Frequently Asked Questions
About the concept
What is an exploration boat expedition?
What is the difference between an expedition cruise and a traditional cruise?
Why choose a small boat rather than a large expedition vessel?
A small boat such as the KAMAK (24 metres) allows access to narrow, shallow or ice-clogged fjords that are completely inaccessible to large vessels. What’s more, it avoids the ‘mass disembarkation’ effect: you explore the natural world in a small group, without disturbing the wildlife, whilst enjoying the friendly, supportive atmosphere of a real climbing party.
How many passengers board the KAMAK?
KAMAK welcomes between 5 and 10 participants per expedition, accompanied by one or two guides and a professional crew of three (two
skippers and a cook). It is this very small group size that guarantees the exclusivity, safety and conviviality of the trip.
How does the concept of a floating retreat differ from a cruise?
KAMAK is not a luxury hotel, but a genuine, self-sufficient, mobile mountain refuge. Just like in a high-altitude refuge, life on board is based on a sense of community, solidarity (everyone chips in a little with shared tasks such as setting the table or washing up) and the responsible and moderate use of shared resources (such as hot water).
Why travel on a sailing boat rather than a cruise ship?
The sailing boat offers a quiet, eco-friendly sailing experience that is in complete harmony with the polar environment. It is a gentle way to explore, allowing you to admire the mountains from the sea, watch for a whale’s blow without the need for an engine, and enjoy unforgettable sailing experiences when the weather permits.
How choose between ski sailing and ski touring?
- Skiing and sailing (February to June): If you’re a seasoned ski tourer looking for a good run, powder snow or spring snow on untracked slopes.
- Hiking and sailing (July to September): If you prefer to explore the tundra on foot, observe summer wildlife, photograph Arctic flowers or explore glaciers in crampons without the logistical hassle of skiing.
About the destinations
What is the best Arctic destination for a first expedition?
Iceland (particularly the Westfjords and the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve) is ideal for a first-time experience combining the sea, wild tundra, hot springs and easy sightings of seabirds and cetaceans, without the safety concerns associated with polar bears.
If you’re looking specifically for the atmosphere of vast glaciers and icebergs, Spitsbergen in summer offers an excellent first step into the true polar Arctic with its exceptional wildlife.
Please note that, unlike Greenland, there are no icebergs in Spitsbergen.
Which destination should you choose: Svalbard, Greenland, Iceland or Norway?
Each destination has its own unique character:
- Norway (February–April): The world’s ski touring paradise, with legendary descents that end right at sea level (Lofoten, Lyngen, Finnmark).
- Spitsbergen (May–July): The unspoilt Arctic. Sea ice, giant glaciers plunging into the sea, flower-strewn tundra, walruses and the realm of the polar bear.
- Iceland (July–August): Volcanic landscapes, hot springs, monumental cliffs teeming with birds (puffins), and wild fjords.
- Greenland (August–September): The world’s deepest and most gigantic fjords (Scoresby Sund), cathedral-like icebergs, wild hikes and nights perfect for viewing the Northern Lights.
Which is the most beautiful fjord in Norway for ski touring?
The Lyngen Alps remain legendary for their steep ridges and gullies plunging straight into the blue waters of the fjord. However, the Lofoten Islands (with their jagged peaks rising from the ocean) and Finnmark (wild and remote) offer equally spectacular scenery.
When is the best time to visit Svalbard?
For ski-sailing: From mid-April to early June, to ski under the midnight sun on snow-capped peaks all the way down to the sea.
For hiking and exploring: From mid-June to mid-July, at the height of the Arctic summer, when the tundra comes to life and the coastal pack ice gives way to the fjords.
When and where can you see the Northern Lights?
To see the Northern Lights, you need complete darkness. The ideal time is either from late February to the very beginning of April in Norway, or in late summer from mid-August onwards, when night falls north of the Arctic Circle.
- In Greenland: In early September, the nights grow longer and offer a polar sky of absolute clarity, free from any light pollution.
- In Norway: During our ski-sailing holidays in February and March.
Where can you see polar bears?
Spitsbergen (Svalbard) is one of the best places in the world to observe polar bears in their natural habitat, along remote coastlines, on drifting sea ice or near glacier fronts. On rarer occasions, they can also be spotted on the wild coastlines of eastern Greenland.
Where can you go whale-watching in the Arctic?
Iceland (particularly Skagafjörður) and Spitsbergen are excellent choices in summer (July/August) for whale watching: humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins and porpoises.
Where can you see walruses?
It is in Spitsbergen that you are most likely to spot groups of walruses resting on beaches or on floes of drift ice.
Where can you spot seabirds in the Arctic?
Iceland (the giant cliffs of Hornbjarg and the island of Drangey or Grímsey) is home to huge colonies of Atlantic puffins, guillemots and fulmars.
Spitsbergen also boasts incredible cliffs inhabited by little auks, gulls and shearwaters.
Ski sailing
What is skiing and sailing?
Ski sailing combines two extraordinary worlds: you sail aboard the KAMAK to travel from fjord to fjord, and every morning, the zodiac drops you off directly on the beach, skis on your feet, so you can climb peaks that are, if possible, untouched by ski tracks and ski back down to sea level.
Do you have to be an excellent skier to participate?
No, you don’t need to be an expert, but these expeditions are aimed at ski tourers who already have a minimum level of experience in the field, both in ascent techniques (proper turns) and in descent (reasonably comfortable in all snow conditions). This format is not suitable for
complete beginners. The guide acts as an advisor and instructor so that everyone can return home with a wealth of knowledge and techniques designed to improve everyone’s safety and enjoyment.
What level of skiing is required?
- Technique: You must know how to perform ‘clean’ turns whilst ascending and be able to ski safely in all types of snow whilst descending.
- Fitness: You must be able to cover daily vertical distances of 800 to 1,400 metres. Bear in mind that the vertical distance itself is not the only source of fatigue.
- Equipment: You must be thoroughly familiar with your safety equipment (avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe) and know how to use crampons and an ice axe if conditions require it.
What equipment should I bring?
In addition to your technical ski clothing (layered system), you must bring your avalanche safety equipment (avalanche transceiver, metal shovel, probe), your well-maintained touring skis (skins in perfect condition, crampons), steel crampons, an ice axe, a mountaineering helmet, a whistle and a lightweight harness (for Spitsbergen in particular). A comprehensive and detailed list will be provided.
Can we hire the equipment?
No, you must bring your own ski touring and safety equipment, which must be perfectly adjusted and already tested to avoid any problems (particularly blisters!) once you arrive.
What is a typical day of sail-skiing like?
- Morning: Hearty breakfast, packing our bags and loading the skis onto the zodiac.
- Day: The crew drop us off on the beach; we climb a wild peak chosen by the guide depending on the weather and snow conditions, followed by a magical descent overlooking the fjord.
- Afternoon: Pick-up by zodiac, return on board for a well-deserved snack or a convivial aperitif.
- Evening: Sail to the next sheltered anchorage, hot dinner prepared by our cook and a briefing for the following day.
What is the difference between a skiing and sailing holiday and a mountain hut holiday?
Instead of being in one place, your ‘retreat’ moves every day. This means you can ski on a different peak every morning, in fjords inaccessible by road, with no tracks other than your own, whilst enjoying the comfort of a heated, mobile accommodation.
Hiking
What level of fitness do you need?
Are the hikes mandatory?
No, the cruise is designed to be relaxed and contemplative. If you’d rather take a break, read a book in the panoramic wheelhouse, or go for a kayak ride in the bay where we’re anchored, that’s perfectly fine.
Can we stay on board while the group goes hiking?
Absolutely! KAMAK is a great place to relax. You can stay on board with the rest of the crew, enjoy the comfort of the saloon, or go fishing from the deck.
How long do the hikes typically last?
Hikes last an average of 4 to 5 hours per day. The guide adjusts the route and pace to prioritize exploration, observation, and safety.
Life on Board
What's a typical day like on KAMAK?
Each day combines leisurely cruising along the coast, Zodiac landings to explore the tundra or mountain peaks, and social gatherings on board. In the evening, the boat anchors in a quiet, remote cove for the night.
Are the cabins private?
KAMAK features comfortable cabins designed for expedition life: two double cabins and two triple cabins. They comfortably accommodate participants in the friendly, welcoming atmosphere characteristic of exploration voyages.
How are the meals prepared?
A professional chef is an integral part of the crew. He prepares hearty, comforting, high-quality meals on board using carefully selected ingredients.
Is it possible to follow a vegetarian or gluten-free diet?
Yes, but as all provisions are planned in advance and stored on board before the start of the season, it is essential that you inform us of any allergies or special dietary requirements as soon as you book.
Is there a mobile network or Wi-Fi on board?
Once it has left the ports of departure (Longyearbyen, Constable Point), the KAMAK sails through wild, remote areas with no mobile network coverage. There is no Wi-Fi on board for passengers (unless specifically requested, in which case a charge will apply): isolation and complete disconnection are an integral part of the polar adventure! In the event of an emergency, the crew remains in contact with the mainland via satellite communication equipment.
Can you charge your devices?
Yes! KAMAK has plenty of 220V European-style power sockets. Just remember to bring your own cables and to label them clearly (a simple piece of coloured tape will stop you mixing them up with other participants’ cables).
How do you have a shower? Is there hot water?
Yes, the boat has a shower with hot water. However, our supply of fresh water depends on our ability to refill the tanks. We therefore ask everyone to use water sparingly and responsibly so that everyone can enjoy it regularly throughout the trip.
What's it like to sleep on a boat in the Arctic?
You’ll sleep extremely well on board! The boat spends the night at anchor in bays or fjords that are perfectly sheltered from the swell. The cabins are comfortable, well-heated, and equipped with cozy comforters (no need to bring a down comforter—just bring a sleeping bag).
Do people get seasick? How can you prevent seasickness?
Seasickness is rare on board because the KAMAK spends the vast majority of its time sailing in very sheltered waters (fjords and inland bays) and spends the night at a calm anchorage. If we have to sail for a few hours on the open sea to move to another fjord, the solution is to lie down comfortably and stay warm in your cabin as soon as the first symptoms appear. The body usually adjusts to the sea within 24 to 48 hours.
Safety
Is it dangerous to sail in the Arctic?
Sailing in high latitudes involves risks inherent to the polar environment and remote territories, but the KAMAK was designed specifically for this purpose. Its ice-reinforced hull, powerful engines, and highly experienced professional crew make it an extremely safe vessel.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety is our top priority. If the weather takes a turn for the worse, we adjust our itinerary. The boat seeks shelter in fjords or sheltered bays. Stormy days often turn into memorable days of sailing, reading by the fire, or engaging conversations in the saloon.
Who supervises the expeditions?
All field trips (skiing or hiking) are led by Jean Bouchet, a high-mountain guide with over 20 years of experience and some 60 expeditions in the high latitudes of both hemispheres, or by a highly qualified partner guide.
What safety measures are in place on board?
KAMAK is equipped with all the safety equipment required by regulations for polar sailing. During shore excursions, the guide and at least two volunteers are equipped with a VHF radio that is in constant contact with the boat, and a fully stocked first-aid kit.
How do you deal with polar bears?
In Greenland and Spitsbergen, bear safety is governed by a strict protocol:
- Preliminary observation: Before each disembarkation, the area is inspected from a distance using binoculars.
- Deterrent equipment: The guide always disembarks first, equipped with a rifle and flare rounds.
- Strict instructions: The group of hikers must remain together at all times whilst on the move. Bears are found almost exclusively at sea level and do not venture into higher altitudes.
Wildlife and nature
What animals can you see?
Depending on the area and the season, you may spot Svalbard reindeer, arctic foxes, seals, walruses, numerous species of seabirds (puffins, guillemots, little auks), as well as cetaceans (humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins). And, of course, if you’re lucky, a polar bear.
What are the chances of seeing a polar bear?
In Svalbard, the likelihood is very real, as the archipelago is home to one of the largest bear populations in the world. However, the wild is not a zoo: encounters remain wild and unpredictable, and must always take place at a respectful distance from the animal and in accordance with safety guidelines.
Can we go near the whales?
We practise slow, passive observation. We switch off or reduce the engine speed to allow the cetaceans to approach of their own accord if they so wish, whilst fully respecting their peace and quiet.
Are sightings of animals guaranteed?
No, there’s no guarantee of sightings in the wild. That’s what makes every encounter so magical and special! However, the crew’s experience and the choice of moorings do maximise our chances.
What is the best time of year to photograph Arctic landscapes?
- May–June (Spitsbergen): For the striking contrasts between glistening snow, sea ice and the dark sea.
- July–August (Spitsbergen/Iceland/Greenland): For the low-angled light of the midnight sun and the bustling wildlife.
- September (Greenland): For the flamboyant colours of the Arctic autumn, the soft, low-angled light and the magic of the first Northern Lights.
Preparation
How should one prepare for an expedition to the Arctic?
Good preparation starts with excellent basic physical fitness. We also recommend a check-up at the dentist before you set off (to avoid a toothache spoiling your stay in a remote area). As for equipment, please follow our equipment list to the letter.
What sort of suitcase should you take?
⚠️Strict rule: No hard-shell suitcases or semi-rigid bags on board!
The storage spaces on a sailing yacht are not designed to accommodate bulky, non-compressible luggage. You must use a soft travel bag (such as a soft duffle bag from Patagonia, The North Face, Millet, etc.) that you can easily fold up and stow in your cabin.
What should you wear in the Arctic?
The golden rule is the 3-layer system:
- Breathable layer: Merino wool thermal underwear.
- Insulating layer: A good fleece or a light down jacket.
- Protective layer: A waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers (such as Gore-Tex). You should also pack good, high-top, waterproof walking boots, a warm hat, gloves, a neck warmer (buff) and good socks.
Do I need a passport?
For European Union nationals, a valid passport or national identity card is sufficient for Norway, Iceland and Greenland. As Svalbard (although under Norwegian sovereignty) lies outside the Schengen Area, a valid passport is strongly recommended to facilitate border checks during stopovers in Norway.
What types of insurance are recommended?
You must have insurance covering assistance, search and rescue, and repatriation. For ski-and-sail trips to Norway and Spitsbergen, please ensure that your policy covers ski mountaineering and search and rescue activities for a minimum of €15,000 (FFCAM or Vieux Campeur policies are very well suited to this).
Do I need vaccines?
No specific vaccinations are required for travel to these Nordic and polar destinations. Simply ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date.
Bon à savoir : les questions les plus posées
Quel est le meilleur voyage en Arctique ?
Le “meilleur” voyage dépend de vos passions. Si vous cherchez la verticalité et le ski d’exception, optez pour la Norvège au printemps. Si vous rêvez de banquise, de faune et d’ours polaires, choisissez le Spitzberg en été. Si vous cherchez l’immensité absolue, les icebergs géants et le ciel étoilé, le Groenland en septembre sera votre graal.
Quel est le meilleur bateau pour découvrir l'Arctique ?
Pour vivre une aventure humaine authentique, loin du tourisme de masse, un voilier d’expédition de 24 mètres comme KAMAK est idéal. Entièrement géré par un guide de haute montagne, doté d’une coque renforcée, il offre l’équilibre parfait entre sécurité d’un navire polaire, confort d’un refuge et accès exclusif aux fjords étroits.
Comment choisir une croisière d'expédition ?
Fuyez les grands navires de plus de 100 passagers si vous voulez réellement explorer. Privilégiez les structures limitant le nombre de passagers à moins de 12 personnes, encadrées par des guides professionnels diplômés (guides de haute montagne UIAGM), et offrant une flexibilité totale de l’itinéraire pour s’adapter à la météo et aux opportunités de la faune.
Quelle est la différence entre un grand croisiériste et une petite expédition ?
Ceux-ci utilisent de grands navires de ligne ou d’expédition transportant des centaines de passagers sur des horaires et itinéraires fixes. À bord de KAMAK, vous êtes 10 passagers maximum. Le bateau s’adapte à vous, s’ancre dans des criques sauvages inaccessibles aux gros navires, et vous débarquez chaque jour de manière souple et intimiste grâce au zodiac.
Pourquoi partir sur un bateau de moins de 20 passagers ?
Zéro attente : Pas de file d’attente pour embarquer dans les zodiacs.
Flexibilité : Si un groupe de baleines apparaît, on peut s’arrêter plusieurs heures pour l’observer.
Impact minimal : Un groupe de 10 personnes ne perturbe pas la faune locale et ne détruit pas la toundra fragile.
Ambiance : On tisse de vrais liens d’amitié avec l’équipage et les autres participants.
Peut-on partir seul en expédition ? Les expéditions Kamak conviennent-elles aux voyageurs solo ?
Absolument ! De nombreux participants s’inscrivent seuls. L’ambiance conviviale “façon refuge d’altitude” facilite immédiatement l’intégration et le partage d’une passion commune pour l’aventure et la montagne. Vous partagez simplement votre cabine (double ou triple) avec d’autres participants du même sexe.
Quel âge faut-il avoir pour participer ? Les enfants sont-ils acceptés ?
Nos expéditions s’adressent à des adultes en bonne forme physique. Les adolescents motivés et sportifs peuvent participer s’ils sont accompagnés de leurs parents, sous réserve de validation par le guide de leur capacité à suivre le rythme des randonnées ou du ski.
Peut-on naviguer dans les glaces ?
Oui. KAMAK dispose d’une coque en acier renforcée spécifiquement conçue pour la navigation polaire, ce qui lui permet de se frayer un chemin en toute sécurité au milieu des plaques de glace dérivante (brash) et des petits icebergs dans les fjords du Spitzberg ou du Groenland.
À quoi ressemble une nuit polaire ?
La nuit polaire caractérise l’hiver arctique profond, mais nos expéditions se déroulent au printemps et en été. Au Spitzberg (mai à juillet), vous ferez l’expérience inverse : le soleil de minuit, où le jour est permanent et offre une lumière dorée continue, idéale pour profiter des paysages 24h/24.
En septembre au Groenland, les nuits réapparaissent, révélant un ciel étoilé d’encre propice aux aurores boréales et à l’observation astronomique.
Que fait-on lorsqu'il n'y a pas de vent ?
Que se passe-t-il si la météo change le programme ? Pourquoi les itinéraires restent-ils flexibles ?
En Arctique, la nature et la météo décident toujours. Avoir un itinéraire figé est une erreur et peut compromettre la sécurité. Nous gardons une flexibilité
totale : si un col est bouché ou qu’un fjord est bloqué par les glaces, le capitaine, en accord avec le guide choisira un autre itinéraire tout aussi sauvage et esthétique.
Cette adaptabilité garantit la sécurité et la réussite du voyage.
What should I bring with me on board?
In addition to your personal belongings and items related to the activities specific to your chosen holiday, remember to bring a pair of lightweight shoes for indoor use (such as trainers, Crocs or flip-flops), a head torch (even if it is daylight all the time, it will be useful for extra lighting in your cabin), a waterproof Gore-Tex-type coat, a hat and gloves for enjoying the outdoors, a towel, biodegradable shower gel, a few good books, etc. Sheets and duvets are provided and your bunks will be ready when you board; however, you must bring your own silk or cotton sleeping bag liner. Important note: large hard suitcases are too bulky and cannot be conveniently stored on the boat during the cruise, so please bring large flexible bags such as duffel bags or hiking backpacks.
How are the meals?
All meals are included in the cruise, and the crew pays particular attention to the quality of the ingredients and the preparation of nourishing meals. Small extras brought by each passenger and shared in a convivial atmosphere are always welcome!
I get seasick, will my cruise be ruined?
We are not all equal when it comes to seasickness! Nevertheless, it is entirely possible to enjoy your stay aboard KAMAK to the fullest. Most of the time, the boat sails in sheltered waters (fjords, bays) and spends the night in quiet anchorages. Depending on the trip and destination, however, travelling from one fjord to another may require a few hours of sailing on the open sea. The weather conditions (wind and swell) at the time will determine the strength of the rolling and pitching. Lying down in the warmth of your cabin at the first sign of symptoms will help you get through the most difficult period. And after a few days, you’ll be sea-worthy!
Will it be possible to take showers on board?
The boat has a superb hot water shower. However, it can only supply the water it carries on board: depending on the length of the trip, the number of passengers and whether or not it is possible to refill the water tank, everyone must ensure that everyone can shower regularly. The crew will advise you on the right consumption rate for your cruise.
Will it be possible to recharge my electrical devices?
The boat has numerous European-style electrical sockets (220 V), so you will have no trouble recharging your devices… provided you remember to bring your cables and label them to avoid mixing them up with others’!
What if my clothes get wet?
You can never be too prepared for a heavy downpour! We have installed a heated cupboard for drying socks, gloves, ski boots, etc. In the event of widespread rain, we will take drastic measures and use the boat’s heating system. This will ensure you can set off dry every morning!
Will I be able to contact my family at any time?
In Europe, including Norway, Spitsbergen and Iceland, the mobile network is well developed, and roaming charges have recently been abolished (check with your operator, however). This means you can use your mobile phone (including data) in many places just as you would in France. However, KAMAK explores the most remote areas, and, particularly in Spitsbergen, may spend several days in a row without any network coverage. In these isolated areas, it will therefore not be possible to check your email or send photos and videos, but contact in case of emergency can always be ensured thanks to the crew’s means of communication. Isolation is also part of the adventure!