Equipment & checklist

EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING ON AN EXPEDITION CRUISE

The mean temperature in Alta in November is +3 ºC. Please be aware of the wind chill factor, which takes wind speed and humidity into account to assess how cold the temperature actually feels to the human body. The 'feels like' temperature is often significantly lower than the actual air temperature shown in weather forecasts. 

With this in mind, we recommend dressing in layers, as this allows you to easily adapt to changing temperatures. Remember to pack extra warm layers of clothes. Wear three layers or more; to get rid of perspiration, insulate you from the cold and protect you against the wind. Layering also allows you to easily adjust your clothing when the weather and temperatures change. Avoid cotton materials as they absorb moisture and do not keep you warm.

When going ashore by Zodiac, make sure to wear a windproof and waterproof jacket and trousers, as well as tall rubber boots. Below you will find some instructions on how to dress in cold climate, followed by an equipment checklist.

Waterproof and insulated boots with good grip are essential for the expedition. We recommend that you always wear a windproof and waterproof outer layer on board or during landings. Below you will find some more information on how to dress during an expedition.

THE BASE-LAYER

The layer closest to your skin must wick perspiration away from your body to keep you dry and warm. Recommended materials include wool or synthetic fabrics. Cotton should never be worn next to the skin, as it absorbs moisture and loses its insulating properties when wet.

THE MID-LAYER

This layer provides insulation and retains body heat without restricting movement. Suitable materials for this layer are fleece or wool. It is better to wear several thin layers than one thick layer. On cold days you may need extra insulation. This way you control your body temperature.

THE OUTER LAYER

The main function of this layer is to offer protection against wind and water, but also to let out excess body heat. Therefore, it is good to use breathable materials such as Gore-Tex or similar.

THE TOP

Your head is one of the main areas through which body heat is lost, so we strongly recommend bringing a warm, windproof hat that fully covers your ears. Preferred materials are synthetic fibres or wool.

HANDS AND FEET

These parts of your body are particularly sensitive. It is important to keep hands and feet dry and warm. The same layering method applies here. Use inner gloves made of synthetic fibre, silk or wool and cover with a wind/waterproof mitten. Mittens are much warmer than gloves. Please remember to bring an extra pair of mittens.

We recommend wool socks and preferably in layers. A pair of solid, waterproof boots is great when going ashore. It is also wise to bring wool insoles.

If you are considering bringing special equipment of any kind, please contact the PolarQuest office before travelling.

EQUIPMENT CHECK LIST

ESSENTIALS

• Passport
• Medicine (if applicable) to last the entire trip  
  
  

LUGGAGE

• 1 soft bag – a large backpack or soft duffel bag for clothes and equipment to check-in. A soft bag is recommended as it is easily stored in your cabin.
• 1 backpack – a small, water resistant backpack for carrying extra clothing, medication, camera, and other essentials during Zodiac landings and shore excursions.

LAYERS

• Inner gloves – wool, synthetic or silk.
• Gloves – water and windproof (bring extra pair).
• Base-layer top and trousers – wool or synthetic fibre.
• Warm sweater and trousers – wool or fleece.
• Warm socks – wool or synthetic fibre.
• Jacket – water and windproof for example Gore-Tex.
• Trousers – water and windproof for example Gore-Tex.
• Hat – warm and windproof that covers ears.

FOOTWEAR

• Winter shoes or hiking boots  – with good grip and a soft sole. Add a pair of  woollen insoles for extra warmth.
• Regular shoes/sneakers  – to wear on board the ship, with sturdy rubber soles to avoid slipping.

IN ADDITION, WE RECOMMEND

• A good pair of binoculars enhances the experience
• Heat packs  – for your gloves or boots, if you know that your hands and feet easily get cold.
• Motion sickness medicine – pills, wrist bands or patches for seasickness.
• Pen & notebook
• Water bottle
• Ear plugs
• Headlamp
• Ice grips – Lightweight pull on
• Walking sticks –please ensure they’re foldable and packed in checked luggage.

On board the ship there are also reflective vests, walking sticks and ice grips available to borrow for walks and shorter hikes ashore.

CAMERA EQUIPMENT

• Camera & several memory cards
• Charger & extra batteries
• Waterproof bags – to protect your camera from getting wet during rubber boat cruises.
• Cleaning cloth – for camera lenses.
• Tripod – if you want to photograph the Northern Lights from land.