What should I know about the environment in Antarctica?
Human traffic in Antarctica is strictly regulated by the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), which prohibits more than 100 people from being ashore simultaneously. Passengers will be instructed on how to comply with IAATO guidelines.
What will the climate in Antarctica be like?
The average low/high Fahrenheit temperature in Buenos Aires is 60/81; Ushuaia, 40/56; and Antarctica, 22/39.
What are the ships like?
The MV Polar Star, built in 1969, is the first former icebreaker to be fully converted for expedition cruising, and therefore ranks highly among Arctic expedition cruise ships. The ship has a comfortable restaurant, large lounge, lecture room, a library, and a bar. There are no elevators on the ship.
MS Fram was built in Fincantieri, Italy in 2007 and is owned by Hurtigruten. MS Fram is specifically designed for expedition voyaging. She operates in Spitsbergen and Greenland in the summer and Antarctica in the winter. MS Fram has multiple large public areas to enjoy during sea crossings and in between land excursions. The ship has a beautiful dining room, a large observation lounge, lecture halls, a library and fitness room.
How demanding is the tour?
Most of the landings are by Polarcirkel boats and the terrain on shore may be fairly rugged, so you should be reasonably sure-footed. These excursions are not suitable for the physically challenged. Other than the landings, the tour does not make any special physical demands on the participants.
Do I need special clothing for Polarcirkel boat landings and excursions?
All passengers will receive a wind and waterproof jacket to keep. A sweater or fleece jacket is required to wear underneath. You will also be lent one pair of mandatory rubber boots to wear over woolen socks during landings in Antarctica. Wind and waterproof clothing is a necessity at sea and on excursions in Antarctica.
Are there tour guides on board?
The ships have expert lecturers with in-depth knowledge of Chile, Argentina, and the Antarctic. They conduct the lectures covering various topics during the cruise. All information on board is given in English and German. Expedition leaders will inform you about the daily program and take you ashore.
Is there a doctor on board?
Yes, there is a doctor and a nurse on board MS Fram all year.
Are there laundry facilities on board?
Yes, the ship has laundry facilities.
How about transfers and luggage handling?
Transfers and luggage handling are included. Our meet-and- greet personnel carry signs saying: “MS Fram.”
Is the on-board voltage 110 or 220?
The ships and hotels in Santiago and Buenos Aires have an electrical supply of 220 volts/50 hertz and one 110-volt socket for razors. An adapter and converter are required.
What inoculations do I need?
Check with your local health authorities regarding recommended vaccinations for travel to Chile and Argentina.
What currency is accepted?
American Express, Visa, and MasterCard are accepted on board. The currency on board is Norwegian kroners. When using credit cards on board the ship, your account will be debited in Norwegian kroners (NOK) with the rate of exchange of that day. Upon arrival aboard you will receive a Cruise Card, which works as a “credit card.” Ashore, U.S. dollars and the local currencies are accepted—Chilean pesos in Chile and Argentine pesos in Argentina. Major credit cards are accepted in some places ashore but smaller towns only accept cash in local currency or U.S. dollars.