Ocean Endeavour

Ocean Endeavour was built in 1982 for a Soviet Union state company as a Baltic Ferry and despite a number of refurbishments she remained essentially a converted car ferry. However, she was fairly well appointed- even if a little outdated - and comfortable and she handled well in the weather that we encountered. In my opinion she was ideal for the voyage – and the Captain allowed us free access to the Bridge except when they were manoeuvring or docking.

The housekeeping and catering on board was faultless – breakfast and dinner were buffet style with the usual special cooking stations which varied from day to day. Dinner was served at the table with generous servings of very drinkable wines. There was nothing that was served or offered which was not of excellent standard and of course the mostly Filipino hotel staff were friendly, efficient and accommodating.

Alongside this comfort and efficiency, the expedition team were almost all very experienced and knowledgeable. The only exceptions were a couple of the younger recruits who were just starting their careers. In addition to the Historian and ornithologist already referred to, we had specialists in Marine mammals, Geology, Glaciology, Photography, Geopolitics, Kayaking, Mountaineering, Skiing and of course a three man medical team. The only Scot in the team was a qualified ER doctor who had been coming to the Antarctic for many years even though he was now working as a guide and zodiac driver

Our expedition leader Solan Jensen engendered confidence and in addition to being an excellent communicator and constantly enthusiastic. All in all it was very hard to find fault with anything – other than there never seemed to be any free time – even on our sea days.

Only real issue was too many people - thankfully we could retire to our cabin and avoid the crowded clubroom.