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Passenger Lifeboat Drill
Because we would be cruising in VERY cold water, this ship's lifeboat, lifejacket drill had an extra wrinkle: the thermal protection suit. This is one of the ship's crew (a waiter) after havng demonstrated how to put it on. It seemed to be made of VERY thin plastic (and contained no thermal insulation).
They might provide protection if someone had to swim a short distance in Antarctic waters to reach a lifeboat. It seemed the idea was to keep you relatively dry (little or no direct contact with water), but not toasty warm,
(19 Nov 2010)
The lifeboat drill included a demonstration of putting on a “thermal suit” (as well as a life vest). The suit is thin plastic. It might keep one dry, but not warm. I’m guessing it might extend your life expectancy in Antarctic waters by maybe 25-30 minutes. Apparently the idea is that you would be pulled into a life boat or a life raft by then.
The person doing the demonstration is one of the dining room waiters.
Thanks to the Andersons for this photo.
