Ian returned in March from a Motorcycling trip throughout Chile and Argentina, during which he also took a cruise from Ushuaia to Punta Arenas. Here he tells us about his experiences on his trip, and in booking through Swoop and our partners…
What did Swoop do well?
Swoop were very helpful and efficient. They responded quickly, got in touch rapidly with people who knew the answers to my questions, and most importantly enabled me to take my motorbike with me on the trip.
What could we have done differently?
Nothing.
How did you enjoy your Cruise Itinerary and Excursions?
The cruise was really good, there was always something to do and there was no chance to get bored. If anything there was to much to do and little chance to just admire the scenery we were travelling through (but that was more my fault for wanting to go to all the talks/presentations etc)!
How were the staff and guides on your cruise?
Excellent. The ship’s crew were incredibly helpful in getting my bike on the boat and securing her. The expedition crew were all incredibly helpful, very knowledgeable and good fun.
What did you think of the Cruise vessel?
It was modern, well designed, and very comfortable.
Is there anything you would have changed about this part of your trip?
I would have potentially done a longer trip. We had very bad weather and so didn’t make it onto Cape Horn Island, or round the Horn. I’m not even sure I’d change this though, as it meant that I saw Cape Horn, a legendary landmark amongst sailors across the world.
I’m going to be able to annoy people for the rest of my life when they say ‘that’s a little bit choppy’, responding with “well, it’s not gale force winds at Cape Horn…”
What was the highlight of your trip overall?
Taking my motorbike to Cape Horn, and potentially having the most southerly motorbike in the world for a while!
Do you have any tips for other people planning a trip?
-Do it, you won’t regret it.
-Don’t expect it to be a cruise, throw yourself into the expeditions, talks etc.
-Take warm and waterproof clothes (as recommended).
-Listen to the crew.
Did you manage to visit anywhere else in Chile or Argentina?
Yes! My trip started in Buenos Aires, I drove down to Ushuaia, took the Cruise to Punta Arenas, then went to Porvenir, Puerto Natales (and Torres del Paine), Calafate (and Perito Moreno glaciar), Chalten, Carretera Austal, Chiloe, Pucon and am now in Santiago. It’s all been amazing but I think Chile might just be edging it as a favourite at the moment!
Why not take a look at Iain’s blog from his trip!
