John
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?”
John's Trip Date:
20th Nov - 1st Dec 2025
What was your most memorable moment?
That first step on Antarctica soil (well, rocks). I needed the kind hands of several Ponant crew, but that moment was incredible. Walking along the beach -- needing to pause as a Gentoo waddled right towards me. Seeing, hearing, and smelling the colony, the brace of Antarctic cold made the experience visceral.
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: Heart of Antarctica?
10 out of 10
Were Swoop right to recommend Ponant?
Yes
Tell us about Zodiac excursions
Frankly, my only criticism would be that the advertisements should be more explicit on the amount of physicality needed in the excursions. Entering/exiting the Zodiacs was a challenge for me, but the crew were right there to give me the assistance I needed. Of course, once "on the beach" it took skill to navigate through the snow, ice, and rocks that make up the indescribably beautiful home to these animals. Safety was obviously a prime factor, but giving passengers the opportunity to see the wonders was also high in the list.
Tell us about the expedition team
So much knowledge. Their passion for protecting the environment is joined by their clear joy of sharing their expertise. I was truly blessed to be "adopted" by Villa Arna who literally was my right arm in reaching the shore.
Tell us about the Lyrial, Boreal, Soleal and Austral
LE BOREÁL. Beautiful. Cabin was neat, clean, and comfortable. Crew amazingly professional and friendly. The food was delicious (although it would have been nice to have had some traditional Thanksgiving choices for us Yanks on November 27).
Do you have any tips or advice for other people planning a trip to Antarctica?
Coming from a location with no snow or cold weather, I was concerned about needing to buy a lot of clothing that I wouldn't need post-cruise. Perhaps Swoop (or someone) could have a site that would rent these special items for the duration.
Has your experience changed your perspective in any way?
Yes, but I can't articulate it just yet.
Do you have any recommendations for Swoop, or feedback about the team?
Most of my recommendations can be found in earlier comments.
How prepared and excited for Antarctica did you feel?
A sense of wonder. It has been filled to some extent, but other areas have since been opened up.
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 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?
Yes
Would you like to receive our email newsletter about our other destinations?
Yes
When are you thinking of taking your next trip?
I don`t know
