Fred Robert
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?”
Fred Robert's Trip Date:
24th Jan - 4th Feb 2025
What was your most memorable moment?
There were too many to select just one. Each day seemed to build upon the previous one. Encountering such a wide variety of wildlife and being fortunate to have such great weather made it super.
Which of the following best describes your adventure?
Life changing
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: Fly & Cruise Polar Circle?
10 out of 10
Were Swoop right to recommend Quark Expeditions?
Yes
Tell us about Zodiac excursions
A great way to cover a lot of local territory. I was in the kayaking group so spent most of my time in the kayaks. The Zodiak handlers were always safety conscious.
Tell us about the expedition team
They were all so knowledgeable and friendly. Always answering your questions and getting to know many of us by name. Expedition Leader Woody was exceptional and set the tone for everyone having a tremendous experience. The entire expedition team worked very well together and displayed great camaraderie. The other members who shared their expertise and delivered great lectures were Adrian, Tom, Ian, Rebecca and Russ.
Tell us about the Ocean Explorer
This ship was marvelous and laid out so well. From the library where you could have some quiet time, to the well planned ready room with places for everyone to stow their excursion gear. The food was a good variety whether the buffet or the seated dinners. Being from the Southwest US, 8-days was too long to go without some spectacular red and/or green chiles available with meals (a very minor suggestion for improvement). There were great indoor and outdoor observation areas. The cabins were nicely appointed and had plenty of space and storage. Great to have the soap, shampoo, and lotion dispensers so we could cut down on bringing travel soaps/lotions. The housekeeping staff had everything cleaned multiple times a day - the best service I've ever experienced, anywhere. Thank you, Melek!
Tell us about the Kayaking
The kayaking for our group was incredible. The Swoop Agent told me of the limited availability (there were only 16 spots) and that we would have first chance off the ship to maximize our time out. That was true, but I didn't understand that the kayakers would somewhat be expected to do the kayak outings every morning and afternoon. I opted to do a Zodiac cruise one afternoon when we were at an incredible glaciated bay, knowing that we couldn't cover the vast territory by kayak. I'm glad that I opted for that, however, I felt guilty about others on the ship who were on a wait list for the daily kayaking, and I didn't use my spot for that outing. We were exceptionally fortunate that the kayakers got out on the water for 10 excursions. The kayak leaders, Amber and Kelly, were phenomenal. The tailored outings to the abilities of the group and were always alert to safety and where to have great opportunities. I couldn't have asked for a better experience.
Has your experience changed your perspective in any way?
I am so grateful to have had this experience before this environment is altered to a greater extent. It is one thing to see it in a documentary, but something else to experience it in person.
Do you have any recommendations for Swoop, or feedback about the team?
None. Professional and helpful all the way.
How prepared and excited for Antarctica did you feel?
Completely prepared.
Would you consider another trip to Antarctica with Swoop?
No
Would you be interested in travelling to Patagonia with Swoop?
No
Would you be interested in travelling to The Arctic with Swoop?
No
