Fiona
South Africa
Customer
Rating
7
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?”
Fiona's Trip Date:
10th Mar - 2nd Apr 2026
What was your most memorable moment?
Immersion in luminous blue ice!! Which best describes my adventure? Non of the above. A reflective time caught between the paradox of pristine beauty and the realisation of its likely extinction as I experienced it.
On a scale of 0 to 10, how likely is it that you would recommend Swoop to a friend or colleague?
7 out of 10
On a scale of 0 to 10, how would you rate your trip: Discover South Georgia, Antarctica and Falklands?
9 out of 10
Were Swoop right to recommend Aurora Expeditions?
Yes
Tell us about Zodiac excursions
I never thought of safety, I wouldn’t have missed the zodiac rides for the world! Cutting through brash ice surrounded by humpback whales in sea lit by luminous blue icebergs is indelibly imprinted on my mind, the freezing crushing sound coupled with the steam “blows” still ring in my ears and the enormous majesty of this theatre is stamped on my soul. No movie could ever capture my heart like this!
Tell us about the expedition team
They were all great, really engaging and highly knowledgeable, very difficult to choose one. I absolutely loved Ed’s history, stories of almost unbelievable human endeavours, he really stood out! Liam’s lyrical approach and Adrian’s factual photographic advice contrasted beautifully keeping all engaged and interested, as did Meli and Dani. The person who made the most impact on me was their guest scientist, Richard Kirby. His incredible insights into plankton, krill and the marine life reliance on these tiny creatures resonated deeply within me. The devastating damage human greed is causing on Antarctic ecosystem will haunt me forever. I hope I find a way to add, just something, to the global conversation and conservation of this beautiful place.
Tell us about the Douglas Mawson
I was very privileged to have been a passenger on an almost brand new ship. It was as good as it gets. The cabins are more than adequate and sufficiently comfortable for 3 weeks sharing with a passenger I had never met. The food was excellent, better than expected, fresh bread and pastries daily, wide variety and varied. I don’t choose the place I visit by mode of transport, rather the other way around. If Aurora were the mode of transport to achieve my next destination goal, I would certainly consider them.
Do you have any tips or advice for other people planning a trip to Antarctica?
It’s a bit warmer than you think, waterproof everything is essential not a nice to have, just relax…not easy, it will be worth it!
Has your experience changed your perspective in any way?
Our world is in danger, I need to do more to protect it.
Do you have any recommendations for Swoop, or feedback about the team?
As mentioned earlier, improve your speed of response, make sure your travel agent is locally competitive and possibly consider facilitating accommodation for long distance travelers between flights.
How prepared and excited for Antarctica did you feel?
Swoop was exemplary in their preparation of prospective travelers, very helpful indeed.
Would you consider another trip to Antarctica with Swoop?
No
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 be interested in travelling to the Arctic with our sister company, Swoop Arctic?
No
Would you be interested in travelling to Patagonia with Swoop?
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
