Karen
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?”
Karen's Trip Date:
17th Dec - 4th Jan 2025
What was your most memorable moment?
Standing above a colony of over 300,000 King Penguins at Saint Andrews Bay, South Georgia ...... although that ties with also being able to stand on Antarctica with my husband, Mark, as we celebrated our 52nd wedding anniversary.
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: Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Adventure?
10 out of 10
Were Swoop right to recommend Oceanwide Expeditions?
Yes
Tell us about Zodiac excursions
Yes, I enjoyed the zodiac excursions, although I worried more about whether I, personally, would be able to hop in and out, and transition to and from the ship -- mainly because I'm short and on the elderly side -- ha!. But the expedition team was right there to assist at all times. I'm glad of the zodiac excursions because it made me feel that I was on more of an "expedition", rather than a cruise. I did feel safe at all times. Memorable was zodiac cruising among the icebergs near Cape Tuxen.
Tell us about the expedition team
Very knowledgeable and friendly!! So approachable! They made me feel comfortable and welcome at all times. They all stand out in my memory, but Pippa and George pretty much led the pack (of course they were leaders). I really loved them all. And the fact that in their non-landing days they were giving lectures -- talk about well-rounded individuals. I have too many favorite lectures ..... penguins, whales, the race to the South Pole, and George's very passionate lectures on the Antarctic.
Tell us about the Hondius
The Hondius was the perfect ship for me, perfect size. The cabin met all my needs and expectations. it was very comfortable!! I would definitely choose this ship again. The team of stewards that took care of us were exceptional. I felt the food was good, and met varying tastes. It was very nice to have plated dinners, as opposed to buffet all the time -- and they were very well presented. I felt the chef and his team did a great job.
Something Else?
I really feel that Pippa, and the expedition team, did an extraordinary job of ensuring that we did and saw as much as we could. Maybe it was because of the luck with the weather, or scheduling, or whatever, but mostly Pippa, our expedition leader, seemed to go above and beyond to make sure it was the best trip it could be. We made stops along the way that I never would have dreamed possible (Deception Island!). . I can't rave enough about how satisfied I was with everything, especially after talking with other travelers we met in the airport who had been on other ships, and didn't see half of what we did. Also, I need to commend on the amount of time we were given during landings. We seemed to be given a wonderful amount of time at the different locations of landings -- to explore, photograph, and just enjoy the unique places we were able to visit.
Do you have any tips or advice for other people planning a trip to Antarctica?
I enjoyed joining a few Facebook groups, along with Oceanwide's, about Antarctic travel. They provided advice on packing, seasickness, what to expect. One thing I'd advise is to be in pretty good shape if you plan on being on an expedition that involves many landings/zodiac excursions. I wouldn't have missed them for the world, but some people may find them a little challenging. I can't think of any other tip or advice -- other than if you want to really experience Antarctica, go with a company/ship that will give you a more personable/intimate opportunity of actually "touching" the land. And go with a ship the size of Hondius or smaller.
Has your experience changed your perspective in any way?
I feel a closer tie to Antarctica, and the sites we visited during the "expedition" -- the fate of the continent, the animals, birds and mammals. This was my 7th continent -- and perhaps my favorite and most memorable.
Do you have any recommendations for Swoop, or feedback about the team?
We had brief interaction with Daniel Brooks, but he certainly helped us pick the best option for an expedition (and not just a cruise). Hannah Greene was wonderful, and available at all times to help with whatever questions we had. We really enjoyed our zoom calls with her, as she made us feel very comfortable. The only reason I would not be interested in traveling to Antarctica with Swoop again is because it's something I've already done now, and I was able to see and do everything on this particular trip that I'd hoped. This particular trip that I was on allowed me to "follow Shackleton" as well as "tour" around the Antarctic peninsula, plus visit sites I didn't fathom I'd ever see -- so it really didn't leave anything out. I credit Oceanwide, and the expedition team/leaders on this particular trip.
How prepared and excited for Antarctica did you feel?
Very prepared and very excited!! It was all I thought of for the entire seven months prior to the trip. I felt as prepared as possible.
Would you consider another trip to Antarctica with Swoop?
No
Would you be interested in travelling to Patagonia with Swoop?
Yes
Would you be interested in travelling to The Arctic with Swoop?
Yes
