| (Continued...) HOW MUCH TIME IS SPENT ASHORE?
This depends on many factors, including the weather and landing conditions. Depending on the voyage, you may spend several days aboard ship, followed by days when one, two or three landings are made, usually by ‘Zodiac’, each lasting up to several hours. With almost continuous daylight at high latitudes, landings in the evening or early morning may be scheduled, to take advantage of the often excellent light conditions for photography.
Once ashore, spend anything from half an hour to several hours at a time exploring, usually on foot to get to places of interest. There are no proper paths so the walking may be over rough ground, along rocky beaches or on boggy terrain. Some cruises offer the option of extended hikes for those who are more active but there is usually an alternative shorter walk or another activity on offer.
DO I HAVE TO BE IN GOOD HEALTH?
Yes, you must be in good general health because the cruises take place in remote areas without access to sophisticated medical facilities. The medical room on board ship is able to deal with minor complaints. If you don’t normally exercise regularly, we recommend that you start to gently build up your fitness several months before departure so as to get the most out of the shore excursions.
HOW CAN I BEST PREPARE FOR THIS ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME EXPERIENCE?
No one booking a Discover the World holiday leaves home unprepared! Before departure you will receive a comprehensive Information Pack with sections on the region’s history, environment and wildlife. There are recommendations on clothing and kit, what and how much to take, as well as useful tips on photography. A full description of the ship’s facilities is also included to make sure that you know exactly what to expect.
EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING
A comprehensive clothing and kit list will be sent to you once you have booked your holiday. Generally sensible, warm and windproof outdoor clothing is essential, along with thermal underwear and a breathable rain jacket and trousers. For footwear, comfortable waterproof walking boots, gaiters and Wellington boots cover most eventualities. A telescopic walking pole is helpful to keep your balance on rough ground and binoculars are essential for successful wildlife viewing. As for cameras, don’t leave home without one!
ACCOMMODATION & MEALS
Expedition voyages are not to be confused with cruising in the usual sense. These are not aboard luxury liners with nightly entertainment and a never ending supply of 5 star foods. However a good standard of comfort is an integral part of all voyages (note that on the sailing vessel Noorderlicht facilities are more basic). The vessels are selected for their performance and safety in polar waters above all else – for further details, see pages 110 to 112.
A description of the cabin types is given under each vessel. They are simply furnished but are more than adequate for this type of holiday. On some vessels, it is possible to opt for one of the superior cabins.
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Iceland
