Authentic Expeditions

(00:00:00) 18. Expedition Cruise Photography with Andres Cruz (00:01:05) Growing up in the Galapagos (00:02:02) Isolation Then and Now (00:04:09) Discovering Photography (00:05:15) Cruise Photography Mindset (00:07:31) Smartphone Photography Tips (00:09:09) Wildlife and Composition (00:11:00) Camera Gear Essentials (00:12:29) Video and Snorkel Footage (00:13:28) Arctic Challenges and Zodiacs (00:1...

(00:00:00) 17. Discovering Alaska with Captain Dan Blanchard (00:04:11) Small Ship Advantage (00:06:58) Best Time to Go (00:10:21) Wild Encounters At Sea (00:13:12) Passion behind UnCruise (00:15:18) Responsible Travel Choices (00:19:52) Why it is called UnCruise (00:21:25) Tlingit Adoption Story (00:24:04) A Day on Expedition (00:28:59) Wifi and being present (00:32:02) Planning a Trip (00:35:37)...

(00:00:00) 16. Exploring Canada’s Wild Coasts and the High Arctic with Martin Aldrich (00:03:25) Where the High Arctic Is (00:04:28) Best Time to Go North (00:08:45) Life and People of the Arctic (00:12:57) Building the Expedition Team (00:15:52) Atlantic Canada Highlights (00:18:58) Pacific Northwest Voyages (00:20:06) Solo Traveller Options (00:21:40) New Trips and New Ships Host Sue Stockdale i...

In this episode, host Sue Stockdale speaks with Pierre Thomas, Business Development Manager Expedition, Silversea Cruises, about the unique aspects of expedition cruises.  Pierre, who has traveled extensively in Africa, highlights the unique itineraries of small-sized expedition cruises to remote locations like the Galapagos, the Arctic, Antarctica, and Africa's coasts. He describes detailed itine...

Sue Stockdale speaks with Arctic expedition leader Hilde Fålun Strøm about her unique experiences living in Svalbard and her commitment to conservation. Hilda shares insights on the challenges of enduring 24-hour darkness, her transformative 19-month stay in a trapper's cabin during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of routine and adaptation in extreme environments.  The conversation also...

Anthony Daniels, UK and Ireland General Manager, Ponant and Chair of the Expedition Cruise Network, joins host Sue Stockdale to discuss the evolution of expedition cruises from uncomfortable, science-led ships to today's more comfortable and engaging experiences.  Topics covered include the growing interest in citizen science, community involvement, the appeal to solo travellers, and the strict en...

Host Sue Stockdale talks to Jean Pennycook, an expert on wildlife with a special focus on penguins. Jean shares her experiences living in a tent on Ross Island, Antarctica, monitoring penguin colonies. She discusses the study of penguins, their adaptability to the harsh environment, and her role in citizen science projects. Jean also emphasises the importance of protecting the Antarctic ecosystem....

Sue Stockdale interviews wildlife presenter Billy Heaney who discusses his early fascination with wildlife introduced through films and his grandparents, leading to a career as a wildlife presenter and filmmaker.  They delve into his experiences guiding tours in places like the Hebrides and Antarctica, highlighting memorable encounters with wildlife such as eagles, dolphins, and whales.  Billy sha...

Sue Stockdale delves into the empowering world of solo travel with guests Sue White and Andy Harmer. Sue White shares her transition from an accidental solo traveler to an avid explorer, highlighting her adventures in Barbados and Cambodia. She emphasizes the liberation and self-discovery that solo journeys can offer. Andy Harmer, a seasoned traveller and cruise expert, recounts his first solo exp...

Glaciologist and polar expedition guide Leo Decaux takes us inside the heart of the ice. Based in Svalbard, Leo spends his days exploring the inner workings of glaciers—traversing ice tunnels, collecting data, and unlocking the secrets of our planet’s climate story. He also guides on expedition cruises through Antarctica and the Arctic, helping guests witness the polar regions with scientific insi...

Sue Stockdale speaks with Greenland expedition guide Bettina Ovgaard, whose decades of experience living and working in the Arctic have given her a deep understanding of this extraordinary land. Bettina shares stories of unexpected detours, ancient Norse ruins, and the powerful silence that defines Greenland’s landscape. She offers a thoughtful perspective on guiding with respect: for nature, for...

Sue Stockdale talks to Oli Oldroyd of True North Adventures, to get an insider's perspective on the vast, remote, and breathtaking Kimberley region of Northwest Australia. They discuss the region’s unique landscapes, abundant wildlife and rich heritage. Oli shares personal experiences from his expeditions, detailing the immersive activities such as helicopter rides, waterfall showers, and fishing...

Ashley Perrin shares what it takes to lead an expedition cruise in some of the most remote and extreme environments on earth. As an expedition leader with Aurora Expeditions, she offers powerful insight into risk, responsibility, and the importance of mindset for people travelling in the polar regions. From citizen science and conservation to dealing with unpredictable weather and guiding passenge...

Sue Stockdale talks to Emma Ridley, Expedition Development and Field Manager for Lindblad Expeditions, about her life on the Galapagos Islands. Emma shares her journey from arriving in Galapagos straight out of university to falling in love with the islands' unique wildlife and natural harmony. The conversation covers practical travel tips, sustainable tourism practices, and the incredible wildlif...

Sue Stockdale talks to Graham and Chrissie Mitchell, first-time expedition cruisers from Buckinghamshire, England. They recount their unforgettable voyage to East Greenland, sharing their motivations, preparations, and unique experiences. Graham and Chrissie discuss the awe-inspiring landscapes, the unexpected encounters with wildlife, and the transformative impact of seeing the natural world up c...

(00:00:00) 03. Walking on thin ice: Life as a polar explorer with Sue Stockdale (00:01:37) Sue Stockdale's Arctic Adventures (00:03:55) Facing Challenges and Building Resilience (00:06:02) Embracing the Expedition Mindset (00:08:31) Dealing with Fears and Team Dynamics (00:10:21) Lessons from the Arctic (00:13:40) The Magic of Silence and Expedition Cruising (00:16:41) Environmental Responsibility...

(00:00:00) 02. Exploring the World of Expedition Cruising with Jane Middleton (00:04:03) The Allure of Expedition Cruising (00:07:39) The Importance of Responsible Tourism (00:09:10) Jane's Memorable Travel Experiences (00:11:58) Impact of COVID-19 on Travel (00:15:08) Planning the Perfect Expedition Cruise (00:23:14) Trends in Expedition Cruising (00:26:50) What Authentic Travel Means Sue Stockda...

In this opening episode of Authentic Expeditions, host Sue Stockdale introduces listeners to the world of expedition cruising through compelling stories from expedition leaders, experienced travellers and experts. Highlights include expedition leader Ashley Perrin's advice on the importance of flexibility and trust on voyages, glaciologist Leo Decaux’s eye-opening account of rapid glacial retreat...