BALLAD OF NINSTINTS - Queen Charlotte Islands

You are interested in Haida First Nation Culture, wildlife viewing and much more? You prefer to have a dry, warm and cozy berth every night rather than a tent? Well, here we go ...

What to Bring  ~  Clothing & Equipment list

The following is a list of the clothing and equipment you will need on your expedition. It is of utmost importance that you follow this list accurately for your own comfort and well-being. The proper preparation is a vital factor in an expedition's success. When selecting your clothing, keep in mind the following principles about staying warm and dry:

Layering

It is very effective to wear layers of clothing to stay warm, as the air trapped between the layers acts as an insulator. Layering also allows you to regulate your body heat by adjusting the number of layers, depending on the temperature and your activity level. There are 3 main layers: 'Transfer' which is the layer next to your skin; 'Insulating' which is the main warmth layer(s); and, 'Protective' which is the outer layer to protect you from wind, rain, and other elements.

Keeping Dry

Wetness increases the loss of body heat and is uncomfortable, so it's important to stay as dry as possible. Some clothing is hydrophobic, and therefore, stays dry (ie, synthetics such as polypropylene, polyester, capilene, and natural fibres such as wool and silk). Clothes made of these materials make great expedition clothing. Be careful of other materials (eg, cotton and down), because they are absorbent and stay wet. Also, avoid overdressing as it can cause excess perspiration and therefore wetness.

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Clothing list  ~  weight limits  ~  extra gear

Please pack your gear according to the following list keeping in mind that storage space aboard the 'Ocean Light II' is limited. The maximum weight for personal baggage is 30 lb. per person, excluding camera gear. If you intend to overnight in Vancouver at the end of your trip, you may wish to leave any extra clothes and items at your hotel.

Please pack all your gear in one medium size, soft duffel bag. No hard luggage please!

Footwear

• 1 pair of sturdy running shoes for wearing on short walks
• 1 pair of shoes for “boat use only”( non-marking soles) light running or deck shoe or sandal.
• 1 pair of rubber boots (knee high)
• Boots are essential for your comfort and safety particularly when utilizing the zodiac for shore excursions
• 1 pair 'Teva' type sandals (optional) for the boat or beach
• 3 pairs wool or thermal socks

Headwear / Handwear

• 1 wool or pile hat
• 1 sun hat or visor
• 1 pair wool or medium weight polypropylene or polyester gloves

Upper Body

• 3 t-shirts (long or short sleeve)
• 1 light wool or synchilla sweater
• 1 heavy sweater or jacket (wood or pile)
• 1 wind jacket

Lower Body

• 2 pairs shorts
• 2 pairs slacks (1 wool or pile)
• 1 pairs long underwear (capilene or polypropylene is recommended)
• 1 bathing suit (Hotspring Island)

Outer Wear

• Rain jacket
• Rain pants
• Rain hat

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Additional gear

• Sleeping bag
• Pillow case and sheet( to cover boat upholstery as washing linens on board is difficult)
• Personal toiletries
• Towel & facecloth
• Sunglasses with neck cord
• Sunscreen and lip salve
• Small day pack for shore excursions
• Water bottle
• Bug repellent

Optional items

• Camera, lots of film, extra batteries. spare memory card **
• Binoculars
• Weatherproof box or pouch is recommended for camera and binoculars**
• Drawing pad and journal

 
** Your camera gear deserves special attention. First, before you leave home, make sure it is insured for any accidental damage as well as loss or theft. On the trip, it is best kept in a water resistant protective case such as a 'LowePro' or other commercially made product. Check with your local diving stores and larger camera stores for the various models available.

First Aid

Your guides will carry an extensive wilderness first aid kit; however, you should bring the following items for your own personal use:

• Bandaids (elastoplast or fabric type are best)
• 1 roll gauze
• Blister kit (moleskin or 'second skin')
• Tensor bandage
• Adhesive tape
• Topical antibiotic ointment
• Pain relief (e.g., Aspirin, Tylenol)
• Mild anti-inflammatory (e.g., Ibuprofen)
• Motion sickness medication (e.g., Gravol, Sea Bands)
• Any personal medication (bring extra)

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