Lovely Z
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?”
Lovely Z's Trip Date:
18th Dec - 29th Dec 2023
What was your most memorable moment?
So hard to narrow it down to just one moment. How about one day? On Christmas Eve, our family walked among penguins on the continent, sailed through the Lemaire Channel, plunged into the Antarctic Ocean, devoured a gourmet Filipino feast, and then were treated to a spectacular show by a pod of 20+ Orcas off the bough of our ship -- all of it in eternal daylight on one of the longest days of the year.
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: Explore the Antarctic Peninsula?
10 out of 10
Were Swoop right to recommend Lindblad?
Yes
Tell us about Zodiac excursions
Each Zodiac excursion was led by a capable and knowledgable researcher. Those employed by Lindblad/Nat Geo were not only smart and interesting, but they were a lot of fun. We learned so much on each excursion. Also, we were surrounded by penguins, whales, seals, icebergs, and the beauty of Antarctica the entire time. The most memorable zodiac cruise for me was the day we saw a penguin rookery, witnessed mating shags (birds), saw humpback whales breaching only 30 yards away, and then were "invaded" by a "Viking" hot chocolate boat all in one excursion.
Tell us about the expedition team
See above. They were amazing. So smart, knowledgeable, interesting, and fun.
Tell us about the National Geographic Explorer
It was the perfect ship for us! I love that I was welcomed on the bridge by the captain(s) at any time. The accommodations were lovely, the gift shop was great, the food was outstanding, the bar was plentiful(!), the staff were sooooo wonderful... I can't say enough good things. NG stands above the rest for their ability to go where other/larger cruises will not. They were flexible and adventurous. How many cruises go beneath the Antarctic Circle? Not many...
Tell us about Ushuaia
Gorgeous! My kids and I are in love with Ushuaia! Beautiful and quaint little town with lovely people.
Something Else?
I want to thank the National Geographic Explorer Crew (especially the hotel manager Anders) for accomodating our daughter's Bat Mitzvah. The chef even made a special bread (challah) for us. It was more/better than we could have imagined.
Do you have any tips or advice for other people planning a trip to Antarctica?
#1 - Bring a bungee for your phone. Even those who had larger DSL cameras were also carrying cell phones. It was precarious to use our cell phones on the zodiacs and on the side of the ship. One gentlemen lost his phone to the Southern Ocean during a zodiac excursion. The more informed families among us had these simple phone bungee cords that clipped onto their jackets and allowed easy and secure use of their phones. #2 - Do this trip with your kids (recommend 8+). They will love every minute. #3 - Don't over-pack. The recommended packing list from the carrier will suffice for your days on the continent. Beyond that, some comfy clothes for the Drale Passage and the remaining nights (after the excursions) is more than enough. The ship itself is very warm.
Has your experience changed your perspective in any way?
Yes - Penguins are cuter than I ever imagined. And Icebergs are really cool! I also have an appreciation for sea birds.
Do you have any recommendations for Swoop, or feedback about the team?
Otto and Malva were perfect. You were knowledgable, responsive, personable, and lovely. I can't thank you enough for all you have done for us. Malva, thank you for arranging the challah bread for our family on the ship. It was one of the highlights for us.
How prepared and excited for Antarctica did you feel?
Mostly prepared. There's a certain amount of unknown that anyone will feel -- especially when booking the trip only six weeks in advance. Overall I felt 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
