Kathleen

Canada

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?”

Kathleen's Trip Date:

16th Feb - 25th Feb 2026

What was your most memorable moment?

Sitting quietly staring at the amazing landscape, the moody, pastel sky, the peaks, the animals.....really can't state one moment as outstanding for there were so many.

Which of the following best describes your adventure?

Great holiday

On a scale of 0 to 10, how likely is it that you would recommend Swoop to a friend or colleague?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

10 out of 10

On a scale of 0 to 10, how would you rate your trip: South Shetland Islands & Antarctica Voyage?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

10 out of 10

Were Swoop right to recommend Albatros Expeditions?

Yes

Tell us about Zodiac excursions

They were amazingly wonderful. I always felt safe and secure and they always allowed us to explore the area in an up close and personal way. Plus the staff made it so easy to get on and off.

Tell us about the expedition team

What a great team. It was fascinating to discover that many had not worked together before as they seemed like a totally seamless team. One thing I really liked was the range of ages, experiences, and expertise. While each knew all the basics the passion and deep knowledge of some was outstanding. I also liked that they started to eat with us, rather than at their own table. I got to know several quite well and we had fascinating conversations.

Tell us about the Ocean Victory

A really fine small ship. The cabin was very comfortable. I am so glad I got the balcony, and the balcony on a low deck. It was perfect. The bathroom was really big and the shower amazing. The food was fine. Not great, but okay, no complaints. I would definitely choose this ship again, maybe in the Arctic?

Tell us about the Photography

This was such a good decision. I am so very glad I took this option. We formed a solid group and having a consistent leader for most zodiac and landings was excellent. Albert is a very talented photographer and he was a great support for our efforts. Getting off first, not having to exactly match the half and half timing was great. I learned so much and I know I saw more than I would have if I had not done this extra.

Something Else?

Kayaking was a glorious experience. What a wonderful way to get close to the beauty and mystery or Antarctica. And I'm glad I did the Polar Plunge. I actually enjoyed it! Thank you so much Swoop!

Do you have any tips or advice for other people planning a trip to Antarctica?

Use Swoop. Bring a few magnetic hooks, they are great for quick drying the outsides of gloves, hats, etc. between time off ship. A buff or gaiter is crucial. Follow the suggested packing lists, yes it might be warmer than you expect, but it also may be cold, so two of many things is a good idea. (I found it warm most of the time but I was leaving -25C temps at home) One of some things like balaclava, waterproof pants, etc. but glove liners and water proof/resistent gloves, hats, etc. two is good. Don't waste space on dress up clothes. Life on board is casual. My roommate and I managed just fine rinsing out garments in the shower. I did carry on only (and I spent time in hot places first, too) but pack in a way that is comfortable for you, don't feel pressured one way or the other. Have some time in Ushuaia before the trip, the airlines are a bit erratic so it is helpful to have some buffer time - no stress. Besides, there are lovely trips you can take to explore the area.

Has your experience changed your perspective in any way?

Antarctica was everything I had hoped it would be — and I had been hoping since I was 12. Maybe that's why it didn't upend my worldview the way people might expect. I was ready for it. What struck me instead was something harder to articulate: just how genuinely other it is. Buenos Aires, Ushuaia — I could anchor those places to somewhere I'd been before, find the familiar thread. Antarctica has no thread. It doesn't connect to anything. It's not remote in the way a desert is remote. It's a different planet, and you feel that in your bones while you're there. I don't think it changed me. But I think it will always live in me — that feeling of standing somewhere that exists entirely outside the human story. That's not nothing. That's actually everything.

Do you have any recommendations for Swoop, or feedback about the team?

Keep up the good work.

How prepared and excited for Antarctica did you feel?

Very!!! I like to plan and overthink, and I did that for sure. Your resources and the countdown and the beautiful planner all helped.

Would you consider another trip to Antarctica with Swoop?

Yes

Would you be interested in travelling to Patagonia with Swoop?

No

Would you be interested in travelling to the Arctic with our sister company, Swoop Arctic?

Yes

Would you be interested in travelling to Scotland, Ireland, New Zealand, Tanzania, Botswana, Namibia, Kenya, The Galapagos, Peru or Iceland with one of our trusted partners?

Yes

Would you like to receive our email newsletter about our other destinations?

Yes

When are you thinking of taking your next trip?

Within 12 months

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