A Day at the poles
Life On Board
There’s no ‘typical day’ in the polar regions – every day brings something new – and that’s why we love it! But here is a little taste of what our guests might experience while exploring the polar regions…
6:00 AM
Our Captain has maneuvered the ship overnight and you awake to a breathtaking panorama. The sun has been up for several hours, but early-risers are just beginning to stir, some headed for early-bird breakfast, where hot coffee and pastries are waiting. A few others are off for a workout in the gym, and a few more are headed to the Observation Deck to soak up the morning view. Meanwhile, the Expedition Team are hard at work, readying the Zodiacs and equipment for the morning’s adventure.
7:30 – 9:00 AM
Breakfast is served! Bring your appetite, because our breakfast buffet in the main Restaurant includes a wide assortment of cooked and continental options – global daily breakfast specialties, crispy bacon, eggs cooked your way, oatmeal, fresh rolls, toast, cold cuts, condiments, fresh fruits and a selection of juices are just some of the items available. Bottomless coffee and a variety of teas are served at your table, ready to fuel the day exploring.
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Life in the polar regions is dynamic and daily adventures are, of course, adapted to take advantage of the best weather conditions. The exact timing of excursions will vary slightly day by day, often beginning around 9am – although it could be earlier or later depending where we are and what we are doing! The opportunities to explore will vary depending on the location, but typically will fall into two categories – Zodiac cruises, where guests will explore on the water from our Zodiac fleet, or landings, where the Zodiacs will shuttle you to explore ashore. Sometimes this may be an inhabited place, such as a village in Greenland, or an Antarctic research station, but more often than not it will be surrounded by nature in pristine wilderness! Sometimes we may be able to offer a Zodiac cruise and landing simultaneously. Your knowledgeable Expedition Team will be on hand to guide you, and help you learn about your destination.
12:30 – 2:00 PM
Are we hungry yet? Full lunch service is available in the main Restaurant, as well as in the Deck 8 Panorama Restaurant. You’ll find a plentiful selection every day, with a full salad bar with all the trimmings, and a vast selection of hot and cold main dished and sides, all available buffet-style, as well as a carving station staffed by a member of our Galley Team. The menu changes daily, and always includes vegetarian and healthy dining options. We also offer options for guests with specific dietary requirements – simply have a chat to our friendly Hotel Director so we can cater to your needs. You’ve expended a lot of energy on your shore leave, so dig right in! And don’t skip dessert, prepared by our on-board professional pastry chefs! Weather-dependent during the voyage, we will offer a barbeque on the Pool Deck – grab your parka and a cocktail and enjoy lunch with a view!
2:00 – 6:00 PM
While lunch was being served, our Captain has positioned us at our next landing site, where we will again offer a Zodiac cruise and/or a landing for our guests to experience their destination up close and personal. Maybe the site will offer the opportunity to stretch your legs on a longer hike, or meet the locals and learn about life in the polar regions.
For some extra variety, our guests can join a kayaking excursion led by our highly-qualified Kayak Team. In Antarctica, perhaps conditions will be suitable for a snowshoeing excursion. In the Arctic, perhaps you will join a boat trip or town walk with local guides, even more knowledgeable than our expert Expedition Team.
Once back onboard, take off your gear in the Mudroom and warm up in the bar, ready for the evening’s activities.
6:30 PM
Every day at around 6:30 in the evening, our Expedition Leader invites our guests into the Lecture Hall to join our daily Recap and Briefing. This is an important meeting where your Expedition Leader will brief you on the plans for the following day, as well as any other relevant information you need to know about your expedition, such as weather and ice forecasts. Immediately afterward we will begin our daily Recap – your opportunity to learn from short engaging presentations by your Expedition Team, review the days events and ask any questions you may have about your day. Remember, the Expedition Team are there to ensure you get as much from your expedition as possible, so get those hands in the air!
7:30 – 9:00 PM
Entering the main dining room, you can tell the chefs have been busy. You’re greeted by the pleasant aroma of fresh herbs and roasted vegetables, and our smiling Waiters stand ready to attend to your every need. By now, a subtle transformation has begun to take place. What started as a group of strangers on-board a mysterious polar voyage has evolved into a band of like-minded explorers, who have braved the elements together and have begun unraveling the mysteries of Antarctica. Easy smiles and laughter fill the room, heralding a camaraderie that will only grow stronger with each day and with each new adventure. Remember to invite your new friends on the Expedition Team to join you for dinner to enhance your experience even more!
Now, it’s time to relax, enjoy some great food, and unwind after an eventful day. A complimentary selection of wines and beer are offered, and the festive sound of clinking glasses ring around the room. Laughter slowly gives way to some serious decision-making as the a la carte menu brimming with freshly prepared seafood, meat, and vegetarian options changes daily. Save room, because the Pastry Chef will always have something particularly decadent planned for dessert!
9:00 PM
After dinner, many will retire to their cabins to rest and prepare for the following day’s adventures, or, better yet, to the lounge to upload and edit photos. Some will meet in the bar to share stories with their fellow explorers over a nightcap, or to gather round the piano and relax before heading off to bed. Otherwise, adjourn to the Theatre, where our friendly Expedition Team always have an evening activity ready to go for everyone looking for some evening excitement.
Alternatively, head to the outer decks and take a relaxing soak in the Hot Tubs and relax as the day ends amid some of the world’s most jaw-dropping scenery. Tomorrow another day filled with adventure awaits!