There are a few lines on the globe that are noteworthy in the maritime world for those who cross them. The Equator is perhaps the most well-known. These important "line crossings" come with notorious traditions, especially in the navy, said to have been created to boost morale or as a test for newer sailors to ensure that they were capable enough to handle the imminent rough seas. Many of these traditions have been carried over into the passenger cruise world, as seen in the photos below.
We were lucky enough to join the ranks of the few who can say they have crossed the Antarctic Polar Circle. On March 2nd, we crossed 66 degrees south. This line is the northern limit at which the summer sun remains above the horizon (or in winter, below the horizon) for 24 hours.
There is no traditional ceremony for crossing the Antarctic Polar Circle, but that did not stop our expedition team and ship crew from borrowing a few ideas from the Equator-crossing shindig and putting on a comical display led by King Neptune, who was accompanied by mermaids, pirates, and more. A trial was held with silly, made-up infractions that various members of the crew had committed. It was up to the jury of passengers to ultimately decide their fate, which most of the time led to them "kissing the fish" as punishment. Yes, it was indeed a real (dead) fish.
A champagne toast was made, silly photos were taken, a lovely speech was given by the captain, and many brave passengers gave into peer pressure from the constant chants of "KISS THE FISH" - myself included.
After all was said and done, our entire ship are now members of the "Order of the Selkie" as we have crossed the Antarctic Polar Circle.
The response from Adventure Life to my first inquiry was prompt and promising. I worked with Jamie Broeckel, Trip Planner, via text, email, and phone calls- always extremely responsive and thorough with information and explaining the process to arrange a private tour for me to Malaysia Borneo. Within about week, the booking was complete and I made decisions because of Jamie's great customer service , friendly manner, and overall competence on behalf of the company's travel expertise. Now I have an itinerary, additional Trip Planner Assistants, several links for vital information for traveling to Maylasia, etc. Still many details for Sept. trip, but now the heavy lifting is done and I can enjoy the rest of the anticipation and research!! Thanks Jamie- you are amazing!!!!
Susan Campo
2 days ago
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
3 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.