Packing List

WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR ANTARCTICA ADVENTURE

The climate in Antarctica is quite unique, so we advise that you pack carefully. Of course, we understand that everyone feels the cold (and warmth) differently, but there are certainly some recommendations that will benefit most Antarctic adventurers.

Daily temperatures in the Antarctic Peninsula can range from well below freezing to the upper 40°F/4°C. The windchill factor can make these temperatures feel much colder.

Keep in mind that you will be spending most of your time outdoors on or near the water, where open spaces will be subject to strong, cold winds. The outside temperature can feel much colder than the reading on the thermometers. We would recommend that you dress a little warmer than you usually would for the temperature.

ONBOARD

Everyday attire

Expedition cruises are primarily concerned with what happens outside the ship, so dress codes are very relaxed. Your clothing aboard the ship should be comfortable and easy to wash and pack. Casual trousers, jeans, long-sleeved t-shirt and a thin jumper or bodywarmer will be fine. Inside the ship will be warm and comfortable. However, it’s always a good idea to have warm clothes on hand just in case something out on deck takes your interest. You may want to pack swimming and fitness gear if you would like to visit the spa, pool or fitness centre whilst aboard.

Dressing for dinner

We keep our evenings casual too. Perhaps pack a couple of casual shirts, and/or skirts or dresses.

Footwear

Keep footwear light and easy to pack. Onboard a pair of lightweight trainers will be adequate. Women are strongly advised not to bring high-heeled shoes, especially stiletto heels. The seas can get rough at times, and you’ll need your balance. Slippers should only be worn in your cabin.

Arrival and departure locations

Remember to pack clothes and shoes appropriate for the cities where your itinerary begins and ends. They may be in very different climates with different activities on offer.

Shore excursions and Zodiac landings

For shore excursions, Swan Hellenic will provide:

• Swan Hellenic Expedition branded water and windproof parkas. This will be yours to keep at the end of the cruise.

• Rubber Muck boots

• Life jacket • A refillable water bottle

Swan Hellenic Expedition parkas

Your Swan Hellenic Expedition parka will be waiting for you in your stateroom on the first day of the cruise.

The 3-in-1 two-layer parka features:

• A 3M Finetex Taslan 330D membrane

• 5,000 mm waterproof technology • 5,000 gm breathability • An adjustable hood with microfleece lining for extra warmth, and a visor for optimal visibility in all conditions

• A high collar that protects your neck and face when the hood is down

• Elongated cuffs, secured over the gloves with two adjustable buckles (instead of Velcro, complying with local biosafety regulations) • An elongated back for comfortable seating in

Zodiac boats

Don’t get wet

Water making its way under your clothes can quickly cause discomfort. It can also lead to health issues, so it’s best to make sure that you do as much as you can to avoid getting wet. It’s quite easy to get wet when on an excursion. Rain, snow, seawater spray and splashes are just a few of the ways that water can get in. Your Swan Hellenic Expedition parka will protect most of your body from wind and water, but what else should you wear to make sure that you are completely water-free? For mid and bottom layers, wool, silk, and polar fleece are much better choices than cotton. Materials should be breathable to prevent condensation from gathering under your parka. Waterproof trousers for Zodiac trips and land excursions are essential. We would recommend wearing them over normal pants or thermal underwear.

It’s all about layers

Layering your clothing is key to maintaining a comfortable body temperature. It’s always better to wear several lightweight layers than one heavier one. You can always remove or add more layers of clothing as your body temperature changes. We would recommend loose-fitting layers which allow for pockets of air between each item of clothing. This helps provide additional insulation.

Footwear

You will be provided with a pair of rubber Muck boots for Zodiac excursions and onshore landings. We would advise bringing wool or insulated socks to wear with the Muck boots. Bring several pairs of warm socks with you. When choosing your socks, we would recommend focusing on quality and material rather than thickness. Merino wool, nylon and organic fibres are best for wicking moisture away and preventing blisters. You’ll be able to find appropriate socks in most specialist outdoors shops.

Hats and gloves

You will need to make sure that you keep your head warm on deck and when on excursions. Bring a warm, windproof hat that covers your head and ears. We would also recommend wearing a collar scarf to protect your neck and chin from the elements. You may also wish to bring a balaclava for additional protection. It’s also important that you keep your hands warm and dry. Packing mittens, ski gloves and insulated glove liners will keep you covered for all weather eventualities.

Bags

A waterproof backpack will be useful for protecting your camera and any other electronic gear that you want to bring for shore landings. We would recommend an additional waterproof case for your camera. The animals and plants of the Antarctic are protected under the Antarctic Treaty, and pollution is strictly regulated. As such, we advise our guests to avoid bringing certain materials ashore. Backpacks without mesh inserts are recommended, and we advise against using plastic bags for waterproofing items. Please note that it is completely forbidden to bring plastic bags ashore in South Georgia.

Sun protection

Sunglasses are recommended to protect your eyes from the sun as well as from the snow glare. We would recommend bringing plastic-framed glasses, not metal, as they are less likely to bend and break. It is also advisable to bring high SPF sunscreen for your face, along with hand cream and lip balm. In Antarctica, the sun’s rays reflect off the water, snow, and ice, even when the weather is overcast. Keeping sun protection in mind when packing is essential.

Medication

In addition to any prescription medication, you may also need to think about bringing motion sickness pills. You should make sure that you have an adequate supply of any medication that you need. Seasickness medication will also be available on board at the front desk should you need it.

Electricity

Don’t forget to pack chargers for all the electronic equipment that you’re bringing aboard. While there are 110 volt outlets in your stateroom, it’s recommended that while travelling internationally you should bring a universal power plug adapter.

RECOMMENDED PACKING LIST

• Shoes and clothing for arrival and departure cities

• Waterproof trousers

• A wool jumper or fleece jacket • A bodywarmer or sweatshirt

• Two sets of thermal underwear

• A turtleneck jumper and a long sleeve shirt

• One or two t-shirts

• Jeans or other comfortable trousers

• Sports clothing for the onboard fitness centre • Swimwear for visiting the spa and pool

• Two pairs of mittens, gloves, and glove liners

• A warm windproof hat

• A warm shawl or scarf

• A balaclava

• Warm socks (several pairs), merino wool, nylon or organic fiber • Trainers or comfortable shoes that make you feel comfortable on board

• Waterproof backpack for shore drop-off landings

• A waterproof, airtight case for your camera and other electronic gear

• UV-protective sunglasses • Sunscreen for face and lips, hand cream and lip balm

• Camera, extra memory cards and flash drives, extra batteries, and lenses

• Laptop or tablet for taking notes and uploading photos

• Charges for electronics, adapters, and power banks as required

• An extra pair of eyeglasses or an extra set of contact lenses

• Medical supplies prescribed by your doctor, with a few extra days to spare