Pre Departure Information Mawson s Huts Foundation The Mawson s Huts Foundation was established in 1997 with the support of the Federal Government expressly to conserve Mawson s Huts at Cape Denison.Since then it has funded and organised 10 major expeditions to the historic site: it s Australia s gift to Antarctic Heritage. PATRON: HIS EXCELLENCY GENERAL SIR PETER COSGROVE AK MC (RETD) GOVERNOR-GENERAL OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA
PLEASE BE AWARE THIS IS PRELIMINARY INFORMATION, MORE INFORMATION THAT DETAILS TRIP NOTES WILL BE AVAILABLE 2-3 MONTHS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE. ADVENTURE TRAVEL Welcome to the adventure. As you are aware, this type of trip can never be entirely cut-and-dried and that is the beauty and excitement of Expedition Cruising. Because we travel to wild and untamed places the itinerary for this expedition is a statement of intent rather than a promise. We are always at the mercy of the elements and although we know where to find the wild creatures we hope to encounter, we cannot produce them on cue. Our Guides are just as eager as you are to see that special animal or plant species and will use their knowledge to take you to the best places to find them. It is highly unlikely that the itinerary will be substantially altered, but if changes are necessary your expedition leader will decide the best alternative. If a delay or change does occur, we will do everything we can to minimise the effects, but we cannot be held responsible for the results of delays or changes outside our control. BEFORE YOU GO Please ensure you read and follow the suggestions in this guide thoroughly. Please read the CUSTOMS/ SECURITY REQUIREMENTS and the CLIMATE INFORMATION sections to ensure you are prepared for your voyage. Double check to make sure your passport is current and valid for six months or more past the date of your return. TRAVEL INSURANCE We strongly recommend that passengers take out a comprehensive medical and cancellation worldwide travel insurance. The Spirit of Enderby II travels to remote destinations all over the world where medical treatment in the case of an emergency may be difficult to reach. It is therefore imperative that all passengers have adequate travel insurance cover including medical evacuation cover in remote destinations. Evacuations are extremely expensive, particularly from Antarctica where they can cost anything upwards of $100,000 USD. A few points to note: -Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our departures, you may be barred from embarkation if you have no proof of insurance. Full Medical Evacuation/Repatriation Insurance is mandatory for all expeditions. Where a passenger requires hospitalisation or medical treatment including evacuation, all costs associated with this are the full responsibility of that passenger. Please check that your policy (particularly if it is issued by your credit card provider) covers this for the destination that you are visiting, and covers any pre-existing medical conditions. - If you are arranging your own insurance, you should check that all included activities are covered such as landings, Zodiac cruising, charter flights and optional activities such as kayaking and diving. - As you have now paid a deposit for this expedition, it is recommended that you have in place at least a loss of deposits/cancellation policy. - In the event of a cancellation, our terms and conditions as outlined in our brochure apply.
CUSTOMS/SECURITY REQUIREMENTS Southern Ocean voyages On voyages departing from New Zealand coastal waters we are required to clear Customs at the final port. Please check you have completed your passport details on the Booking Form AND ensure you bring your passport with you. The passport number you use must be the passport you are travelling on. Please ensure your passport is valid for six months past the date of your return. Please forward a copy of the photo page of your passport for New Zealand and Australian Customs purposes now if you have not already done so this can either be electronically via email or printed hardcopy. Passports are required for voyages in New Zealand waters, unless by prior arrangement. Visits to Macquarie Island Most passport holders (with the exemption of Australian and New Zealand passport holders) are now required to obtain an Australian visa to visit Macquarie Island. If you are unsure please contact your nearest Consulate or Embassy to check visa requirements. This website is useful: www.immi.gov.au/visitors/tourist/ evisitor/eligibility Port Access Access to the port of departure or embarkation is by photo identification only. With current Port Security, access through the port is undertaken as a group or by prior arrangement with Heritage Expeditions and the Port Security staff. We will ensure you are on the security list for the port of departure for entry to the ship, but be aware that display of passport will be requested. Your passport details must match the information you have previously provided to us. CLIMATE INFORMATION Our expeditions are scheduled during the summer season in the Southern Hemisphere. Generally in Antarctica, temperatures during the day are in the upper 30 s, lower 40 s Farenheit, dropping in the evening; however the wind chill factor should always be considered. The so called wind chill factor measures the increase in cooling power of moving air, whether it s wind that is blowing or you who are moving rapidly and, in effect, creating a wind against yourself generally it s not the cold that gets you it s the wind. ON BOARD THE SHIP The ship is heated throughout with the normal temperature 17-25 ºC. In keeping with our expedition atmosphere, dress on board is informal. Bring casual and comfortable clothing. Keep in mind that much of the spectacular scenery can be appreciated from deck, which can be slippery. Bring sturdy shoes with non-slip soles and make sure the parka is never far away in case the call of whales comes over the loud speaker and you have to dash outside. Wear layers since it is comfortably warm on board the ship and cold out on deck. There may be an occasion, i.e. Christmas Day, New Year s Eve or a spontaneously Posh Night where you may require clothing that is a little more formal.
CLOTHING/GEARLIST INFORMATION During any of these voyages we can experience extremes of weather; our ability to cope with these and to dress accordingly will ensure that we are able to participate fully in the expeditions. Please read these suggestions thoroughly so that you can be prepared for the weather conditions of the Subantarctic Islands and Antarctica. The choice of clothing for cold climates is a very personal matter. It depends on your individual experience with cold conditions and can even depend on whether you feel you are more susceptible to cold than other people. - For your comfort and safety, bring wind and waterproof outer layers. - The secret to keeping warm is the layer principle. This says that you are better to have several light layers of clothing than one heavy layer. This also gives you flexibility in your clothing so you can take off a layer if you are too warm or put another layer on if you are cold. - The most important outer layer is the outer waterproof and windproof shell because a small wind of 6kpm can carry away eight times more body heat than still air. TIPS TO STAY COMFORTABLE AND WARM IN COLD WEATHER - Avoid overdressing to reduce perspiration. - Wear water repellent outer garments that will keep you dry on the outside and still breathe enough so that moisture from your body can escape. - Body heat is most likely to be lost from parts that have a lot of surface area in comparison to total mass namely, the hands and feet. Keep them warm and dry. For hands, mittens are better than gloves. - If the rest of your body is covered, as much as 90 percent of heat can escape from your head, so be sure to wear a hat, beanie or balaclava. These items can be pulled down to protect your ears, forehead, neck and chin. The neck also needs protection with a woollen or synthetic scarf that can be wrapped around the face when travelling against the wind. - Dress in comfortable, loose layers. For anyone out in the cold, it is far better to wear layers of relatively light, loose clothing than one thick, heavy item. Between each layer there is a film of trapped air which, when heated by your body, acts as an excellent insulator and keeps you from overheating. - Wool and silk are superior to cotton because they can trap warm air. Synthetic fabrics that spring back into shape after compression are also good. When damp or wet, polyester down is a better insulator than goose or duck down. Polar fleece is popular and recommended.
PACKING LIST Please be aware that you will need to bring your own gear for the trip and that rubber boots are not provided for this trip. There are outer jackets available for use for those that don t have a suitable outer jacket and don t want to go to the expense of purchasing one. When packing, don t weigh yourself down with too many clothes or too much gear. Select practical attire for your trip that can be worn in layers, use this checklist to ensure you are prepared and if you have any questions, please give us a call. That said, it is recommended that you pack a number of layers of clothing which you can add to or reduce depending on the outdoor temperature. It is recommended that you bring: A windproof/ waterproof outer jacket Windproof/ water proof trousers Jumpers Thermal underwear A beanie Neck warmer Warm gloves Warm socks Rubber Boots (if not new, then these need to be cleaned very well). A small back pack for landings. FUEL SURCHARGES Please note that in the unlikely event that there is a major increase in the world oil prices that a fuel surcharge may be applied immediately prior to the trip. Please be aware that fuel is by far the largest expense of these expeditions and so major spikes in oil prices can t always be completely absorbed. We will absorb fuel increases up to a price of US$65 USD a barrel and will continue to adsorb fuel price increases by not imposing a surcharge until the fuel price reaches $75 USD a barrel for Brent crude oil. If, when we fuel the ship with MGO prior to departure, the price of brent crude is $75 USD per barrel or greater, we will collect a $650 USD surcharge that will be levied on a per passenger basis and any additional rise above the USD $75 price will increase the surcharge by an additional US$2 per day, per passenger, fuel surcharge or a for every $1 above $75 a barrel.
ANTARCTIC VISTORS GUIDELINES We ask you to thoroughly study and follow these guidelines by doing so you will make an important contribution towards the conservation of the Antarctic ecosystem and avoid potentially harmful and long lasting damage. Activities in Antarctica are governed by the Antarctic Treaty of 1959 and associated agreements referred to collectively as the Antarctic Treaty system. The treaty established Antarctica as a zone of peace and science. In 1991, the Treaty parties adopted the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty which designates Antarctica as a natural reserve. It is intended to ensure that tourism and non-governmental activities do not have an adverse impact on the Antarctic environment or its scientific or aesthetic values. The guidance for visitors to Antarctica is intended to ensure that all visitors are aware of, and are therefore able to comply with the Treaty and the Protocol. Visitors are of course bound by national laws and regulations applicable to activities in Antarctica. PROTECT WILDLIFE Taking or harmful interference with Antarctic wildlife is prohibited except in accordance with a permit issued by a national authority. - Do not use aircraft, vessel, small boats or other means of transport in ways that disturb wildlife either at sea or on land. - Do not feed, touch or handle birds or seals, or approach or photograph them in a way that causes them to alter their behaviour. Special care is needed when animals are breeding or moulting. - Do not damage plants, for example by walking, driving or landing on extensive moss beds or lichen covered scree slopes. - Keep noise to a minimum to avoid frightening wildlife. - Do not bring non-native plants or animals into Antarctica. RESPECT PROTECTED AREAS Some areas in Antarctica have been given special protection because of their particular ecological, scientific, historic or other values. Entry may be prohibited except by permit from an appropriate national authority. Activities in or near historic sites and monuments may be subject to special restrictions. - Be aware of the areas afforded special protection. - Observe applicable restrictions. - Do not damage, remove or destroy historic sites or monuments or any artefacts associated with them. RESPECT SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH - Do not interfere with scientific research, facilities or equipment. - Obtain permission before visiting Antarctic science and logistic support facilities: reconfirm arrangements 24-72 hours before arriving and comply strictly with the rules regarding such visits. - Do not interfere with, or remove, scientific equipment or marker posts, and do not disturb experimental sites, field camps or supplies.
ANTARCTIC VISTORS GUIDELINES BE SAFE Be prepared for severe and changeable weather. Ensure that your equipment and clothing meet Antarctic standards. Remember that the Antarctic environment is inhospitable, unpredictable and potentially dangerous. 1. Know your capabilities, the dangers posed by the Antarctic environment, and act accordingly. Plan activities with safety in mind at all times. 2. Keep a safe distance from all wildlife, both on land and at sea. 3. Take note of, and act on, the advice and instructions from your leaders, do not stray from your group. 4. Do not walk onto glaciers or large snow fields without proper equipment and experience, there is real danger of falling into hidden crevasses. 5. Do not expect a rescue service, self-sufficiency is increased and risks reduced by sound planning, quality equipment and trained personnel. 6. Do not enter emergency refuges (except in emergencies). If you use equipment or food from a refuge inform the nearest research station or national authority once the emergency is over. 7. Respect any smoking restrictions, particularly around buildings and take great care to safeguard against the danger of fire. This is a real hazard in the dry environment of Antarctica. KEEP THE ENVIRONMENT PRISTINE Antarctica remains relatively pristine and has not yet been subjected to large scale human perturbations. It is the largest wilderness area on earth. Please keep it that way. 1. Do not dispose of litter or garbage on land. Open burning is prohibited. 2. Do not disturb or pollute lakes or streams. Any materials discarded at sea must be disposed of properly. 3. Do not paint or engrave names or graffiti on rocks or buildings. 4. Do not collect or take away biological or geological specimens or man-made artefacts as a souvenir, including rocks, bones, eggs, fossils and parts or contents of buildings. 5. Do not deface or vandalise buildings, whether occupied, abandoned, unoccupied or emergency refuges. DON T PACK A PEST BEFORE YOU HEAD SOUTH Before you head south you can help the non-native species introduction in Antarctic by following some simple guidelines. Non-native species are those that do not naturally occur in an area and have been introduced either intentionally or unintentionally. A wide range of non-native species now occur in Antarctica and the Subantarctic Islands. These introduced species include microbes, algae, fungi, vascular plants, invertebrates, fish, birds and mammals. Non-native species could hitch a ride with you via your boots and shoes, trouser hems and turn-ups, pockets, Velcro and fleece, backpacks, outdoor equipment, camera bags, walking sticks and tripods.
Clean and examine clothes thoroughly: examine all clothing, including pockets, seams, Velco fasteners, and boot soles for dirt and organic material. A thorough cleaning is recommended. Pack clean gear: Make sure your gear and outdoor equipment are freshly cleaned and free of dirt and organic material. Even if your gear is still dirty from a previous trip to the Antarctic, you could be transporting a non-native species. ONCE YOU HAVE ARRIVED Five steps to protecting the Antarctic: 1. Follow the boot and clothing contamination procedures on your expedition. This is especially important if you are moving between distinct geographic regions (e.g. between a Subantarctic Island and the Antarctic) but also if moving between distinct landing or field sites. 2. Watch your step. Be careful when walking in areas that contact organic matter as this can be easily transported to other areas. If you do notice organic matter on boots, clothing or gear, make sure to clean it off before leaving a site and use the disinfectant wash between visits. 3. Clean your gear regularly. This includes boots, equipment, day packs and camera bags, trouser hems and turn-ups, fleece clothing Velcro fasteners for outer clothing, etc. 4. Report a pest. Tell your guides if you think you have found a non-native species. 5. Spread the word. Share this information with others. We all contribute to the health of the Antarctic. PHOTOGRAPHIC HINTS An image says a thousand words and for many the image from their camera helps to re-experience the sights, sounds and smells of the unique places you will be experiencing. Practice makes perfect photography is a skill and we suggest that your voyage is the time to enjoy your camera and the images you take rather than learn about the inner workings of your camera. Cameras should be checked over and cleaned before leaving home. If equipment is new or being used for the first time it is wise to learn about it before the voyage. On most trips repairs are unavailable.
RECOMMENDATIONS For your successful photographic experience we recommend: - Bring a dry bag or float bag to protect your camera from salt spray and water on the Zodiacs. - Use a polarising filter to take the glare out. Respect the wildlife you are experiencing and get close by zoom lens. A wide angle lens will capture the true scale of the places you are experiencing. - If you have a tripod and wish to stop the shakes then please bring your tripod, remember it will need to go into your day pack for trips ashore. - Spare batteries for those traveling to Polar regions the cold does use your battery power faster than normal if recharging, a spare on the charger while you are away from the ship is useful. Keeping the camera close to your body whilst moving from ship to shore will assist in keeping the battery power up. Cold temperatures drain the battery faster than normal. - Memory Card bring a spare card or if you have your laptop you can download images whilst on board. It is always hard to select the images you wish to keep or discard when the opportunities for photography are so many. We recommend that you bring your own laptop for downloading images throughout your voyage. READING LIST The exclusive book Mawson s Huts-the birthplace of Australia s Antarctic History by David Jensen is an excellent read for those wanting to know more about Mawson s Huts. Published to promote and generate funds for the conservation of Mawson s Huts, this coffee table style book (305 mm by 295 mm), contains over 200 images and 45,000 words of text, including the largest published images by Frank Hurley, Mawson s legendary photographer. This book is available to purchase: http://www.mawsons-huts.org.au/shop/books/ Other fantastic books that are of general Antarctic Interest include: Barker, A N Whales and Dolphins of New Zealand and Australia an Identification Guide Victoria University Press, New Zealand, 1990 Falla, R A & Sibson, The New Guide to the Birds of New Zealand Turbott, E G Collins, 1983 R B Harper, P C & Southern Albatrosses and Petrels An Identification Victoria University Press, 1978 Kinsky, F C Guide Harrison, Peter Seabirds of the World Christopher Helm, 1987 Heather, Barrie & Robertson The Field Guide to the Birds of New Zealand Hugh Viking, 2000 PLEASE BE AWARE THIS IS PRELIMINARY INFORMATION, MORE INFORMATION THAT DETAILS TRIP NOTES WILL BE AVAILABLE 2-3 MONTHS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE.