Polar Star Expeditions
Expedition Cruises on a Stabilised Icebreaker
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Polar Star Expeditions is owned and operated by Martin Karlsen of Karlsen Shipping, which has worked in the marine industry and in Polar Regions since the 1800’s. We bring to our current operations over a century of experience and a culture for safety, service and the environment that is deeply ingrained in everything we do. Our captains, crew and on board team are renowned for their skills and our team of on board experts offer an in depth understanding of the regions we sail through and this expertise extends throughout all aspects of our operation.
The M/V Polar Star is one of the world’s best expedition ice-class vessels on the seas today – of a size that combined with our ice capability and Zodiac landing craft, allows access to places that others can only sail past. Your experiences ashore are enhanced by our education programs that include lectures, films and daily recaps. You will return home with a unique knowledge and understanding of the wonderful areas you have visited. We believe that the M/V Polar Star is the best vessel to explore the world on, with an open bridge policy, large on-deck viewing areas and a panoramic observation lounge providing spectacular views of beautiful vistas and opportunities for spotting wildlife such as whales, dolphins and seabirds.
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Expertise and Specialisation
Our team is made up of individuals who share the same vision and passion for Polar Star Expeditions. In the head office, our experienced staff can bring the Polar Star experience alive for you by sharing their knowledge of life onboard and our unique destinations. They work tirelessly to develop the best expedition programs possible and are always working to make your experience beyond expectations. Once onboard, you will be surrounded by an eclectic expedition team, made up of experts in biology, ornithology, history, culture, music and more, supported by a highly experienced Captain, crew and hotel staff who will transport you with safety and efficiency.
In the spirit of adventure, we offer some of the finest expedition cruises to our travellers and provide an opportunity to embrace and experience nature and discovery first hand. For each expedition, we carefully select our onboard team to include experts who are passionate and knowledgeable about the areas you are exploring. Each day, your experienced Expedition Leader will decide the day’s exact itinerary based on things like weather, wildlife, ice conditions etc. We provide you with a daily itinerary prior to departure but we like to let Mother Nature play a role in exactly what will happen so you can get the most out of your expedition. We look at it as providing the opportunity for our passengers to be like explorers, not knowing exactly what each day will bring.
Many of our passengers simply fall in love with our ex-icebreaker and return many times over for a new adventure. Feel at home in our informal and relaxed ambiance. She is large enough to voyage to remote areas in comfort and small enough to enter out of the way destinations. She is a home away from home with one of the best standard cabins in the industry, a panoramic observation lounge, cosy library, mini-gym and inviting bar to meet with new friends. Our large on-deck viewing areas are first rate and our open bridge policy provides a unique opportunity to see the daily operations of an expedition vessel up close.
Licences and Associations
IAATO – International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators – A member organization founded in 1991 to advocate, promote and practice safe and environmentally responsible private sector travel to the Antarctic. www.iaato.org
AECO – Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators – The objective of AECO is to represent companies operating in Spitsbergen, on safety and environmental issues with the aim of protecting the unique wilderness values.
ACTA – Association of Canadian Travel Agencies – An industry-led travel association representing the retail travel community in Canada. www.acta.net
Polar Star Expeditions is a member in good standing of above organisations.
Safety is of highest importance at Polar Star Expeditions from our shore personnel who coordinate operations, to our expedition staff who transport you to shore by Zodiac and our Captain and crew who are responsible for safe navigation in all waters. We have implemented a rigorous Safety Management System and operate in accordance with the latest ISPS, SOLAS, MARPOL and ISM regulations.
Responsible Travel
Whether sailing onboard M/V Polar Star, making one of our Zodiac landings or on shore excursions, we act in an environmentally sensitive way with respect to the fragile habitats we visit. Polar Star Expeditions is a member of IAATO (International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators) and AECO (Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators). We are committed to following the mandates set by these valuable associations to ensure the protection of these fragile environments.
Polar Star Expeditions Responsible Travel Efforts
We care about our fine feathered friends…
SAVE THE ALBATROSS
(Annual Fund Raising Campaign)
Albatrosses have survived the harshest marine environment for 50 million years. Today these birds are at risk – unable to cope with manmade threats such as longline fishing. Our passengers are always amazed at the beauty and grace of these incredibly tough birds – they are indeed a global treasure. RSPB (the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) and Birdlife work together to raise awareness of this serious problem. Through training and awareness governments and industry are encouraged to develop responsible fishing methods and shut down pirate fishing.
To support this initiative, each Antarctic Season, Polar Star Expeditions conducts fund raising onboard with 100% of the funds raised being donated to the Save the Albatross Campaign.
We care about our oceans…
PROJECT SEAMOUNT
(2007-8 Research Initiative Support)
This is an initiative, begun in 2007, to collect sightings data on rare and poorly-known cetaceans inhabiting offshore seas. The initial focus of the project are the beaked whales of the southern oceans (although sightings from anywhere and of any rarely seen cetaceans are welcome). All past sightings records are most valuable as well – if you have been keeping notes over the years, do let us know of those rare sightings!
The data will be collected with the cooperation of our expedition team and passengers to record opportunistic sightings. The data will be assembled in a database and will be made available to the public, scientists, researchers and other groups. The long-term goal is to create a PowerPoint for use by lecturers and naturalists.
This project is in cooperations with ORCA (Organisation Cetacea), a UK-based charity founded in 2000 to promote the conservation of the marine environment (see www.orcaweb.org.uk), and with AMMA (Aves y Mamíferos Marinos Australes), an Argentinian-based research organization headed by Natalie Goodall.
We care about our footprint…
ALIENS IN THE ANTARCTIC
(2007-8 Scientific Research Support)
This project is conducted by the Australian Antarctic Division. It will be the first study to obtain a comprehensive insight into the extent that humans carry propagules (e.g. spores, seeds, whole organisms such as invertebrates) unintentionally into the Antarctic. The project looks at both national program operations and tourist operations and will gather hard data as to the extent of this threat. Only with hard data can appropriate mitigation methods to protect Antarctica from human actions be targeted and developed.
Expedition Cruise
Season: Year round
Food and Beverages
The Dining Room is located on Deck 3 and offers an intimate and informal dining experience by maintaining an open-seating policy, which allows you to sit wherever you like and with whom you choose.
International chefs prepare an impressive selection of different cuisines during the cruise and international wait-staff are there to assist you. Breakfast is usually buffet style with an assortment of hot and cold items. Lunch and dinner are set menus.
Vegetarian diets are easily accommodated at all meals. For any other dietary requests please check with the office (if you have not already done so) well in advance of your trip. The chef will do his/her best to accommodate but we cannot guarantee. Please note that the kitchen is not able to prepare kosher meals.
The Bartender will be on duty at the entrance to the Dining Room at lunch and dinner to take wine and beer orders as you enter.
In addition, and afternoon snack is generally served mid afternoon and there is a self-serve refreshment station available in the lounge 24 hours a day.
There are two bars onboard the M/V Polar Star.
The Polar Bar is located forward on Deck 4 and is a popular place, after dinner, to get refreshments and enjoy the company of other travelers. Hours of operation vary for each trip and will be posted onboard.
The other bar onboard is located in the Observation Lounge. It is utilized mainly for the Welcome and Farewell Reception, other special occasions and usually prior to dinner.
All liquor, wine, beer, soft drinks and bottled water purchased onboard will be charged to your shipboard account.
In support of our host countries we endeavor to buy local product whenever feasible.
Accommodation
OUR SHIP
What type of vessel is the M/V Polar Star?
The M/V Polar Star is an ex Swedish icebreaker and was converted in 2000 specifically for expedition cruising. She is an Ice 1A* class vessel, is 4998 GRT and has a fleet of 10 Zodiacs. She is owned by Karlsen Shipping Norway and operated by Karlsen Shipping Company in Halifax, Canada.
How many people can the M/V Polar Star carry?
The M/V Polar Star can carry 105 passengers but in the Antarctic, we only carry a maximum of 100 passengers. IAATO (International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators) regulations only allow 100 passengers ashore at one time so, unlike larger vessels, when you travel with us you don’t have to waste valuable time waiting to go ashore!
How many cabins are onboard the M/V Polar Star?
There are 48 cabins onboard the M/V Polar Star. All cabins are outside cabins with windows or portholes.
What type of cabins are onboard M/V Polar Star?
We have 5 different types of cabins available on the M/V Polar Star as follows:
Cabin Category Description
K1 – Triple Two lower and one upper berths. Shares toilet, shower and washbasin with cabin next door. Approx 100 sq. feet/10 sq. metres. Portholes
K1 – Double Two lower and one upper berths. Shares toilet, shower and washbasin with cabin next door. Approx 100 sq. feet/10 sq. metres. Portholes
K2 – Double Two lower beds. Private bathroom with shower, toilet and washbasin. Approx 115 sq. feet/11.5 sq. metres. Large windows. Deck 3 – partially obstructed view, one window opens. Deck 4 – unobstructed view, non opening windows.
K3 – Double Two lower beds. Private bathroom with shower, toilet and washbasin. Approx 115 sq. feet/11.5 sq. metres. Large windows, one opens.
K4 (Superior) – Triple Double bed. Couch can be made up as bed. Private bathroom with shower, toilet and washbasin. Approx 140sq. feet/14 sq. metres. 2 side facing windows (one opens) and 1 aft porthole.
K4 (Superior) – Double Double bed. Couch can be made up as bed. Private bathroom with shower, toilet and washbasin. Approx 140sq. feet/14 sq. metres. 2 side facing windows (one opens) and 1 aft porthole.
K6 (Mini Suites) – Double Double bed, some in alcove. Couch can be made up as bed in some. Private bathroom with shower, toilet and washbasin. Approx 180sq. feet/18 sq. metres. Large windows, some with one that opens.
K7 (Suites) – Double Sleeping area in separate area. Couch in living room can be made up as bed. Private bathroom with shower, toilet and washbasin. Approx 250sq. feet/25 sq. metres. Forward and side facing windows, some open.
What facilities are onboard the M/V Polar Star?
The M/V Polar Star is equipped with a panoramic observation lounge and lecture facilities, dining room, bar, library, gym, gift shop, wet room and superb on-deck viewing areas.
I hear the M/V Polar Star has an open bridge policy. What exactly does this mean?
We like to share the full expedition experience with our passengers and invite you to join our Captain and Officers on the bridge to observe navigation and route planning and take advantage of its superb wildlife viewing opportunities. There are some restrictions at certain times of the day and in certain situations and the full open bridge policy can be found in onboard manuals in all cabins. So please feel free to join us on the bridge for a spectacular viewing vantage point and the opportunity to see our Captain and officers at work. Welcome.
What nationalities are the Captain and Crew onboard the M/V Polar Star?
In general, our stewards, stewardesses and crew are Filipino and our Captain and Officers are Polish. We have Hotel Managers from USA and Hungary, as well as an international roster of Expedition Staff. All of our staff are English speaking.
What electrical current is available onboard the M/V Polar Star?
The electrical supply onboard M/V Polar Star is 110/220 volt 50 Hz. The double electrical outlets in most cabins accommodate both standard US and some European plugs. You may need an international adapter for your particular equipment.
LIFE ONBOARD
What is the mode of dress on the ship?
People dress casually onboard ship. Comfort is the prime factor. You may wish to include some slightly more dressy clothes for the Captain's parties at the beginning and end of your voyage, but that is strictly up to you.
I have never been in a Zodiac before. How difficult is it to get in and out of them?
Once you have been in a Zodiac you will never forget the feeling of being whisked ashore!! Our staff members are always available at every landing to give you a helping hand as you get into Zodiacs from our steel gangway and then once you arrive ashore. We just ask that you are comfortable with walking down the gangway and we can take care of the rest!
Is there email access onboard the M/V Polar Star?
Yes, when you arrive onboard you may set up your own email account which is for your sole use for the duration of the journey. There is a set up fee plus a fee for each email sent and received and this will be charged to your shipboard account. A computer terminal is available for your use 24 hours a day. Please note that large files and attachments cannot be sent or received.
Is there internet access onboard the M/V Polar Star?
No, there is no internet access onboard the M/V Polar Star, only email access.
What phone number should I give as an emergency contact number while I am onboard the M/V Polar Star?
The number for the bridge on the M/V Polar Star is 011-881-63-181-4759. You may also give friends and family info@polarstarexpeditions.com for any urgent correspondence (no attachments please).
Do I need to bring my own rubber boots onboard?
No, we now carry rubber boots onboard in a variety of sizes so you do not have to worry about fitting them into your suitcase!
What is a wet landing? How wet will I get?
Often, especially in the more remote regions that we visit, there is no jetty or dock for the ship or Zodiacs to come alongside to. In these instances, Zodiacs will bring you ashore and often unload on beaches or shorelines. This may require walking through water to reach dry land but the water is always very shallow and we provide rubber boots onboard so you don’t have to get your shoes or feet wet! Many of our passengers bring walking shoes with them on landings and change into them once they are ashore.
Do you have a doctor onboard the M/V Polar Star?
Yes, we have an English speaking doctor onboard each of our expeditions who is available 24 hours a day for free consultation. We also have a treatment room with basic medical equipment and medications.
In general, what are the age groups of passengers onboard the M/V Polar Star?
Our passengers range in age from small children to people in their 90’s so age is no barrier! Generally speaking though, most passengers are aged in the age range of 45 – 65 years old.
What nationality are most of the passengers onboard the M/V Polar Star?
Our passengers are from all around the world, but most commonly, USA, UK, Australia/New Zealand, Canada and Europe.
What methods of payment are available whilst onboard M/V Polar Star?
You may pay your shipboard account by Visa, Mastercard, traveller’s cheques or US Dollars.
OUR EXPEDITIONS
How much time do we spend ashore?
Each individual voyage is different. Although we like to go ashore as often as possible, much depends on factors like the weather, the distance between destinations, and ice conditions. On some cruises there may be two or three days at sea, followed by several landings; on others, you may do shore or Zodiac excursions two or three times a day. Your Expedition Leader, in consultation with the ship's Captain, will arrange your daily itinerary to maximize your experience. You may, of course, choose to skip an excursion. It is our intent to give you all the opportunities we can to see everything along our route.
When is the best time to go to the Antarctic?
Antarctica has something different to offer throughout the Antarctic season which runs from November to March. In November, you can witness the pack ice breaking up, huge tabular icebergs and the mating periods of penguins and other birds throughout the continent. December and January are the peak months in terms of temperature and light and is the time when you will see penguin chicks being hatched and nestled by their mothers. February/March brings opportunities to see penguin chicks making the first uncertain steps to independence and adult penguins flocking ashore to moult. It is also the best time for whale watching.
Must I be in good health to take this trip?
Because our trips may be somewhat strenuous at times, it is important that you are in good health. In addition, please note that the remote areas we travel to have no access to modern medical facilities. Please do not join the expedition if you have a life-threatening condition or one that requires extensive medical attention. The medical information form that you must sign will give you additional details.
Must I be really "fit" to join one of your expeditions?
No. While we do disembark the ship as often as possible - with the opportunity to hike and explore remote areas - your trip does not need to be physically demanding. You may, of course, remain on the ship and view the wildlife and landscape from the deck. On shore, we generally offer at least one easy walk that allows participants to experience the destination without going far from the landing site. We will also offer Zodiac cruises where you remain seated as you view the sights from the boat. Please be aware, however, that to get into the Zodiac you must be able to go down and up the ship's steep gangway. There will be staff available to assist you as you get in and out of the boat. Most passengers find that the procedure gets easier with each excursion.
RESERVATIONS
What forms of payment does Polar Star Expeditions accept for reservations?
We accept payment via Visa, Mastercard, cheque and wire transfer.
How do I make a booking?
Simply click on the the 'enquire' button at the top of this page.
Can Polar Star Expeditions help me with my pre and post cruise arrangements?
Yes, we can book hotels, transfers and tours for you before and after your cruise. Just ask our reservations staff when you are booking your cruise or at any time prior to departure.
Can Polar Star Expeditions book my flights to and from embarkation and disembarkation cities?
Unfortunately, we are unable to book flights for you and we suggest you contact your preferred travel agent or book flights online. However, please do not hesitate to ask if you need clarification on which airports you need to fly in and out of.
Do you accommodate single travellers?
If you are travelling alone and prefer to have a cabin to yourself, you can choose to pay the single supplement rate of 1.6 times the double rate. Single passengers can be accommodated in K2, K3, K4 and K6 cabins. You may also request to share in a K1, K2 or K3 cabin with another (same gender) traveller.
Do you accommodate children onboard the M/V Polar Star?
We welcome children onboard who are aged five years of age and older. We offer a children’s discount for children aged five to sixteen inclusive. All children must be accompanied by and accommodated in a cabin with a parent or guardian.
Transport
Polar Star Expeditions can book hotels, transfers and tours for you before and after your cruise. Just ask our reservations staff when you are booking your cruise or at any time prior to departure.
Local Guides
On board the Polar Star, you will be surrounded by an eclectic expedition team, made up of experts in biology, ornithology, history, culture, music and more, supported by a highly experienced Captain, crew and hotel staff who will transport you with safety and efficiency.
Age Restrictions
Our passengers range in age from small children to people in their 90’s so age is no barrier! Generally speaking though, most passengers are aged in the age range of 45 – 65 years old.
We welcome children onboard who are aged five years of age and older. We offer a children’s discount for children aged five to sixteen inclusive. All children must be accompanied by and accommodated in a cabin with a parent or guardian.
What to Bring
Polar Star Expeditions will provide a detailed packing list on confirmation of your booking.
Please note that as part of your booking we provide a waterproof outside layer to help keep you warm and dry.
Rubber boots are available on board for those wet landings. We have most sizes available, but let us know if you are concerned!
POLAR STAR EXPEDITIONS (PSE) – 2007/8
General Terms and Conditions:
These General Terms and Conditions are applicable to all passengers on tours operated by Karlsen Shipping Company Limited c.o.b. as Polar Star Expeditions (PSE) and passengers travelling on such tours agree to be bound thereby. Passengers traveling onboard the M/V Polar Star on tours offered by other tour operators and agents also agree to be bound by these terms and conditions. These terms and conditions are not applicable when the M/V Polar Star is on charter by PSE to another tour operator, in which case PSE’s General Terms and Conditions (Charters), which are separately available from PSE, apply in lieu hereof.
a) PSE is the operator of M/V Polar Star under the terms and conditions as set out herein.
b) All passengers are bound by the terms and conditions set out by PSE and if a passenger in addition to him/herself also lists one or more persons on one reservation form, such passenger is automatically personally responsible for all obligations of such persons under these terms and conditions and warrants his/her authority to bind such persons to these terms and conditions as agent therefore.
c) In addition to these terms and conditions, the terms and conditions applicable to expeditions and tours offered by PSE are contained in the description of the expedition cruise, the itinerary and published information on the expeditions and tours, and the price information at time of printing. If PSE provides information about changes to routes, terms and conditions, etc., before the purchase of the tour, this amended information shall replace the appropriate information in the brochure. Changes of the sort described above may not be used by the contracting party as a reason for cancelling the travel contract.
d) To confirm a reservation, a non-refundable deposit of US$500pp is required at time of booking. Payment may be made in US funds by Visa, MasterCard, cheque or wire transfer. Balance of fees is payable no later than 60 days prior to embarkation. PSE reserves the right to cancel the booking if payment is not received in time. Reservations made within 60 days prior to departure must be accompanied by full payment. Passenger must provide completed reservation and medical forms at time of confirmed booking. Ticket is not transferable by passenger to another person.
e) The agreed price is based on the prices, exchange rates, duties and taxes as known to PSE at the time of publication of materials and at the time of travel confirmation. PSE reserves the right to raise the agreed price (on the grounds of among other things, unforeseeable increases of e.g. exchange rates, duties, taxes, port fees and fuel prices) if considered necessary by PSE. PSE will inform passengers, tour operators or agents at least 30 days prior to departure. In the case of a price increase of more than 5% of the total price of the trip, passengers, tour operators or agents are entitled to cancel the trip without incurring any costs.
f) PSE operates the M/V Polar Star under time charter from its owner, Karlsen Shipping Norway A/S (Karlsen) and acts as agent on behalf of Karlsen only in procuring the protections afforded to Karlsen in these terms and conditions. PSE acts only as agents on behalf of other shipping and transport companies, hotels, and others supplying services included in the program, and is not liable for circumstances affecting those parties or for delays or loss, personal injury, property damage, or costs which may occur due to any act, omission, negligence or breach of contract on the part of a supplier, its employees, or others, not under the direct control of PSE, or other failures incurred by circumstances beyond PSE’s control.
g) From time to time PSE may offer specials/discounts. These may not be applied retroactively. Booking early ensures availability. Last minute bookers may get a better fare but risk there being no availability. PSE specials are very limited and not a regular part of business. Specials/discounts/rewards may not be combined.
h) Neither PSE nor Karlsen is liable for personal injury, death, property damages, delays, or any loss that does not arise out of its negligence or that of its crew, servants, employees, or agents. Neither PSE nor Karlsen is under any circumstances, including negligence on its part, liable for any consequential damage or for costs or penalties associated with passengers’ air transport.
i) Cancellation by passengers, tour operators or agents must be made in writing by mail, fax or email to PSE’s head office. Passenger/tour operator/travel agent must record confirmation of receipt by PSE. The following cancellation fees apply:
a. Cancellation more than 60 days prior to departure: US$500 per person.
b. Cancellation between 46 and 59 days prior to departure: US$1000 per person.
c. Cancellation 45 days or less before departure: 100% of the total tour price.
Refunds to passengers are made through the tour operator, if applicable. PSE reserves the right to cancel any reservations if deposits and payments are not received on time. Passengers are urged to purchase cancellation insurance.
j) PSE reserves the right to cancel any departure due to insufficient reservations up to four weeks before the date of departure. (Passenger may be offered alternative cruise dates.) PSE also reserves the right to cancel any departure up until the date of that departure due to force majeure or other circumstances beyond the control of PSE that prevent the operation of the tour. In such event, the amount payable by PSE is limited to providing refund of the full amount the passenger has paid to PSE. Neither PSE nor Karlsen nor its agents is responsible for costs or penalties related to air transport or other services that are cancelled.
k) Neither PSE nor Karlsen is liable for failure to provide the services or accommodations offered to the extent that such services or accommodations cannot be provided due to force majeure or other circumstances beyond its control.
l) PSE expressly reserves its right to change the date or place of departure or conclusion of the tour or stops within the tour or to omit, substitute or reschedule any scheduled port or shore excursion, and to change or shorten itineraries, without prior notice and for any reason whatsoever, whether before or after the tour has departed, all without any liability on the part of PSE or Karlsen.
m) Unauthorized disembarkation by a passenger is completely at the passenger’s own risk and expense. If a passenger misses any scheduled sailing of the Vessel from any port or place, including any stopover, neither PSE nor Karlsen shall be liable for any costs, expenses or damages incurred by the passenger as a result of his/her action and no refund of fare shall be granted.
n) PSE conducts its operation so as to maintain high levels of safety and security. This does not excuse passengers from assuming responsibility themselves for the avoidance of dangerous situations while traveling, and all passengers are expected to ensure that they do not pose a safety risk either to themselves or to others. Due to new security regulations, passengers must agree to comply with security screening including a request for random check of luggage and/or person when embarking and/or disembarking.
o) The passengers must comply with the regulations and instructions given by the expedition staff and/or Master (Captain) on behalf of PSE. PSE reserves the right, at any time, to refuse to accept or to retain as a passenger of any tour, or parts of it, a person considered a health or safety liability or who behaves in such a way that he/she is a nuisance to the other passengers on the trip. Passengers that are asked to leave a program will be solely responsible for the associated costs. Furthermore, the passenger is 100% liable for damage (to self, other passengers, ship, staff or other) caused by improper behavior.
p) These tours/expeditions are intended for persons in reasonably good health. By making a reservation, the passenger confirms that they do not have any physical/medical conditions or disabilities that would create a hazard for his/herself or other passengers. PSE reserves the right to exclude passenger from part or all of the tour should the passenger be considered by PSE staff to be not physically able or prepared to participate safely.
q) If requested by PSE, the passenger must also have in his/her possession before boarding, a physician’s certificate certifying they are physically fit and capable to undertake and complete the trip and must notify PSE in writing as soon as possible about any allergies, illnesses, disabilities or pregnancies, or any other conditions for which the passenger may require medical or special attention during the cruise. Passengers must have an adequate supply of all personal medicines and medical supplies needed, as they may not be available onboard the vessel.
r) Onboard medical personnel (doctor) are independent contractors and work directly for the passenger. Any medical services are provided at the posted rates to be paid by the passenger. Treatment is at passenger’s own risk, without any liability on the part of PSE or Karlsen, and if passenger is unable to request it, the passenger hereby consents to such treatment and payment of costs incurred prior to disembarkation.
s) Prior to boarding, each passenger must pay the full fare, arrive 2 hours before scheduled sailing, have in possession confirmation of participation/ticket, a valid passport, all necessary visas, completed medical form, a medical card showing all necessary vaccinations and inoculations and all other papers necessary for scheduled ports of call and disembarkation. Passenger must complete all examinations needed to prove physical and mental health required to undertake and complete the trip.
t) Passengers should mark each piece of luggage and carry-on with their full name and address, name of vessel (M/V Polar Star), cabin number and place and date of embarkation. Passengers are not permitted to bring or have onboard any pets or animals, firearms, flammable or hazardous items, controlled or prohibited substances or drugs, contraband or items prohibited by any country or port to be visited.
u) In the case of passenger detention by authorities or refusal of permission to land, passenger shall bear all risks and additional expenses incurred.
v) Booking is subject to availability. All prices are in US Dollars. Special offers may not be combined with any other forms of rewards, specials or discounts.
w) PSE maintains liability insurance as an operator of these programs, including full P&I insurance for the M/V Polar Star. As a requirement of participation on any PSE program, all passengers must purchase full medical and emergency evacuation insurance for the specific areas they will be visiting. The minimum coverage requirement is US$50,000 for all PSE programs. It is the responsibility of the passenger to check with their insurance provider to ensure they have adequate coverage within their own policy for the specific areas they will be visiting. The policy provider, policy number and contact phone number must be provided to PSE prior to departure date. PSE recommends that all passengers purchase comprehensive travel insurance which would include coverage for cancellation, trip disruption, baggage and personal property.
x) All claims or actions against PSE or Karlsen shall be brought in the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia or the Federal Court of Canada and shall be governed by the laws of the Province of Nova Scotia and the federal laws of Canada applicable therein. For greater certainty, all such claims or actions shall be governed by the provisions of the Athens Convention relating to the Carriage of Passengers and their Luggage by Sea, 1974, as amended by the Protocol of 1990, and by the provisions of the Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims, 1976, as amended by the Protocol of 1996, and such provisions are deemed incorporated into these Terms and Conditions.
y) Exact implementation of itineraries is weather (and ice) dependent and subject to change. The captain and expedition leader will set the daily sailing plan with the goals to maximize the experience and ensure safety.
z) Accommodation, all meals, juice, tea and coffee onboard are included in the posted prices. Alcohol, sodas, bottled water, medical expenses, laundry, communication services and tipping are not included. Most shore excursions are included unless specifically identified. Please check at time of reservation. Prices are cruise only – airfares, transfers, hotels and other expenses are not included.
aa) Passengers who participate in tours, whether operated by PSE or other tour operators or agents, agree that any photographs, that include their person, may be used by PSE and its associates for promotional purposes. Passengers may not charge for their appearance in any photographs.
Effective September 1, 2006
Polar Star Expeditions Reviews
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Posted on:
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Sunday, 28th October 2007
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I went down to the Antarctic Peninsula with MV Polar Star in 2001/02.
Small meant that it felt homely on board, everyone could get to know each other and you could have direct time with the scientists etc on board
Ice breaker means you can get further than other boats.
Stablised is very important in the southern seas!
Trips ashore were plenty - 2/3 a day whenever possible. All in small groups on zodiacs. The trips were varied and they listened to what people on board wanted as far as possible. Due to the nature of getting onto and off the zodiacs, you will want to be able-bodied! That said, the guides were very helpful.
Lectures were brilliant. Very well attended. The information was well presented. I particularly enjoyed the one of the future of Antarctica and the effects of tourism.
Food on board was good. Only annoying thing is that the dining room is down below at the front so if you are feeling at all unwell, this is not a place you want to be!
There is a great observation lounge and protected area at the back of the boat.
The whole trip has the feeling of being part of the family - thoroughly enjoyed and Antarctica is far more magical that you could ever believe. I can't wait to go back!
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Posted by:
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hlbbartlett
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Posted at:
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09:17
