.jpg | 1920×1080 | 16:9 |
**Total New Images Required:** 1
**Upload Location:** `/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/`
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## Design Notes for This Page
The FAQ page is primarily text-driven, using:
– Accordion-style FAQ sections for easy navigation
– Topic jump links for quick access
– Clean typography and generous whitespace
– Consistent section styling with the rest of the site
The single hero image should:
1. **Convey helpfulness** – Show experts helping travellers
2. **Feel educational** – Learning/guidance context
3. **Remain welcoming** – Not intimidating or overly formal
4. **Include polar context** – Clearly an expedition setting
5. **Support the content** – The page is about answering questions, so the image should reflect that supportive, informative mood
