Pre-departure Information
WELCOME ON BOARD!
You are about to travel to some of the world’s most scenic places. The Arctic may be a bit cooler holiday destination than most, but it evokes warm feelings and lots of inspiration. Everyone at PolarQuest is truly passionate about its pristine nature and fascinating wildlife. Once back home, we hope that you will have the same passion for these unique environment and become a true ambassador.
EXPEDITION SPECIALISTS
Everyone working at PolarQuest have been an expedition cruise. If you give us a call or send us an email, our enthusiastic travel consultants will answer all your questions regarding your trip – clothing, weather, landings or Zodiac cruises – we have all the answers! Hopefully you will find some of the answers in this document as well.
GUIDES
We know that one of the keys to a successful expedition is having knowledgeable and enthusiastic leaders. A few weeks prior to your voyage, you will receive a short introduction of the guides who will be on your trip.
INSPIRATION
Don’t forget to follow our blog, Facebook or Instagram and take part of news, images and travel stories. On our website you find several inspirational movies from all our unique destinations.
GENERAL
Please note: There are no set itineraries on our expedition cruises. Factors such as the weather and ice play an important role in where the ship will venture. The daily schedule is decided by the Captain and the Expedition Leader, who both have great experience of the areas we are travelling in. Remember that flexibility is the key to a successful expedition!
MEDICAL CONDITIONS
To participate in an expedition cruise, you are required to be in generally good health and have good mobility. If you have undergone major surgery within the past two years or have a current medical condition, we need you to complete and return our medical form. Please contact us for more information.
You should also always bring a written list of your medications on board.
If you occasionally require extra assistance, you must travel with a companion. Our guides must be available to support all passengers and are unfortunately unable to provide individual assistance to guests with special needs.
DIETARY REQUESTS
Due to limited kitchen space on board and restricted supply access in remote areas, dietary flexibility is limited. Our chefs are able to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free diets, as well as avoid key allergens. This information must be provided in your personal information form no later than 90 days prior to departure.
Please note that we are unable to cater to extensive personal preferences or detailed dietary instructions. If you have allergies that could lead to serious health issues, we kindly ask that you confirm with the chef on your first day on board that your information has been received.
INSURANCE
It is very important to have full medical, emergency evacuation and repatriation coverage throughout your voyage.
PASSPORT & VISA
All visitors to Svalbard must hold a valid passport. Please also check how many months your passport must be valid beyond the date you plan to leave Norway. Contact your nearest Norwegian Embassy to confirm whether you need a visa and to ensure you meet all passport, visa, and immigration requirements for your trip.
FLIGHTS
Most flights to Longyearbyen, Svalbard, depart from or via Oslo with Norwegian or SAS. Some flights also stop in Tromsø*. As the number of flights to Longyearbyen is limited and seats fill up quickly, we recommend booking your ticket well in advance.
For guests traveling with the M/S Quest, we offer group flights with SAS. The number of group seats is limited, but it is of course also possible to book your flight independently.
*During stopovers in Tromsø, passport control and baggage handling may take place, so travelers are advised to be prepared.
CURRENCY
The currency in Svalbard is Norwegian Krone (NOK). Credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, AmEx) are accepted in most shops in Longyearbyen and Ny-Ålesund. Please note, at the time of writing, there are no possibilities to withdraw cash in Longyearbyen.
LOST LUGGAGE
Lost luggage is beyond our control. In case your luggage do not arrive in time we recommend you take the following precautions:
- Pack your hand luggage with your essentials, such as medication and valuables.
- Fly with your jacket on/with you on board.
- Avoid travelling in light summer shoes.
- Bring a change of clothes in your hand luggage.
- If you have a travel companion, pack a few items in each other’s luggage. If your luggage goes missing, you will still have some of your items available.