What
to Pack - The Arctic
CLOTHING FOR EXCURSIONS
ASHORE
-
Warm trousers –
Ski pants are suitable if you have them; otherwise, bring any sturdy
trousers, such as jeans, that can be layered between your long thermal
underwear and waterproof outer-trousers.
-
Waterproof trousers
– Essential for your comfort. Wear them over your regular
trousers (jeans) to keep you warm and dry. Gore-Tex and similar
fabrics are both waterproof and breathable.
-
Thermal long underwear
– synthetic are better.
-
Sweaters –
Wool sweaters or a polar fleece jacket of medium weight is recommended.
-
Turtlenecks –
Bring several practical turtlenecks for layering and use around
the ship.
-
T-Shirts –
Synthetic is better than cotton.
-
Mittens –
these are better than gloves, especially if you wear thin polypropylene
gloves underneath the mittens. Thus, you can take off the mittens
to operate your camera and still have some protection from the cold.
It’s a good idea to bring an extra pair of wool mittens to
wear if your other pair gets wet or lost.
-
Hat and Scarf
– Bring a warm hat and scarf to protect your head, ears, face
and neck.
-
Warm Socks –
Sturdy, tall, wool socks worn over a thin pair of synthetic or cotton
socks should provide enough insulation for your feet. Bring several
pair, since you will inevitably get your feet wet.
-
Waterproof & Windproof
Jacket – Bring a well-fitting jacket with attached
hood. This is the most important layer of clothing you will bring,
please make sure it is fully waterproof. There is nothing worse
than wind on wet clothes at zero degrees.
-
Small day bag –
A waterproof nylon backpack or similar bag with shoulder straps,
for carrying your camera and other gear during shore excursions.
Be sure to choose one with shoulder straps so that your hands are
free.
-
Sunglasses –
Good quality sunglasses. Please note that the glare from the water
and surrounding snow and ice can be very dazzling, even when the
sky is overcast.
-
Binoculars –
highly recommended.
-
Camera –
and plenty of memory cards/film. You will take more photos than
you think!
-
Rubber Boots –
Your boots are probably the most important
item you need to bring. They need to be a pair of
pull-on rubber, unlined and completely waterproof boots that are
mid-calf or higher with a strong, ridged non-skid sole for landings
onshore. Stepping out of the Zodiacs to shore almost always involves
stepping into water, so it is important that the boots are high
enough to avoid water going over the top and into the boots. Aslo,
expect poor footing on the ice and ashore. for this reason boots
such as Sorrels, snow boots, hiking boots or low rubber boots are
not satisfactory, as you will get your feet wet. Make sureyour boots
are not too tight or too sloppy. If they are too tight you will
get cold feet. If they are too loose you can, within reason, add
an insole or extra socks to take up the space. For maximum warmth,
wear loose-fitting boots and two pairs of socks.
DRESS ABOARD THE SHIP
In keeping with the expedition’s atmosphere, the dress code
on board is very informal. Bring casual and comfortable clothes to
lounge around onboard, in the communal bar area, and in your cabin.
Keep in mind that much of the spectacular scenery is best appreciated
from the deck. The secret to keeping warm is the "layer principle".
It is better to have several light layers of clothing than one heavy
layer. This also gives you the flexibility in your clothing so you
can take off a layer if you are too warm or put on another layer if
you are cold. Synthetic fibres are better than cotton, as they allow
your skin to breathe easier, and the dry quicker. It is recommended
that you bring a good pair of sturdy shoes/boots for walking about
outside on the deck, preferably with good tread to prevent slipping.
If applicable, pack a pair of Teva sandals or similar for use in the
shared showers.
What to Pack - Antarctica
To help you prepare for your expedition, we have
prepared a list of recommended items to pack. Please keep in mind
this list is simply a guideline, which you may choose to modify to
fit your individual comfort needs. Cold and wet weather clothing (waterproof
parkas, trousers and wellington boots) can be hired in Ushuaia for
use during shore landings, with costs varying according to the item.
Most items cost from USD$10–USD$25 for the duration of the trip.
CLIMATE
Our expedition to Antarctica takes place during
the Austral summer. Generally, temperatures in the Antarctic are in
the -6°C and 5°C. Although it can be quite sunny, expect rain,
snow, fog and a high wind-chill factor.
EXPEDITION CLOTHING (Comfortable,
Durable & Loose)
Waterproof Gear:
-
Rain jacket
-
Waterproof trousers
-
Rubber boots
Pull-on, unlined, knee-high boots are required for
wet landings. Boots must be 14"-16" high with strong, rubber-ridge,
non-skid soles. These specifications are very important. You may be
stepping into water up to 10" deep on wet landings. Moon or leather
boots are NOT appropriate. A supply of
rubber boots or Wellingtons, are available on board the USHUAIA and
includes a wide variety of sizes. It is recommended that you bring your
own only if you require a special size. Please note
that the boots on board have been used by previous passengers.
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Parka (Water-repellent hooded
parka)
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Waterproof gloves or mittens
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Hat, scarf, or other face protection
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Jacket or sweaters
It is best to bring at least one lightweight and one heavy jacket
or sweater. Sweatshirts, turtlenecks, and fleece pullovers are also
good Insulators. Layering with wool, silk or synthetics fabrics, rather
than cotton, is recommended.
Other Clothing:
Clothing on Board:
Onboard the ship, the temperature is normally approximately 20°C.
We advise you to pack warm and comfortable clothing as well as rubber-soled
shoes for use on deck. Layers are preferable to one, big jacket or
sweater. You should also have a waterproof layer for travel on zodiac
craft, which can be affected by sea spray.
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