Time Zone

GMT + 2 hours

Climate

In spite of Svalbard's northern location, the archipelago has a relatively mild climate compared to other areas on the same latitude. Average summer temperatures on Svalbard range from 3°C to 7 °C in July, and winter temperatures from −12°C to −17 °C. However, strong winter breezes, low pressure and the combination of wet sea air and cold polar air can lead to rapidly changing weather conditions, especially during the winter months.

Languages Spoken

Norwegian is the official language in these regions. However, English will be used for all communication during the expedition. 

Electricity Plug Details

220V, Plug Type: C

Food

Breakfasts and lunches are normally served buffet style, while dinners are served plated. À la carte meals are made at the time of your order, allowing our chefs to prepare each dish to your individual needs, ensuring you receive top-quality meals during the course of your expedition. Soft drinks and juices are available during meals and when the bar is open; beer

and wine are served with dinner; and coffee, tea and water stations are available around the clock – all included in the cost of your package. Spirits, premium wines and champagne are available at extra cost which can be billed to your shipboard account.

Clothing & Equipment

Polar weather is very variable; temperatures may hover around the freezing mark and winds can be strong. The continuous daylight warms sheltered areas so that you may sometimes find it warm enough for t-shirts. However, you may encounter snow squalls, fog and white-outs during an expedition and should be ready for any conditions.

Here is the list of recommended items:

FOR SHORE LANDINGS

• Base layers (wool, synthetic or a blend)
• Mid-layer warm/fleece top
• Mid-layer warm/fleece pant
• Wool and synthetic sock (3 to 4 pairs)
• Neck warmer or balaclava
• Warm hat that covers ears
• Waterproof pants (mandatory for every Zodiac ride)
• Waterproof gloves and glove liners
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Spare set of gloves
• Down Jacket

FOR ON BOARD

• Comfortable casual clothing (pants/jeans, shirts, sweaters)
• Lighter shirts (in case the ship gets warm)
• Comfortable non-slip closed-toed unheeled shoes

Note: Flip flops, sandals or slip-on shoes should not be

worn on board due to safety concerns

SUGGESTED ITEMS

• Waterproof, lightweight backpack or dry sack
• Swimsuit (for the Polar Plunge!)
• Binoculars
• Camera with charger and extra batteries
• Extra memory cards
• Earplugs
• Eye masks for sleeping
• Moisturizer and lip balm (polar air can be drying)
• Seasickness, indigestion, headache or other medicines as required
• Ski goggles (for Zodiac cruising on snowy or windy days)

Note: You can loan of insulated waterproof boots and expedition parka on board. 

How To Get There

Your Arctic voyage begins and ends in Oslo, Norway. Please plan your international flights accordingly. If you are looking to extend your adventure beyond your polar expedition, we can help you with that as well.

Medication & First Aid

Please carry some easy to access medicines on the trip, for headaches, seasickness, diarrhea, constipation, and some re-hydration. powders like Electral etc. apart from any personal medication.

Two licensed medical doctors will also join the expedition. The infirmary equipment and other medical supplies are carefully monitored to ensure your safety while on your polar voyage.

Internet

Satellite phones will be used by the guides. Wi-Fi connectivity will be unreliable due to the remoteness of the place. 

Group Size

Dependent on the expedition ship's capacity

Money to Carry

The official currency is Norwegian Krone. However, we recommend carrying some cash in US Dollar or Euros as well. We suggest not relying on the cards as cash is accepted in most of the places. Make sure to change the currency before arriving for your expedition. 

Tipping

All tipping is optional and by no means mandatory, however if you feel that the expedition staff have performed at a satisfactory level, it is a great way to let them know you appreciate their efforts.