From Australia to Antarctica
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Ocean Voyages
Polar Regions
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.
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.
What is the historic significance of this region?
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.
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.
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.
24 Days
SEASON: 2025/2026From Australia to Antarctica
13 Days
SEASON: 2025/2026Great White Wonder
25 Days
SEASON: 2025In the footsteps of explorers (and penguins)
8 Days
SEASON: 2026A taste of Iceland
16 Days
SEASON: 2026The wonders of the far north
27 Days
SEASON: 2026North Pole to North America
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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