![\"Svalbard](\"https:\/\/setsail.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2009\/06\/svalbardpolarbear.jpg\")
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One of the risk (and reward) factors of cruising in Svalbard is the presence of polar bears – 1500 of them – in the area. They are at the top of the food chain, and have no fear of humans, not even groups of humans. They are far more dangerous than Alaskan grizzlies.<\/p>\n
Everyone we have met who is Svalbard savvy has stressed the need to be careful, even to the point of checking the deck before opening the main door.<\/p>\n
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The regulations for visiting Svalbard include the proviso that you must be armed before venturing ashore. The regs also prohibit killing polar bears unless you are being threatened at close range<\/em>.<\/p>\n There are a host of conflicting opinions about what sort of weapons to carry, but bigger is better, soft tip unjacketed ammo is required. Flare pistols may help to deter an inquisitive bear. There are flash\/bang flares and grenades available, and trip wires around the dinghy may be of use.<\/p>\n Food and garbage is a definite negative (leave lunch aboard, not in your backpack).<\/p>\n We are still gathering info. For an interesting brochure on the subject check this link<\/a> by the Svalbard Governor.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"