Viking provided another wonderful trip for us. Always felt safe -- whether on the water or on the ship. Covid protocols were handled daily with no impact -- "spit" in a test tube in the privacy of your cabin and go! (Everyone tested negative daily throughout the cruise.) Weather permitting, a different off-ship excursion daily -- from continent landings, to sea kayaking, to Special Ops boat trips along the coast, etc. Safety was always observed, e.g., zodiacs traveled in pairs; survival equipment transported to land in case of emergency; sea kayaking had a "spotter" in a zodiac nearby; use of trekking poles on land; 4 folks assisting you into/out of boats; etc. The Expedition team & Guest speakers were terrific -- normally 2-3 lectures a day -- Marine or Mammal biologists, Ornithologists, historian, geologist, photography, mountaineers, and always a daily expedition briefing. Crew services were exceptional -- housekeeping, restaurants, lounges, expedition, etc. On a previous cruise, a Viking "Hotel" Manager said to us, "We can train people to clean a room or wait a table, but we look to hire people with nice personalities." They succeeded on the Octantis! A first-class ship with first class staff! Travel in comfort! As for Antarctica -- it was breath-taking! Majestic! So glad we went.