What happens on an excursion?

There really are no hard or fast rules about excursions!! But, generally, you'll get on shore to see a particular point of interest. You could be on shore for an afternoon (such as at the fasinating ex-whaling station at Grytviken on South Georgia Island), or spend a couple of hours watching the vast, remote bird colony (such as the black-browed albatross colony at Steeple Jason in the Faulklands), or even a dinghy cruise in and around grounded icebergs (in Iceberg Alley off the Antarctic Peninsula).

Preparation

Every evening, usually before dinner, the Expedition Leader will give you a briefing on the plan for the next day. This will include details about where we are planning to visit, who or what you will be likely to see and how to prepare for the elements.

The areas that are visited are generally remote and wild and it is important to remain flexible as all excursions are dependent on the local conditions.

What should I bring on an excursion?

Your Expedition Leader will let you know if you need any special gear but here are a few extra things that are handy:

Binoculars - Some of the most unique wildlife are some of the most reclusive, so a good pair of binoculars is essential.

A waterproof daypack or a dry bag - Sometimes you can keep your bag dry on the Zodiac rides, but there are no guarantees!

Camera, memory cards and batteries - Chances are you are only going to be there once and you will take more pictures than you can imagine.

Zip lock bags - These are lifesavers to keep your camera gear dry when the elements pick up.

Fingerless gloves - These are handy to have inside your mittens, so that you can take pictures even when it's cold outside.

Sunglasses - The reflection from the sun on the snow or the water can be pretty bright!