Aurora Expeditions Health Safety Policy

What health and safety measures does Aurora Expeditions have in place?

Aurora Expeditions' polar itineraries involve zodiac landings and physically demanding terrain ashore, making this line better suited to guests with good mobility - confirming specifics with an advisor before booking is essential. Checking destination-specific health advisories before departure is worth doing even when the cruise line doesn't require it. Not a bad idea to keep that in your back pocket.

Do I need to disclose a medical condition before sailing?

Guests with conditions that may require special accommodations (mobility equipment, oxygen, dialysis, etc.) should notify the cruise line's special needs desk well before sailing so arrangements can be confirmed. If you take regular medication, setting phone reminders helps account for time zone changes during the cruise. Small thing, but it matters if you're planning around it.

Is there a doctor onboard?

Yes, ocean-going ships carry licensed medical staff and an infirmary for onboard emergencies and routine care, though it's not a substitute for hospital-level treatment. Registering any relevant medical information with guest services at check-in can speed up care if something comes up during the cruise. Worth keeping in mind either way.

What if I need to travel with prescription medication?

Pack prescriptions in original packaging in a carry-on, not a checked bag, and bring extra supply in case your trip runs longer than planned. It's worth packing a basic first-aid kit for minor issues that don't require a visit to the ship's medical center. Not a bad idea to keep that in your back pocket.

Can I bring my own mobility scooter or wheelchair?

Since ships stock only a handful of emergency-use wheelchairs, most travelers bring or rent their own mobility equipment ahead of time. Checking destination-specific health advisories before departure is worth doing even when the cruise line doesn't require it. Easy to overlook, but it's worth a mental note.

Who can answer specific health-related questions before my Aurora Expeditions cruise?

An advisor at +1-800-406-8495 can connect you with Aurora Expeditions's accessibility team for specific health-related questions. It's worth packing a basic first-aid kit for minor issues that don't require a visit to the ship's medical center. Worth keeping in mind either way.

Does Aurora Expeditions require any vaccinations before boarding?

Standard domestic itineraries on Aurora Expeditions generally don't mandate vaccines, but international stops can carry their own entry requirements worth checking. Staying hydrated and pacing alcohol consumption, especially on port days with excursions, helps avoid the most common onboard medical visits. Small thing, but it matters if you're planning around it.

What happens if I feel sick before boarding?

If you're visibly ill with something contagious at check-in, boarding may be denied, both for your safety and to prevent spreading illness onboard. For guests with chronic conditions, carrying a summary of your medical history can help ship's medical staff respond faster if needed. Small thing, but it matters if you're planning around it.

Is there a doctor onboard for medical emergencies?

A staffed medical team, including a doctor and nursing staff, is standard on every ship for common health issues and minor emergencies. It's worth asking about the specific medical facilities on your ship, since larger vessels often have more capability than smaller ones. Small thing, but it matters if you're planning around it.

What safety drills are mandatory before Aurora Expeditions departs?

Before Aurora Expeditions sets sail, all guests are required to attend the muster safety drill covering emergency procedures. It's worth asking about the specific medical facilities on your ship, since larger vessels often have more capability than smaller ones. Small thing, but it matters if you're planning around it.