Everything you need to know about planning and enjoying your expedition cruise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about planning and enjoying your expedition cruise.
68 questions
Planning
Why should I book with Swan Hellenic?
I’ve never been on a cruise. Is this for me?
Do I need to book my own flights?
What else is included in the cruise fare?
What is not included in the cruise fare?
Will there be an additional charge if I travel alone?
Are there children fares available?
Are there cruise fare reductions for adults sharing a stateroom as 3./4. traveller?
Are there age restrictions and rules for parents with smaller children or legal guardians?
How far in advance should I book?
Do I have to pay for the trip in full when I book?
What are the payment options for my booking?
Why is there a price change from website display to my booking request?
How will my booking be confirmed?
How cold does it get in the Arctic and Antarctic?
Do I need to pre-book excursions?
Are the ships wheelchair accessible?
Antarctica Cruises
Where is Antarctica – and how do I get there?
When is the best time to visit Antarctica?
Do you offer kayak excursions in Antarctica?
Are my Expedition itineraries final and can changes be expected during the cruise?
I’ve been to the Arctic, would I enjoy Antarctica?
Should I worry about Avian Flu?
Arctic Cruises
How do I get to The Arctic?
Do you offer kayak excursions in the Arctic?
I’ve been to Antarctica, would I enjoy The Arctic?
Before You Go
Who will my fellow travelers be?
What do I need to pack? Do I need formal clothing?
How much luggage allowance will I have?
Will I get seasick?
Are vaccinations required?
Should I buy a camera?
Why do I need a ‘Fit for Travel’ qualification for expedition cruises?
Can I fly drones?
Are visas required?
What currency do I need?
What is the food like onboard? Do you cater to all dietary requirements?
What about travel insurance?
Life Onboard
Where are meals served?
Will there be an open bar / self service or manned bar?
What are the staterooms like?
Will I have a balcony?
What is there to do on board?
What is WiFi like on board?
Is there a doctor on board?
How clean is the ship?
What is your policy on sustainability?
What wildlife can I expect to see on our expeditions?
How to move around the ship safely?
How physically active do I need to be?
How do we land ashore?
Do you have rest days from excursions?
Can I smoke onboard?
Embarkation security routine and opening your onboard account
Is there a SPA area on board?
Is there a charge for the sauna?
Can I book SPA or Hair dresser appointments in advance?
What language is spoken on board?
Can I store my suitcases in the stateroom?
Is there a laundry service onboard?
How do I settle my on-board account?
What about tipping or gratuities onboard?
Can I get medication in the on-board hospital?
Am I allowed to take certain prescriptive medication with me?
How do I pay the bill from the on-board hospital?
Is it true that I need to decontaminate my boots before and after each landing?
How close do we get to wildlife?
What is the minimum age to consume alcohol on the ship?
See What Others Don't
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See What Others Don't
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T +1 (800) 537 6777
Contact Us
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