22 Apr 2024

Why East Antarctica & The Ross Sea Should Be On Your Must-Do Travel List

Scenic Eclipse in Antarctica Scenic Eclipse in Antarctica

Ocean Voyages

Polar Regions

Discover a Different Side of Antarctica

Complete with dramatic windswept landscapes, legendary history, and the excitement of wildlife sightings, Scenic Eclipse II's Expedition Voyages to this remarkable destination are as exclusive, luxurious, and adventurous as can be.

What makes East Antarctica and the Ross Sea so unique?

East Antarctica and the Ross Sea are one of the remotest areas on the globe, only a few hundred travelers make it this far each year. Everything is on a grand scale, from the Ross Sea ice shelf to the teeming wildlife – you'll experience Antarctica in its most extreme and spectacular form. The landscape populated by a myriad of penguin, seabird, whale, and seal species will leave you in awe. The feeling of being far away from the rest of the civilized world while experiencing mother nature's power and majesty is an unforgettable and humbling experience that will stay with you forever.

What are the top five reasons to visit?

Going further than most for a truly immersive experience exploring the wonders of Antarctica, these Scenic Eclipse II voyages will be the journey of a lifetime for many reasons.

1. Discover Antarctica, closer to home. Compared to the Antarctic Peninsula, which can take up to three days in transit from Australia to Ushuaia, these voyages depart just a short flight away from Dunedin, Queenstown and Hobart.

2. McMurdo Dry Valleys. Discover one of the world’s driest and coldest deserts, devoid of snow, revealing a stark, moon-like landscape, only to be explored by helicopter^. Learn more about this unique landscape from National Geographic.

3. The Ross Sea. Marvel at the Ross Ice Shelf, the largest in Antarctica and encounter a diversity of wildlife from penguins to whales, albatrosses, and seals.

4. Discover Historic Sites. Follow in the footsteps of Scott, Shackleton, Amundsen, and Borchgrevink to navigate remote bays and coves to uncover historical expedition moments. See preserved huts that remain frozen in time.  

5. Macquarie Island. Comparable to South Georgia as a wildlife-rich sub-Antarctic paradise, this island is home to numerous colonies of Royal and King penguins.

Paddle boarding in Antarctica Paddle boarding in Antarctica

What is the historic significance of this region?

Visiting the Ross Sea region is more than just exploring a distant and fascinating landscape at the end of the world. What completes the experience is being absorbed in the breathtaking challenges experienced by the early explorers of the Antarctic continent. When learning about Captain James Clark Ross’ discoveries and the subsequent race to the South Pole, their pursuit quickly captivates and expands one's own experiences. On Scenic Eclipse II voyages, guests will be able to visit the huts of these early explorers (subject to weather conditions), perfectly preserved against the extreme environment.

What is unique about the McMurdo Dry Valleys in East Antarctica?

Consisting of the three main valleys; Victoria, Wright and Taylor, the McMurdo Dry Valleys are one of the most extraordinary environments on Earth, mirroring conditions found on Mars due to their extreme aridity and cold. 

This stark, ice-free landscape represents the largest such area in Antarctica, making it a central hub for biological activity and a focal point for scientific research aimed at understanding life’s potential on other planets and under extreme conditions.

Experience the thrill of a helicopter^ flight over this unique landscape as you touch down in Taylor Valley, the most easily accessible of the Dry Valleys from the Ross Sea. Guided by your expert Polar Discovery Team, marvel at rare sights like archaeological seal bones while treading lightly to preserve this delicate ecosystem. Amidst the profound silence, you’ll find this surreal scenery a humbling reminder of our place in the natural world.

When is the best time to visit East Antarctica & the Ross Sea Region?

Because of the extreme ice and weather conditions, the season is much more limited than around the Antarctic Peninsula, making it an even more exclusive destination – there are only three departures for 200 guests each per year. Visiting this region is limited to the height of the Antarctic summer providing almost 24-hour daylight and better weather from late December through February. It is an incredible destination, and you will be exposed to the unpredictability of the region. The expert team on board will always work with the weather and ice conditions to deliver the best experiences.

What do you look for when planning an ultra-luxury voyage to East Antarctica and the Ross Sea Region?

There are three major components: the design and facilities of the ship, the discovery experiences, and the expedition team. Cruising on board Scenic Eclipse II, the World’s First Discovery Yachts™ is essential to face the polar conditions of this environment comfortably. Scenic Eclipse II is spacious and modern and built to the highest standards for unrestricted global navigation, featuring a Polar Class 6 rating and the latest technologies, such as zero-speed stabilizers. Because of the remoteness of the region and length of the voyage, guests will spend more time onboard the ship than on shorter journeys; hence a dedicated hotel team and unrivaled on board ultra-luxury experiences are a must. Scenic Eclipse II's expansive 5920 ft Senses Spa# and wellness area, up to 10 dining experiences, eight bars, and lounges are unlike any other at sea.

With a world-class Polar Discovery Team of up to 20 experts, they will ensure you get the most out of the destination with Discovery excursions and enriching lectures. Scenic Eclipse II remains the only ship to offer guests an abundance of exploration on Zodiac, helicopter^, submersible^, kayak and stand-up paddleboard.

Who are the experts leading the voyages in this region?

Our exclusive Expedition Voyages are carefully planned by the Scenic Eclipse leadership team. With over 100 visits to Antarctica, Jason Flesher, Director of Discovery Operations, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. Captain James Griffiths, GM of Oceans Operations, has expertly navigated ships through East Antarctica, while Steve Spinaze, designer of our helicopter programs, has flown the McMurdo Dry Valleys. 

Throughout your voyage the Scenic Eclipse Polar Discovery Team of up to 20 experts will enhance your appreciation of the breathtaking scenery and extraordinary wildlife of the southern continent for the experience of a lifetime. 


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Scenic Eclipse Worldwide Discoveries Brochure 2024-2027
Scenic Eclipse Worldwide Discoveries Brochure 2024-2027

Your guide to ultra-luxury cruising

Start planning your unforgettable Scenic journey, view details about voyages, and see our frequently asked questions.

#Spa treatments are at an additional cost.

^Flights on board our two helicopters, helicopter experiences and submersible at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather and ice conditions.

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