FAQ enroute

What are the physical requirements of a Fathom Expeditions trip?
Our voyages are perfect for clients young and old catering to both the passive and active traveler. Our programs provide a variety of activities from relaxed zodiac cruises through icebergs and calm bays to walks on hard-packed beaches. For the more active we have hiking and walking on glaciers, snowfields, and volcanoes.
On some voyages, climbing and sea kayaking can be included for an additional fee. Each landing is fully guided without being restrictive. The wide variety of landing programs ensures that every client enjoys Antarctic to its fullest potential. In the past, our guides have taken clients varying in ages from 2 to 92 years old.
We recommend a minimum age of 8 years old.
We strive to accommodate all parties however any passengers with physical challenges should consult with sales agents or the expedition team prior to booking. Any restrictions are in the best interest of personal safety for those involved.

What extra equipment will I need for the journey?
Beyond clothing items, cameras, and boots no other major expedition equipment will be needed. Fathom Expeditions looks after all the expedition and scientific equipment. Clients are responsible for bringing their own explore-oriented enthusiasm!

What kind of support can I expect along the way?
Each expedition is fully staffed for your comfort, education and adventure. The shipboard staff includes:

• Expeditions leader

• Assistant expedition leaders

• A lecturer team covering topics such as history, wildlife, adventure geology, glaciology, marine mammals, seabirds, the expedition ship oceanography etc.

• Various professional zodiac drivers

• Antarctic experienced captain and ship's crew.

• A hotel management team to look after client comfort and all ship-related service issues.

• Two international chefs plus various cooking assistants

• One bartender

• Science program representative

• Dining stewards and stewardesses

• Many other support staff and crew

Do I have to carry my own luggage and gear?
No. All client and baggage transfers are included in the tour price. We will transfer you luggage from airports to your hotel rooms and from your hotel rooms right to your ship cabin. All arrangements are flexible should you have special needs.

Is Fathom Expeditions involved in conservation and education?
Fathom Expeditions supports science and education in both Antarctica and back home. We founded the Antarctic Education Program, a research endeavor to take advantage of our ship itineraries in order to collect data on the Antarctic Ocean, wildlife food sources and, most importantly, global warming. This collected data is categorized and passed on to international science institutions, participating clients, and schools back in North America. Our scientific program is a shipboard activity that is open to clients should they desire to get involved. We distribute a newsletter detailing our findings after each season. Fathom Expeditions is also a proud sponsor of Students on Ice; a company devoted to educating students on the Polar Regions through hands-on learning expeditions.