Rick
United Kingdom
Customer
Rating
8
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?”
Rick's Trip:
Antarctic Fly & Sail CombinationRick's Trip Date:
18th Jan - 28th Jan 2023
Rick's Ship:
Sylvia EarleWhat was your most memorable moment?
The last night where we dropped anchor in a sun lit bay and had the BBQ outdoors on deck, we were able to reflect on an amazing expedition, with the friends we'd made and then some humpbacks turned up and showed us their tails reflecting the setting sun - magic
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?
8 out of 10
On a scale of 0 to 10, how would you rate your trip: Antarctic Fly & Sail Combination?
9 out of 10
Tell us about Zodiac excursions
Perfectly safe at all times, they are very sturdy and are carefully driven by all the team - they are very sensible and risk averse. Getting in and out of the Zodiacs is very controlled and structured so you are supported at all times along with you bags cameras etc. This includes getting in or out of the Zodiacs when leaving the ship and getting in or out at the shoreline. The combination of muck boots and waterproof pants, worn over the boots, ensures you stay perfectly dry.
Tell us about the expedition team
They were all very knowledgeable and friendly AND extremely enthusiastic about their work, the Antarctic and looking after their guests. There were 18 I think to around 120 passengers. They all took part in all aspects of the expeditions, driving Zodiacs, making presentations, staying enthusiastic when they must have been asked the same questions numerous times. Individuals that spring to mind include 'JP'and Tamsin. Favourite lectures were from Dot because she was not only passionate and interesting to listen to, but she packed so much into her presentations. Also enjoyed presentations about Geology, Birds and Photography, Clouds, Oceans and of course the daily catch ups from Roger that pulled everything together.
Tell us about the Sylvia Earle
Ship was excellent and we are researching sailing on her again in the Northern hemisphere. Our cabin was excellent, plenty of room and storage space, full length opening windows out to the balcony, fantastically comfortable beds( slept like a log every night). The ship runs so smoothly and quietly over the water there are times you are not even aware the ship is moving. Rather than anchor they use the bow thrusters to hold the ship steady. Food and drink was excellent and then service was exceptional, friendly, relaxed, just eager to please - delightful. Someone has done an excellent job recruiting all these people that seem to have the same mission, the same consistency of approach.
Were Swoop right to recommend Aurora Expeditions?
Yes
Do you have any recommendations for Swoop, or feedback about the team?
Yes, uploading and downloading documents and passports and insurance details and flight details, I found time consuming and a bit frustrating. In the end I sent some things in to Ben at Swoop and he uploaded them for me
How prepared and excited for Antarctica did you feel?
The guides on the Swoop web site are spot on. Layers of clothes and merino wool first layer was really helpful. Waterproof pants I bought new and was glad I did, the showerproof walking trousers I had been considering would have been a disaster. We went to Ellis Brigham in Manchester to get kitted out and apart from being very jealous about our Antarctic trip, the staff there were so knowledgable about their products and what would be right for the Antarctic (they were all obviously committed trekkers and climbers and really knew their stuff)
Would you be interested in travelling to The Arctic with Swoop?
Yes
Would you consider another trip to Antarctica with Swoop?
Yes
Would you be interested in travelling to Patagonia with Swoop?
No
