Irma

Netherlands

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?”

Irma's Trip Date:

12th Nov - 23rd Nov 2024

What was your most memorable moment?

Difficult to chose. Boarding the cruise, opening the curtains the first morning and see how we were navigating on ice, the quietness, meeting the expedition team, the polar plunge, camping, dinners with cruisse mates, the morning salutations from the crew, the lectures, every time we listened to a call for a landing... EVERYTHING!

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?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

10 out of 10

On a scale of 0 to 10, how would you rate your trip: Antarctic Peninsula Explorer?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

10 out of 10

Were Swoop right to recommend Aurora Expeditions?

Yes

Tell us about Zodiac excursions

The expedition team made us feel not only safe but comfortable in every zodiac excursion. Their expertise was noticeable!. I am not sure how to select the best memory but it may be the humpback whale that came up to show her tale while we were in the zodiacs. The experience and the reaction we all had made me cry. I still see that moment and hear our WOW! reaction.

Tell us about the expedition team

Flo, the expedition leader, is a remarkable woman whose deep expertise and boundless enthusiasm for Antarctic expeditions shine through in every moment. Her impressive background, combined with a pragmatic approach and exceptional communication skills, creates an environment where safety and adventure go hand in hand. Flo leads each journey with the energy and excitement of someone experiencing it for the first time, and her passion is so contagious that it inspires everyone around her to embrace the unknown with confidence and wonder. Werner, the second leader, is the embodiment of professionalism and dedication. His vast experience is evident in every detail of the voyage, and his quiet yet unwavering commitment ensures that everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. He doesn't just guide the group; he shares his deep appreciation for Antarctica in a way that sparks a profound sense of awe. Werner’s calm confidence, paired with his expert execution of each excursion, gave me a sense of absolute trust that we were in the best hands possible. His quiet strength and dedication were a true inspiration, and his passion for this extraordinary place was, quite simply, contagious. Dani's expertise as a marine biologist is nothing short of extraordinary. Her lectures were a perfect blend of inspiration, knowledge, and sheer enjoyment. With a natural ability to teach, she guided us through the wonders of Antarctica's fauna in a way that felt both approachable and deeply professional. A captivating public speaker, Dani's passion for whales and the world of science radiates from every word she speaks, leaving everyone around her uplifted and inspired. Her enthusiasm is not just contagious—it’s transformative, sparking curiosity and a love for the natural world in all who have the privilege of listening to her.

Tell us about the Sylvia Earle

The Sylvia Earle is far more than a ship—it’s a symbol of inspiration and discovery. Named after the legendary marine biologist Sylvia Earle, whose remarkable career has been dedicated to protecting our oceans, this vessel carries her spirit of exploration and care for the natural world. Perfectly sized—not too big, not too small—the ship offers an ideal balance. Its intimate capacity allows for incredible outdoor adventures while fostering meaningful connections with fellow passengers, should you choose. Yet, there’s always ample space to enjoy your privacy and reflect. What truly moved me was the opportunity to meet such unique and special individuals—people drawn to this once-in-a-lifetime experience. The crew added to the magic, always welcoming us with warm smiles and somehow remembering every name from day one. Under the captain’s expert guidance, every effort was made to ensure both our safety and the chance to explore remote, breathtaking destinations, weather permitting. The Sylvia Earle is a haven of comfort and adventure. From its exceptional facilities—an inviting library, observation lounge, gym, sauna, and jacuzzi—to its deeply personal atmosphere, I wouldn’t choose any other cruise. This isn’t just a journey; it’s an unforgettable voyage that touches both the heart and the soul.n perfect!.

Tell us about the Camping

I wholeheartedly recommend this once-in-a-lifetime experience! I’ll admit, the idea of sleeping under the open sky in Antarctica initially made me a little nervous—after all, it’s one of the harshest environments on Earth. But those worries quickly melted away thanks to the incredible expedition team. Their guidance and the top-quality sleeping gear provided ensured not just a warm night, but a surprisingly cozy one—almost too warm, depending on how you layer your clothing! Their advice is golden: bring layers, and adjust as needed. A simple tip, like carrying a bottle of hot water to warm your sleeping bag, makes all the difference. And then there’s the magic. As you settle in for the night, prepare to be awestruck by the endless beauty around you—the vivid colors of the sunset, the pristine white landscape, the shimmering blues of the water and ice, and the symphony of Antarctica’s unique wildlife. If you’re as lucky as I was, you might even wake up to the gentle chatter of penguins nearby, their quirky conversations adding a touch of wonder to an already unforgettable adventure. It’s an experience that connects you to the raw, untamed beauty of the continent in the most profound way.

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