Longyearbyen Video Oslo Video Staying Healthy

Our favourite things to do in Longyearbyen

If you are passing through Longyearbyen during your Arctic adventure, you may be surprised that despite its small size, the world's northernmost settlement has a veritable feast of experiences to enjoy.

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Staying healthy

The Arctic may be one of the most remote places on the planet, but help is still on hand if you need it. A little preparation can also go a long way to ensure you stay fit and healthy during your trip, and are able to enjoy everything the Arctic has to offer.

Cruising & seasickness

Watch your ship navigate the pack ice

Cruising off the coast of Spitsbergen

There is a qualified English-speaking doctor aboard all vessels who is available to help with any minor ailments, seasickness or other issues. However, the onboard medical equipment is limited. Any passengers taking regular medication must bring their own supplies.

In the event of a serious medical emergency, the captain and expedition leader will decide on the best course of action.

Seasickness

Seasickness can be a real problem for some. Whether it takes you one day or five to get your sea legs, a few quick tips can help the journey pass more smoothly.

We recommend drinking lots of water and eating small amounts regularly. There are some good anti-seasickness remedies that can really help, including tablets, patches and wristbands. Be aware that some brands of anti-seasickness tablets can make you feel very drowsy. Different people react in different ways, so it's worth taking time to do your research.

To prevent seasickness, our recommendations are:

  • Be well rested and avoid drinking alcohol the night before hitting open waters
  • Try eating ginger, dry biscuits or green apples
  • Avoid a fixed view, such as reading a book
  • Look forward and not towards the stern

Other less scientific approaches that we’ve heard along the way include not showering for the first two days (based on the principle that it’s not good to be without an outside view) and mixing your ginger with brandy.

Fitness

While being fit isn’t a prerequisite to travelling to the Arctic, being in good enough shape to get the most out of the daily excursions will increase your overall enjoyment of the trip.

Being able to get on and off the rubber zodiac boats is crucial. A crew member will always help you get into and out of the zodiac, with a 'sailor’s grip' on your arm to provide stability. You must ensure that you have your hands free, so stow all cameras and walking poles. You can take them out against once you are securely seated. You will need to be flexible enough to take a deep step into the zodiac and for wet beach landings, you will need to swing your leg over the side of the zodiac and step down into the water. This becomes second nature after a few landings.

Preparing for the Arctic

Other essential information