Michael Hirsch
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?”
Michael Hirsch's Trip Date:
26th Jun - 10th Jul 2023
What was your most memorable moment?
Seeing polar bears with cubs and with kills was great, but the moment that got me was the bird cliffs (Alkegjellet in particular). Just to see such a huge concentration of wildlife in one place was stunning.
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: Spitsbergen Circumnavigation?
10 out of 10
Were Swoop right to recommend Aurora?
Yes
Tell us about Zodiac excursions
Absolutely. Great way to get around and up close. Expedition team was very professional with keeping distance when needed (each had a range finder). Great situation awareness. Most of the time, we managed to get close without disturbing the animals. Most memorable: saw bird cliffs, glacier front, puffins and a bear on ice that decided to take a swim, all on one zodiac cruise.
Tell us about the expedition team
I've already mentioned Howard Whelan above. If I had advance knowledge of the cruises that he would lead, that could seriously convince me to join. John Kirkwood has amazing knowledge. Heather Chrystie lights up everything around her. Pure energy. Scott Portelli (photographer) knew what was needed for a photography zodiac. There was a waitlist for his zodiac. Unfortunately, not enough designated photography zodiacs for the large number of photographers. Avi Schluter had great knowledge and experience of conditions. New to Aurora, but she is going to be great. Jeff Nagel was head of the protection-from-polar-bears swad. Could see him and his crew out on the periphery, and with my long lens, could see that they were taking their job seriously. Very comforting. Can't say good enough words about Justine Bornholdt. She kept the expedition logistics flowing seamlessly. It was always good to be around Wesley McNeil. Deep experience, knows what is happening. Unfortunately, he was with the kayakers most of the time. That's most of the team. The others seemed to be on their first or second cruise, but I am sure they will become more comfortable with their role as they settle in.
Tell us about the Sylvia Earle
Yes, I would definitely choose this ship again. It was our second trip (previous was Antarctic, South Georgia and Falklands). The ship is perfect for what it does. On/off in zodiacs is *SMOOTH*. The hotel staff are tops, from the room people to the restaurant staff. I appreciated also the caution taken by the captain and navigation crew in and around waters that probably aren't as well charted as elsewhere (I have a skipper's license).
Something Else?
It was a pleasure meeting Malva on the cruise. She is great.
Do you have any tips or advice for other people planning a trip to The Arctic?
1. Do it. It is worth the money. 2. Follow carefully the literature, advice and zoom meetings that you people put out. It make the trip more enjoyable.
Has your experience changed your perspective in any way?
Actually, it was the Antarctic trip that changed my perspective and this one was a follow up! Not sure how you can give brutally honest advice like "You only live your life once" or "Do this while you still have your health."
Do you have any recommendations for Swoop, or feedback about the team?
Spread the word :-) Seriously, try to look at the previous answer and figure out how you can say those things gently but persuasively.
Would you consider another trip to the Arctic with Swoop?
No
Would you be interested in travelling to Antarctica with Swoop?
No
Would you be interested in travelling to Patagonia with Swoop?
No