Mike

Life before Swoop

Before Swoop, I worked for a decade planning custom luxury travel adventures. I’ve planned trips all over the world, including spectacular locations such as Greenland, Eastern Canada, the Faroe Islands and Iceland.

I originally looked to pursue a career in Archaeology and Forensic Anthropology, and even participated in some field work excavating Mayan ruins in the remote jungles of Western Belize. During this time I realised that my favourite adventures often involved experiencing new cultures with their rich histories, savouring new and unique foods and meeting locals. It was then that I became hooked on travel, realising that I wanted to change direction and make this passion into my career.  

Why I love travelling

I have always had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and the mountains. I have a love for all places barren and windswept, whether that be the highlands of Scotland, the outports of Newfoundland or the endless ice of Antarctica and Greenland. As a child, I was always fascinated by polar explorers, particularly early expeditions in search of the Northwest Passage. Exploring these remote locations as an adult allows me to personally connect with and better comprehend the wild adventures of some of these childhood heroes. 

My Antarctic experience

Antarctica hit me like a freight train. That first glimpse of land after crossing the Drake Passage was an overwhelming experience for me. I snapped every photo I could. Five days later, I looked back at those photos and realized I hadn’t seen anything yet, and every day was just better than the last. Poking through the perfectly preserved rooms of Port Lockroy, front row seats at the gentoo penguin nesting soap opera (that poor little guy kept getting his stones stolen by his neighbour), humpbacks lunge feeding just off the side of the ship, and so many more moments, were all standout experiences.

I had dreamed of travelling to Antarctica for my whole life, and it did not disappoint for a second. I’ll always remember the biting cold wind as I stood on the bow of our ship as we sailed through the Lemaire Channel. I was chilled to the bone but refused to go inside, as I wanted to absorb every icy breath.

Day to day at Swoop

I enjoy using my years of travel planning experience to help travellers find their perfect polar destination. What I love about Swoop is that we can offer a huge variety of polar experiences. Not being beholden or tied down to one particular ship or trip allows us the ability to match you with your perfect adventure.