Colette

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?”

Colette 's Trip Date:

26th Dec - 2nd Jan 2017

Overall, how was your trip?

The trip was exceptional! One of the things I most enjoyed and was a surprise to me was hearing a leopard seal singing into an iceberg underwater! I didn't know they did that, and it was such a beautiful sound. The expedition team is phenomenal and went above and beyond to ensure we had a wonderful time and were well-informed. Even when it was "time to go back to the boat", when magical moments happened (which was often... like the singing leopard seal), they stopped the zodiac - we were never rushed through experiences, and in fact, we were encouraged to experience as much as possible. I appreciated the PA announcements about sunsets, breaching whales, and other amazing sights - they didn't want us to a miss a thing. It's typically hard for me to sit still and therefore I can find "talks" challenging, but this team was so engaging and entertaining, I went to every single talk. I loved that the talks happened at the end of the day and related to experiences we had or things we saw that day. The wildlife and landscape was breathtaking. The boat was outstanding as was the crew. I felt like somebody was there with anything I could have needed, before I had to ask.

In one sentence, what did you think of Antarctica? Did it live up to your expectations?

It exceeded my expectations - majestic, breathtaking, exciting, fun, adventurous!

Would you visit again?

Yes

How was the service that Swoop provided?

Swoop was phenomenal! I am so happy and grateful I booked with Loli and the Swoop team. Loli answered all of my questions and due to her first-hand experience with the trip, she was able to offer terrific guidance and helpful insights. I felt completely looked after and prepared for my trip. The entire Swoop team was helpful - offering information about trip extensions and things to do in Chile/Patagonia following Antarctica.

How likely is it that you would recommend Swoop to a friend?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

10 out of 10

How were your experiences on the zodiac excursions and shore landings?

SPERT ISLAND!!!! This was our first excursion and it was a dream! Moving about the icebergs, turning a corner and seeing seals and penguins, going through caves, the color of the water - outstanding. On our last day, Mariano took us through some icebergs, turned off the zodiac and let us sit in silence, taking in the peaceful scenery and sounds. The expedition staff was wonderful. They'd stop if there was something we wanted to see, turn the boat so everyone could see, answer all questions, and they were FUN!

​How would you describe {vessel.title} if talking to somebody potentially interested in going to Antarctica, and what tips would you pass​ on?

Hebridean Sky is a 5 star experience all the way. The boat and accommodations are beautiful, the staff is outstanding, friendly, and helpful. I was so impressed that EVERYONE made an effort to learn our names and get to know us, even though we were only on the boat for 5 days and they'd have to learn a whole new group of people soon. The crew remembered my meal and drink preferences as well - I never had to ask for anything - they were at least two steps ahead of me at all times.

Do you have any tips or advice for other people planning a trip to Antarctica?

1. Talk to Loli at Swoop Antarctica 2. Travel on Hebridean Sky 3. Fly to Antartica 4. Arrive in Chile at least 2 days early (in case of any travel or luggage issues and to relax and be refreshed when you go to Antarctica) 5. Drink the wine! 6. Go on every excursion 7. Go to all the talks 8. Spend time with each expedition guide - they all have unique experience and perspectives to add to the trip

Anything else? Tell us anything you’d like to share that we forgot to ask! It’s ok to leave this empty too :-)

THANK YOU!!!

15 people found this review helpful

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