Overall, and underall and in between, it was fabulous. Kayaking was the highlight, though it was pretty exciting to see baby penguins. Landscape, particularly the icebergs, was sublime, surreal, dramatic, transcendental, magical. Wildlife was a hoot, never got tired of penguins or seals. The people we met were fine. When you said we'd see "a lot" of penguins, I didn't quite grasp just how many that would be or how close we'd get to them ... a pleasant surprise. Biggest surprise was just luck -- the phenomenal weather.

It was spectacular; exceeded all hopes and expectations.

Yes

I imagine if I hadn't booked with a polar specialist, I wouldn't have received the detailed information I was able to get to all of my questions, as the typical non-polar travel agent probably hasn't been to Antarctica themselves. We were 100% satisfied with our voyage. Ship and cabin were perfect. Swoop's service was lovely ... always on hand to answer my copious questions.

Zodiacs and landings were stellar. Best landing was probably baby penguins (Cuverville Island), though it was also important to step foot on the actual land mass of Antarctica. Best zodiac probably the extra one we got in the evening (Spert Island, I think). Enjoyed most about landings the penguins. Wildlife and icebergs met and mostly exceeded expectations. Expedition staff was very good -- friendly, knowledgeable, approachable.

I presume you mean The Sea Spirit, as that's the ship we were on. I didn't know what to expect, so can't compare to expectations, but there's nothing I can think of that could have been better. Very happy with our choice of ship. Would recommend to friends interested in dramatic landscape and penguins, or for the kayaking experience. The ship was merely the means to the end (experiencing Antarctica), but it was a fun experience on the ship itself ... but I would be recommending the trip for the "end" not the "means" though they were great.

We did all other travel arrangements ourselves, but took advice about activities in Ushuaia. We received all documents. I don't know where to put this one recommendation, but maybe here for the reservations team to be aware of and explain to clients that the camping option on the Sea Spirit voyage requires you to dig your own pit in the snow for your bivvy. I didn't know this ahead of time, paid for the camping but then had to cancel out once I learned about the physical activity involved, as I didn't feel capable of doing it (I don't have good strength to begin with, and what I did have I expended on kayaking).

Do the kayaking! I was very happy that I brought packets of both chemical foot warmers (the kind that peel and stick to your sock) and hand warmers. I used the foot warmers on every outing off the ship; I opened hand warmers each time, but didn't always need them. I heard other people complain about cold feet and hands ... you can spare yourself that discomfort with those packets.

Regarding question above, only the arctic.