Tom returned at the end of November from an Antarctic Basecamp Adventure in Antarctica, where he kayaked climbed and camped on the ice, using the ship as a base. Here he tells us some more about his trip…
What did you think of the Cruise Operator?
They were an exceptional company. I was amazingly impressed by the Expedition Staff and their knowledge and passion for the Antarctic region. The talks and guidance they gave us, and the enthusiasm with which it was delivered, only added to he experience.
What did you think of the vessel you travelled on?
The Plancius itself was a very comfortable, well-sized boat. After 3 months travel across India and NZ, my cabin was the bed I stayed in the longest on my travels and it was very comfortable. I had a very friendly cabin mate who I got on with famously and will remain in contact in years to come. The food and drinks were very high quality for the duration and there was great variety. No one went home thinner that’s for sure. I also thought the alcoholic beverages were very reasonably priced.
Did you enjoy the activities and facilities and excursions provided?
The Basecamp activities which the expedition prides itself on were varied. Nothing was too strenuous, but that’s hardly surprising given the age range on board. I felt everything was done well within the boundaries of safety and capability of the boat and its crew. Perhaps though in future an even more adventurous trip could be organised for the more active, younger generation as there was a large sub-30 contingent on the boat who perhaps felt everything was a little spoon-fed when it came to kayaking/montaineering/hiking etc?
Did you manage to visit anywhere else in Patagonia?
After arriving back in Ushuaia I managed to fit in 2 full day hikes in El Chalten around Fitz Roy before flying home.
What was the highlight of your trip?
Highlight of the trip was definitely the first day sailing into the Antarctic Peninsula with the sun shining and spending the day going ashore.
How well did Swoop Antarctica do helping you plan your holiday, and finding the best trip or operator for you?
Swoop organised very efficiently and it was the perfect trip for my age range and what I was looking for. I’d initially planned to try and get a last minute trip and that would’ve been possible but only marginally cheaper and a much greater risk of getting a much more budget trip. Perhaps more guidance could be given on appropriate tipping for staff and crew.
Was there anything that you wish had happened differently/or not happened at all?
No- all in all it was the trip of a lifetime and I am so glad I did it with this cruise operator – can’t wait to go to the Arctic with them!
