Accommodation
M/V Polar Star - Varied cabin categories available; range from Shared Cabins to Suites. For further details on the ship please refer to our Antartica section, http://www.addictedtotravel.com/accommodation/antarctica_polar-star_34-113.aspx where the vessel cruises during our winter months.
Transport
All transportation (zodiac and bus) to and from daily excursions included.
Meals
7 Breakfasts; 7 Lunches; 7 Dinners
Staff
Our Expedition team is comprised of a selection of ornithologists, marine biologists, geologists, historians, archaeologists, volcanologists and naturalists handpicked from around the world. Each of these very special people brings a unique perspective to the expedition experience and enrich your journey through sharing of their knowledge in a personal and informal environment. In addition to our staff, local guides will sometimes be used for day excursions.
Age Restriction
Children must be at least 5 years of age.
Optional Activities
All shore excursions, activities and lectures are optional, at passengers’ discretion (included in program cost).
What To Bring
• Jacket – Waterproof shell as we may encounter tropical rain storms. Should have a roomy fit. (See information about our Expedition Shell below.)
• Waterproof Pants - Rain pants to wear over your regular pants are an important factor in keeping you dry and comfortable during an excursion or Zodiac cruise. We suggest coated nylon, Gore-Tex or similar fabrics - breathable fabrics protect you from wind and water without trapping excess heat.
• Sweaters - Wool sweaters or a polar fleece jacket of medium weight are recommended.
• Cap - Sun hat
• Socks – Socks will prevent your feet from chafing in shoes in warm weather.There will be times that your feet will get wet, so bring several changes.
• Bathing suit
• T-shirts/long sleeve shirts - or other casual clothes for layering while on Zodiac excursions and onboard ship.
• Sunglasses – with U.V. filter
• Shoes – sandals/beach shoes that can get wet and will dry quickly. You can expect to encounter some wet beach landings on this program so waterproof shoes/sandals are a necessity. Also, walking shoes for excursions and soft-soled, comfortable shoes for onboard.
• Pants / Shorts – Bring a couple of pairs that are comfortable and casual.
• Rubber boots – There may be one or two wet landings on this program, but rubber boots will be provided onboard if necessary.
• POLAR STAR EXPEDITION MARITIME OUTER SHELL PROGRAM – Included in your cruise cost, this shell is red and has been custom designed for only our passengers. It is unisex, windproof, breathable, highly water resistant (waterproof fabric, not seam sealed) and has a packaway hood. It is unlined, as it has been specifically built to complement the layering system. It is worn loose fitting to accommodate layering. The construction also allows for wear in a variety of climates and temperatures – plus we think it looks great! As part of your booking confirmation you will receive an order number and details on how to order online or by phone. If you have not received your order number please contact us. Your PSE Maritime Expedition Outer Shell will be waiting for you onboard.
Extra items you might like consider:
• A sturdy, lightweight and waterproof daypack to bring your gear ashore.
• Walking stick for shore excursions.
• Workout clothing if you plan to use the onboard gym.
• Lotion and suntan lotion to protect lips, hands and face from the direct sunlight and the reflected glare from water.
• Camera and twice the film you think you may need.
• Travel Hairdryer – there are a limited supply onboard.
• Extra pair of prescription eyeglasses. Those who wear contact lenses should also bring glasses since salt and wind can irritate eyes.
• Prescription medicines and other remedies such as seasickness medication.
• Binoculars for spotting marine mammals and birds from deck.
• Ziploc plastic bags as added protection for carrying camera, film, etc to shore.
• Disinfectant such as alcohol / cotton pads or alcohol wipes.
• Individual packets of tissue for day pack.
• Extra batteries, film (memory/camera “cards”) for camera, etc.
• Small notebook and pen
• Travel alarm clock
• Small sewing kit
Group Size
Maximum boat capacity 100
Other Information
Your booking with Polar Star Expeditions is cruise only and therefore does not include pre or post cruise arrangements, unless otherwise stated (hotel, transfers, air) but we are able to book pre and post cruise hotel and transfers in Ponta Delgada.
Prices are based on double occupancy. If a passenger wishes to book a cabin for single party use, a single supplement charge of 1.6 the double rate is applied.
There is a $500 non-refundable deposit due immediately upon confirm of reservation.
There is a provisional US$15 per night, per passenger fuel surcharge in effect.
A 5% early booking discount applies to all bookings made at least 15 months in advance.
A 5-10% consecutive trip discount applies to all passengers booking consecutive trips (Antarctic excluded).
Operator Remarks
We make every effort to adhere to published itineraries but cannot guarantee any specific excursion and all announced plans are subject to change. The nature of expedition travel means that your Expedition Leader will be guided by factors like weather when preparing each day’s schedule. Each evening, the Expedition Leader and Captain, using their background and experience, will fine-tune the following days’ itinerary (which is still subject to change due to weather). Unplanned events often turn out to be the highlight of the trip and you will have a more enjoyable voyage if you are open to these unexpected experiences.
