Antarctica ~
Scenic eclipse

Southernmost tip of our Planet

The Highs and hidden depths

Karen and James have themselves taken on this epic journey to Antarctica onboard Scenic Eclipse. A mind-blowing experience and certainly one that they would highly recommend to fellow explorers.

They sailed through the southernmost tip of our world, through magnificent icebergs, towering glaciers, and pristine snow-covered landscapes. A photographer’s dream! 

Antarctica, a land untouched by human habitation and home to a vast variety of wildlife. From playful penguins, frolicking in the freezing waters, to the graceful giants of the deep, the whales. A humbling experience that few can boast of, so join us as we unveil the secrets of Karen and James’ extraordinary adventure through the pristine landscapes of Antarctica…

it really was an adventure of a lifetime

Scenic Eclipse has a Capacity of 228 with crew of 178 but for the Antarctic route they limit themselves to 200 lucky passengers. The crew to guest ratio guarantees sublime personal comfort and impeccable service.

The latest GPS Dynamic Positioning also means the ship maintains its location without dropping anchor onto sensitive sea beds, thereby protecting the fragile environment. This ships environmental credentials and capabilities are important for the environmentalist, wildlife, and expedition team onboard.

We expected first class service and total luxury and that is exactly what we experienced.  The restaurants, bars and lounges are all beautifully appointed offering a modern elegant and tranquil space to relax between expeditions or, to meet with fellow explorer passengers at the infamous Whiskey bar. Keep a lookout for the ice block at the bar, carved from a passing iceberg! The viewing deck library lends armchair comfort and a great space from which to view and photograph the unbelievable sights. James and I related directly with early explorers in awe of our surroundings, all but for the Columbian roast coffee in hand.

One question I needed to be answered before embarking on such an epic trip was, what to pack! The weather changes in a heartbeat. It can be pleasantly warm or very, very cold and you do need proper protective clothing at hand. It’s a dry cold so it’s strangely not uncomfortable, unless you’re one of the hardy souls who takes the legendary iceberg challenge to jump into the arctic waters for a dip! Thin base layers most-times however, a fleece and the Scenic Eclipse lined and waterproof jackets they provide (and you can take home) are enough. Indoors is ski-chalet warm but, waterproofs to go over your trousers, thermal socks, hat, and ski gloves are advisable outdoors and can be booked in advance with the trip. A balaclava or snood is a good idea as are hand warmers – it gets very cold on the zodiacs when moving at speed.  Onboard the dress code is very casual during the day with people dressing up a little for dinner. The Captain’s table is a great treat however, if you get your marker in early.. the Chef’s table is the golden ticket!

Everyday in the auditorium the marine biologist and conservation team give talks on what’s seen and what’s coming – this is doubly interesting, and educational. Much like your own David Attenborough’s on tap. Our ship stopped unexpectedly early hours of the morning to let anyone who wanted, see a pod of Orcas hunting, right next to the boat. Sorry…. I should call it a ship, but it honestly felt like our own private yacht, with friends.

Each day we had 2 expeditions one morning and one afternoon, the zodiacs take 8, on some trips you land and explore the islands and other times you cruise the perimeter ice-face – what I can say is that every time we went out, we had a new experience and saw something awe-inspiring. The helicopter is unique to Scenic Eclipse taking you over the frozen landscape and into the wilds, mountains, icepack and waters. Any other ship experiences only see the edge of land and perhaps 300m in, they can’t explore further. The helicopter takes you over the edge, and the onboard submarine, below it!

One is not allowed to approach the wildlife, but somebody forgot to tell the penguins this rule! So, if you stand still… these charming little characters can’t help their inquisitive nature and their taste for boots! … And then there’s the champagne, smiles and warm towels awaiting your return. Oh! how we suffered in our duty to test such a humbling trip.

On a practical front, there isn’t such a thing as a bad cabin. Set your budget and go for it. Every cabin is external facing, and has a balcony and Butler, and the smallest are still suites by any other standard and, perfectly comfortable should you choose to hole up for the day enroute through the Drakes Passage crossing.

Given the chance, we will go again. Scenic Eclipse also explores the Arctic for those in search of Polar bears. Remember, the Arctic for Polar bears, Antarctica for everything else. We still treasure the privilege to witness the majesty of the frozen wastelands, the remote explorer stations now preserved and frozen in time for posterity and, to fall in love with the planet and its fragility.

Karen Beagrie explored Antarctica aboard the Scenic Eclipse Expedition Yacht in February. The season extends November thru February, and she would be happy to share her photographs and experience” ~ James & Karen

All the things you need to know

  • Owners Penthouse suite – Suite size: 195m2
  • Panorama & Grand Panorama suites – Suite size: 110m2
  • Spa Suites – Suite size: 46-50m2
  • Grand Deluxe Verandah Suites – Suite size: 38-40m2
  • Verandah & Deluxe Verandah Suites – Suite sizes: 32-34m2 

Length: 168m

Guests: 228 (200 in Polar Regions)

Suites: 114 

Crew: 176 (192 in Polar Regions)

Speed: 17 knots

Gross Tonnage: 17,085

Polar Class 6: Built to the latest uncompromising standards

Comfort Class 1 notation: The lowest noise and vibration

Advanced Heating, Ventilation & Air-Conditioning (HVAC) System: Providing 100% fresh air in suites and public spaces

Almost 1:1 Staff-to-guest ratio

Safe Return to Port: Compliant with multiple redundant main operating systems

Oversized Zero Speed Stabilisers: 50% larger than those of other ships for greater stability

GPS Dynamic Positioning system: Maintains location without dropping anchor

The Latest Emission Technology and IMO low Sulphur fuel

Advanced Wastewater Treatment System

Highly Effective Engines: Reduce emissions, noise, and vibration

Truly All-Inclusive Ultra-Luxury
 
Catering for up to 200 guests only with close to a 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio ultra-luxury abounds on your intimate cruising experience. Gaze out at the expansive Antarctic coastline from the privacy of your Verandah Suite and indulge in the dedicated services of your Butler. Enjoy a wealth of indoor and outdoor spaces, up to 10 dining experiences, 9 bars and lounges and the indulgent Senses Spa.
  • Immersive Onshore Experiences
    Our specially curated Discovery Excursions take you behind the scenes in spectacular locations. Take our kayaks for a paddle around blue-tinged icebergs and observe minke, humpback and killer whales up close during our Antarctica voyages. Or visit the final resting place of Ernest Shackleton in Grytviken, whilst exploring South Georgia.
  • Submarine & Two Helicopters
    Soar above some of the most breath-taking spectacles on board one of two state-of-the-art Airbus H130-T2 helicopters, setting the standard for tour operators worldwide with their optimal flightseeing capabilities. And dive below the ocean for a luxurious underwater adventure on board the ground-breaking submarine, Scenic Neptune, custom built to submerge to depths of 200 metres.
  • Scenic Discovery excursions and shore side expedition program

ON SHORE

  • Base layer (wool or synthetic)
  • Insulation layer (warm/fleece top and pants)
  • Waterproof pants
  • Wool and synthetic socks (2-3 pairs)
  • Glove liners
  • Waterproof gloves (two pairs suggested)
  • Neck gaiter, scarf or other face protection
  • Fleece or wool hat or beanie that covers the ears
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Sunglasses with UV protection – polarised is best 

ON BOARD

  • Comfortable casual clothing (pants/jeans, shirts, sweaters or jumpers)
  • Lighter shirts or tops in case the ship gets warm
  • Smart casual evening wear
  • Comfortable shoes

SUGGESTED EXTRA ITEMS

  • Waterproof, lightweight backpack or dry sac – for protection of camera and binoculars
  •  Swimsuit – for the temperature controlled pools
  •  Binoculars
  •  Camera with extra batteries and battery charger
  •  Extra memory cards
  •  Eye masks for sleeping – please note the suites do have blackout curtains
  • Prescription medication or supply of other medication you take regularly
  • Extra pair of prescription glasses
  • Fitness gear for use of the on board wellness facilities
  • Foot/Hand Warmers
  • Summer/Spring clothing for Buenos Aires or Santiago (when cruising to Antarctica
 

Antarctica Itineraries

Antarctica In depth

Departing 27 December 2023

13 Days From £11,320pp

On this voyage you will make the most of the constantly changing weather, scenery and colours as you sail from Buenos Aires to Antarctica. With so many opportunities for professional and amateur photographers alike to capture awe-inspiring moments that will last you a lifetime. 

Includes:
~ SAVE up to £6,750 per couple
~ Specialists Polar Discovery Team of up to 20 experts
~ Engaging lectures and education program with experts
~ Scenic Discovery excursions by Zodiac
~ Kayak program and stand-up paddle boarding~ Complimentary expedition parks and water bottle, plus use of special polar boots

Antarctica & Chilean Fjords

Departing 21 February 2024

22 Days from £17,132pp

Embark on a life changing expedition to Antarctica, Patagonia and Chile, a bespoke itinerary that offers the very best of the islands and fjords of Chile, and the southernmost continent. You could even be taking to the skies in the custom designed helicopter.

Includes:
~ SAVE up to £3,856 per couple
~ Specialists Polar Discovery Team of up to 20 experts
~ Engaging lectures and education program with experts
~ Scenic Discovery excursions by Zodiac
~ Kayak program and stand-up paddle boarding~ Complimentary expedition parks and water bottle, plus use of special polar boots

Antarctica's Ross Sea: Majestic Ice & Wildlife

Departing 8 January 2025

24 Days from £26,650pp

Voyage to East Antarctica’s Ross Sea from Hobart, Tasmania aboard Scenic Eclipse.  Witness the whales, orcas, penguins and seals, the icebergs and glaciers that fascinated Shackleton and Scott all those years ago – and that still leave you lost for words today.

Includes:
~ SAVE up to £5,100 per couple
~ Specialist Polar Discovery Team of up to 20 experts
~ Engaging lectures and education program with experts
~ Scenic Discovery Excursions
~ Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding
~ Complimentary expedition parks and water bottle, plus use of special polar boots
~ Entertainment in the state-of-the-art-theatre

Gallery

Don't miss Scenic Eclipse on TV

The much anticipated Warner Bros. Discovery docuseries featuring Scenic Eclipse, the World’s First Discovery Yacht, is now available on TV.

Is Antarctica on your bucket list? This five week docuseries. ‘Maritime Master: Expedition Antarctica’, follows Scenic Eclipse from Baja, Mexico through the Chilean Fjords and Antarctica. It premiered on Discovery+ at 6pm on 4th June 2023 and is available on catch-up.

If you’re interested in hearing about our personal experiences, or need help planning your own trip to this breath-taking continent, feel free to reach out to us via email or phone. We would be more than happy to chat and assist you in any way we can.

Discover South America & Antarctica

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We are here to help. Our travel experts will organise and book your dream holiday.
call us today or complete our online enquiry form to start your next adventure.

Let's Chat

We are here to help. Our travel experts will organise and book your dream holiday.
call us today or complete our online enquiry form to start your next adventure.