Traveler Testimonials
K. Schankie
“The beauty and tranquility of Antarctica is indescribable! We didn't think we would enjoy this trip as much as some of our previous nature trips, however, that wasn't the case. As we trudged up the snowy hill to the airport we both decided we could get back on the boat right then and do the trip again. We loved the small sailing boat with only seven guests. We truly enjoyed Ben and his crew. What a wonderful way to travel while in Antarctica. After seeing some of the "cruise" ships, I was so grateful to have been on Ben's small sailing vessel!”
S. Cook
“The boat crew was fantastic! We have been on several Nat Hab trips and have found ALL guides to be of the highest standards. Our Expedition Leader John was the BEST! He really went out of his way to help both of us have a wonderful experience. He was very good with people. Exceptionally professional and knowledgeable. He looked after our safety, personal interests and comfort. We will definitely seek him out on future excursions!”
B. Smallwood
“I REALLY enjoyed the fact that the itinerary was, to a degree, flexible. Being on a small boat/small group gives that nimble ability, and I thought it was fantastic to 'customize' the trip as it unfolded. That is one of the most special things I have told people since my return. The trip was excellent--no two ways about it.”
J. Atha
"This trip was truly a trip of a lifetime and was well designed and well managed. I felt the combination of activities, expedition leader and crew was exactly right. I wish I could go again soon!!"
K. Gardiner
“Everything about this trip was incredibly professional and perfectly organized. Our safety was always priority, in often challenging conditions. All the gear and equipment was near, if not brand new. The gear also ensured we got the most out of everyday irrespective of the conditions. The attention to detail, logistics and communication really made every day's activities feel seamless. I've never felt affection for a boat before but I certainly did after our expedition around the Antarctic Peninsula. Having not spent very much time on the water I was nervous about how I would go. But I immediately felt completely at home onboard the Australis, and felt completely safe. This was absolutely because of the amazing crew who instantly gave us an inherent sense of confidence and freedom. Our guide, John, was also exceptional and really made Antarctica a life-changing adventure”
G. Spates
“I loved just being in that part of Antarctica with its dark water and stark white, never-the-same icebergs, its mostly black rock mountains and massive, endless, glaciers. The scenery--most of all--and the wildlife viewing were grand and made grander by the ship's captain to slow down, turn, circle, re-circle to further experience certain icebergs, whales, dolphin, etc. Ben and Magnus were quite attentive that way, and also willingly shared their own life experiences and feelings with us with passion and great humor. Anais was an excellent cook, assistant in many things and also expressed her love of what she was experiencing. And our Expedition Leader, John, urged each of us to have as "up close and personal" an experience as possible. For example when we were kayaking he would keep the Zodiak at a distance as much as possible so that the noise of the motor would not interfere with our experience: the quiet of paddling--or the sound of avalanche! Yet he remained aware of our safety, and would zoom toward anyone as needed. He was always watching out for each of us in our different abilities and weaknesses, yet not hovering and enabling. I have been a guide at a small wildlife refuge in the states. I know what a responsibility it is: knowledge, adventure, but safety and health too. John has it all!”
B. Walker
“The Captain, Magnus, was absolutely terrific. The first mate was a major factor in the trip's dynamics--he was always offering up Zodiac side trips and the like, and was a really nice guy. Ana the cook was a pleasure to be around.”
R. Rush
“Annie did a great job! She worked very hard to do her job at 110% all the time. She was cheerful and willing to do anything that was needed to make this a great trip.”
“The beauty and tranquility of Antarctica is indescribable! We didn't think we would enjoy this trip as much as some of our previous nature trips, however, that wasn't the case. As we trudged up the snowy hill to the airport we both decided we could get back on the boat right then and do the trip again. We loved the small sailing boat with only seven guests. We truly enjoyed Ben and his crew. What a wonderful way to travel while in Antarctica. After seeing some of the "cruise" ships, I was so grateful to have been on Ben's small sailing vessel!”
S. Cook
“The boat crew was fantastic! We have been on several Nat Hab trips and have found ALL guides to be of the highest standards. Our Expedition Leader John was the BEST! He really went out of his way to help both of us have a wonderful experience. He was very good with people. Exceptionally professional and knowledgeable. He looked after our safety, personal interests and comfort. We will definitely seek him out on future excursions!”
B. Smallwood
“I REALLY enjoyed the fact that the itinerary was, to a degree, flexible. Being on a small boat/small group gives that nimble ability, and I thought it was fantastic to 'customize' the trip as it unfolded. That is one of the most special things I have told people since my return. The trip was excellent--no two ways about it.”
J. Atha
"This trip was truly a trip of a lifetime and was well designed and well managed. I felt the combination of activities, expedition leader and crew was exactly right. I wish I could go again soon!!"
K. Gardiner
“Everything about this trip was incredibly professional and perfectly organized. Our safety was always priority, in often challenging conditions. All the gear and equipment was near, if not brand new. The gear also ensured we got the most out of everyday irrespective of the conditions. The attention to detail, logistics and communication really made every day's activities feel seamless. I've never felt affection for a boat before but I certainly did after our expedition around the Antarctic Peninsula. Having not spent very much time on the water I was nervous about how I would go. But I immediately felt completely at home onboard the Australis, and felt completely safe. This was absolutely because of the amazing crew who instantly gave us an inherent sense of confidence and freedom. Our guide, John, was also exceptional and really made Antarctica a life-changing adventure”
G. Spates
“I loved just being in that part of Antarctica with its dark water and stark white, never-the-same icebergs, its mostly black rock mountains and massive, endless, glaciers. The scenery--most of all--and the wildlife viewing were grand and made grander by the ship's captain to slow down, turn, circle, re-circle to further experience certain icebergs, whales, dolphin, etc. Ben and Magnus were quite attentive that way, and also willingly shared their own life experiences and feelings with us with passion and great humor. Anais was an excellent cook, assistant in many things and also expressed her love of what she was experiencing. And our Expedition Leader, John, urged each of us to have as "up close and personal" an experience as possible. For example when we were kayaking he would keep the Zodiak at a distance as much as possible so that the noise of the motor would not interfere with our experience: the quiet of paddling--or the sound of avalanche! Yet he remained aware of our safety, and would zoom toward anyone as needed. He was always watching out for each of us in our different abilities and weaknesses, yet not hovering and enabling. I have been a guide at a small wildlife refuge in the states. I know what a responsibility it is: knowledge, adventure, but safety and health too. John has it all!”
B. Walker
“The Captain, Magnus, was absolutely terrific. The first mate was a major factor in the trip's dynamics--he was always offering up Zodiac side trips and the like, and was a really nice guy. Ana the cook was a pleasure to be around.”
R. Rush
“Annie did a great job! She worked very hard to do her job at 110% all the time. She was cheerful and willing to do anything that was needed to make this a great trip.”
