Massive elephant seals, playful humpback whales, and visiting the Garden of Eden? Swan Hellenic’s Expedition Operations Manager, Sam Gagnon, chats about his expedition adventures and much more…
How did you first become interested in expedition cruising?
Sam: In 2003, I started working as a videographer, shooting fun stuff for guests on large cruise ships. I noticed smaller cruise ships going from port to port and liked the idea of being part of expeditions. So, I got a job on an expedition ship, which led to me becoming a guide and then an expedition leader!
Tell us about your time with Swan Hellenic!
Sam: I started with three trips in Antarctica as expedition leader and went on to become Expedition Operations Manager a year and a half ago. I work shoreside and find staff within the industry, hiring people with the specific skills needed for our voyages and ensuring they have the right training. I also deal with the expedition equipment we have on board. Swan Hellenic always uses the very best equipment and focuses on safety at all times.
What’s the difference between expedition voyages and traditional cruises?
Sam: Expedition cruising is much more personal and more approachable. Our smaller ships mean we get to create special relationships with our guests, and our shared interests create a real sense of camaraderie. Sharing these special moments wouldn’t be possible on a bigger cruise ship. It’s what makes expedition voyages with us so unforgettable!
Special adventures
So what’s the best thing about expedition voyages with Swan Hellenic?
Sam: To be able to visit places you can't usually get to. Expedition ships can access remote places, which really opens up a whole realm of possibilities!
What are the benefits of choosing a Swan Hellenic expedition voyage?
Sam: For me, it’s the relationship that develops between our expeditions team and guests. Our experienced teams are all experts in their field, and the knowledge they share really enhances the expedition experience for our guests. It really does bring them closer to the amazing destinations we visit! Some people might think cruise ships are all pretty similar.
Can you explain why they’re not?
Sam: Our elegant ships are built in Finland, in the shipyard where many of the world's leading icebreakers were built. Our vessels don’t just look good, they’re built like little tanks, with a real focus on safety, sustainability and performance. The craftsmanship of our ships is amazing – the way they’re put together in Finland makes such a difference. The stylish Scandi-inspired interiors and layouts of our ships make them really stand out too.
Amazing encounters
What’s been the most inspiring natural phenomenon you've seen?
Sam: When I visited South Georgia, I had to pause for a few minutes because it was like nothing I’d ever imagined. You have to go there to really understand. There’s so much wildlife on the beach, it’s like the Garden of Eden. Such an incredible amount of wildlife, you can’t help wondering how it’s even possible. It was, hands down, the most incredible thing I’ve ever seen. For instance, there are massive elephant seals, which are bigger than cars, all over the beach. And so many king penguins. It’s crazy!
What do you have to bear in mind when you’re interacting with wildlife on an expedition cruise?
Sam: The main thing is to keep your distance. People often want to be as close as possible, but we need to stick to the rules. For instance, with penguins it’s five meters away. Everyone needs to be generally aware and respect the amazing wildlife we get to see.
How about the most incredible wildlife you’ve encountered?
Sam: We were sailing back to South America from Antarctica, and we encountered over 60 humpback whales in the Drake Passage. There were feeding and having fun, so we stopped to watch. We stayed for a couple of hours and it was incredible. The whales were playing – tapping the ship with their fins!