The first time I saw Antarctica proper, it took my breath away.

Life changing

The expedition team was fantastic. Hannah, our EL worked tirelessly to maximize each experience, even if it meant early mornings. Danny's lectures on Shackleton and other explorers was fantastic, he is a great lecturer. Scotty's lecture on whales and dolphins was great, as well as a number of others. Hannah and Scotty's keen eyes helped us experience numerous humpback whale and orca pods which was just phenomenal. Danny boy and the kayaking team (Alice, Edo, Se and Julian) worked hard to maximize our time on the water and were fun, informative and just great people to be around). Also a shout out to the Citizen Science team for engaging the passengers and informing us of opportunities for further involvement back at home.

The Seaventure was a good ship. The accommodations were nice (rooms were clean and spacious enough) and the hotel staff were wonderful; Norman in particular as he ensured our room was always in order, always had a smile on his face, was kind and thoughtful. The food was good. As a vegetarian I was a bit concerned as to what I would get but was content with all the offerings, and so much food! The only meal I did not always have a good protein source was dinner (but until near the end of the trip I did not realize there was a vegan menu that might have helped). The waitstaff were great and made every effort to learn each passengers preferences; in particular Emmanuel (Mani) and Pepito as we sat in their areas the most. Again, they were always smiling, kind and thoughtful. The bar staff was great as they worked hard to ensure we were all well hydrated and taken care of; in particular Jomark, Helen and Lea were not only great at the bar and dinner service, but could sing a mean karaoke and dance. Also wanted to give a shout out to the bridge team. Captain Nino was a rock star with navigation (maneuvering us through some tight areas and making great time) and the gangway crew brightened our landing days were great music and great attitudes.

The kayaking was amazing. Participated in the immersive kayaking and was so happy that I had the opportunity. The team and group that participated were experienced, knowledgeable, and had great energy which just heightened the experience. Absolutely would recommend to others.

The zodiac excursions were appreciated when were could not land or kayak. They afforded us the opportunity to experience areas that other ships could not, and we saw a lot of great wildlife. The most memorable was the return from Gourdine Island with the rough seas...I am weird and enjoyed the rough ride giggling most the ride back to the ship.

Yes

Just do it.

Yes, while I have always been concerned about climate change, seeing icebergs before we even made it to S. Georgia reinforced my concerns (and made me feel guilty about adding to the fray with the trip) and fortifies my resolve to do what I can to reduce impact. It also taught me about cloud surveys, plankton studies, happy whale and the heath of penguin colonies as well as the impact of the Avian flu on sea mammals. I learned so much and have already been peppering some of my learnings when I speak about my experience.

Not at this time.

Felt pretty well prepared and very excited for Antarctica.

Yes

Yes

Yes