We were recommended to One Ocean and Akademik Ioffe for a trip that would maximise the experience of visiting our seventh continent and were not disappointed. If you want to sit in comfort watching the scenery pass by, this is not for you. If you are happy to spend up to 5 hours a day (or longer overnight) either ashore or cruising in the zodiacs, there is probably no better option. We did the Quest for the Circle cruise, flying to Falklands and boarding the ship there, then flying back from King George Island. This maximised time in Antarctica, but still meant we had our "right of passage" to be there
The experts on board were fantastic. John our historian was in his 51st year in Antarctica, and holds the Polar Medal - not a bad start! Birds, mammals, glaciers, geology - it was all covered both in excellent talks aboard or on shore. Having them join us in the open dining room was an added benefit. Safety, equipment and attention to detail were superb. The whole expedition team operated extremely efficiently and smoothly. The Russian crew provided waitress and cleaning services efficiently and unobtrusively - their English was adequate.
We had a twin cabin with private facilities that provided all we needed. Our concierge could not be more attentive to our needs including when we were a bit off colour with the rough first night.
Twin comfortable berths, heaps of storage and hanging space, bathroom bigger than many we have had. Table and chair between the berths. Opening window was a bonus to get great photos from the cabin and fresh air.