From the 1994 Orient Lines Grand Antarctic Circumnavigation brochure...
What to Pack
Climate
It is said that weather can change up to four times during the course of
one Antarctic day. And, as you will begin and end your voyages in
destinations where seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere,
packing for your travel adventure may seem a daunting prospect. Proper attire
is the key to being comfortable on any journey. The following chart should
assist you with packing suitable attire for your pre- and post-cruise stays
in the cities of embarkation and disembarkation.
Jan - Feb
Auckland, New Zealand 70 (F)
Buenos Aires, Argentina 84
Christchurch, New Zealand 72
Punta Arenas, Chile
Sydney, Australia 79
Ushuaia, Argentina 60
The Antarctic continent is the coldest, driest, windiest place on earth and
almost by definition, gives one a feeling of extreme cold. However, since you
will be in Antarctica during the austral summer, temperatures will not be as
extreme as you think. Exact temperature predictions are impossible.
Prevailing weather conditions cause great variances in wind and resulting air
temperatures. By way of a very general guideline, you can expect the highest
temperatures to be around 28-45F (-2 to +7C) on sunny days which you will
undoubtedly experience during the course of your journey. The lowest
temperatures may be around 20¡ F (-5C) with windchill factors playing an
important role on the very coldest days. If you follow our clothing
recommendations, you will be well-prepared for any type of weather.
Clothing for Antarctica
The following list offers recommendations and suggestions on the types of
clothing suitable for your Antarctic voyage. Telephone numbers can be
provided for major suppliers of recreational outdoor wear in case you may
have some specific questions.
The best way to beat the cold is by wearing two or three thin layers of
clothing articles rather than one thick layer. Air trapped between layers
becomes warmed by the body and instant insulation from the effects of cold is
created. Keeping dry also plays an important role in beating back the effects
of cold. Finally, it is important to have the proper covering for head, hands
and feet.
As a general rule, wool, silk and synthetic fabrics are recommended as they
trap air better than cotton. These items are available in a wide range of
clothing articles in soft, stretchy, water- and wind-resistant fabrics.
Silk-weight turtlenecks, jerseys, camisoles and underwear help "wick"
moisture away from your body and can act as your first layer. For your second
layer, you might want a sweater. A third layer, if necessary, may be a
cardigan-type jacket made of waterproof synthetic or a lightweight down
vest.
Suggested Packing List
- Mittens or Gloves: Both mittens and gloves are equally suitable,
depending on personal preference, but we do recommend that these be made of
leather or manmade fabric for warmth. And we suggest that you bring a pair of
silk (or similar) glove liners to wear underneath. This will allow you to
move your fingers freely when, for example, you wish to adjust camera
controls.
- Woolen Cap and Scarf (or balaclava that can be pulled down to protect
neck and chin).
- Woolen Sweater: At least one thick woolen crewneck or turtleneck sweater
for wearing under your parka on colder days, or simply around the ship. You
might also want to investigate some of the new synthetic sweater materials
manufactured by such suppliers as Patagonia, L.L. Bean and Nike.
- Parka: Water-repellant traditional Antarctica red parkas will be provided
on board for all passengers, as will a white sun visor. You will be required
to wear your parka during shore excursions in Antarctica.
- Rainwear: We recommend that you bring a pair of lightweight rain pants,
perhaps made of nylon or similar material. These will be useful not only for
rainy days, but also to keep your pants dry during Zodiac rides between ship
and shore.
- Rubber Boots: This is perhaps the most important article of clothing you
will need. Your boots need to be completely waterproof and knee-high with
sturdy soles. On occasion you will be stepping from the Zodiac into water
that may be up to 10 inches deep. The boots should fit loosely enough around
your calves that pants can be tucked inside but close tightly at the top to
prevent any water from seeping inside. Please keep in mind that you will be
walking ashore in your boots, and soles designed for hiking, with good
treads, provide the best footing.
- Additional Items: Thermal socks to be worn under thicker wool or
synthetic walking socks; all purpose skin creams for protection against sun
and wind; sunglasses; binoculars (a must); an ample supply of your favorite
toiletries; plastic bags to protect camera and video equipment from the
elements; and a waterproof nylon knapsack to transport gear ashore. Your
hands should be free so that we may help you on and off the Zodiacs. Note: We
recommend that eyeglass wearers pack an extra pair.
Clothing aboard ship
Pack as you would for any resort destination. Cruise wear should be
lightweight and easy to care for. The mood by day is casual - sportswear is
appropriate for both men and women. The evening's attire vvill be designated
as informal, formal or casual and indicated in the ship's program. For men,
informal means that a jacket is requested in the dining room. Women may wish
to wear a cocktail dress or pantsuit. Gala evenings are a bit more formal:
for men, perhaps a tuxedo, dinner jacket, or dark suit and necktie, while
women usually choose a party dress or gown of fashionable lengh. There are
usually two formal evenings on a cruise, or three for cruises of more than
two weeks duration. On casual nights, dressy sportswear, or even your most
comfortable corduroys, are appropriate. Jackets are not required in Raffles,
our alternative Oriental restaurant.
Clothing for sightseeing during pre- and post-cruise stays
You will want comfortable, casual clothing for shore excursions. Most
important is a pair of sturdy. comfortable walking shoes. In addition to your
camera, you may also want an umbrella for the occasional shower and a
calculator for shopping.
Passengers who are visiting Buenos Aires and Iguassu Falls should bring
summer-weight clothing for these destinations.
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