Discovery Voyages Packing List
WHAT TO PACK?
This packing list will help to ensure you have everything you need for your trip with us. Dress is comfortable & casual. Our trips are not “hard-core expeditions” and special clothing or gear is not necessary to enjoy exploring the wilderness while on vacation with us. That said, weather in Alaska is quite variable so layered clothing is the most suitable. For example, wear a light shirt with a wool sweater or fleece and a windbreaker or jacket. Items made of wool or synthetic fabric remain comfortable and warm even when wet. Cotton is great on the boat but not recommended for most outdoor activities as the fabric does not dry easily and once wet has no insulation.
The Alaskan summer season is usually mild with temperatures from 50 - 70 degrees Fahrenheit at sea level. Light rains are frequent in Prince William Sound. Temperature variations up to 15 degrees cooler may occur in ice-filled fjords. We have found that when our gear and spirits are well suited, the weather is always perfect. The Discovery provides soap, shampoo and conditioner for your convenience. We also provide a blow-dryer in each bathroom.
- LUGGAGE: Because soft bags pack best on the Discovery we ask that you NOT bring hard sided luggage. We recommend two medium sized bags rather than one large.
- HIKING BOOTS OR SHOES: The Discovery provides sturdy rubber boots, that pull on over hiking socks, for shore excursions and kayaking though you are welcome to bring comfortable, lightweight tennis shoes, sports sandals or similar for use on the boat. Our rubber boots are the best hiking shoes for exploring Prince William Sound as our explorations often take us through boggy terrain. Hiking boots are not necessary though you are welcome to bring them.
- DAY PACK or WAIST PACK: A small pack will come in handy for shore excursions to hold rain gear, extra sweater, water bottle, snack, binoculars and anything else you would take on a day hike.
- RAIN GEAR: The Discovery provides quality rubber raingear (tops and bottoms) and sturdy rubber boots. Please provide your height/weight and shoe size when making your reservation or complete our on-line guest information form. You are also welcome to bring your own raingear to ensure the best fit.
- PANTS: Two to three, with one pair a quick-drying, synthetic pant. Include a pair of shorts, just in case!
- SHIRTS: Two to three, mostly long sleeved. A long sleeved, light colored, tightly woven shirt is helpful for bug and sun protection. Bring at least one non-cotton hiking shirt, preferably two, one long and one short-sleeved.
- WARM JACKET/SWEATER/VEST: Synthetic fleece or sweater and a windproof jacket make great layers for warmth. A fleece vest is also a good option to ward off chilly days.
- WOOL OR SYNTHETIC FLEECE HAT: You won't be sorry you brought this!
- WOOL OR SYNTHETIC GLOVES: To keep your fingers warm when hiking, paddling or taking photos.
- BRIMMED HAT: For sun protection.
- SOCKS: Sufficient for your needs, plus one or two pair of medium to heavy weight for use with rubber boots.
- LONG UNDERWEAR: We recommend one pair of polypropylene, capilene or thermax tops and bottoms. Synthetic fabrics are designed to keep you warm even when wet, wicking moisture away from the skin.
- UNDERWEAR: Enough for your personal needs.
- PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS: Make sure you bring an adequate supply for the trip. Do not count on having your prescription refilled during the trip.
- INSECT REPELLENT: Creams & pumps are more environmentally friendly than aerosols.
Optional Items
- SUNGLASSES/SUNSCREEN: We are optimists, and sunshine in Alaska can be strong at times, especially when on the water!
- TRAVEL ALARM CLOCK: Battery operated.
- CAMERA/FILM/BATTERIES: Don't forget extra batteries for your camera and extra storage capacity (memory cards) for your digital camera. The Discovery provides 110-volt outlets for recharging batteries.
Depending on where you live, finding a few of the above items can be challenging. We have a few recommendations for obtaining gear and clothing items for your trip to Alaska:
