World Voyager

• Waterproof pants (mandatory for every zodiac and helicopter ride)
• Base-layer wool or synthetic top*
• Base-layer wool or synthetic bottom*
• Mid-layer warm or fleece top*
• Mid-layer warm or fleece bottom*
• Warm wool or synthetic socks (keep a dry pair in your bag, and bring extras for layering)
• Glove liners *
• Hand and feet warmers*
• Binoculars
• Waterproof gloves or mitts (bring an extra pair)
• Scarf, buff, or other face protection
• Warm hat that covers ears (bring an extra)
• Waterproof, lightweight backpack or dry sack and/or rain sleeve for camera or a waterproof phone case (to keep camera and gear dry)
• Ski goggles (for zodiac cruising on snowy or windy days)
• UV protection (sun hat, polarised sun glasses, sun block, lip balm etc.)
• Collapsible walking stick for hikes (if required)

Water

• All passengers receive an eco-friendly, reusable water bottle in their cabin upon arrival.
• There are water filling stations throughout the ship.

Bar and wine service

• The well-stocked bar on the ship is open to enjoy with your fellow shipmates in the late morning, afternoon and evening. 
• Soft drinks, juices, and water are available at no cost, and beer and wine are offered with dinner.
• Enjoy complimentary select beer, wines, and select cocktails during bar service hours and dinner.

Personal alcohol policy

• Consuming personal alcohol is prohibited anywhere on the ship.

Dietary requirements and allergies

• If you do not eat meat there is a wide selection of vegetables, pasta, grains and fruit available.
• Quark Expeditions is able to cater to most special dietary requests, as long as you clearly indicated your needs on the required expedition forms when you booked your voyage.
• Menus will be clearly labeled for vegetarian and gluten free options, but please do notify your server of the dietary restrictions you indicated on your form.
• We regret that kosher food cannot be prepared.

Food preparation

• Breakfasts and lunches are normally served buffet style, while dinners are served plated.

Dress code

• The dress code on the ship is casual, though some may choose to dress up a little for the Captain’s Welcome Reception.

Showers and toilets

• Each cabin has a private bathroom with shower, toilet and wash basin.
• Shampoo, conditioner and shower gel are provided for your use.
• The toilet system is very sensitive and can only handle toilet paper. Please do not deposit any tissues, paper towels, feminine products, etc. in the toilet.

Electric current

• The electrical supply on board is dual voltage 220/110 volts.
• You will find standard European round-pin and North American flat-pin electrical outlets as well as USB outlets in your cabin and around the ship.

Hairdryers

• There is a hair dryer included in each cabin.

Bathrobes

• The bathrobes in your cabins are on loan for you to enjoy for the duration of your expedition.

Laundry

• A complete list of laundry fees will be provided on board.
• Laundry is collected each morning; please allow 48 hours for your laundry to be returned.
• Ironing services are also available at a minimal charge.
• We encourage you to take advantage of the laundry services, as it will mean you can pack fewer articles of clothing.
• If you prefer to hand wash small items in your cabin, please remember to bring environmentally friendly detergent.

Onboard accounts

• To make things as stress-free as possible, items you purchase from the Polar Boutique, lounge, or bar (including drinks) are charged to your ship account. Cabin charges can also include spa, laundry, postage, communication charges and adventure options booked on board (space permitting).
• The US dollar is the standard currency on board. You can use cash, Visa, MasterCard, or American Express credit cards to pay your shipboard account.
• Personal checks are not accepted.

Gratuities

• We understand this is a very personal subject and whatever amount you give is at your own discretion. At the end of the voyage you will have the option to charge a gratuity amount to your onboard account, or to place cash in an envelope.

• Gratuities are shared among our hotel and expedition team members.

What clothing does Quark Expeditions provide?

Every passenger that travels with us receives a complimentary Quark Expeditions Parka which is theirs to keep. We’ll also lend you a pair of waterproof, insulated muck boots for the duration of your voyage. You can select your sizes for both items on your Passenger Forms. 

Your Quark Expeditions Parka is a two-in-one outer, waterproof jacket with an inner puffer jacket that can be removed and worn on its own. The Parka is incredibly warm as it’s designed specifically for the Polar Regions. 

Our boots are muck boots or similar, and are comfortable to wear on our excursions. We recommend wearing a couple of pairs of socks with them for added warmth and comfort.

If you are taking part in one of our optional water-based adventure options, all additional equipment such as dry suits, dry bags, flotation devices etc. are provided and you do not need to bring anything extra.

What are the health and safety requirements for expedition travel?

For your personal safety—and to ensure you get the most enjoyment out of your polar adventure—please assess your mobility and medical requirements before booking. It is essential that guests have high level of mobility to get in and out of Zodiac boats, and for off-ship activities such as hiking on uneven terrain. Our destinations are remote. Apart from our basic ship infirmary, it could take up to 72 hours to reach adequate medical facilities. For more details to help you assess your mobility and medical requirements before booking your voyage, please review health and safety.

How do I inform you about any dietary requirements and / or allergies?

There’s a space on the Medical Form where you can let us know about any dietary requirements and/or allergies. Please go on to your Passenger Forms to add this information.

Do I need to purchase insurance for my trip?

At a minimum, we require all passengers to purchase medical insurance coverage of USD $50,000 per traveler. We recommend that you purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers you for both medical and trip cancellation/delay aspects of travel. The purchase of your expedition includes USD $50,000 of emergency evacuation insurance.

How can I pay for my bill and gratuities onboard?

We accept Visa and Mastercard onboard as well as USD cash.   Please advise your bank ahead of your upcoming trip so that your card is not blocked. It can be difficult to contact your bank once onboard. Charges will originate from the USA. We recommend registering your card at reception within the first three days of your voyage to ensure there are no issues later in your voyage.  For gratuities we understand this is a very personal subject and whatever amount you give is at your own discretion.

Transfer options vary depending on your itinerary in most destinations. Please ask us for specific details. 1300 654 861 or contact@expeditionpartners.com.au