Expedition Cruising Travel FAQ

Arctic FAQ (Svalbard & Greenland)

1. How close can guests expect to get to Polar Bears?

   Wildlife viewing is conducted from the ship or Zodiacs at a distance that ensures the animals are not disturbed. On-foot encounters are strictly avoided for safety.

2. What is the best way to handle the "Midnight Sun"?

   The constant daylight in summer is ideal for spotting wildlife at any hour. Blackout curtains are standard on most vessels, but an eye mask is highly recommended for sleeping.

3. What does the "Polar Plunge" involve?

   This is a supervised dip into the Arctic waters from the ship’s gangway or a beach. Safety measures, including tethers and medical standby, are always in place.

4. Is the Arctic landscape exclusively ice and snow?

   No. During the summer months, the tundra features wildflowers, mosses, and dramatic green slopes, alongside jagged mountain ranges and massive bird cliffs.

5. Are there opportunities to visit local communities?

   In Greenland and the Canadian Arctic, itineraries often include visits to remote Inuit villages to learn about modern life and traditional northern cultures.

6. Are insects a concern in the Arctic?

   In the tundra regions of Greenland during peak summer, mosquitoes and flies can be present. Bringing insect repellent is advised for shore excursions.

7. Can the Northern Lights be seen during a summer cruise?

   It is rare to see the Aurora in mid-summer due to the 24-hour daylight. For those prioritizing the Northern Lights, September departures are the most suitable.

8. What is a "Wet Landing"?

   A wet landing occurs when a Zodiac noses into a shoreline where there is no dock. Guests step into shallow water (usually ankle-deep) to reach the beach, making waterproof boots essential.

Antarctica FAQ

1. Are visas required for Antarctica?

   No visa is required for the continent itself, though travelers must meet the entry and transit requirements for the departure country, typically Argentina or Chile.

2. How rough is the Drake Passage?

   Conditions vary from calm ("Drake Lake") to turbulent ("Drake Shake"). Ships utilize modern stabilizers, and proactive motion-sickness management is common.

3. What are the rules for interacting with penguins?

   A minimum distance of 5 meters (15 feet) must be always maintained. If a penguin approaches a stationary guest, it is permitted to remain, provided no contact is made.

4. What is the difference between a "Landing" and a "Zodiac Cruise"?

   A landing involves stepping onto land for hiking or visiting sites. A Zodiac cruise is a water-based excursion for viewing icebergs, glaciers, and marine life from the boat.

5. Is Wi-Fi available in Antarctica?

   Satellite Wi-Fi is generally available but can be slow and intermittent. It is suitable for basic messaging and email rather than high-bandwidth activities.

6. What are the biosecurity protocols?

   To protect the environment, all clothing and gear must be vacuumed and boots disinfected in solution before and after every landing to prevent the introduction of non-native species.

7. Are medical facilities available on board?

   Yes, expedition ships in Antarctica carry a licensed physician and have a small clinic equipped to handle stabilization and minor emergencies.

8. Is kayaking an option for everyone? Kayaking is usually an optional, pre-booked activity. It requires a basic level of fitness and is subject to weather and ice conditions.

Galapagos FAQ

1. What is the most favorable time to visit?

   The Galapagos is a year-round destination. December to May offers warmer water and tropical weather, while June to November brings cooler, nutrient-rich waters ideal for marine life.

2. Is snorkeling a daily activity?

   Most itineraries include at least one snorkeling opportunity per day to view the unique marine biodiversity, including sea lions, turtles, and rays.

3. Are wetsuits provided for guests?

   Wetsuits are typically available for rent or provided on board. A 3mm "shorty" is recommended for comfort and buoyancy, especially during the cooler season.

4. What are the National Park regulations?

   Visitors must always remain with a certified guide, stay on marked trails, and maintain a 2-meter distance from all wildlife. Taking any natural material is strictly prohibited.

5. Why is the wildlife so approachable?

   Due to a lack of natural land predators, Galapagos wildlife has not developed a fear of humans, allowing for close-range observation without disturbing the animals.

6. What is a "Panga"?

   "Panga" is the regional term for the inflatable rubber boats used for ship-to-shore transfers and coastal exploration.

7. Are these cruises suitable for children?

   Yes. Many vessels offer family-oriented programming, and the accessible wildlife makes it an educational destination for younger travelers.

8. How is the National Park Entrance Fee handled?

   The fee (currently $200 USD) and the Transit Control Card ($20 USD) are usually paid in cash at the airport upon arrival in the islands.

Canadian Arctic FAQ

1. How does this region differ from Svalbard?

   The Canadian Arctic focuses heavily on the history of the Northwest Passage and Inuit culture, whereas Svalbard is primarily centered on high-concentration wildlife like Polar Bears.

2. What wildlife is native to the Canadian Arctic?

   Key species include Muskox, Narwhal, Beluga whales, Bowhead whales, and Polar Bears.

3. What are the navigation challenges in the Northwest Passage?

   Sea ice is the primary variable. Ships are ice-strengthened, and routes are adjusted daily based on satellite ice charts and local conditions.

4. How remote is a Canadian Arctic expedition?

   This is one of the most sparsely populated areas on Earth. Voyages often span hundreds of miles without encountering other vessels or permanent settlements.

5. What is the best way to see a Muskox?

   Muskox are typically spotted during guided tundra hikes. Because they are shy, high-quality binoculars are recommended for the best viewing experience.

6. Is it possible to see Narwhals?

   Narwhals are elusive and primarily found near the "ice edge" or in deep channels. While sightings occur, they are less predictable than other whale species.

7. Can local handicrafts be purchased?

   Yes. Visits to Inuit communities often provide opportunities to buy authentic carvings, prints, and textiles directly from local cooperatives.

8. What clothing is recommended for this region?

   Wind-proof and waterproof outer layers are essential. The weather is often dry but can be characterized by cold winds across the open tundra.

Alaska FAQ

1. What are the advantages of a small-ship expedition in Alaska?

   Smaller vessels can navigate narrow channels like the Wrangell Narrows and Misty Fjords, providing closer access to glaciers and shorelines than large cruise ships.

2. When is the best time to see bears?

   Bear sightings are most frequent in July and August when salmon are spawning in the coastal streams.

3. Do expeditions visit the major cruise ports?

   Expeditions typically bypass the high-traffic ports in favor of smaller wilderness areas and remote towns like Petersburg, Haines, or Wrangell.

4. Is specialized gear provided?

   Most Alaska expeditions provide waterproof boots and rain jackets, as the region is a temperate rainforest with frequent precipitation.

5. Are there opportunities to walk on glaciers?

   Certain itineraries include guided hikes on glacial moraines or the ice surface, depending on the stability and accessibility of the glacier.

6. What is the typical weather like?

   Expect "Liquid Sunshine"—a mix of mist, light rain, and cool temperatures. The weather is what sustains the lush forests and massive ice fields of the region.

7. Are there activities for younger travelers?

   Many expeditions feature "Citizen Science" programs, such as water sampling or whale identification, which are highly engaging for families.

8. How close do ships get to calving glaciers?

   Vessels maintain a safe distance from the face of tidewater glaciers to avoid the waves created by calving ice while still allowing for a clear view and sound of the activity.