I took part in the February-March 2026 Antarctic Adventure in SH Vega. This was my first ever cruise of any kind as my late wife and I never saw ourselves as 'cruise' people. However, the allure of Antarctica in a small ship (152 pax) drew me to this expedition cruise and travelled as a solo passenger, aged 78. I was not disappointed. The coordination between my UK travel agents (Audley Travel) was first-class and so the information I received via both channels was consistent and timely. The charter flights (flown by Aerolineas Argentinas) arranged by Swan Hellenic from the package starting point of Buenos Aires and Ushuaia and return were Economy class only but it was only a 2½ hr flight so was acceptable. The consequent restrictions on baggage allowance could have been significant for some but were apparently no strictly enforced.The SH Vega is a delightful ship. Big enough to be comfortable but small enough to navigate into some quite tight bays to achieve exciting and interesting landings. The standard of my 4 Deck cabin was excellent and would have been as comfortable for two as it was for me as a solo passenger. Cabin service by my steward Dom was excellent as was the restaurant and bar service by a team of smiling staff from the Philippines. The quality and quantities of food and inclusive drinks was tip top. I enjoyed a personal tour of the bridge offered to me by the charming Captain Lubo Garcianov on Day2 as an unexpected treat. He is clearly a great leader and an highly accomplished mariner.The Expedition team was the making of the adventure for me. They were young, knowledgeable and enthusiastic and guided us safely and firmly on the daily shore visits in the zodiac. These visits all included magnificent sights and sounds of the plentiful wildlife of the Southern Continent and the surreal scenery. Back on board, the Exped Team were friendly and approachable and gave an interesting series of lectures in the comfort of the large Observation Lounge. The optional Sea Kayaking events was ably led by Alison and was one of the highlights of the trip for me. The voluntary Polar Plunge was another memorable event!My fellow passengers were in the main, most agreeable and I was able to engage with many and formed new friendships. I was surprised to find such a large contingent of Russians on board, who had a rather different approach to the adventure so the passenger population naturally split into two main camps.In sum, I was delighted with the Antarctic Adventure in SH Vega. I will probably not do another expedition cruise for at my advancing age, I need to tick off some other' bucket list' trips before I crumble.
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