. There were many but I think the first was waking early one morning and looking out our cabin at the first sighting a massive size iceberg.

Life changing

Yes

The zodiac excursions were an important and internal part of this trip. The expedition leaders who operated the zodiacs were very experienced and provided well informed commentary on each area we went to by the zodiacs.

I'm fearful of trying to name them individually in case I miss someone. Danny, Tracy, Phil, Greg, Paul, Hanna, Marcus, Santi, Laura, Julie, Julie (and some I may have missed) were all professional, knowledgable and very patient and courteous with some of the more aggressive/annoying passengers who were on board.

I would certainly go on this ship again. It was immaculate in cleanliness, our cabin was always maintained and kept made up in a timely manner. I am so happy we were able to secure a cabin with a balcony on the 6th level that added to an overall positive experience. The food was first class. It was served eloquently by very talented staff (big shout out to Ysmael...thanks for your outstanding service to me at each meal setting). I

We had prepaid and signed up for the camping excursion. Unfortunately due to weather conditions the camping trip had to be cancelled.

Ever since reading about Ushuaia as a young student in school history classes I have always wanted to go there. Ushuaia was exactly as I thought and read about...a beautiful small community sitting on the waters edge of the famous Beagle Channel and tucked into the beauty of surrounding snow peaked mountains. The quaint shops, restaurants, food varieties ( I actually had the best pizza I have ever eaten at a place called the BarDBeer) and friendly locals all made it a highlight of the trip.

If I were to go again I would try to add a couple of extra days both at the beginning and the end of the trip to allow for some sightseeing and rest. It was a very long trip getting there and back for us and somewhat rushed in a way. The other suggestion I would have is DO NOT pack a ton of clothes. Take the essentials and travel light...you will really appreciate it in the end.

I think it only adds to the desire of wanting to travel and see as much of our planet as possible. Sadly, with so many conflicts going on in the world it is difficult and dangerous to visit the many "wonders" of the world. I found the Antarctic to be a place of "solitude". It was quiet in its own way, peaceful, untouched and allowed me to become happily detached from the real world for the several days there.

I think if I booked with Swoop or any other booking company in the future for adventure trips like this I would make inquires to determine if there were any large specific ethnic group of people and young children booked on the same trip as was the case here. I found it distracting in having to try and listen to expedition leaders giving their lectures and at the same time having translators loudly speaking and translating for this large group sitting in the lecture halls. There also seemed to be chaos when called by the staff to attend functions by "group names" only i.e. preparing to go out on Zodiac trips and many from this group ignored the group names and just showed up. Being 'in line" for events, food etc. did not seem to matter to many of theses passengers.

I was well prepared (actually over prepared in that I brought too much clothing) and my excitement level was incredible. I had been saving up money and dreaming of this trip for many many years. It was all that I expected and more.

Yes

Yes

Yes