Ultramarine

While polar landscapes are spectacular from the sea, they’re even more stunning from the air, a view you can enjoy while seated in one of the two twin-engine helicopters stationed on Ultramarine. Typically in groups of 7 to 9, you will experience an unforgettable aerial∘ tour of the Arctic during a 10- to 15-minute flightseeing excursion∘ that’s included in the cost of the voyage. Additional helicopter activities may also be available for purchase onboard. Please note: all helicopter operations are weather- and logistics-dependent.

Utforska havet från ett mer intimt perspektiv på en sit-on-top-kajak. Ingen tidigare erfarenhet krävs för att manövrera dessa mycket stabila kajaker, vilket låter dig njuta av en oförglömlig upplevelse på vattnet, omgiven av hisnande landskap och rikt djurliv. Oavsett om det är din första gång i en kajak eller om du vill ha större flexibilitet att prova andra äventyrsaktiviteter, är denna kortare utflykt perfekt för dig.

Paddling i polarområdena är starkt väderberoende och en unik upplevelse. Dina kajakguider kommer att försöka ta dig ut på vattnet för 1–1,5 timmes paddling. Erbjuds på de flesta resor, men platserna är begränsade. All utrustning, guider och instruktioner tillhandahålls av Quark.

Priser kan ändras beroende på säsong. Vänligen gå vidare till kassan eller kontakta en Polar Travel-rådgivare för mer information.

Imagine setting foot in an area of the Antarctic that can only be safely accessed by helicopter. With a small group of fellow passengers and expert guides, you’ll board one of Ultramarine’s two twin-engine helicopters to soar off to an exclusive polar site where no ships can navigate. Expect stunning bird’s-eye views during your flight, and then, upon arrival, simply sit back, relax and take in the splendor of the Antarctic from “the best seat in the house”: glacial amphitheaters, breath-taking summits, and more. Traveling in groups of 12 with no more than 4 groups (48 guests) at a time on each landing, you’ll have time to relax and quietly reflect on the beauty of your polar surroundings, after which you’ll be picked up by the helicopters in the same location and returned to Ultramarine.

Each heli-landing experience is uniquely curated by our expedition team, taking conditions and location capacity into consideration.

Att bära ombord

• Bekväma, lediga kläder som lätta skjortor, byxor eller jeans med mera (för varmare dagar ombord)
• Bekväma, halkfria skor med stängd tå och utan klack (flip-flops, sandaler eller slip-ons bör undvikas ombord av säkerhetsskäl)
• Träningskläder (för gymmet och andra inomhusaktiviteter)
• Baddräkt (för Polar Plunge! Vissa fartyg kan även ha pool, bubbelpool, bastu och/eller ångbastu. Se din skeppsbok för detaljer.)

En liten påminnelse: ingen formell kvällsklädsel krävs på våra resor! (men om du vill kan du ta med något lite mer elegant till kaptenens välkomst- och avskedscocktailpartyn)

Ytterligare saker

• Pass, visum, vaccinationsintyg, resehandlingar med mera enligt krav
• Kamerautrustning komplett med laddare, lagringsmedia, transport- och rengöringskit (linsduk med mera) samt extra batterier
• Vattentätt mobilfodral eller regnskydd för kamera
• Öronproppar och sovmask för vila
• Spänningsomvandlare och adapter (se skeppsboken för detaljer)
• Fuktighetskräm för ansikte och händer (för att motverka torr hud på grund av vind och temperaturväxlingar)
• Medicin mot sjösjuka, matsmältningsbesvär, huvudvärk eller annan medicin
• En mindre summa lokal valuta (se förberedelseboken för mer information)
• Insektsmedel
• Myggnät

För utflykter i land och vandring

Utöver de obligatoriska utrustningskraven (som ovan) för transport från fartyg till land rekommenderas att ta med:

• Ingångna vandringsskor: Även om muck-boots tillhandahålls och rekommenderas för de flesta utflykter, kan ytterligare vandringsskor (Goretexfodrade eller liknande vattentäta vandringskängor) öka komforten, särskilt för den entusiastiske vandrare
• (Smart) ull- eller syntetiska vandringsstrumpor för ovanstående skor (ta med ett extra par)
• Lätta och snabbtorkande vandringsbyxor som eventuellt kan göras om till shorts med dragkedja* (*beroende på din termoreglering)
• Andningsbara vattentäta byxor* och regnjacka** för utomhusaktiviteter i dåligt väder (*kan vara samma byxor som används vid Zodiac-aktiviteter / ** kan vara ytterhöljet på den medföljande Quark 3in1 Parka)
• Bekväm lång- eller kortärmad skjorta för vandring, antingen syntetisk/snabbtorkande eller merinoull (smart ull)
• (Vandrings)handskar (medeltjocka, helst vattentäta)
• Hatt, buff eller halsduk (för skydd mot vind och väder)
• UV-skydd (hatt, polariserade solglasögon, solskyddskräm, läppbalsam)
• Hopfällbar vandringsstav för turer (om behövs). Finns att låna på varje fartyg.
• Extra återanvändbar termos eller vattenflaska (utöver den medföljande hopfällbara vattenflaskan)

Till sjöss och i luften

Alla transfer från fartyg till land, helikopterflygningar och Zodiac-/fartygskryssningar

• Vattentäta byxor (obligatoriskt för varje Zodiac- och helikoptertur. För Ultramarine-gäster som deltar i helikopterflygningar rekommenderar vi löst sittande regnbyxor snarare än åtsittande skidbyxor. Du kommer även att behöva bära torrdräkt, vilket vårt team hjälper dig att förbereda ombord.)
• Baslager i ull eller syntetiskt material, överdel*
• Baslager i ull eller syntetiskt material, underdel*
• Mellanlager, varm eller fleeceöverdel*
• Mellanlager, varm eller fleeceunderdel*
• Varm mössa som täcker öronen (ta med en extra)
• Halsduk, buff eller annat ansiktsskydd
• Varma ull- eller syntetiska strumpor (ha ett torrt par i väskan och ta med extra för lager-på-lager)
• Vattentäta handskar eller vantar (ta med ett extra, lättare par för vandring)
• Handskeinnerskor*
• Värmeplattor för händer och fötter*
• Kikare
• Polariserade solglasögon med UV-skydd (ta med ett extra par)
• Solskyddskräm
• Skidglasögon (för Zodiac-kryssningar vid snöiga eller blåsiga dagar)
• Vattentät, lätt ryggsäck eller torrsäck och/eller regnskydd för kamera eller vattentätt mobilfodral (för att hålla kamera och utrustning torr)

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. 

När du inte är upptagen med att utforska Polarområdets storslagna natur kan du vilja hålla kontakten med familj och vänner hemma för att dela några av dina mest minnesvärda upplevelser från resan. Gäster ombord på Quark Expeditions kan nu njuta av gratis Wi-Fi som en del av vårt program "Raise a Glass and Stay Connected Free". Denna kostnadsfria Wi-Fi-tjänst tillåter grundläggande internetanvändning och röstapplikationer.

Observera att vi reser till några av världens mest avlägsna platser. Eftersom vi använder satellitutrustning för vår uppkoppling kan Wi-Fi-signalen vara intermittent.

För att komma åt e-post eller internet på din personliga dator, surfplatta eller smartphone, anslut till nätverket på din enhet där du kan använda vår kostnadsfria plan eller köpa Priority Wi-Fi.

Kostnadsfritt Wi-Fi

• Lägre hastigheter
• Lämpligt för grundläggande internetanvändning, sms och röstkommunikation via text- och röstappar
• Viss filtrering av webbplatser
• Ingen kostnad
• En enhet åt gången kan vara inloggad

Priority Wi-Fi

• Högre hastigheter
• Lämpligt för appar med större datavolymer, videosamtal, videostreaming (i lägre upplösning) med mera
• Se priser genom att logga in
• En enhet åt gången kan vara inloggad

During days at sea, you’ll enjoy lectures and workshops presented by our Expedition Team and spend time on deck looking for seabirds and cetaceans. Other days are packed full with multiple landings, Zodiac cruises and activities. Exhausting or relaxing, smiles abound as do great meals from your onboard chefs!

We have a number of policies and procedures that help make sure things run smoothly on the Ultramarine, so take a look below to help get the most out of your time aboard.

SCHEDULE CHANGES

While a daily program will be posted, sometimes new opportunities present themselves on short notice – so expect the unexpected and enjoy knowing that staff members are always here to make sure your expedition is as memorable and enjoyable as possible!

SAFETY ON BOARD AND ASHORE

Your safety and security are a top priority for our Expedition Team and crew members. Knowing how to safely move about your ship, act ashore and handle both wet and dry landings will help ensure you have a hassle-free expedition. Please take time to read the instructions in this important safety section.

SAFETY WHILE ON DECK

Be careful while walking around the outer decks, as footing can be slippery. Always use the handrails and wear proper closed-toe, nonslip footwear. Slip-on sandals, slippers or flip flops are neither safe nor suitable for wearing on board.

STAIRS & DOORS

There are high steps in many doorways that lead to the outer decks, please watch your step and proceed with caution. When passing through doorways or walking in your room, do not place your hands around the edges of doors. Be aware that if doors are not closed or latched open properly, they present a danger and can open or close violently and unexpectedly as the ship moves across the sea.

SAFETY BRIEFING & LIFEBOAT DRILL

By international maritime law, you must participate in an emergency drill within 24 hours of sailing. Upon embarkation, you will have a safety briefing to outline appropriate behavior on board, and emergency procedures. Afterward, a drill will be conducted to familiarize you with your lifeboat, life vest and emergency evacuation route. This mandatory drill will be scheduled as soon as possible by the Expedition Leader. You will be provided with full details after you embark.

CONDUCT ASHORE

• For safety reasons, never walk alone while ashore. Always travel with someone else, or as part of a group.
• If weather conditions deteriorate the Captain will sound the return to ship signal (continuous short blasts). If you hear this, immediately return to the landing area or follow instructions from staff members.
• Do not litter. Take only photos and leave only footprints.
• Be punctual, as on time boarding and efficient landings mean we’ll have more time to explore at future landings. 

HELICOPTER SAFETY

The Ultramarine provides an expedition adventure above that of many other ships – by taking you on helicopter excursions. Helicopters allow us to take you on aerial sightseeing adventures, to bays that are inaccessible to shore landings, as well as glaciers high atop mountains!

Please see your expedition brochure for details on whether helicopter activities are offered on your itinerary, as helicopter operations are not permitted in certain regions (for example, Svalbard and South Georgia). Weather conditions permitting, you will find that we make good use of the helicopter operations. As your safety is our first concern, a mandatory briefing will be held before the first helicopter excursion. You will be required to sign the Helicopter Waiver form before your first flight. Please note that the decision to fly is ultimately up to the Pilot in Command who will be working closely with the Captain and Expedition Leader.

You will be assigned to a small group for your flightseeing excursion. Please note that as weather factors and time constraints can shorten the time available for helicopter flights on any given day, no particular day or time can be guaranteed for flightseeing, and all helicopter operations are weather- and logistics-dependent. 

DRESS APPROPRIATELY FOR SAFETY

There is some possibility that you could be stranded ashore or on the ice for a period of hours until conditions improve for your helicopter to return. In the unlikely event that you are grounded for a long duration, the Expedition Team will prepare a base camp with a large tent for shelter and emergency supplies. Be sure to always dress warmly in layers, including your Quark Expeditions® parka as your outer layer which is weatherproof in case this eventuality occurs. Bring along extra clothes and water in a small waterproof backpack on each of your helicopter rides. 

ADVENTURE TAKES TIME

Be aware that even in the best conditions, it may take six hours for 100 people to make a 20-minute helicopter flight inland. For efficient operations, weather, or refueling and maintenance, the helicopter may not be available for you to return immediately.

PROCEDURES FOR BOARDING A HELICOPTER:

• Dress warmly for all excursions.
• Follow instructions from the Helicopter Team on life jacket procedures during helicopter excursions.
• Watch your footing on deck, walk slowly and deliberately.
• Stay clear of the helicopter deck.
• Remain at the muster area well away from the helicopter deck until instructed by the Helicopter Team.
• When in a hurry, slow down – the noise of the helicopter can be unsettling.
• An Helicopter Team member will always direct you to the helicopter doors.
• Always approach and leave the helicopter from the front.
• Never approach and leave the helicopter unsupervised.
• Beware of the down-draft.
• Ensure that your belongings are properly secured.
• Carry long items, such as tripods or walking sticks, below your waistline.

SHOWERS AND TOILETS

Each cabin has a private bathroom with shower and heated floors, toilet and wash basin. Shampoo, conditioner and shower gel are provided for your use.

ELECTRIC CURRENT

The electrical supply on board is 220 volts, 50 Hz. Passengers coming from the USA and Canada may need to bring a small 220v/110v converter. Before you buy a converter, check your electronics, as most modern cameras, computers and devices are already compatible to use 220/110 volts.

The electrical outlets found in your cabin and around the ship accept standard European two round pin plugs, so you may need to bring a travel adapter. You’ll also find a USB outlet at each bedside, and some in the public presentation spaces.

Please be aware that the electricity supply may not be sufficient to power your electronic devices at all times. It is recommended that you check the voltage of your device before plugging it in, as the device may be damaged if the incoming voltage is higher than that for which it is manufactured. Please see www.quarkexpeditions.com/en/terms-and-conditions for more information.

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.

VALUABLES

Please store your valuables in the safe in your cabin. We recommend you travel with as few valuables as possible.

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.

WATER

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

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 laundry, postage, communication charges and adventure options booked on board (space permitting). Payments of shipboard accounts are made towards the end of the expedition, at the reception area. 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.

Note: If you are sharing a cabin and would like separate accounts, you must advise reception.

BRIDGE VISITS

During your voyage you may be given access to the Bridge, where you can observe how the Captain and officers sail and navigate the ship. However, the Captain and Bridge officers do restrict access during arrivals and departures from port and during times of complicated navigation. As the Bridge is an important working area on the ship, we ask that you keep noise to a minimum to avoid distracting the officers from conducting their jobs efficiently. Understandably, Bridge etiquette includes a ‘no eating, drinking or smoking’ policy.

ELEVATOR

The onboard elevator system is available for travel between decks. However, for your safety this elevator will be shut down during any periods of inclement weather.

Find Ultramarines itineraries here.