John
New Zealand
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?”
John's Trip Date:
1st Jan - 24th Jan 2025
What was your most memorable moment?
South Georgia, by far. That was the primary focus of our trip, and one of the reasons we selected this cruise as it spent 4+ days around South Georgia. Unfortunately, the weather pushed us out after a couple days. Bottom line, I'd go back to S. Georgia as a destination in and of itself - we both thought it surpassed Antarctica on a number of levels (scenery, wildlife density, historical, etc.)
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
On a scale of 0 to 10, how would you rate your trip: Discover South Georgia, Antarctica and Falklands?
9 out of 10
Something Else?
The one glaring downside (which I hope to communicate directly with Aurora on) was the medical aspect. Before departing, I checked if an "INR" test could be run when onboard. This is a very common blood test that measures the clotting factor in the blood. I was told (by Swoop) that it COULD be done. So far, so good... But when I got onboard, I was told they didn't have the INR testing equipment on board. I pointed out to the ship's medical team that I had specifically inquired about this testing months ago, and was told it COULD be done, etc. A couple days later, the ship's Doctor informed me that he DID, in fact, have the right equipment all along -- but the test cartridges onboard the boat were slightly out of date. I could live with that. Anyway, I got the test done and the test results were well out of my expected range. They re-ran the tests, and the next results were totally inconsistent with the test that they had run just 5 minutes before. In short, I had no confidence in the tests I got onboard the Sylvia Earle. I got home and immediately got tested, and my results were dangerously out of my prescribed range. This could have been a very, very serious medical emergency on board the boat. Oddly enough, I could have carried a tester with me - but I did not, as I was told the ship's medical office could do the testing. This was not acceptable...
Do you have any tips or advice for other people planning a trip to Antarctica?
I'd just say to follow exactly what Swoop / Aurora advised regarding gear. My wife and I were fully prepared. We never got too wet, too cold, too hot -- the suggested gear was absolutely perfect.
Has your experience changed your perspective in any way?
I've done a lot of Arctic stuff, so that didn't really move me. I can certainly assure you that it WOULD be a life changing experience for most people. I would also say that Jo Ruxton's lectures, etc. were astounding (Ocean Generation). My wife and I made a rather significant donation to Ocean Generation after hearing Jo.
Do you have any recommendations for Swoop, or feedback about the team?
Swoop is and was FANTASTIC!! Very happy on that front, nothing but good things to say about Ben Ward and his guidance and attention to detail.
How prepared and excited for Antarctica did you feel?
I felt 100% prepared.
Would you be interested in travelling to Patagonia with Swoop?
Yes
Would you consider another trip to Antarctica with Swoop?
Yes
Would you be interested in travelling to The Arctic with Swoop?
No
