Equipment & checklist

EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING ON AN EXPEDITION CRUISE

The temperature in Northern Norway in April/May is normally between +5 and +15ºC.

The mean temperature in Longyearbyen in late April/early May is -5ºC.

In other parts of the Svalbard archipelago the temperatures are most likely a few degrees below the mean temperatures in Longyearbyen. Please also be aware of the wind chill factor, which takes wind speeds and humidity into account, to assess how the human body actually feels temperature. The 'feels like' temperature is often different (much lower) from the actual air temperature shown on a weather forecast.

The early and late season, mainly in April/early May and September, are often extra cold. Also, each year is different. Some years the thermometer can show -10 to -15ºC the first week of May. Remember to pack an extra warm layer of clothes if you are travelling during this time. Please make sure you check the weather forecast before you leave and come properly geared.

We recommend you dress in layers; it allows you to easily adjust to variations in temperature. Wear three layers or more. The purpose of the layers are:

1. To get rid of perspiration.
2. Insulate you from the cold.
3. Protect you against the wind (and water).

The layering method also allows you to easily adjust your clothing when the weather and temperatures change. Make sure to bring an extra layer if you are travelling early or late season.

When going ashore by Zodiacs, make sure to wear wind and waterproof jacket/trousers and tall rubber boots. Below you will find some instructions on how to dress in polar climate, followed by an equipment checklist.

THE BASE-LAYER

The layer closest to your skin must get rid of perspiration from your body to keep you dry and warm. Recommended materials are wool or synthetic materials. Cotton should never be worn close to the body.

THE MID-LAYER

This layer provides insulation and retains body heat without restricting movement. Fleece or wool clothing is suitable for this layer. 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 like the body’s funnel, and we always recommend bringing a warm and windproof hat. Make sure it covers your ears! Preferable clothing is made from 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. You should wear inner socks of synthetic fibre and cover with layers of wool or synthetic socks. A pair of warm, solid and knee-high rubber boots is the secret weapon when going ashore with the Zodiacs. 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.

CHECKLIST 

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 – small and preferably water resistant, to use in the Zodiacs and during 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 – 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

• Rubber boots – (Mandatory) Sturdy knee-high, lined and with warm wool soles.
• Hiking boots if you prefer not to walk in rubber boots after landing. Please note that along the Norwegian coast you will have good hiking opportunities, so a good pair of hiking boots are recommended.
• Regular shoes/sneakers to wear on board the ship, with sturdy rubber soles to avoid slipping.

 

CAMERA EQUIPMENT

• Camera & memory cards.
• Waterproof bags to protect your camera from getting wet during rubber boat cruises.
• Cleaning cloth for camera lenses.
• Charger & extra batteries to the camera as the cold makes batteries discharge faster.
  
  

IN ADDITION, WE RECOMMEND

• A good pair of binoculars enhances the experience, as many animals are seen from a distance.
• Sunscreen with high sun protection factor for face and lips.
• Sunglasses, preferably with necklace, so you do not drop them in the water.
• Ski goggles, especially for trips in May as it is more common with snow fall. It offers good protection for the eyes during a Zodiac cruise.
• Motion sickness medicine – pills, wrist bands or patches for seasickness.
• Pen & notebook 
• Swimwear in case you get the opportunity to take a polar plunge.
• Water bottle
• Eye mask – the midnight sun reigns supreme.
• Ear plugs
• Heat packs for your gloves or boots, if you know that your hands and feet easily get cold.
• Walking sticks for those who want extra support in the often hilly terrain. Please note that they must be foldable and stored in the checked-in luggage.