Unfortunately, the ABD journey to Antarctica is too early in the year for me. I do have the opportunity to travel with either Ponant (but not an ABD tour) or with Quark on Ultramarine. I know there are people on this board who do not care for Quark because of previous bad behavior with regard to cancellation. Let me just say that I am now purchasing a cancel for any reason insurance policy for ALL my travel —(and even ABD has been guilty of that bad behavior regarding cancellations as well), so this may not play such a role in my decision. However, I wondered if anyone had ever sailed on the ships and can say anything about the experience. Here are some specific questions:
1. I would not have a balcony on ultramarine. How essential is this for the experience?
2. How is the food on either ship?
3. Any issues with related to language? I know Ponant is French ship line – anybody feel as if they were second class because they were non-French speaking?
4. Has anyone done the helicopter flight with any company in the Antarctic? Is the 20 minute ride you were supposedly guaranteed to have worth the additional expense by traveling with Quark?
1. I would not have a balcony on ultramarine. How essential is this for the experience?
2. How is the food on either ship?
3. Any issues with related to language? I know Ponant is French ship line – anybody feel as if they were second class because they were non-French speaking?
4. Has anyone done the helicopter flight with any company in the Antarctic? Is the 20 minute ride you were supposedly guaranteed to have worth the additional expense by traveling with Quark?