Guest speaker Philippa Ross presents Antarctic history aboard the ship. / Supplied
We wanted to know how on-board experts enrich a cruise holiday, so we went directly to the source. Philipa Ross is a Human Ecologist, mentor and guest speaker for expedition cruises to Antarctica.
How does your expertise as a Human Ecologist lend itself to informative and engaging cruise lectures?
My work is founded on science, ecology and the earth’s magnetic field – just like my ancestor, Sir James Clark Ross. He discovered the North magnetic pole and charted the oceans, while I help people navigate their way True North and explore the relationship between their inner world and the natural environment to create meaningful and fulfilling lives that flow with their own natural rhythm.
You’ve recently spent time in Antarctica aboard Aurora Expeditions Ross Sea Odyssey as a guest speaker – what’s it like down there?
The visual and auditory landscapes of Antarctica are sublime and a majestic haven for wildlife, especially the adorable penguins. It’s a place where you really get to feel what it’s like to be a part of something bigger than yourself. The tranquillity is exhilarating and you can literally smell the purity of the air and feel yourself unwind. The stresses and strains of the world have no place here; the only existence is in the moment – peace of mind, body and soul rule.
What is your personal connection to Antarctica?
My great-great-great-grandfather, Sir James Clark Ross, discovered the Ross Sea region in 1841.
For our readers who have never been to Antarctica, what is the one thing that immediately takes your breath away?
How vast everything is – the expanse of ocean and the mesmerising shapes and colours of the icebergs. How fearless the penguins are of humans. I have a renewed respect for what my ancestor and their crews would have had to endure on their journey in unknown territory, negotiating treacherous weather and sea conditions.
Many expedition cruises now have experts on board, how does this enhance the passengers’ journey?
Onboard experts quite literally broaden your awareness of the extraordinary interconnected web of life and the miraculous way nature works – from ocean currents to rock formations, wildlife to historic explorations – all shared with genuine enthusiasm.
How do your lectures and conversations change how people view Antarctica and the environment around them?
Lectures and conversations help guests on board connect to the personal stories that inspired the speaker’s own love of their subject, and why they do the work they do. This has an exponential ripple effect on passengers to integrate their own experiences to protect our environment and become ambassadors for the planet.
How can cruise-goers get the most out of an onboard guest speaker?
Take advantage of the “on-tap” wealth of wisdom. They’re fun, informative and inspiring. Don’t dismiss a topic because it hasn’t interested you in the past. I now have a new love of geology.
Some people worry an expedition cruise to Antarctica is too intrepid, how would you reassure them?
A cruise ship expedition is a far cry from the type of expeditions explorers endured in the past. The ships are luxurious. The food is divine. Relax and enjoy it with peace of mind; the crew and expedition leaders take great pride in looking after you.
If someone has always dreamed of visiting Antarctica but hasn’t yet, what would you say to them?
What are you waiting for?