It’s hard to describe the wonder of the experience we had on this trip. It was truly more an adventure than a “trip”. Starting with Ushuaia and the surrounding area, especially the National Park. We got a small taste of Patagonia and wish we had left more time to explore there. Once at sea, we were lucky (?) enough to experience the “Drake Shake” for real. The crew and staff were great in making sure everyone was safe and brought dinner to everyone’s room at the peak of the storm. (There were generously placed barf-bags scattered throughout the ship which fortunately we didn’t need. 🤢)
The landscape and the wildlife viewing exceeded all expectations – Humpback, Minke, and Orca whales, 3 types of penguin, Fur seals, Leopard seals, and countless species of birds. (And we witnessed a Leopard seal and penguin interaction that did not end well for the penguin.) It’s taken me 2 weeks to get through and organize all the photos and films.
The ship and the crew of Oceanwide Expeditions could not have been more professional, friendly, and courteous. The expertise they provided for on-board lectures and zodiac expeditions was outstanding, and being able to sit and talk with the researchers on board about their study being conducted during the trip was very special.
The accommodations Hemingstone Travel recommended on the front and back ends (Ushuaia and Buenos Aires) were excellent – comfortable, classy, and convenient. You did your usual great job for us. We could not recommend this voyage and the itinerary any higher.