Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to know how to sail?
A: No previous sailing experience is required. All participants will be given basic safety instructions, including man-overboard maneuvers, as well as what to do if we encounter a polar bear.
Q: What amenities are onboard?
A: Aurora has a bathroom with a marine toilet, running water in both the bathroom and the galley. We have a gas stove as well as two gas flares, a decently-sized fridge and a sink to do dishes in. We have a diesel heater and a solid fuel stove for heating.
Q: Will I be able to charge my electrical devices?
A: There is limited capacity for charging onboard, and so we higly recommend that you all bring your own fully charged power bank. (It would be a shame to have a noisy generator running while anchored next to a beautiful glacier).
Q: Will I get seasick?
A: This is highly variable. Some people are completely immune to seasickness; others get seasick very easily. In any case, it usually passes by the first day or two. It can be a good idea to bring seasickness medication. It also really helps to stay outside in the cockpit whenever we are sailing, and keep an eye on the horizon.
Also keep in mind that the passages to and from Svalbard are a lot bumpier than the sailing trips where we only sail on the fjords of Svalbard.
Q: Is it possible to track our location while underway?
A: Yes, people back home can easily track us in real time via our Garmin InReach.
Q: Do you have a packing list?
A: Yes. Please click and read the '“packing list” section in the header.
Q: What’s the easiest way to get to our Longyearbyen?
A: Both SAS and Norwegian fly to Longyearbyen from either Oslo or Tromsø.
Q: Is there cell phone reception on Svalbard?
A: There is full reception with 5G in the settlements of Longyearbyen and Ny-Ålesund. There is also variable reception while sailing inside Isfjorden. Once outside Isfjorden, we are off the grid.
Q: Will we see a polar bear/walrus/whales?
A: The arctic wildlife is exotic and abundant, and since we’re basically living in the arctic wilderness for a week, you’re bound to have some memorable experiences. I myself have seen more maritime wildlife up close while sailing in the Arctic than anywhere else in the world.
I must however point out that disturbing the wildlife on Svalbard is strictly prohibited, and that we follow the laws and guidelines about never disturbing wildlife on Svalbard. This includes keeping a minimum distance to polar bears and walruses. This applies to all tour operators and travellers on Svalbard.