Overall, the trip was fantastic. We had so many new and amazing experiences that it is hard to pick a highlight. But some of my favorites include the first landing. After spending two and half days rocking and rolling across the Drake, stepping on terra firma in a completely alien environment, surrounded by thousands of Gintoo and Chinstrap penguins and Weddell seals, was pretty overwhelming (in a good way). Other favorites were paddleboarding, camping, and just taking it all in. The views from Cuverville and Danco Islands, the endless visibility, and the ice. We met a lot of great people on the trip, many of which I think we will stay in touch with. Everything on the trip was a surprise, but the biggest one was learning that Trump was elected while we were down there. With very limited connectivity, they published the results in reception in the morning and it caused quite the scene. People crying, strategizing on how to stay on Antarctica for 4 years, etc. At least we all had something to talk about during the meals!

The trip was among the best I have ever taken and definitely exceeded my expectations

Yes

We were extremely fortunate to link up with Swoop. We planned this trip at the last minute and I do not believe we would have found the right trip, right boat, or the right cabin. Swoop knew that we were on our honeymoon and went out of their way to make sure we had the right cabin and was able to do it at a fantastic price. I think the pre-trip support was great and felt as well-prepared as we could be. The pre and post-trip phone calls were a great touch, and it is easy to see that the folks at Swoop are passionate about polar travel and want to share the best experiences with their customers. I would not change a thing.

I was floored at how well the ship operator's team handled the logistics of launching the zodiacs, the efficiency of loading people onto the boats, and setting up safe landing areas. Hard to say which ones were my favorite but the top three zodiac experiences were the Paulet Island cruise, Cuverville Island cruise, and our last day on Spert Island. Best landings were Brown Bluff and Cuverville.

All of the logistics were flawless. The accommodations were great, all of the travel documents were received, and we knew where and when to be. Nothing to improve on here.

I was expecting much more of an industrial/expedition-class ship so I was blown away by how nice the ship was. The crew and hotel staff were outstanding, and the expedition staff provided excellent lectures, were always engaged with them guests at meals and daily meetings. Could not be happier with how the trip was supported.

Every day was excellent. The ship operator's team and the captain did a great job of maximizing our time off the ship, and we were able to make a total of 7 landings/excursions. Every one was different, with new wildlife, geology, and breath-taking views. The captain also did everything he could to get us close to wildlife that we saw underway. We would not have been able to see Orcas or Emperor Penguins up close had the captain not changed course and spend the time position us for two of the most memorable encounters while underway.