Good overall
by Amol Karnik
Departure in January 2025
Region: Antarctica
Destinations: Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands, Falkland Islands, South Georgia
Ship: m/v Plancius
Highlights: Emperor Penguin, Antarctic Fur Seal, Adelie Penguin, Chinstrap Penguin, Southern Elephant Seal, Fin Whale, Gentoo Penguin, Humpback Whale, Killer Whale, King Penguin, Macaroni Penguin, Magellanic Penguin, Rockhopper Penguin, Sei Whale, Southern Right Whale, Wandering Albatross, Weddell Seal, Black-browed Albatross, Snow Petrel, Shearwater, Antarctic Shag, Light-mantled Albatross, Pintado Petrel, Prion, Wilson's Storm Petrel, Storm Petrel, Commerson’s Dolphin, Striated Caracara, Hiking, Blackish Cinclodes, Peale’s Dolphin, Birding, Snowy Sheathbill, Falkland Steamer Duck, Hourglass Dolphin
We had a fabulous time on board. The facilities were excellent, the food was delicious, the service was impeccable and the expedition guides and staff were delightful and friendly. We do have one or possibly two regrets. We got to spend less than 24 hours around the peninsula amidst icebergs (compared to 3+ days around S Georgia), so it definitely wasn't enough time in Antartica to enjoy the landscapes and the mesmerising beauty of the icebergs and perhaps enjoy more of the wildlife. It would have also been nice to do a landing on the continent. Considering that Antartica is the main goal of most, if not all visitors, this should be what every trip should be focussed around. We (and many other passengers) felt similarly and were disappointed by this one aspect of the trip. I understand that the itinerary is subject to weather conditions, but it also sounded like we were unable to go to the western side of the peninsula due to 'traffic'. I do not wish to sound ungrateful for the experience but I felt it was important that this sentiment is honestly relayed. I hope that this feedback is taken in the spirit that it is intended.
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Comment from Oceanwide Expeditions
Thank you for sharing your thoughts about your recent voyage. We truly appreciate your feedback and understand that missing a continental landing in Antarctica may have been disappointing for you.
Our goal is always to provide the best possible experience while ensuring safety, accessibility, and optimal conditions for all guests. The itinerary for each expedition is carefully planned, but as you experienced, Antarctica’s ever-changing weather, ice conditions, and site availability can sometimes require adjustments. This season, we encountered significant ice in certain areas, including near Cape Burd, which prevented a safe landing despite our best efforts.
That being said, we are glad that you were able to experience the breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife of Antarctica, including the spectacular conditions in Antarctic Sound, the stunning encounters with whales and penguins, and the variety of landings and zodiac excursions that made this trip unique. Our team always strives to maximize time off the ship and provide diverse opportunities for exploration while balancing the realities of navigating such a remote and unpredictable environment.
We truly value your feedback, and we hope that despite this particular disappointment, the overall journey left you with unforgettable memories of this incredible region.