Laurielle is outfitted in our matching jacket and pants that are part of our on board rental package and a great way to stay warm and dry.

PACKING INFORMATION

We’ll be sending you our detailed “Preparing for our Expedition” handbook closer to departure. For now we’d like to get you thinking about the gear you’ll need during the voyage.

The dress code on board is relaxed and casual, and you do not need to dress formally for meals. The ship is well-heated, so most of the time on board you will be comfortable in medium weight trousers, a t-shirt and a long sleeved fleece. When you go ashore, you will require warm clothing. The best way to dress is in a few layers of light and medium-weight clothing that can be easily adjusted, and a wet-weather exterior layer to protect you from the spray that can occur on the zodiacs.

The Arctic is cold even in the summer – but probably not as cold as you may think. In very general terms, expect temperatures to be as low as -15°C and temperatures as high as 10° C.

Keep in mind you are allowed 20kgs of luggage per person. This includes your checked luggage and your carry-on luggage. Our charter flights have a limited payload and this limit will be strictly observed.

Please remember that we have “All Weather Gear” items available for rent for the duration of the cruise to cut down on purchasing and packing bulkier items.

Packing Tips:

The following tips should help you be comfortable and healthfully warm in cold weather.

  • Avoid overdressing to reduce perspiration.
  • It is better to wear layers of light, loose clothing rather than one thick, heavy item. This ensures that you have a film of trapped air between each layer to act as an insulator.
  • Wear water repellent outer garments that will keep you dry on the outside and still “breathe” enough so that moisture from your body can escape.
  • Wool is better than cotton to trap warm air. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester down are a better insulator than goose down. Polar fleece is recommended.
  • Keep hands, feet and head warm and dry. For hands, mittens are better than gloves. Be sure to wear a cap!
  • A bathrobe is provided in every cabin
  • Laundry facilities are available on board (cost added to your shipboard account)
  • Hair dryers are provided in all cabins

Packing List

Essential items:

  • Waterproof boots – at least mid-calf in height, sturdy, and large enough to wear over a couple of thinner/medium pairs of socks worn together which are better than one thick pair. Remember that you can order this as part of our on-board “all weather gear package”
  • Casual shoes with non-slip soles for walking around the ship.
  • Sturdy, walking shoes/boots – when going ashore some people find it useful to take these shoes to change into on land if going on a hike.
  • Socks – woolen or polypropylene are much better than cotton, and a couple of thinner/medium pairs are better than one thicker pair. Bring at least 4 pairs
  • Waterproof parka – a wind and waterproof outer shell. It should have a hood and coverage extending to below the waist. Avoid lightweight sailing “slickers.” Make sure it’s light and roomy. Remember that you can order this as part of our on-board “all weather gear package”
  • Waterproof overpants -  One pair – to wear over your trousers during Zodiac rides and wet landings. Those with zippered bottom leggings are suggested. Make sure the bottoms of the legs are large enough to fit over your rubber boots. Gear made of Gore-Tex and similar type fabrics are waterproof and breathable. Remember that you can order this as part of our on-board “all weather gear package”
  • Gloves or mittens – Two complete pairs of waterproof mitts/gloves:  a lightweight inner and a thick pair of over-mitts are recommended. A waterproof covering is strongly suggested. Thin inner gloves are recommended for photography.
  • Woolen hat or balaclava with scarf to keep your head, ears and neck warm
  • Thermal underwear- singlets and longjohns – 2 pairs are a good idea
  • Two or three expedition stretch tops, turtlenecks or warm, long sleeved shirts for layering and for wearing on board
  • Warm trousers -  2 pairs of ski pants or polartec 200 or 300 are good; jeans are not warm
  • Woolen or fleece pullover – of medium weight, or two lightweight ones to layer
  • Pyjamas/tracksuit
  • Sun hat – a hat with a chin strap is recommended in case of windy conditions

Please note that we do have very reasonably priced laundry facilities on board. Items will be returned to you within 24 hours, so no need to overpack!

Other recommended items:

  • Lightweight waterproof daypack – to protect camera gear and any extra clothing you are taking ashore from sea spray while in Zodiacs.  You must have your hands free when getting in and out of Zodiacs. Remember that you can order this as part of our on-board “all weather gear package”
  • A walking stick
  • Sunglasses with a good UV filter
  • Protective lotion for lips, hands and face
  • Spare prescription glasses, if you wear them
  • Waterproof Binoculars. Remember that you can order this as part of our on-board “all weather gear package”
  • Magnifying glass (if you are interested in Arctic flora)
  • 1-liter water bottle may be useful on shore excursions
  • Book, diary and pens
  • Zip lock bags as an added protection for carrying camera and equipment
  • Sandals or slip-ons may be useful on board
  • Pack of cards, games
  • Ear plugs
  • Swim suit – for sauna on board