As the war between Ukraine and Russia continues into another year, Logistics Plus CEO and Founder, Jim Berlin is making his way back from a cruise in Antarctica. 


"It's a very humbling experience, people from all over. You know what Antarctica will humble you to see the size of this place and the majesty of it", Berlin.


The Space2Sea Antarctic cruise allowed Berlin and his wife to see glaciers, go on hikes, and even take part in a Christmas Day Polar Plunge. "We jumped into 30 degree water, it was colder than ice, colder than freezing. All the preparation went out the window", described Berlin.


A visit to a Ukraine Research Facility was on the itinerary, but Mother Nature had other plans. As Berlin explained, "It's been a mix of science and fun and Ukraine. We couldn't get to the Antarctica Ukraine Research Station because the weather dictates what you can and can't do." 30 to 40 feet waves and strong winds kept passengers aboard the ship for their safety, but Berlin did get to meet with Ukrainians who have been fighting for their country.


"There's two young women from Ukraine, who were actually in Mariupol, during the first days of the war before they were taken over by the Russians and put in prison and were released, Maria and Nava joined us. We gave them our Logistics Plus shirts to show our friendship and they talked yesterday about their experience about having been in the military and being captured by the Russians and we saw a film called '20 Days in Mariupol, which the AP put out, which was very touching and powerful."


Berlin said this once in a lifetime experience was incredible and although thousands of miles from home, he was able to enjoy some of his favorite things at sea, like watching his beloved, Buffalo Bills. "Go Bills!", said Berlin.

Besides the women from Ukraine, a few other notable passengers included Neil deGrasse Tyson, William Shatter, and Scott Kelly.