Polar Cruise Health Guidelines

Key Takeaways

You need to:

Get your doctor’s approval 3 months before your trip. Ask them to sign a form confirming you are fit to travel.

Keep yourself fit enough to:

• Walk 2 miles comfortably
• Use stairs on uneven surfaces
• Handle ship movements at sea

Submit your medical forms 30 days before sailing. Tell us about:

• Your health conditions
• Any medicines you take regularly

Buy travel insurance that covers:

• Polar region emergencies
• Medical evacuation costs

Your ship has:

• Doctors on duty 24/7
• Emergency medical gear
• Free basic medical help

Each bullet point provides clear, actionable information using everyday language, making it easier for you to understand and follow the health guidelines for your polar cruise.

Before You Book

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Before You Book

Visit your doctor at least three months before your polar cruise starts. You need a health check and advice about your medical conditions.

Send your completed Medical Screening Form to the cruise company and list all your health issues.

You must be fit enough for the cruise. You should:

• Walk two miles at a steady pace
• Climb several flights of stairs
• Have good balance for ship movement
• Be stable during shore landings

Start your fitness preparation now if you need to build strength.

Try:

• Regular walking
• Swimming sessions
• Cycling trips
• Core strength exercises

Check age limits if you’re travelling with children, as most polar cruises have minimum age requirements.

Medical Documentation and Insurance

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Your medical preparation for polar cruises involves two key requirements:

Your Medical Documentation:

• Complete a health questionnaire showing your medical history.
• List your chronic conditions, surgeries, allergies, and medicines.
• Get your doctor’s signature confirming your fitness.
• Submit all forms 30 days before your trip.
• Wait for medical review and approval.

Your Insurance Coverage:

• Obtain comprehensive travel insurance.
• Ensure your policy covers polar medical emergencies.
• Add evacuation coverage for polar regions.
• Include insurance details in your documentation.

Ships have basic medical facilities, so you need proper documentation for your safety.

You can’t board without:

• Approved medical forms.
• Verified insurance coverage.

Submit everything on time to avoid any boarding issues.

The medical team will review your forms and confirm if you can join the expedition safely.

Physical Fitness Requirements

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Physical Fitness for Your Polar Cruise

You need basic fitness to enjoy your polar cruise safely. Your key requirements include:

Walking Abilities:

• You must walk short distances on uneven ground
• You should manage basic steps and gangways
• You can take shore excursions at your own pace

Balance Requirements:

• You need steady balance for zodiac boat rides
• You must handle mild ship movement in varied seas
• You can use walking sticks for extra stability

Support Available:

• Crew members help you board and leave vessels
• Walking sticks are ready when you need them
• You can choose which activities suit your ability

Preparation Tips:

• You don’t need intense fitness training
• You should be comfortable with basic movement
• You must have good general health

Remember: This is your adventure – you control how much or little you do.

Most activities suit average fitness levels, and you’ll find plenty of help when you need it.

Onboard Medical Resources

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Medical care is readily available on your polar cruise ship. Your onboard medical team includes doctors with three years of postgraduate experience from the UK, US or Canada. You can access medical support at any time, day or night.

Your ship’s medical centre contains vital equipment for emergencies and standard care. This includes:

• Defibrillators
• Cardiac monitors
• Oxygen supply
• EKG machines

Basic medical consultations and medicines come at no cost to you. You must, however, have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation up to £120,000. Polar evacuations can be challenging and costly.

You need to:

• Complete a medical assessment before your trip
• Bring enough of your regular medicines
• Pack extra medication in case of delays

Keeping these medical requirements in mind will help you enjoy a safe polar journey.

Safety in Remote Waters

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Polar waters require strict safety measures under the IMO Polar Code. You need to sail on vessels that meet specific design and safety requirements. Your ship must have ice navigation tools and reliable communication systems.

You will take part in a lifeboat drill within 24 hours of departure. Your crew members have special training in polar operations and emergency protocols. They know how to navigate Arctic waters, where surveys cover only 10% of the region to modern standards.

Your ship follows a Polar Water Operational Manual for all key decisions. The manual helps protect both passengers and the polar environment. You must comply with environmental rules that safeguard these unique ecosystems during your voyage.

Each requirement serves a clear purpose:

• Your vessel meets strict construction standards
• Your crew has polar-specific training
• Your emergency systems are tested regularly
• Your navigation equipment works in extreme conditions

This combination of rules, training and equipment keeps you safe in remote polar waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Service Animals Permitted on Polar Expedition Cruises?

You can bring service dogs on polar expedition cruises with proper planning. You’ll need:

• Valid service animal documentation
• Compliance with cruise line policies
• Adherence to wildlife protection rules

Your service dog must:

• Stay under your control at all times
• Keep distance from local wildlife
• Follow ship-specific guidelines

Contact your cruise operator before booking to:

• Confirm their service animal policies
• Understand specific requirements
• Arrange necessary accommodations

What Happens if Someone Dies During the Polar Cruise?

In case of death during your polar cruise:

The ship’s medical team will first verify and document your passing. They’ll place your body in a designated cold storage facility on board. The crew will work with your family and local authorities to arrange the necessary paperwork and transport. Your belongings will be carefully catalogued and secured.

These practical steps help ensure a respectful and proper handling whilst meeting all legal requirements. The ship’s crew handles such situations with utmost care and dignity, focusing on supporting your loved ones through the process.

How Do Ships Handle Dental Emergencies in Polar Regions?

Dental emergencies on polar ships receive basic treatment until you can access professional care. You can get temporary relief through painkillers and basic first aid from the ship’s medical team. Most ships stock essential dental supplies for emergencies but don’t have dentists onboard. You’ll need to wait until the ship reaches the nearest port to get proper dental treatment. Ship medics can help you manage pain and prevent infection during your wait.

Can Guests With Pacemakers Participate in Polar Region Activities?

Yes, you can enjoy polar activities with your pacemaker, but follow these essential steps:

1. Get clearance from your doctor before booking
2. Pack your pacemaker ID card at all times
3. Stay away from strong magnetic fields and equipment
4. Purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies

Remember to tell your guides about your pacemaker so they can adapt activities and keep you safe. Stay within comfortable limits and don’t hesitate to skip any activity that makes you unsure.

What Mental Health Support Is Available During Long Polar Voyages?

Mental health support on polar voyages includes:

You can reach trained counsellors through face-to-face sessions or video calls at any time. You’ll join regular group meetings with fellow crew members to share experiences. Your daily schedule includes dedicated quiet periods for rest and reflection.

Key support features:

• Direct access to mental health professionals
• Video consultations with UK-based therapists
• Confidential one-to-one counselling sessions
• Regular crew support meetings
• Structured rest breaks
• 24-hour emergency mental health assistance

You’re encouraged to use these services whenever you need them – there’s no need to wait for issues to become serious.