Cara Kuipers review 17 Apr 2010
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
There are so many to choose from. I'll always remember holding the loggerhead turtle when our scientist tagged him. But when we spotted sperm whales socialising, that was spectacular! Rubbing themselves against each other, they were putting on a nice show for us to watch. On another day we spotted a sperm whale group of probably over 20 individuals. They were feeding and one by one they popped up at the surface to breath. We spend over 2 hours with them. The scientists are just great! We had many talks about the animals and about the research, I learned a lot.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Bring warm clothing, but in layers. It can get nice and hot, but it can also get chilly and wet. Waterproof trousers and jacket is an absolute must, though I hope you won't need them. And on a sunny day, put sunblock on the back of your hands.... trust me!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Absolutely! The scientists really make sure that you know why your there and what you mean to them and their research.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
9/10. Just because I never give maximum...
Patty Tse review 20 May 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The diversity of cetaceans is really high in the area. Imagine where else on earth can you encounter 8 cetacean species (blue whale, fin whale, sperm whale, humpback whale, Cuvier's beak whale, pilot whale, bottlenose dolphin, common dolphin) in 7 boat trips? And what's more, some of they appeared in huge numbers and in high frequency! It's really happy working and playing with a group of like-minded people from different parts of the world. The researcher, the boat captain and the expedition leader are all very professional.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
The waves and wind in the mid-Atlantic can be very strong. If you have seasick problem, it may not be very suitable.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, we bought food from the local market and dinned at local restaurants.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It's really a wonderful working holiday. I learned a lot and enjoyed it very much. I'm also happy to have contributed to scientific research.
