In advance of departure, we received a digital Expedition Guide for our trip, which included a detailed packing list, as well as thorough information about binocular and camera equipment. I would offer the following additional suggestions to make the journey even more enjoyable.
Although the recommended headgear is a wool ski cap, it cannot counter direct sun. The Squall Cap from Lands’ End is insulated, and has a fold-down flap that covers ears and the back of the neck, as well as a brim large enough to block direct sunlight. I worried that the brim might cause it to fly off on windy days, but that never proved to be a problem.
Knee-high waterproof boots are a must. Even though we wore wool socks, I inserted fleece insoles. Others complained of cold feet; we did not.
A neck gaiter, like this one from Smartwool, is well-known to winter sports enthusiasts and a must for your trip.
Although the material from Lindblad included information on binoculars, I was surprised at the number of people who did not use or bring them. I found them invaluable both on and off the ship. The top brands are Swarovski and Leica. Zeiss and Leica models are sold on board. If you are making a first foray into binoculars, Nikon’s Prostaff 7 is an exceptionally good model at a modest price.
Over the first couple of days, I noticed fellow passengers baffled as to why their pictures were dark. It turned out that, when buying cameras for the trip, they had been advised to purchase polarizing filters to counteract the glare from the snow and ice. These are unnecessary. Instead, buy a UV filter for each lens, which will correct the color and add a layer of protection.
At some point you will want to clean your camera and binocular lenses in the field. Instead of removing my gloves and fumbling in my pocket, I relied on a little Spudz pouch that clips on to the straps of both devices and holds a tightly packed microfiber cloth.
Travel in a Zodiac can kick up spray and the weather can become wet very quickly, so I found it useful to have an Op/Tech Rain Sleeve for my SLR camera. (I purchased mine in the ship's store.) This is easy to fit over the body and lens, and short of dropping the camera in the water, it will keep all but the lens filter dry. I also recommend bringing a few gallon-size sealable plastic bags for cameras and lenses, and snack-size bags for holding memory cards and smaller accessories.
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