Susan Herron
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?”
Susan Herron's Trip:
Original Fly & Cruise Luxury AdventureSusan Herron's Trip Date:
4th Dec - 14th Dec 2018
Susan Herron's Ship:
Hebridean SkyOverall, how was your trip?
The penguins were so fun to just watch as they carried on their regular activities- building nests or heading down to the water. The landscapes and wildlife were magnificent. We saw 3 species of penguins and several types of seals and also whales. The people on our ship came from various countries and we enjoyed getting to know them. We had an opportunity to stop and get off on a piece of floating ice - that was fun!
In one sentence, what did you think of Antarctica? Did it live up to your expectations?
It was the most amazing place we have ever been to - the scenery, the wildlife and the pristine look. And it was definitely up to our expectations plus!
Would you visit again?
Yes
How was the service that Swoop provided?
We absolutely were very satisfied with our initial visits with John when we were trying to choose when to go. We ended up with early December and John was so right in that it was so pristine and had not melted much yet and had not been trampled on yet. We also were very happy with the Hebridean Sky and John gave us some good tips on where to be on the ship and it was perfect. We wouldn’t have changed a thing!
How likely is it that you would recommend Swoop to a friend?
10 out of 10
You chose a/an Original Fly & Cruise Luxury Adventure experience. How was that experience?
It was definitely the right choice for us. We did not have the desire to spend 2 days each way going through the Drake Passage. You do need to be ready to go when there is an open window for the flight in and out. But we would certainly recommend it to anyone making the trip. Also because it was limited to 70 of us we were able to all make 2 landings a day. The operator did a terrific job!
If you received our guide to Santiago before you travelled, what did you think of it? For instance (but not limited to):
Was not applicable for us.
If Swoop arranged some of your travel before/after your voyage. How did we do?
We did our own travel arrangements ourselves.
How were your experiences on the zodiac excursions and shore landings?
Our first day out we had several whales right close to the zodiacs. We were able to hea the seals talking to each other. The icebergs were amazing and the blue color was so beautiful. Of course how could you not love those penguins. The expedition staff were so helpful and always made sure our safety was first and foremost. They had an abundance of information for us. We loved that at meals they would sit at various tables so we would have the opportunity to get to know them and their backgrounds.
Has your experience changed your perspective in any way?
We did read several of the suggested books to read before the trip and it made you realize how hardy those men were back in Shackelton’s time. Sleeping on the ice in wet sleeping bags! We are so lucky with our high tech fabrics and clothing.
Do you have any tips or advice for other people planning a trip to Antarctica?
I felt the information you provided was sufficiently helpful. We followed your advice on clothing and it all worked great. We had all we needed.
Is there anything you would recommend we change to make trips like yours more environmentally sustainable?
Cannot think of anything. I liked that we all were given a non plastic water bottle that we were able to fill at a water station on the ship.
