How do I get to the North Pole?
Answer: Your trip officially begins at Longyearbien, Spitzbergen, Norway. From there, you will take a special flight to our "Barneo" field camp, 150 kilometers away from the North Pole. Depending on the program you choose, you will either fly to the Pole itself by helicopter, or ski there with our guides. The simplest way of getting to Longyearbien is by flying through Oslo.


Will you be able to meet me at the airport and book a hotel for me?
Answer: We can meet you at the arrival gate and accompany you at all stages of your trip. Please discuss the details with our travel consultant.


What type of aircraft do you use?
Answer: We fly an An-74 from Longyearbien to Barneo. This type of airplane is best suited for Arctic conditions. Two Mi-8 helicopters are stationed at the Barneo field camp. They are used to take travelers to the North Pole and pick up the skiers from their destination point. They are also always ready to go in case of an emergency or an unforeseen situation.


How reliable are the aircraft?
Answer: All aircraft used in the Arctic and Antarctic meet much higher safety standards than regular aircraft. And unlike commercial flights over, we have a spotless record!!! Since the Polar Expeditions began its operations, there has never been an accident, not even a minor one. Our pilots are recognized as among the best in the world.


How cold will it get on the trip?
Answer: While the temperature can get as low as -30˚C (-22˚F), we supply expedition participants with special sub-zero clothing that will protect you from the cold. A comfortable temperature of 18˚C (65˚F) is maintained in the living and recreation modules.


How dangerous are ski and dogsled expeditions?
Answer: Like all types of adventure travel, there is an element of risk. However, you can be secure that our staff will ensure you safety in any emergency. Our guides have spent many years in the Arctic region and they are prepared for all kinds of surprises.


Is there a threat that the ice will melt?
Answer: We select a time and a place for the expedition when the danger of the ice melting is almost nil. This is why all expeditions to the North Pole take place in April.


What will we eat during the expedition?
Answer: Our wonderful chef will prepare excellent meals from only the freshest ingredients. In addition to European cuisine, you will be able to try exotic dishes native to the Far Northern region. We can also make special arrangements for your dietary restrictions - please discuss them with our travel consultant when planning your trip.


Are there restrictions on the use of photographs and videos made during an expedition?
Answer: You can freely use any photographs and video footage made during the expedition, subject to national and international laws.


What happens if equipment breaks down?
Answer: All equipment that is vital for living and safety can be replaced in case of problems. At the field camp there is always a spare tractor, generator, heater, etc.


What means of communications will we have?
Answer: Cellular phones do not work in the Polar regions, however, you will be able to use the Iridium satellite communication system.


Will I be able to recharge my photo- or video-camera?
Answer: Yes, 220V chargers are available in the common room. If you will need a 110-volt adapter, please let our travel consultant know.


Is there anything to do on the ice floe?
Answer: The Arctic and Antarctic are unique places. It is difficult to explain their magic - you have to see it for yourself. You will get an incredible experience simply by being there, breathing the air and looking at the scenery around you. However, we also provide special activities: see the options in tour descriptions.


Will there be souvenirs available at the Barneo?
Answer: Yes! A wide range of souvenirs will be available at the Barneo field camp.


Is insurance included in the cost of the trip, or do I need to purchase it separately?
Answer: Every expedition member must take out his or her own life insurance. We also require medical and evacuation insurance.


Are expedition schedules and programs subject to change?
Answer: The information on expedition programs and flight schedules should be used as reference only. Travelers should keep in mind that the programs we offer are unique expeditions to a remote and only partly explored part of the globe. Our sample itineraries are subject to change depending weather and ice conditions, as well as on the other circumstances. Remember that when buying your return ticket


Will I be compensated for my ticket and expenses if flights in the Barneo-2009 program are delayed due to poor weather conditions?
Answer: Because the expeditions take place in the Arctic Region, there could be significant changes to the time and date of the flight, aimed at ensuring your security. Expenses incurred because of schedule changes will not be compensated.


How many of your staff are involved in an average expedition?
Answer: Two of our representatives are stationed at Longyearbien -- they will meet you at the Longyearbien Airport, help you with your luggage and answer all of your questions. There are usually about 30 people at the Barneo field camp, including the head of the field camp, a doctor, a translator, a cook, pilots and technical staff. You can depend on them to make your trip very pleasant as well as safe.


What does the cost of the trip cover?
Answer: Polar expeditions are very expensive. Only space travel and, perhaps, submarine trips incur more expenditures. One of the main cost factors is transportation -- especially the flight. Numerous ground services are involved in flights over the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Special safety measures must be taken along the entire route. All aircraft must meet special requirements and the pilots must have the highest qualification. Very few pilots are licensed to fly in the Polar Regions, and there is only one ice runway in the Arctic. Another major factor is the fact that, 11 months out of the year, there is nothing but ice on the site of your field camp. The runway and field camp are built from scratch every year. For your safety, equipment, food and fuel are stocked in excess. Before you arrive, we must make a number of flights to get everything ready. Finally, all of our personnel are highly qualified professionals, who have completed costly training programs. The same goes for all the gear we use -- from boots to living modules. We value your safety too highly to skimp on equipment or personnel.