INFORMATION
Cruise Brokers International
Questions
& Answers
Expedition and Nature Cruises
What
kind of clothing do I pack for a safari in Kenya?
"What
is the 'Big Five'?" - L. Hickey, San Francisco, CA
What
kind of clothing do I pack for an Alaska or Antarctica cruise?
What is the best
time to go to the Antarctica?
What
kind of clothing should I pack for an Amazon or South America adventure
Cruise?
What
is the best time to cruise to Alaska or South America?
Can I charter a
private yacht in Alaska?
Can
I self-skipper a barge in France's Burgundy region or on the Canal du Midi
in the south?
Can I charter a
private yacht in the Caribbean?
What
kind of clothing do I pack for a safari in Kenya?
Most people tend to overpack. Remember that there are strict weight
limitations on smaller, in-country planes, and efficient and inexpensive
laundry service is available. As mornings and evenings tend to be cooler,
no matter the season, bring clothes that can be easily layered. A lined
jacket or warm sweater is recommended at any time of the year, as is rain
protection, although the latter is only a must during the rainy months of
April and May. Warmer articles are needed in the "winter" from
June-August, when lows can drop to the mid -40's.
Neutral colors are best; casual is the order of the day, with the
exception of the Mount Kenya Safari Club and city stays. Unless you plan a
walking safari, comfortable walking shoes are sufficient. But remember,
Kenya has a large Muslim population in its coastal areas, and modesty of
dress outside of your hotel is expected. Bring a scarf for entering
mosques; this could double as a bandanna for dusty roads.
Safari companies usually supply hats, flashlights and other gear; ask in
advance so you don't duplicate. For a listing of other needed essentials,
such as insect repellent, binoculars, and film, ask your Cruise Brokers
International agent.
"What
is the 'Big Five'?" - L. Hickey, San Francisco, CA
This refers to the most sought after animals on safari: the lion, leopard,
rhino, elephant and buffalo. Many clients have seen them all in one trip.
What
kind of clothing do I pack for an Alaska or Antarctica cruise?
Casual and comfortable clothing is most suitable for during the day.
Cruiseline dress code for dinner is usually smart casual, served in a
single seating, but may be slightly more dressier in the evenings
depending on the itinerary, and cruise ship.
Layering of clothes prepares you for the different temperatures you may
experience, even within one day. Don't forget to pack an umbrella or
poncho, water proof rain gear, a lined windproof jacket, warm sweater,
hat, scarf, gloves and a good pair of waterproof boots, walking or hiking
shoes and sneakers. On the warmer days you may want to wear your favorite
pair of shorts and T-shirt too! Just in case, pack your swimsuit!
What
is the best time to go to the Antarctica?
The most feasible time to travel is in the austral summer (November
through March) when the climate is more temperate (25 to 45 degrees
Fahrenheit). Within that time frame, there are other considerations. The
pre-Christmas weeks are considered shoulder season, which is often
reflected by value pricing and fewer visitors. Along with the slight
warm-up of later months, goes the melting of some snow and ice. The snow
is still fresh, the icebergs crisp and large and the pack ice plentiful
earlier in the season. Some also argue that the lighting is far better for
photography in November, as the sun still sets and rises. Of course, you
will see more baby penguin chicks and seal pups later in the season - but
you will have missed seeing their parents mate and nest.
What
kind of clothing should I pack for an Amazon or South America adventure
Cruise?
Again, layers of clothing is ideal along with a jacket, rain gear,
comfortable walking or hiking shoes or boots. And…..don't forget to pack
insect repellent!!
What
is the best time to cruise to Alaska or South America?
Alaska's season runs from May-October. South America, December-April.
Can
I charter a private yacht in Alaska?
This is a very popular option for business' and families. Luxury yachts
typically accommodate between 12 - 14 passengers. Each yacht has full
staterooms with king, queen or twin beds and full baths. Prices include
all domestic wine, beer and liquor; all guided activities from the vessel
including fishing, (you can even fish from the vessel's zodiac boat as
well), kayaking, shore hikes, etc.; guided walking or van tours in each
port of call; the famed Gold Creek Salmon Bake in Juneau; and transfers
between the airports, hotels and yacht in Vancouver, Juneau and Sitka. You
can relax in casual attire throughout the cruise, and active days are
capped by effortless nights of sumptuous dining and relaxing with friends.
Itineraries are flexible to suit the passengers' interests.
It is also possible to join a yacht group if you are just 2 or so
passengers. Your Cruise Brokers International cruise counselor can assist
you in planning your private charter. But, beware, book way ahead to
reserve your space - demand is high, and capacity limited!
Can
I charter a private yacht in the Caribbean?
You sure can! Many charters originate from the Virgin Islands, but there
are many different options, so talk to your Cruise Brokers International
cruise counselor for more details!
Can
I self-skipper a barge in France's Burgundy region or on the Canal du Midi
in the south?
Yes you can! A unique independent cruise experience. Deluxe vessels
accommodate from two to eight passengers, are ideal for a family or group
of friends, and are value-prices from just $2130 per vessel per week. Your
Cruise Brokers International cruise counselor can advise you on your
options.
Special thanks goes to Abercrombie & Kent for their answers to several of the above questions.
