Darrel is a leader in his industry, having completed more continuous Antarctic yachting seasons than any other Australian operator. He demonstrates his strong resolve to protect this pristine polar region through his environmentally sound, safe sailing record. He is a full voting member of the International Association of Antarctic Tourist Operators (IAATO) and has attended more annual IAATO membership meetings than any other Antarctic yacht operator to date. He is also a longstanding committee member on both the Membership, Yacht and Field Staff Committees.

Darrel has sailed over 250,000 nautical miles (equal to 287,694 miles or 463,000 kilometres) while supporting over 90 expeditions to Antarctica in the last 30 years, as well as 8 to South Georgia, and countless journeys to Cape Horn, Chile.

Number one unforgettable travel experience?

Making the first ever non-scientific visit to the Blood Falls in the McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica on the 30th of January 2020. And taking 13 Australian school students on two sailing yachts to Antarctica for a 28-day sailing, climbing and kayaking adventure.

Top of your travel bucket list?

I  have many Antarctic adventures in mind, but would love to explore the South Sandwich Islands and more of the Ross Sea. I’d also love to visit the Island of South Georgia again or work on a missing shipwreck in Antarctica.

Who is your ultimate travel partner?

Anyone that is up for joining me on a frozen adventure!