Following a successful start to the 2023/2024 Antarctica season, Scenic Eclipse’s expert crew led by Captain Radomir Novosel and the specialist Polar Discovery Team have created a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience for guests on its recent 13-day Antarctica in Depth ultra-luxury voyage. Guests joined an exclusive helicopter excursion to land on the Sea Ice near Snow Hill Island, located in the Weddell Sea. There, they had the rare opportunity to view the emblematic Emperor penguin colony, which is home to over 4,000 breeding pairs.
“This is an incredibly unique experience, available only with ships that have helicopters^, so it’s a truly remarkable moment for our guests,” highlights James Griffiths, Scenic’s General Manager, Ocean Operations.
With two on board helicopters, Scenic Eclipse is uniquely positioned to offer this exclusive Discovery excursion. Its custom-built Airbus H130 aircraft are the quietest helicopters in the sky, ensuring minimal disturbance to wildlife and the environment.
Led by the expert Polar Discovery Team, guests landed one kilometre from the colony and enjoyed a snow hike to view the Emperor penguins. Scenic Eclipse’s Ornithologist Dr. Maricel Grilli, who has been working with Scenic in Antarctica since 2020, provided deep insights into the behaviour and ecology of Antarctica’s most iconic wildlife. The dedicated crew ensured all IAATO and biosecurity protocols were followed during this unique excursion.
The Benchmark in Ultra-Luxury Cruising
Experience the voyage of a lifetime cruising through the Antarctic region in ultra-luxury on board Scenic Eclipse. Catering to a maximum of 200 guests, the ultra-luxury Discovery Yachts feature an impressive array of indoor and outdoor spaces for an intimate voyage, whilst offering the opportunity for guests to take part in multiple landings each day.
The spacious suites, which range from 32m2 to the 245m2 feature elegant furnishings, state-of-the-art amenities and personalised butler service. For relaxation and wellbeing, the indulgent expansive 550m2 Senses Spa awaits and includes a range of holistic therapy sessions, yoga, and Pilates classes. From exquisite cuisine to relaxed dining, Scenic Eclipse caters to every taste, preference, and mood with up to 10 truly all-inclusive dining experiences, nine bars and lounges.
All Scenic Eclipse voyages are truly all-inclusive, meaning guests can leave their wallet in a safe place and relax, knowing everything is taken care of. Internal flights, transfers, fine dining experiences, premium branded beverages and immersive Discovery excursions are all included.
On each Expedition Voyage, the Scenic Eclipse Discovery Team comprises up to 20 experts, from naturalists to marine biologists, and glaciologists who are on board to enrich every site visit, while Zodiac, kayak and stand-up paddleboard excursions present a low-impact way to explore.
Alternatively, guests can choose to take to the skies in one of two state-of-the-art helicopters^ or venture below the ocean’s surface in a custom-built submersible^ for an incomparable exploration.
Scenic can be found on Twitter at @ScenicLuxury, on Facebook as ScenicCruises and on Instagram at @Scenic.luxurycruisestours.