ANTARCTIC EXPLORER

10 days from GBP3,270 to GBP22,400 land only
Tripcode: PSX

Countries Visited: Antarctica, Argentina

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Our Clients’ Reviews

Average Review Rating: from 10 reviews.

Robert Payne

ANTARCTIC EXPLORER

Written December 2011
my first thoughts goto kim christie, for rescueing my holiday when it looked doomed as the vessel went tech, she acted quickly and efficiently with getting me on another trip, sometimes it is not just the dream of making it on the greatest adventure in the world, but the great people behind the scenes who make it possible.
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
I Think if it was the beautiful pristine landscape that took my breath away!!
What did you think of your group leader?
Chad was my group leader on one ocean, and he worked tirelessly to make everyone happy, even when he looked exhausted himself still kept on cracking the jokes and smiling
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Make sure your have a quality camera with fast shutter speed to catch all the wildlife action
Is there anything else you would like to add?
only about 13000 people a year get this opportunity, and if there is one holiday you remember in your rocking chair days, it WILL be this ONE !!!!
Mark Mills

ANTARCTIC EXPLORER

Written December 2011
Having dreamt of visiting Antarctica since i was a child, a recent life-changing event inspired me to take the plunge. I wish i had taken that plunge years ago, it was stunning.
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
For me, the most awe-inspiring moment was when the captain of the ship announced land ahoy, my first sight of Antarctica made my heart race. I've been fortunate to visit many parts of the world in my flying career but the seventh continent feels like a trip to another planet.
What did you think of your group leader?
Our group leader was Doctor Lynn Woodworth, she is an authority on polar marine life and conservation, possesses a warm and welcoming nature, has a positive outlook on life and has the rare skill of making people feel special. Her team adore her and I strongly recommend her as your group leader.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
My only suggestion would be to pack lightly, our ship, the Vavilov, was extremely comfortable and warm with an excellent crew and delicious, copious food. My expectation was of living in a harsh environment so i took far too many layers of clothing. We were issued a technical jacket with zipped-in fleece which was ideal protection against the elements for our shore landings, the boots that were loaned to us were so comfortable and warm that i have now bought my own.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
There was a special atmosphere onboard the Vavilov, partly down to the adventure that we were embarking on and partly because it was a first 'cruise' for many onboard; in my opinion the atmosphere was created mainly by the team of marine biologists, geologists, historians, ornithologists and other scientists. It was an education in all things Antarctic; the knowledge, enthusiasm and welcoming spirit of this group of professionals made the experience unique.
I heartily recommend that you wait no longer to discover the greatest wilderness.
Louisa Richardson

ANTARCTIC EXPLORER

Written February 2011
Having drooled over numerous glorious pictures of Antarctica, I had long dreamed of experiencing it for myself. Antarctica over-delivered on my extremely high expectations with mind-blowing scenery, plentiful wildlife and ever-changing weather. Travelling on the Sea Spirit was an absolute pleasure; the on board staff were brilliant without exception and did everything they could to make sure we were comfortable and entertained. I can now only sit back in wonder at my own photographs knowing that I am now a participant and no longer merely a distant spectator.
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
There were so many moments. The friendly gentoo penguin chicks who pecked at our legs and anything else they could reach on Aitcho Island. The breaching humpback whales who chose to somersault in front of a huge glacier not far from the ship. The enourmous tabular icebergs which floated serenely past the ship. The stunning view from the top of the hill above Neko Harbour and the thrilling toboggan back down to the bottom. Our evening Zodiac cruise around the icebergs dotted with several species of seal. The slideshow at the end; it was amazing to look back at all the things we had seen and done in such a short space of time.
What did you think of your group leader?
Cheli could not have done more to ensure that our Polar expedition ran smoothly. She enthused, organised and entertained in equal measure and used her Kiwi sense of humour liberally. She is obviously a very competent leader and it was a pleasure to get to know her.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
If you are into photography, a polarising filter is a good idea. Don't bother taking walking boots - you won't use them. The wellington boots supplied are all you need on shore and are easier to clean than walking boots (compulsory to avoid bio-contamination between sites). The Sea Spirit is a posh ship but there is absolutely no need to dress up on board; the trip is still first and foremost a polar expedition. You may like to take something a bit smarter to wear at the captain's dinner but this isn't compulsory. Make sure you bring waterproof trousers; these are compulsory if you want to go ashore. Vegetarians are well catered for on board. Binoculars are supplied in the cabins but it is probably best to bring your own as they are not top quality.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
If you are in any way interested in wildlife and wilderness, you cannot possibly be disappointed by Antarctica. Do the longest trip you can manage; you will not want to come home!
Karen Eastwood

ANTARCTIC EXPLORER

Written January 2011
An absolutely amazing trip that surpassed all expectations. The cabin was bigger than expected, the food great, the wildlife plentiful and close, the crew were friendly, organisation was superb and there was so much to do I didn't even get to read my book!
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
My Highlights were a 2hr Zodiac cruise amongst the ice seeing some most amazing formations.
The polar plunge .. where I jumped off the gangway into the Antarctic waters and was pulled back in again by Sergi the Russian sailor.
Landing on my Seventh continent on Christmas Day and then celebrating later with a barbecue on the back deck.
Watching the Humpback whales from the ship with the Captain making awesome maneuvers to make sure we got the best shots.
What did you think of your group leader?
The group leader and her team were incredible. They were all very knowledgeable and passionate about their jobs. They created a very relaxed atmosphere on the ship and nothing seemed too much trouble.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Do it! Book early if you want to do any of the extra activities. I regret not picking a longer trip that went to South Georgia. I had an extra week in Patagonia walking and visiting the Purto Moreno Glacier which was awesome.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I did have a problem with kayaking. Staff on board were suppotive but ultimately there was nothing they could do. I contacted Exodus on my return and was happy with the way they responded and the high level of customer service they demonstrated. I consequently would have no qualms travelling with them again or recommending them to others.
The jackets we were given were excellent and did their job well. At the end we were given a dvd with a slideshow of the trip, all the timetables, menu's etc plus folders of other peoples photos. A great idea as it means I have some amazing photos of my trip that my little camera couldn't have taken. I also liked the idea of a cashless boat and the fact that the tip was divided up equally amongst all staff.
Helen Risdon

ANTARCTIC EXPLORER

Written January 2011
It's true what they say - nothing will prepare you for Antarctica. Not just in the don't-forget-the-sunscreen sort of preparation but the sheer beauty, wildness and silence of the place. The ship, although it was only the second trip it had done for Quark, was brilliant and we honestly couldn't fault the crew, food, comfort (except we didn't have a window: if you're offered cabin 330 on the Sea Spirit, ask to change it!) and overall planning and preparation for the trip. The trip leaders oozed enthusiasm, they were knowledgeable and were able to make last-minute alterations to the schedule to allow us to make the most of every glorious moment of this holiday. I doubt if I will go to Antarctica again, but if I could, I would go again with Exodus and Quark. The free coat was pretty cool too. Only downside was the long journey with the stop at Sao Paulo and the overnight at Ushuaia. Aerolineas Argentinas was delightfully quirky but Exodus had the foresight to allow plenty of transfer time so we didn't miss any connections. And a special "thank you" to their out-of-hours service (and in-hours service too!) for sorting out a couple of minor hitches with all efficiency and politeness.
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The moment in Paradise Bay when they cut the engine of the Zodiac, the camera shutters stopped and the silence was absolute.
What did you think of your group leader?
Brilliant. A very people-person, knowledgeable, very safety conscious, and unfailing enthusiasm.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Take lots of layers. We had sunshine and no wind and boiled in our thermals. Take your swimming costume - it may well be needed. And don't forget the sunscreen.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Take plenty of books for the journey, go find the crazy houses in Ushuaia, have a go at everything that is offered and make sure you're fit. There's a lot more scrambling, slipping and sliding than you would expect and it's as hard to go down the mountains as up them. It's not glamorous, the penguins pong and the elephant seals make noises that have to be heard to be believed. Just go for it. Enjoy.
Kath Morgan

ANTARCTIC EXPLORER

Written January 2011
I was expecting something special but nothing could prepare me for the absolutely breathtaking landscapes, turquoise icebergs and such marvellous encounters with penguins, whales and seals. I was, and still am, overwhelmed by the beauty and remoteness of Antarctica!
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
This was my first ever trip where i have travelled alone and the sense of personal achievement was enormous.
Watching a glacier calve
The captain of the Vavilov turning around to extend a whale watching encounter
The stillness and beauty after climbing a mountain ridge for phenomenal views...quite humbling!
What did you think of your group leader?
Absolutely fantastic. Demonstrated a professional but relaxed manner with all guests and always striving to maximise the experience with flexible itinaries
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
I had some "wobbles" before i went re- travelling alone mostly, but i would say to anyone who is hesitating to go for it. The comradeship between passengers is heartwarming and there is nowhere on earth quite like it. I would go back in a heartbeat. By far the most stunning place on earth i have ever seen!
The ship is warm and comfortable so take some light clothing for the evenings. I almost overheated in my thermal gear ;-)
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Thankyou to exodus. The support i had from the team in the booking office was invaluable. I almost missed out on this trip through self doubt but all my questions were answered honestly and gave me enough reassurance to go ahead. Because of this i look forward to my next adventure with them.
alison eales

ANTARCTIC EXPLORER

Written February 2010
Fantastic holiday. The numbers of penguins and seals were just what I'd hoped for but the large number of Whales were an added bonus. I cannot begin to describe the atmosphere and the surreal experiance of cruising in the Zodiacs through the giant icebergs. Sharing this with a great group of people from all over the world made it a dream holiday
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What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Difficult to choose, and I thought it would be being close to the penguins or the seals but infact just sitting on deck taking in the quiet, stillness and sheer size of the scenary is the moment I will cherish.
What did you think of your group leader?
Our group leader was good, keeping us fully informed of our plans with regular updates. The whole team were great and so knowledgeable with an obvious love of their topic and antarctica. The information lectures were delivered at just the right pitch for interest and entertainment especially Mickalow's.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
The fleece lined parka provided on this trip is great so don't take up room packing your own thick fleece or waterproof. Thin layers are best and I didn't find it too cold even on the zodiacs, 2 base layes and a thin fleece enough and inside the ship it is warm so you can soon thaw out if you do get cold.
Sea sickness was not mentioned in any reviews I read but it is a big problem for a lot of people. We were lucky with an apparently smooth sail across the drake passage, but many were ill. Hyocine patches worked well for most of us, but put them on a few hours before you set sail so they start to take effect
Check out the Quark website as this is who you will be travelling with and they have more information on there
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I pondered this trip too long and was repeatedly asked why go there?
If it somewhere you would like to go then just do it. You will not be disappointed.