The first sighting of Penguins in huge numbers, which previously I saw only on TV Channels dedicated to Nature, Like NatGeo or Animal Planet

Great holiday

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Thoroughly enjoyed the Zodiac Excursions. Felt safe at all times. An excellent safety routine was in place. Expedition members were helped into and out of the Zodiacs very ably by A21 Staff. Very flexible zodiac operations too. For those of us who wanted to get back to Ocean Nova earlier than the rest of the members, A21 staff were always willing and ready to ferry us back in the Zodiacs to the Mothership. All Zodiac cruises were memorable. In particular on 28th Jan, we were taken to Yankee Harbour where we saw huge colonies of Gentoo Penguins and lots of Seals.

An excellent Expedition team. Very knowledgeable and friendly. David, the expedition leader, made it a point to maximise our excursions ashore whenever weather permitted (even if one had to be cut short due to inclement weather). All team members were aware that we had lost the first 2 days due to Flight cancellations, so they tried their best to make up for it. Stand out Staff members: No complaints regarding any of them, all were very nice, but we were partial to David, Justine and Pablo. Wendy took us out on a short Zodiac cruise to watch a couple of whales showing off. That was memorable too. Lectures on wildlife, especially the different types of Penguins in Antarctica, were of particular interest. All members of the team obviously loved their jobs. It showed.

We would choose the Ocean Nova again and again. Accomodated just the right number of passengers to facilitate unhurried excursions for all in the Zodiacs. A very professional and friendly crew. Hotel staff were excellent, Stewards were very friendly and took good care of us during meal times. Cabin attendants also very cooperative and friendly. Food and snacks were of top quality and sufficient for all. A regular Bar on board with a great Bartender. A big thanks to the Hotel Manager. We were in Cabin # 308, with twin bunks. Very comfortable. The ship under the able guidance of it's Captain and Navigation staff took us smoothly from location to location for Zodiac excursions at different points.

Explorers House in Punta Arenas. A very charming place with always friendly and attentive staff. Superb complimentary meals, drinks and snacks available at all times. A huge comfortable area provided to relax and chat with newly made friends.

To be ready for some weather related delays both inbound and outbound. Keep enough time in hand for connecting flights, in case of weather delays. (For both Domestic and International Flights). If lucky and no delays experienced, can always use the extra time available for sightseeing. While the Expedition Itinerary is fixed, keep the flights flexible to avoid unnecessary stress.

Simply thrilled to see another Continent which is pristine and almost spiritual. Efforts by various agencies to keep it unpolluted with it's beautiful wildlife, are laudable, and must be maintained.

No Recommendations. As previously mentioned, the Swoop team members have been prompt and helpful in all our communications and queries. In our case, sincere thanks to Ben Ward and Rebecca Porritt.

Felt very prepared especially with all the advice on clothing to be used in Antarctica. Not as cold and windy during our visit there and we had to remove some layers, but of course better to take clothing for a worst case scenario. Looked forward to the trip for months. Venturing into unknown territory, far different from the usual tourist spots worldwide.

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