Which expedition cruise company do you work for?
Oceanwide Expeditions
What do you think sets your company apart from other expedition cruise operators?
Oceanwide Expeditions owns its fleet of ice-strengthened vessels, which gives us tremendous flexibility and authenticity. On one hand, everyone on board works for the same company, greatly enhancing collaboration. On the other hand, Oceanwide is large in what we do but small enough to really feel like a family. Together, we strive for authentic journeys, continue to innovate and explore, and fully understand that our guests are embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. That’s why we are always eager to share our passion for the stunning polar regions.
Do you have a favourite destination that you always recommend to first-time expedition cruisers and if so, which destination is it?
Even though we only offer trips to the polar regions, there are significant differences between Svalbard, Greenland and Antarctica. Each destination is phenomenal and truly impressive, but if I had to choose just one, my personal favourite would be South Georgia. When you arrive at South Georgia, you're immediately overwhelmed by the layers of scenery: the sea with its seabirds, the waves breaking on the beach—sometimes already filled with penguins—the shore teeming with King Penguins and huge Elephant Seals, the vast King Penguin colonies, and the towering mountains in the background. The combination of it all—the colours, the smells, and the sheer realization of where you are—makes it feel like an absolute privilege to be there.
If you could design your dream expedition cruise itinerary, what would it include?
MV Plancius in South Georgia @Oceanwide Expeditions
Well, that dream expedition already exists. You don’t want to miss anything and want to see it all, so the combination of the Falklands, South Georgia, and Antarctica is, for me, the ultimate dream expedition. It combines the beauty of the sub-Antarctic region, its incredible wildlife and birdlife, with the stunning magnificence of Antarctica.
On the other hand, a dream expedition might also be one that doesn’t exist yet, or a voyage to a place we’re exploring for the first time, like completely circumnavigating the Weddell Sea or Antarctica. A true expedition is about exploring the unknown, venturing where no one has gone before.
Regardless of the destination, my ideal expedition is always the one that's still to come.
What are your top three travel hacks for making the most out of an expedition cruise?
Travel informed: know your destination and what to expect (or not). For example, if you're traveling to Antarctica, research the possibilities, what you can see in different months, the guidelines, and the importance of the ship size. An expedition is often a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as there are so many destinations to explore. It’s crucial to make the right choice when deciding to embark on such a journey.
Another important point is to ensure you and your gear stays dry, especially your photography equipment. When you’re on a zodiac, waves can soak everything, or when hiking in snowy conditions with Antarctic winds, waterproof clothing and backpacks are essential to staying dry and warm. Prepare for the worst so you can fully enjoy the experience.
Finally, embrace flexibility and trust the experts. This is not a typical cruise or a trip with a fixed itinerary. No polar expedition follows Plan A. Knowing and accepting this in advance helps you let go of any stress caused by changes and allows you to enjoy the journey, confident that you’ll experience the best version of the voyage. Focus on what you do see and experience, rather than what you might have missed.
Which lesser-known destination do you think deserves more attention from travellers?
I might be a bit biased, but if I had to choose, I’d go with the Weddell Sea. Most Antarctic expeditions follow the classic route along the Gerlache Strait, which is absolutely breath-taking and a must-see. However, the Weddell Sea, located on the less-visited side of the Antarctic Peninsula, offers something uniquely special. To get there, you sail through the Antarctic Sound, venturing into incredible places like Paulet Island, Brown Bluff, and, if conditions allow, even Snow Hill.
What sets the Weddell Sea apart for me is its sense of vastness. Antarctica is majestic no matter where you go, but in the Weddell Sea, that grandeur feels even more profound. It’s a place where towering tabular icebergs drift silently, and the dramatic landscapes often seem untouched.
The Weddell Sea feels remote, rugged, and wild—a true representation of Antarctica’s untamed beauty. For me, it’s the ultimate destination to experience the overwhelming scale and raw power of this extraordinary continent.
If you could only visit one destination for the rest of your life, which would it be?
If I could only visit one destination for the rest of my life, I would have to repeat the answer I gave about my favourite destination: South Georgia. I know I’m repeating myself, but the island’s incredible diversity makes it truly unforgettable. Its towering mountains, dramatic coastline, rich wildlife, fascinating history, and sheer remoteness combine to create a place like no other.
South Georgia offers an unparalleled experience for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and discovery. The wildlife alone is extraordinary, with massive colonies of King Penguins, Elephant Seals, and countless seabirds thriving in their natural habitat. The landscape is equally breath-taking, with its rugged peaks and glaciers. And then there’s the history—stepping into places tied to legendary explorers like Shackleton feels like walking through a living museum.
But perhaps what makes South Georgia so special is its sense of isolation. It feels like a world apart, untouched and wild, where nature reigns supreme. Every visit feels like a privilege, a rare chance to connect with something truly timeless.
The one thing you take with you wherever you travel:
Although it might seem contradictory, I think the one thing I’d take with me is my phone. Not because I want to take photos or stay connected all the time, and certainly not because I want to be reachable, but because it allows me to share my travels and experiences with the people who matter most to me.
Experiencing something amazing is wonderful in itself, but sharing that experience with a loved one makes it even more special. If those people can’t be there with me during a trip, my phone lets me bridge that gap. Whether it’s sending a photo or sharing a quick message, it helps me connect with them and bring them into the moment. Travel becomes more meaningful when it’s shared, even from a distance.
From Franklin's personal archive:
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