Frequently Asked Questions

To reserve your berth, contact us by email at travel@expeditionexperience.com or call +1 (833) 975-7834. A deposit is required to confirm your booking — the deposit amount varies by voyage and is shown on each voyage page. The balance is due approximately 90 days before departure.

Cancellation policies vary by voyage and booking date. In general: cancellations more than 120 days before departure forfeit the deposit. Cancellations within 90 days may forfeit a larger percentage of the total fare. We strongly recommend travel insurance that includes cancellation coverage. Full details are provided at booking.

No experience is needed. Our expert crew handles all navigation and vessel operations. You are a guest — your job is to look, learn, and absorb. We do ask that guests have a moderate level of physical fitness for Zodiac operations and shore landings, which may involve stepping onto rocky or uneven terrain.

Yes. Our galley team accommodates vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and other dietary requirements. Please inform us of any dietary needs or allergies at the time of booking so we can plan accordingly. We take food safety and dietary preferences seriously.

Every guest receives an expedition gear package valued at approximately $900 USD, included in the voyage price. This includes: a waterproof and windproof jacket, insulated bib-pants, insulated rubber boots, binoculars, Nordic trekking poles, and a waterproof backpack. This gear is yours to keep.

Beyond the provided expedition gear, we recommend: thermal base layers (merino wool or synthetic), mid-layer fleece, warm hat and gloves, sunscreen and sunglasses (polar sun is intense), seasickness medication, any personal prescription medications, a camera with waterproof housing or case, and a small dry bag. A full packing list is sent upon booking.

Zodiacs are inflatable motorized boats used for shore landings and wildlife cruises in areas where larger vessels cannot dock. Our fleet of 12 Zodiacs allows all passengers to disembark simultaneously - no queuing or waiting. Landings involve stepping from the Zodiac onto rocky beaches or ice, assisted by our expedition team. Rubber boots are provided as part of your expedition gear package.

Some ocean crossings - particularly the Drake Passage to Antarctica - can be rough. We recommend bringing prescription or over-the-counter seasickness medication. Scopolamine patches (behind the ear) are highly effective for many people. Our crew and medical team are experienced in helping guests through rough weather, and most guests find their sea legs within 24-48 hours.

Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance including emergency medical evacuation coverage is required for all voyages. Expedition destinations such as Antarctica are extremely remote — medical evacuation if needed is very expensive, and insurance is non-negotiable. We recommend purchasing insurance as soon as you pay your deposit.