Judy
United Kingdom
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?”
Judy's Trip Date:
25th Jan - 6th Feb 2026
What was your most memorable moment?
Going further south in the Weddell Sea than the ship had ever sailed before, then walking across the ice to the Emperor Penguin colony...We were the called back to the ship as the ice started to shift and the ship was surrounded. It was only after a few hours of careful manoeuvring that we were free and heading north again. The expedition team and the captain were absolute heroes.
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: Antarctic Peninsula in Focus?
10 out of 10
Were Swoop right to recommend Swan Hellenic?
Yes
Tell us about Zodiac excursions
I loved these...if only they were longer. I did feel our excursions were very short although I appreciate they had to get a lot of people on and off the ship.
Tell us about the expedition team
OH my...there aren't enough superlatives...they were friendly, thoughtful, helpful, knowledgable and so much fun. I especially enjoyed Richard's leadership and Gustof and Louisa amongst the others.
Tell us about the SH Vega
My cabin exceeded expectations and was beautifully maintained every day. it was so comfortable and the balcony made the trip for me!
Something Else?
If there is a negative and it is inconsequential in the big picture but there was too much waiting around especially on the last day I know it was turn over day so the staff were tied up getting the ship ready for the group coming in the afternoon. They tried to make it comfortable for us but it was a very long boring day as we had to be out of our cabins by 8am and we didn't get to Buenos Aires until 6:30pm. Could we not have had an earlier flight?
Do you have any tips or advice for other people planning a trip to Antarctica?
It isn't as cold as you think. Dressing like an onion is a good plan but the coat they give is very warm and waterproof. The boots are great too. If you are taking cameras forget about a double strap...you can't use it with a life jacket and a mountain of clothes. There is a certain level of fitness required if you want to get the most out of the trip.
Has your experience changed your perspective in any way?
I have never wanted to go on a cruise and although the Vega is a small ship, I would consider going on this type of trip again.
Do you have any recommendations for Swoop, or feedback about the team?
Swoop was so helpful from the beginning and I really appreciated Marta's adce and she got it just right for us.
How prepared and excited for Antarctica did you feel?
This trip was years in the planning (and saving) so I was beyond excited.
Would you consider another trip to Antarctica with Swoop?
Yes
Would you be interested in travelling to Patagonia with Swoop?
Yes
Would you be interested in travelling to The Arctic with Swoop?
Yes
Would you be interested in travelling to Scotland, Ireland, New Zealand, Tanzania, Botswana, Namibia, Kenya or The Galapagos, with one of our trusted partners?
No
Would you like to receive our email newsletter about our other destinations?
No
When are you thinking of taking your next trip?
Beyond 12 months
