In response to the high demand for Antarctica expedition voyages, Scenic Eclipse I and II will embark on an expanded range of new in-depth Expedition Voyages across the seventh continent. Departing in 2023 and 2024, these voyages allow maximum time across the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia, the Weddell Sea and Chilean Fjords, with further exploration of smaller islands and remarkable wildlife encounters available for the 200 guests on board each of the ultra-luxury Discovery Yachts. Guests are encouraged to explore “Antarctica your Way,” with a collection of Antarctic Voyages for varying types of expedition travel.
The 20-member expedition Discovery Team on each yacht provides guests with insights into the wildlife and landscape. The teams lead guests on guided kayak and paddleboarding excursions, nature walks and Zodiac tours with multiple landings each day. Guests also can enjoy explorations on each yacht’s two state-of-the-art helicopters and custom-built submarines. Bookings made between Oct. 1 and Dec. 15, 20022 enjoy savings of up to 20 percent of the fare with Scenic’s Earlybird and Pay in Full programs. Highlights of Scenic’s Antarctica programs include:
Antarctica in Depth: The perfect starter to anyone new to Antarctica is Scenic’s 13-day Antarctica in Depth expedition voyage, roundtrip from Buenos Aires. After a flight to Ushuaia, the most southern city in the world, Scenic Eclipse sets sail and cruises through the Beagle Channel with views of the Andean Mountains of Tierra del Fuego. Due to the speed of the yachts and their oversized stabilizers, guests spend more than six full days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula.
Highlights include traversing the stunning seven-mile Lemaire Channel, where guests can take in the ample wildlife—seals, penguins, whales in their natural habitat. Along the way there are visits to the remnants of a derelict whaling station, climbs to the rim of a volcanic crater, paddleboarding, kayaking and Zodiac tours. The on-board Discovery Team and the captain use their expertise to plan out each day to make the most of the 18-20 hours of daylight. The first of eight departures is Nov. 21, 2023, with prices starting at $15,993 per person double. For those wishing something even more special, there are Festive Holiday Collection sailings that include Christmas and New Year’s.
Antarctica and Chilean Fjords: For anyone wanting to truly maximize their exploration time, Scenic offers the 22-day Antarctica & Chilean Fjords. The journey, beginning in Buenos Aires and ending in Santiago, takes in Antarctica, sails around Cape Horn, and then explores the Chilean Fjords, to explore the beauty of the Seno Garibaldi and Seno Pia glaciers, while the four days sailing the Inner Fjords opens up to views of the San Valentin Glacier and the renowned beauty of the most spectacular locations in Southern Chile. Puerto Montt is the end of the Pan American Highway but the starting point of a land of fjords, canals, islands, snow-capped volcanoes and green-forested hills. The cruise departs Feb. 21, 2024, fares start at $22,435.
Antarctica, South Georgia and Falkland Islands: The 19-day Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands voyage is designed for guests seeking longer expeditions. Guests can enjoy a Scenic Discovery excursion at Gypsy Cove, walking the wildlife trail to see the Magellanic penguin colony; cruise by Zodiac along the two-mile mountain range which forms the spine of the long, narrow island of South Georgia; and a visit to learn about Stanley, the capital of the Falkland Islands, and its thriving community. Guests can encounter penguins, albatross, fur seals, elephant seals, whales and dolphins in the Falklands; Antarctica’s 18 different species of penguins, Leopard seals and Killer whales; and the 39” tall King Penguin in South Georgia, home to the densest agglomeration of wildlife in the world with 30 million breeding birds and half the world’s population of southern elephant whales. The cruise departs Nov. 4, 2023, prices start from $25,087.
Antarctica & the Weddell Sea: For guests looking for true bragging rights, Scenic’s 15- and 16-day Antarctica & the Weddell Sea heads off in search of the elusive Emperor Penguin. The tallest (up to 4.3 feet) and heaviest (51 lbs) of the penguin species, Emperor Penguins are found along the ice-chocked Weddell Sea, well past the Antarctica Peninsula. Guests can take the optional helicopter excursion to see them in their natural habitat and learn how they survive the -67°F winters. Other amazing experiences while spending nine+ days in Antarctica include the South Shetland Islands, home to gentoo and chinstrap penguins and the site of Ernest Shackleton’s inspirational 1916 survival story; exploring Elephant Island with the Discovery Team on Zodiacs, kayaks or stand-up paddleboards; visiting a working scientific base, unveiling life in the harshest of conditions; and spend each day with new unexpected encounters with the multitude of wildlife. The cruise departs Dec. 5 and 13, 2023, prices begin at $18,301 and $19,772, respectively.
Beyond the Antarctic Circle Voyage: Crossing the legendary Antarctic Circle (66°33’S) is a rare feat and Scenic Eclipse II will attempt to explore one of the world’s most seldom-visited regions during the 15- and 16-day Beyond the Antarctic Circle sailing. Cruise on Zodiacs around icebergs and kayak and stand-up paddleboard on the icy waters of the Antarctic. Scenic’s experienced Discovery Team Leaders, who have made countless journeys to Antarctica, use their expertise to design daily excursions and experiences, and point out the subtle changes in the Antarctic ice and landscape. And celebrate with a well-earned glass of Champagne. The first of three departures is on Jan. 8, 2024, with fares starting at $18,631.
With just 228 guests (200 in Polar regions), Scenic Eclipse yachts are purpose-built for polar regions, featuring a strengthened hull and a Polar Class 6-rating that enables safe and comfortable navigation through polar waters. Scenic Eclipse I and II feature an impressive array of indoor and outdoor elegant spaces, such as the 5,920-square-foot Senses Spa, up to 10 dining experiences, nine bars and lounges and spacious suites with private verandahs and personalized butler service. All voyages are truly all-inclusive, so guests can leave their wallet in a safe place and relax, knowing everything is taken care of. Transfers, fine dining experiences, premium branded beverages, gratuities, and once-in-a-lifetime immersive excursions are all included in the price.