Joel
Polar Specialist

Originally from Wales, I am a 41-year-old travel professional currently living and working remotely from the small cloud forest town of Oxapampa, Peru. I bring over eight years of experience in the travel industry, with a career rooted in expedition-style and nature-focused travel. Each client presents a unique challenge and a chance to create truly meaningful, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. I am especially passionate about polar travel due to the exceptional professionalism of polar operators and the opportunity to work with destinations that are vastly different from the environment I call home.

What I value most about working at Antarctica Cruises is our small, close-knit team. We share a genuine passion for polar regions and a commitment to designing carefully tailored journeys that meet each client’s individual interests, expectations, and sense of adventure. Remote work is another aspect of my role that I deeply appreciate, as it allows me to balance my professional life with managing a small coffee farm in Peru.

When Antarctica Cruises was established, I became the first sales specialist to transfer to the new company, helping shape and grow the brand from its earliest days. Since then, the company has continued to expand, and I am proud to be part of that ongoing growth.

[email protected]
Peru

A Word To Explorers

Don’t go on a tiny boat. Don’t go for the cheapest options.

Beyond the Deck

Polar Pursuits

I’d suggest signing up for an extended kayaking program if you already kayak regularly and are comfortable in cold conditions — these programs are fantastic, but they do require confidence and experience in more demanding environments. If your ship offers polar snorkelling, that’s something I’d absolutely love to do. Seeing the polar regions from below the surface is a rare opportunity and would be an unforgettable experience.

What To Do In Antarctica

An Enduring Memory

Minke At Dawn

My most memorable experience was a very early morning zodiac excursion, surrounded by drifting brash ice and small ice floes. The light was beautiful, with the sun just coming up, and there was total silence — no wind at all. As we drifted along, minke whales began surfacing around the boat, appearing and disappearing under the drifting ice. It was one of those rare moments where everything felt perfectly still, and you’re reminded just how special and untouched these places really are.

Guide To Arctic Whalewatching

My Trusted Fleet

All have nice ships with plenty of amenties, but focus on the expedition, exploration, and educational aspects above all else. Ideally, I’d choose a vessel carrying more than 100 but fewer than 200 passengers. I’d also want decent onboard amenities, including a gym—or at the very least a dedicated space to exercise—as that really helps me feel better on sea days.

Up to 30% savings

Ocean Albatros

8-23 Days, 21 Itineraries
175 Guests, Mid-Range
CAD$ 8,516 - CAD$ 72,096
Per Person
Up to 35% savings

Ultramarine

11-23 Days, 13 Itineraries
199 Guests, Luxury
CAD$ 12,773 - CAD$ 107,311
Per Person
Up to 24% savings

MS Roald Amundsen

12-18 Days, 6 Itineraries
532 Guests, Luxury
CAD$ 13,483 - CAD$ 26,024
Per Person

My Next Quest

South Georgia

I would love for my next polar journey to be a longer itinerary that allows for deeper exploration. In particular, I am eager to visit South Georgia, whose dramatic landscapes and extraordinary wildlife make it one of the most spectacular destinations in the Southern Ocean. Experiencing its vast penguin colonies and diverse marine life would be an unforgettable extension of my polar travels.

Find Your South Georgia Expedition

Don't Forget To

Ask A Pioneer

The most important thing clients should talk to me about is their expectations. The more clearly you can outline what you’re hoping for—whether that’s adventure level, comfort, activities, or pace—the better placed I am to find the right cruise and experience for you. Once expectations are clearly defined, that’s also the best time to ask about availability, promotions, or discounts, as I can then advise on the best options without compromising what you’re looking for.

Get in Touch

What My Clients Say

Schedule a 1-on-1 Consultation With Me
Joel
Polar Specialist