What to pack for a Ponant cruise to the Sub Antarctic Islands

While we’ve previously covered What to Pack When Travelling to Antarctica, we also wanted to give some more specific advice for anyone travelling to the Sub Antarctic Islands on a Ponant cruise and wondering what to pack.

The Sub Antarctics experience less extreme temperatures than the Antarctica Peninsula, and giving up precious bag space for something you later discover isn't needed is less than ideal, so here are our packing tips, based on our own Destination Specialists experiences onboard Le Soleal.

1. Layering is Essential

The weather in this southern region can be immensely unpredictable - you could be hiking in cargo pants a T-shirt one day, and have to don thermals the next. From sunny and lovely to the kind of chill that will freeze your you-know-whats off! And not only that - on an expedition cruise to the polar regions (either one) you are constantly going from the warmth of the ship to the freezing chill of the outer decks, several times every day. Dressing in layers makes the whole dressing/undressing rigmarole much easier.

Warm and waterproof clothes for the Sub Antarctic Islands

Here's what you need:

1. Base Layers: Thermal tops and leggings for insulation and warmth.

2. Mid Layers: A fleece jacket or warm sweater to keep you cosy on colder days.

3. Outer Layer: A waterproof, windproof jacket is a must. Most cruise ships provide warm parkas, but packing an extra weather-resistant jacket is a really good idea.

4. Pants: Waterproof pants are essential for Zodiac excursions where you often get splashed. Comfortable hiking pants are fine for shore excursions.

5. Chill-out gear: T-shirt and cargo pants/jeans for warmer days on land.

2. Waterproof Footwear

All passengers are required to wear gumboots (rubber boots) for shore landings via Zodiac, which must be carefully scrubbed to avoid cross-contamination on such pristine environments. These are usually provided onboard expedition ships, but you can bring your own if you prefer. Make sure the boots go up to your calves and are comfortable enough for long walks. Sometimes, walks are not on rugged terrain and if the weather plays along, a pair of casual walking shoes would also be handy.

Careful boot cleaning before landing on precious protected islands is essential!

3. Accessories

1. Gloves & Beanie: A pair of insulated and waterproof gloves will protect your hands on Zodiac excursions. A warm beanie with ear flaps is also a must.

2. Scarf: A buff will keep your neck warm, just make sure it's lightweight so it's not too bulky under your parka.

3. Sunglasses & Sunscreen: The sun’s rays can be surprisingly strong in the far south, especially with reflections from the sea and ice. Polarised sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen are recommended.

4. Binoculars

Wildlife is often first spotted at a distance and there's no way to know if you'll have a chance to get any closer. Pack a pair of good binoculars. Ponant does provide some on their ships, but having your own pair is more convenient because binoculars is the one thing no-one likes to share when needed!

5. Camera Gear

Don’t forget to bring a camera with zoom to photograph animals from afar. Phone cameras just don't cut the mustard in these kinds of environments. Take extra memory cards and batteries (the cold can drain batteries faster than usual), and a waterproof case or dry bag to protect your gear. A sturdy zip-lock bag will do.

6. Waterproof Daypack

Take a small, waterproof backpack for shore excursions to carry your camera, binoculars, water bottle, and extra layers. You want something lightweight but durable.

7. Swimwear!

Don't forget your swimwear! The heated outdoor pool and Hammam (sauna) on Le Soleal are absolutely divine for relaxing after a day of exploration and going in your underwear is kinda frowned upon!

8. Leave your reusable water bottle at home

Ponant focuses on eco-conscious travel in various ways, one of which is to provide a reusable water bottle which you can keep and refill with filtered water onboard. One less thing for you to pack!

9. Comfortable Clothing for Lounging Around

After a long day exploring, you’ll want comfortable clothes to relax in. For Le Soleal and all Ponant cruise ships in general, think casual but stylish: jeans, sweaters, and comfortable shoes for strolling around the ship. The crew onboard Le Soleal do run a gala night during the trip, so pack something a bit dressier, though nothing too formal is needed. Ponant ships are a little more stylish than many others, so you might want to pack accordingly.

Looking mighty chilled there, ladies!

10. Miscellaneous Essentials

1. Medications and First Aid: Bring any personal medications you may need and seasickness remedies (though all Ponant cruise ships are very stable, it's always good to be prepared). Pack a zip-lock with antiseptic wipes, band-aids (blister packs), and painkillers.

2. Plug Adaptors: The ship uses European-style outlets (Type C/E plugs), so you'll need an adaptor if your devices use a different plug. The ship has a few to lend, but having your own is better.

3. Books & E-Readers: There will be downtime during sea days, so pack a good book or an e-reader. Le Soleal also has a small library, but having your own entertainment is always nice.

>Read more: Trip & Ship Review - Exploring Sub Antarctic Islands on Le Soleal

At Viva Expeditions, we offer a range of Sub-Antarctic Islands expeditions to suit different budgets and comfort levels. Le Soleal offers two itineraries in the Antarctic region but there are plenty more trips and ships from which to choose. If you would like personalised advice, you can reach out to our Destination Specialists at any time. We’re always more than happy to steer you in the right direction.