Phone signal

There are regions where you will be able to pick up a phone signal, and it has been known for people to be watching a blue whale near Longyearbyen and talking to friends in the UK at the same time. That said, coverage is patchy at the very best and should not be relied on.

On land-based trips, you can expect some mobile phone signal. Networks are improving all the time, especially around settlements. 

Life in the Arctic

Looking out over the bow

Swoop Says background image

Swoop says

Before you travel, check the costs of using your cell phone abroad, to avoid incurring high costs for calls and texts on your trip.

Internet

Connectivity while travelling to the Arctic has drastically improved in recent years. On all Arctic vessels, you will be able to use email at any time by pre-purchasing a data card.

Many ships now have quite good WIFI, although it's likely to be localized with the strongest signal in the public areas and reception may be impaired from your cabin, depending on its location. 

POS_3_POS_RTD_SEASPIRIT_LIBRARY

Ship library

Plug types in the Arctic

Plug types in the Arctic

Most ships use European plugs. Often trips will involve hotels on land in more than one country, we would always recommend taking a worldwide adapter so you are covered in all eventualities.

Life in the Arctic

Food & drink

Going hungry is one thing you definitely don't need to worry about on your trip. Even at the end of the world, your meals will be well thought out, with choices at every sitting, and abundant food. 

Land-based expeditions tend to be fully catered for but the food is often very simple, reflecting the remoteness of your location.

Remember to write any requirements on your pre-travel forms, and in case of a strong food allergy, we recommend you introduce yourself to the Hotel Manager or Head Waiter before the first meal.

Chef, Ocean Atlantic

Other useful reading