December around the Baltic Sea will be cold, and temperatures can vary considerably between destinations. As a general guide, expect daytime temperatures around -1°C to 4°C, with overnight temperatures commonly falling between 0°C and -6°C. Helsinki averages around -1°C during the day and -6°C overnight, while Tallinn is typically around 0°C during the day and -5°C overnight.
The important thing is not to pack one enormously thick outfit, but to layer. This gives you flexibility when moving between the warm ship, coaches, shops and Christmas markets and the much colder conditions outside.
PONANT provides you with a winter jacket, so there is no need to pack another big, bulky outer jacket. Instead, concentrate on good-quality layers that you can wear underneath your PONANT jacket.
One of the questions we’re most frequently asked when onboard a Ponant ship in the Baltic Sea in winter, is “What should I pack?” The good news is that dressing for this expedition is all about layers. The weather can vary considerably between time ashore and the warmth of the ship, so wearing clothing that can be added or removed easily is the key to staying comfortable
Expedition Landings – Essential Clothing
For shore excursions and Zodiac landings, we recommend the following:
Your Layering System
Base Layer
- Thermal or merino wool underwear (top and bottoms)
- Thermal or wool leggings
Mid Layer
- Fleece jacket, warm sweatshirt or woollen pullover
- Comfortable insulated winter trousers or warm track pants
Outer Layer
- Ponant Expedition Parka (provided onboard for every guest)
- Waterproof and windproof over-trousers (mandatory)
- Windproof outer jacket (if desired in addition to your Ponant parka)
Head, Hands & Feet
Mandatory
- Warm wool or fleece beanie
- Wool or fleece neck warmer (recommended instead of scarves, which tend to come loose)
We also recommend:
- Thin thermal liner gloves
- Waterproof insulated outer gloves – maybe flip-top ones so you can still operate your phone or camera
- Thick wool or thermal socks
- Waterproof winter boots with warm lining
Walking Poles
Walking poles are highly recommended for additional stability during some landings.
Ponant also offers complimentary walking pole hire onboard should you wish to use theirs.
Life Onboard
Life onboard is relaxed and comfortable. The ship is fully heated and air-conditioned, so comfortable casual clothing is ideal during the day. Depending on the temperature inside the ship, you may appreciate having:
- Light jumper or cardigan
- Lightweight jacket
- Shawl or wrap
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers for moving around the ship
Evening Dining
Smart Casual Evenings
For most evenings, smart casual attire is appropriate
For ladies, consider packing:
- Simple dress
- Smart trousers or skirt
- Blouse
- Polo or knit top
Please note that shorts and T-shirts are not permitted in the restaurants during evening dining.
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