Francis Fuqua
United States Of America
Customer
Rating
10
Customer Rating On return from their adventure we ask customers: “On a scale of 0-10, with 10 being the highest, how likely is it that you would recommend Swoop to a friend or colleague?”
Francis Fuqua's Trip:
Original Fly & Cruise Expedition CruiseFrancis Fuqua's Trip Date:
4th Feb - 15th Feb 2020
Francis Fuqua's Ship:
Ocean NovaWhat was your most memorable moment?
Seeing tens of thousands of penguins going about their business, and realizing that I was irrelevant.
Which of the following best describes your adventure?
Great holiday
On a scale of 0 to 10, how likely is it that you would recommend Swoop to a friend or colleague?
10 out of 10
Tell us about the wildlife
The whales and seals were interesting, but not a new experience. The penguins were another matter altogether. Their numbers were awesome, and the encounters were up close and personal. It was a "once in a lifetime" experience which will never be forgotten.
Something Else?
The scenery was as expected...... totally awesome.
Tell us about Punta Arenas
The hotel and transportation arrangements were excellent.
Tell us about the Ocean Nova
The Ocean Nova is not a typical "cruise" ship, nor is it intended to be. Its size and staffing level provides for a much more personal experience than what is provided by a typical cruise. The ship is clean and comfortable. The food is excellent.
Tell us about the expedition team
The expedition team was amazing. For the most part they were young, enthusiastic, and very knowledgeable about their specialties. When the caronavirus issues disrupted the normal flow of activity, they stepped up and provided impromptu lectures and question/answer sessions which were fascinating, and which would not normally be provided. They also mixed well with the passengers during mealtimes and other social situations. Every one of them was outstanding, but Pablo and Ken went out of their way to provide me with the best experience possible.
Tell us about Zodiac excursions
At age 83, getting in and out of the zodiacs was an adventure all by itself. However, the staff provided adequate assistance as necessary. Safety was never an issue. Whether it was transport between ship and shore, or the zodiac excursions themselves, they provided a huge dimension to the overall experience. My most memorable zodiac cruise was one in which Ken took me to an isolated cove where we just drifted around in the total silence and enjoyed peace, tranquility, and each other's company.
Do you have any tips or advice for other people planning a trip to Antarctica?
From home to King George Island required four flights in each direction. Despite schedule what I thought was plenty of connect time between flights, it was not enough. Only four flights operated on time, and there were numerous missed connections. I was VERY glad that I had arranged to come into Punta Arenas a day early.
Has your experience changed your perspective in any way?
Antarctica was my sixth continent. It was an expensive but very worth while addition to my life experience. Australia is next (and last).
Do you have any recommendations for Swoop, or feedback about the team?
First class service all the way. Keep on doing just what you are doing.
