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Antarctica

Arctic

Kimberley

Antarctica FAQs

How many people on the ship?

On the Antarctic Peninsula and South Georgia Voyages we carry a maximum of 56 passengers. We believe that small groups of people are the best way to experience Antarctica.

Where do passengers come from?

The majority of our clients come from Australia, but we do have mixed nationalities on board.

How much room is there for luggage?

There is storage space for empty luggage in the cabins under your bunk. Alternatively we can stow your baggage safely elsewhere on the ship. There is ample space for your clothing in cupboards and drawers in your cabin.

Do the crew speak English?

The crew is Russian and come from Murmansk and St Petersburg. They are undoubtedly the ice-masters of the world. Most of the watch officers and the Captain speak English. Some of the crew speak only a little English, but like to try to communicate. It is certainly a fascinating time in history to be in contact with Russians and it is an exciting facet of our polar journeys.

What clothes do I take to wear on the ship?

Shipboard clothing is informal and casual. Jeans, slacks, casual shirts and deck shoes or running shoes are the normal garb, remember the temperature on board is around 20°C. Some people like to take a good dress or something outrageous for the Captain's welcome and farewell drinks, but formal clothing is not necessary.

What clothes do I need in South America?

In South America it will be mid- summer. In Buenos Aires the temperature is likely to be between 20°C and 30oC. Casual comfortable clothing such as shorts, skirts and cool tops with sandals is perfect. In Tierra del Fuego the weather is very changeable, but once again, casual clothing with a windproof or fibre-pile (polar fleece) jacket in Ushuaia, as it can get cold.

Is the ship air-conditioned? What is the temperature?

The ship is air-conditioned and the temperature ranges from 15° C to 25° C. We like to keep a good flow of fresh air through the ship by keeping some of the main doors open to the outer decks. You can control the temperature of your cabin by adjusting the air flowing in through the roof vent and turning your heater on or off.

How many pairs of gloves do I need?

It is best to take two or three pairs of gloves. It is important to have spare dry gloves in case one set gets wet. Some people like to take rubber washing-up gloves or the heavier fleecy lined rubber gloves used in freezers to keep their hands dry, particularly in the Zodiacs when going from ship to shore. Light woollen or synthetic gloves in combination with heavier ski-gloves or mittens work well.

How do we dry any wet clothing?

Clothing dries very quickly inside your cabin. There is no passenger laundry for you to do your own washing, but there is a laundry service. Costs are listed in your cabin and bags are provided. The Russian stewardesses collect your washing from outside your cabin and return it within 24 hours.

Can we get off the ship?

We get off the ship as much as possible, usually two to three times a day when we are around the Antarctic Peninsula coastline. We spend between two and six hours at each location depending on the prevailing conditions. We come back to the ship to sleep every night, except on Antarctic Peninsula Voyages where those who wish to can spend one night camping on shore, providing the weather conditions allow. In the height of the Antarctic summer there are long daylight hours and we make the most of them.

How much time do we have in Ushuaia?

The time available to you in Ushuaia very much depends on your personal itinerary. We strongle recommend you plan to arrive one or two days before your journey. Many people like to extend their stay in South America to visit places such as Patagonia or Iguazu Falls. Aurora Expeditions staff can assist you with extra arrangements and flight bookings.

Do I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance is very strongly recommended particularly cover for trip cancellation. You are investing a substantial sum of money and if you are forced to cancel your voyage due to circumstances beyond your control, you will be covered financially. It is in your best interest to read carefully the "Cancellations" section on the last page of the Aurora Expeditions brochure. You also need to be covered in case of a medical evacuation, which could prove expensive and would be your cost unless covered by insurance.

What sort of money do I take and how much?

We recommend that you take US dollars for use in Buenos Aires, Ushuaia and on board the ship. We do not recommend travellers cheques in Argentina; it is difficult to change them, even at hotels. Australian dollars are impossible to exchange in South America particularly Tierra del Fuego. Approximate exchange rate is 2 Argentine Peso to 1 AUD (02/03). It is better to carry US dollars cash for tipping and payment of bar, communication and laundry bills on board can be taken care of with Visa or MasterCard. We cannot process American Express or Diners Club.

Can you give a few hints on how to protect my skin from the cold?

The Antarctic air is very, very dry! We recommend that you take good moisturiser and sun-protection cream (SPF+30). A lip protection stick is useful to carry in your pocket when outside. A scarf or balaclava is a very useful item for keeping the cold wind at bay. It is a good idea to put sunscreen on your face every time you go ashore.

Do I need to take a big jacket?

You can certainly get away without a padded ski jacket or down parka, so don't go out and buy one. However if you own one, it is definitely worthwhile having for those times when it is a bit chilly on deck and you just don't want to go inside and get warm in case you miss something.

How do I keep my cameras dry?

When you are travelling from ship to shore, there is a big risk that a splash from the sides of the Zodiac will wet your camera, or worse still you could drop it in the water. A waterproof camera bag is a must if you have expensive equipment. A small cloth or pack towel to dry your lens is also a handy item.

Should I take one camera or two?

It is not a bad idea to take two cameras - particularly between a couple. If one camera breaks down or gets wet then you have a spare. The Antarctic presents rare opportunities for photography and it is a great shame to miss out because your camera is broken. Bring plenty of film and extra batteries.

Tipping

People often ask us what they should do about tipping. Tipping is a very personal matter but if pressed, we recommend $US7 per passenger per day that you are on the ship. It is better for the crew if we can give them US dollars cash. The crew on board Polar Pioneer work extremely hard to ensure you have the best possible Antarctic experience. They are paid by the Russian ship owners and do not receive large wages. We are continually lobbying on their behalf for better pay.

What sort of electrical adapter should I take for my battery charger, my razor or my hairdryer?

The electrical supply on board is 220 volts 50 Hertz. You will need a European two (round pin) plug adapter, available at duty free or electrical supply shops.

Can I look at my video footage on a monitor on the ship?

Yes there are TV monitors on board where you can view your video footage. You will need to bring your own connections for your particular brand of video camera.

How much film should I bring?

The amount of film that you need depends on your usual photographic habits. But as a rule of thumb, you are likely to use two to three times more than on your usual holiday. Professionals commonly use 10 - 20 rolls per day! The average person will use one to three rolls per day (see Photographic Hints for film type). As for video cameras, we suggest an average of 20 minutes of tape per day.

Do you have facilities on board to download digital images from my camera?

No, we do not provide a computer to download your digital images. You should be self sufficient as if using a film camera. There is power in the cabins to plug in a lap top computer or similar downloading device.

SeaSickness?

Many people ask us if they will get seasick. It is a very difficult question to answer because it depends so much on the individual. Our experience is that a small percentage of people are sea sick on any trip and most of these people are fine after a day or so at sea. If you feel that your are particularly susceptible to seasickness then it is a good idea to talk to your local doctor. Come armed with motion sickness tablets. There will be a doctor on board and the ship is equipped with a small medical clinic.

Should I bring along my own walking poles?

Yes it's a good idea - especially if you have trouble walking over uneven ground. Some of our landings can be on slippery rocks or deep snow also we may go for a longer extended walk. The best ones we have found are the telescopic ones with the optional snow-basket tips. These can be retractable making them easy to pack while travelling. You can purchase these poles in most outdoor stores.

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Arctic FAQs

How many people on the ship?

On the Arctic Voyage we take a maximum of 56 people. We believe that you can best experience the Arctic with small groups of people. Most of our passengers will be from Australia.

Are there private facilities in cabins?

On board Polar Pioneer Deck 3 cabins have shared facilities. Deck 4 and 5 cabins have private facilities (see brochure for deck plans).

What is the berth configuration?

All cabins have lower berths and a porthole or window with the exception of 2 twin private cabins on deck 4 which have an upper and a lower berth.

How much room is there for luggage?

There is storage space for empty luggage in the cabins. Alternatively we stow your baggage safely elsewhere on the ship. There is ample space for your clothing in cupboards and drawers in your cabin.

Do the crew speak English?

The crew are Russian. They are undoubtedly the ice-masters of the world. Some of them speak English, a number of them do not. It is certainly a fascinating time in history to be in contact with Russians and it is an exciting facet of our polar journeys.

What clothes do I take to wear on the ship?

Ship-board clothing is informal and casual. Jeans, slacks, casual shirts and deck shoes or running shoes are the normal garb, remember the temperature on board is around 20°C. Some people like to take a good dress, tie and coat for the Captain's welcome and farewell drinks, but formal clothing is by no means necessary.

Is the ship air-conditioned? What is the temperature?

The ship is air-conditioned and the temperature ranges from 15° C to 25° C. We like to keep a good flow of fresh air flowing through the ship by keeping some of the main doors open to the outer decks. You can control the temperature in every cabin if you want it warmer or cooler to suit your personal taste.

How do we dry any wet clothing?

Clothing dries very quickly inside your cabin. There is no passenger laundry for you to do your own washing, but there is a laundry service. Costs are listed in your cabin. The Russian stewardesses collect your washing and return it to your cabin.

Can we get off the ship?

We get off the ship as much as possible, usually two to three times a day when we are around coastal areas. We spend between two and six hours at each location depending on the prevailing conditions. We come back to the ship to sleep every night. In the height of the Arctic summer there are long daylight hours and we make the most of them. We divide passengers into groups for walks of varying degree of difficulty.

How much time do we have in Longyearbyen?

The time available to you in Longyearbyen very much depends on your personal itinerary. Many people like to extend their stay in Europe.

Do I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance is very strongly recommended, particularly cover for trip cancellation. You are investing a substantial sum of money and if you are forced to cancel your voyage due to circumstances beyond your control, you will be covered financially. It is in your best interest to read carefully the "Cancellations" section on the last page of the Aurora Expeditions brochure.

What sort of money do I take and how much?

Australian dollars are difficult to exchange in Scandinavia. We recommend that you take US dollars for exchanging in Norway and Iceland. It is better to carry US dollars cash for tipping and payment of bar, communication and laundry bills on board can be taken care of with Visa or MasterCard.

Can you give a few hints on how to protect my skin from the cold?

The Arctic air is very dry! We recommend that you take good moisturiser and sun-protection cream (SPF+30). A lip protection stick is useful to carry in your pocket when outside. A scarf is a very useful item for keeping the cold wind at bay. It is a good idea to put sun screen on your face every time you go ashore.

Do I need to take a big jacket?

You will need something along the lines of a padded ski jacket or down parka. You will find this is a useful item to wear while standing out on the bow watching seals and walrus. On longer walks a day-pack is useful.

Tipping

People often ask us what they should do about tipping. Tipping is a very personal matter but if pressed, we recommend $US7 per passenger per day that you are on the ship. It is better for the crew if we can give them US dollars cash.

What sort of electrical adapter should I take for my battery charger, my razor or my hairdryer?

The electrical supply on board is 220 volts 50 Hertz. You will need a European two (round pin) plug adapter, available at duty free or electrical supply shops.

Can I look at my video footage on a monitor on the ship?

Yes there are TV monitors on board where you can view your video footage. You will need to bring your own connections for your particular brand of video camera.

How much film should I bring?

The amount of film that you need depends on your usual photographic habits. But as a rule of thumb, you are likely to use two to three times more than on your usual holiday. Professionals commonly use 10 - 20 rolls per day! The average person will use one to three rolls per day (see Photographic Hints for film type). As for video cameras, we suggest an average of 20 minutes of tape per day.

Do you have facilities on board to download digital images from my camera?

No, we do not provide a computer to download your digital images. You should be self sufficient as if using a film camera. There is power in the cabins to plug in a lap top or similar downloading device.

Will we see polar bears?

We can not guarantee seeing polar bears as they are wild animals. We will however be looking very hard, and we have not yet had a trip without seeing a bear.

Sea Sickness?

Many people ask us if they will get sea sick. It is a very difficult question to answer because it depends so much on the individual. Our experience is that a small percentage of people are sea sick on any trip and most of these people are fine after a day or so at sea. If you feel that your are particularly susceptible to sea-sickness then it is a good idea to talk to your local doctor. Come armed with motion sickness tablets. There will be a doctor on board and the ship is equipped with a small medical clinic.

Should I bring along my own walking poles?

Yes it's a good idea - especially if you have trouble walking over uneven ground. Some of our landings can be on slippery rocks and we will go for longer extended walk in the tundra over uneven ground. The best ones we have found are the telescopic ones with the optional snow-basket tips. These can be retractable making them easy to pack while travelling. You can purchase these poles in most outdoor stores.

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Kimberley FAQs

How many people will be on the ship?

We take a maximum of 50 people on our Kimberley Coast voyages. We believe you experience the Kimberley best with small groups of people.

Are there private facilities in the cabins?

Yes, all cabins have their own toilet, shower and hand basin.

What is the berth configuration?

Cabins are fitted with twin or double beds.

How much room is there for luggage?

Luggage is restricted only as per airline regulations. We do recommend that you bring soft luggage, as this is easier to store on board the ship.

What clothes do I take to wear on the ship?

Ship board clothing is informal and casual. Jeans, slacks, casual shirts and deck shoes or running shoes are the normal garb.

Is the ship air conditioned? What is the temperature?

The ship is air-conditioned and the temperature inside is 25° C. The engineer can adjust the temperature on each deck if necessary to suit your personal taste.

What sort of food will be served on board?

The chef prepares delicious, hearty food with abundant fresh local produce. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are usually served in the Dining Room located on the main deck. Breakfast and lunch are buffet-style; dinner is served to you at the table. Tea and coffee are available 24 hours and are served with biscuits mid-afternoon. Meal times may vary according to the day's activities. Standard hours are breakfast from 7.00-8.30 a.m., lunch at 12.30 p.m. and dinner at 7.30 p.m. If you have special dietary requirements, please make sure these are noted on your medical and personal details forms.

What about drinks?

The ship carries a limited list of fine wines to accompany your meals. Wines and spirits will be automatically billed to your shipboard account. There are no fridges in the cabins.

What kind of footwear do I need for our shore visits?

It is most important that you bring a good pair of walking shoes and sandshoes or Reebok style of running shoes because we'll be encountering slippery rock and mud ashore, and also hope to walk in the shallow waters of offshore reefs. Some people prefer to wear sports sandals such as 'Teva', but they must have a good grip. You do not need expensive footwear, just shoes that will protect your feet and be comfortable. You should be prepared to throw the shoes away at the end of the voyage. Thongs and some sandals can actually be quite dangerous ashore, but can be worn on the ship.

Can I go fishing?

There is limited time to fish, with opportunities restricted to being at anchor. Because of the tidal race (up to 10 knots), there is only about an hour around each 'slack water' - the turning point between the ebb and flood - that is actually suitable. Any fishing that may be done is on a 'catch and release' basis.

Will there be snorkelling opportunities?

It is highly unlikely that there will be snorkelling opportunities during this expedition. However, there is a supply of masks, snorkels and fins on board so you do not need to bring your own. Don't forget we'll be in crocodile territory - our Captain and staff are familiar with locations that are safe for swimming and snorkelling, such as river pools.

Will it be very hot onshore?

The temperature ranges from about 25°C to 32°C, so please make sure you bring a good hat, sunburn cream and sunglasses.

Is there a laundry on board?

There is no laundry service on board the Coral Princess. However, a crew member will do laundry if specifically requested and a charge made. We suggest you bring quick-drying, wash-and-wear clothing. Clothing dries very quickly inside your cabin or on the stern deck.

How often do we get off the ship?

This will vary from day to day, however we spend as much time ashore as possible each day exploring either on foot or on the ship's excursion boat. We average two excursions per day.

Do I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance is compulsory, particularly to cover trip cancellation. You are investing a substantial sum of money and if you are forced to cancel your voyage due to circumstances beyond your control, you will need to be covered financially. It is in your best interest to read carefully the section titled "Cancellations" on the last page of the Aurora Expeditions brochure.

How much money should I take?

Breakfast is provided at your hotels, but you will need to pay for meals and sundries in Broome and Darwin. On board the ship we operate a 'chit' system for costs such as bar, phone, helicopter etc. At the end of the voyage you can pay for these expenses by personal cheque, travellers cheques or any major credit card. Currency used is Australian dollar only.

Where is the best viewing area on the ship?

The open sun deck on Deck A and the covered observation lounge on Deck B are ideal for watching the scenery and wildlife. There is an "open bridge" policy on board and passengers are most welcome at all times except when the ship is docking or the Captain has a crew meeting.

How do I keep my cameras dry in the excursion boat?

This is not normally an issue, however it's always a wise idea to protect your cameras from salt spray by placing them in a plastic bag or special waterproof bag.

Should I take one camera or two?

It's a good idea to take two cameras, particularly between couples. If one camera breaks down or gets wet then you'll have a spare. The Kimberley presents fantastic photographic opportunities and it would be a great shame to miss out because your camera is broken.

Tipping

People often ask us what they should do about tipping. Tipping is a very personal matter and the amount given should be based on the quality and manner of the service you receive. Gratuities should be offered in cash - credit cards and personal cheques should not be used for this purpose. Any gratuity should be made to the Purser for equal distribution to all crew.

How fit should I be for this expedition?

To make the most of this voyage, you should be in good general health and able to walk reasonable distances over sometimes uneven terrain. However if you have problems walking on rough ground, you can enjoy the scenery closer to shore. Should you have any physical limitations please notify us well in advance of your departure, but this should not discourage you participating.

Will there be a doctor on board?

There is no physician on board. Severe medical problems will require evacuation at passenger's expense. You should bring a sufficient supply of any prescription medicines as they will not be available on board. You should also check that your insurance will cover you for medical evacuation from a remote area. In an emergency we can locate the Flying Doctor Service, who will fly you to the nearest depot. This evacuation cost is not covered by Medicare, but once you are at the depot Medicare will cover your treatment (for Australian residents). We remind you to take the enclosed medical form to your doctor for completion. The form must be returned to our office as soon as possible.

What about sea sickness?

This is a very difficult question to answer because it depends on the individual. Generally speaking, a small percentage of people get sick on any sea voyage, but recover after a day or so. If you feel or know that you are particularly susceptible to sea-sickness then it's a good idea to talk to your local doctor. Come armed with motion sickness tablets. The area most likely to cause motion sickness is between Darwin and King George River, crossing the Joseph Bonaparte Gulf.

Can I smoke on board?

Smoking is permitted on the outer decks only. There is a "no smoking" policy throughout the interior of the ship.

Do I need to bring an electrical adapter for my battery charger or my razor?

The electrical supply on board is standard 240 volts and uses a standard Australian 3 point plug.

Are there hairdryers on board?

Yes there are hairdryers in all the cabins.

Can I look at my video footage on a monitor on the ship?

Yes, there is a TV monitor on board where you can view your video footage, but you should bring the connections for your particular brand of video camera.

How much film should I bring?

The amount of film that you need depends on your usual photographic habits. As a rule of thumb you are likely to use considerably more in the Kimberley. You could expect to use between one and three rolls per day. For video cameras, we suggest an average of 15-20 minutes of tape per day.

Should I bring along my own walking poles?

Yes it's a good idea - especially if you have trouble walking over uneven ground. Some of our landings can be on slippery rocks and we may go for longer extended walk over uneven ground. The best ones we have found are the telescopic ones with the optional snow-basket tips. These can be retractable making them easy to pack while travelling. You can purchase these poles in most outdoor stores.

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