Small ship cruising really is a league all its own. Because of the way these cruises are structured they attract folks from all over the world, all ages and walks of life. During my time on the Wilderness Legacy what I really loved was finding that despite our differences there was a common thread among all the guests on board.
Everyone had an interest in the world around them and wanted to experience the region they were visiting, not just look at it from the ships deck. This is what sets small ship expedition cruising apart from the rest. Though this particular cruise had a more relaxed vibe, we enjoyed new off the ship experiences every day. With no wifi on board and spotty cell service we had the chance to take a true break and disconnect from the outside world while enjoying the company of our fellow cruisers. I most enjoyed sitting and chatting with some of the older guests who were on their third, fourth or fifth UnCruise Adventure and chatting with them about their experiences around the world. Despite our differences we found commonality among our love of travel, our curious natures and our interest in meeting and chatting with folks we might not otherwise encounter.
I've heard people concerned about small ship cruising - its a small group, what if we don't find anyone we like on board? Though you likely won't click with everyone on board you can rest assured that the same reasons you are choosing a small ship cruise are the reasons the others on board are. And that in and of itself gives you some common ground to stand on. You'll be thrilled to find what else you have in common.
I would also be remiss to talk about small ship cruising and not mention the food. WOW. I was blown away not only by the quantity (early riser baked goods, full breakfast lunch and dinner with several options to choose from, afternoon hors d'oeuvres during happy hour and a table with available snacks all day long) but the quality. I had some of the best meals onboard my UnCruise adventure. In fact, I was so enamored with one dish I can home and described it to my husband so he could make me a replica. In particular I want to note the vegetarian options available at all meals which often outstripped the meat and seafood options. There were certainly no corners cut here.
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
2 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.
