The awesome beauty of Antarctica is difficult, if not impossible, to put into words. My wife, Laura, and I read several books prior to the expedition, but nothing matched the experience. The most memorable moment was probably standing on the land for the first time. Everything there seemed larger than at home . . . and a great deal colder! A thought that struck me several times was that the Earth was its own and not necessarily meant for man. I was strictly a visitor to this creation.

Life changing

This activity was probably the most impacted by the weather-caused shortening of the expedition. My wife could not be properly fitted in a dry suit; my dry suit gloves leaked and my hands were freezing in the checkout swim. That one swim was the last of our experience with snorkeling. (We will, in the future, stick to warmer, less challenging, waters!) To their credit, the Expedition Team spoke with us about these issues and near the end of the travel called my wife and me aside to tell us that the snorkeling fee would be refunded to us. We were impressed with their care, understanding and professionalism.

Because of the weather-caused interruption/delay of the expedition, Aurora said that there would be some credit extended to the tour's participants for future travel. In our own case (my wife and I are in our late 60's), it is unlikely that we will be traveling in any sort of similar expedition again. A credit to us then would be useless. You might encourage them to offer either a credit or perhaps some smaller amount of cash refund.

You should go with the thought of "expedition" in mind. This is not a Rhine cruise or a Maui beach. Your expectation of some discomfort will not be disappointed. Cold, wind, water, and pitching seas will add impression to your memories of what is certainly one of the most beautiful and awesome places on earth. It is a gift to be able to experience it.

Oh, yes . . . .

Thanks again to Sarah Orson!

Totally.

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