For most people, a trip to Antarctica is a ‘once in a lifetime’, so naturally you want to get it absolutely right. We often get asked similar questions about booking with Swoop from those eager to make sure they are choosing the right travel agent, so we thought we’d put 10 of the most common to Swoop Antarctica Manager, Alex. Here’s what he had to say…
- What kind of company is Swoop Antarctica & how can you help me plan & book my trip?
Alex: We’re an independent, privately owned Tour Operator and dedicated Antarctica experts with over 10 years of experience.
We aim to offer sound, impartial advice, guiding you through what can be a bewildering array of options. By listening to your brief and then matching you to a shortlist of carefully chosen options, we not only save you a huge amount of time, but also provide you with the confidence that you’ve got your trip of a lifetime 100% right.
- What makes Swoop different from other travel agencies?
Alex: Firstly, we’re unusual in only specialising in two destinations – Antarctica and, through our sister company, Patagonia – whereas most other travel companies cover a far wider spectrum of countries and regions. We see real strength in being masters of only two regions: we know them inside out.
Secondly, we offer unrivalled choice. We partner with a handpicked selection of the leading small boat operators in Antarctica, offering you a wide choice of over 70 voyages across 15 different boats – I’ve found this ample choice to satisfy almost every requirement, taste and budget.
- How is specialising in only Antarctica a benefit?
Alex: By focusing on Antarctica, we really know our destination inside out, not just skin deep. Without blowing our own trumpet, I don’t think there are very many others with the same level of Antarctic knowledge and experience as our team.
We regularly conduct ship inspections, and I have close working relationships with all of our boat partners and and re-visit Antarctica as often as possible. In fact I’m heading back south next month on a Polar Circle trip.
- What’s the benefit of using Swoop versus booking directly with a boat operator?
Alex: Great question. Put simply, as a middleman who partners with all of the main small ship operators we are in the unique position of being able to weigh up all of the options objectively and then put forward a shortlist of 2-3 carefully chosen recommendations. By going directly to a boat operator, you would only be offered a choice of their own ships and wouldn’t get a balanced viewpoint.
In addition, boat operators can’t help you with your flights, hotels, transfers and sightseeing, which we can. Combined with our sister company, Swoop Patagonia, our team have travelled extensively throughout South America and can help design exciting pre and post Antarctica travel plans.
- Will it cost me more if I book through Swoop?
Alex: No. The price we quote is exactly the same as the published price: I promise you won’t pay any more than if you contacted the cruise operator directly.
- How is Swoop remunerated?
Alex: We don’t charge for our advice and service, we make our crust from commission paid to us by the boat operator on completion of a booking. We receive the same level of compensation from all boat operators, so we hold no bias.
- I’m from North America, so why should I choose Swoop over a local travel agency?
Alex: We have over 10 years experience in Antarctica, so we really know the region inside out. We can offer you a wide choice of over 70 voyages across 15 different boats, and we’re totally unbiased. I’d like to think we give North American travel agencies a run for their money!
Plus we offer a toll-free number (+1-855-369-8288), we can arrange to speak on the phone at a time that suits you and, if you prefer, you can pay in dollars. Over half of our clients are North American, so you’re in good hands.
- Are you fully impartial? Won’t you steer me towards a particular trip or boat because it suits you?
Alex: Yes, we’re fully impartial and hold no bias. As an independent, privately owned company we are unencumbered by any commitments other than to match you with the right voyage, ship, cabin and budget for you. We receive the same level of compensation from all boat operators. Plus we know and love antarctica, so we want you to enjoy it as much as we do.
- I’m interested in seeing Patagonia / South Georgia / The Falklands too – can you help?
Alex: Yes! We started life as a Patagonia travel consultancy, so naturally we’d love to help. I work closely with Harriet, Sally and Chloe – our Patagonia experts – so if you want to explore Chile and Argentina before or after your cruise, I’ll work with them to make your trip seamless.
- How hard is it to plan a trip to Antarctica – surely I can arrange it myself?
Alex: It can be quite complex, because of the number of options available. We know all of the in’s and out’s, the seasonal nuances, the best cabins to book and each ship, as well as the useful tips to help make your trip unforgettable. Let us take the hassle out of it and make impartial recommendations based on your brief.
- How close can I get to the penguins?
Alex: Believe it or not we do get asked this from time to time. There is a standard rule of thumb to keep a minimum of 5 metres away from Antarctic wildlife, however, nobody told the penguins! They are inquisitive birds and sometimes just can’t help themselves. Lacking any natural land predator they display very little fear of man, and at times their curiosity can get the better of them, resulting in a pecked wellington boot (which is about as threatening as these pint sized polar clowns ever get).
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- Have a burning question that we didn’t ask? Get in touch – Alex would love to hear from you and answer your questions.
- Keen to know more about Antarctica? Our Antarctic Guide is a good place to start.
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