Scenic Eclipse to Resume Voyages in Antarctica in January

Scenic Cruises has announced that its expedition ship Scenic Eclipse will be one of the first vessels to return to Antarctica when it resumes sailings there on January 7.

Scenic Group COO Rob Voss said “Our crew and staff are so delighted to be able to welcome guests back on board our world-class yacht, Scenic Eclipse. Besides the opportunity to be one of the first cruise lines to return to Antarctica after nearly two years of no visitors, we are also excited to showcase several enhancements on board Scenic Eclipse – a number of which were driven by our guests’ feedback.”

The ship’s 13-day “Antarctica in Depth” itinerary will allow guests to take in the pristine landscapes of Antarctica, along with its unique wildlife. Departing Ushuaia, Argentina, passengers spend six full days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula, often with multiple shore visits per day.

Highlights vary depending on weather conditions, but may include navigating the seven-mile-long Lemaire Channel lined with steep cliffs, the chance to visit a working scientific base, exploring an abandoned whaling station, climbing to the rim of a volcanic crater, and crossing the Antarctic Circle.

Daily excursions will include cruising among ice formations in Zodiac boats, kayaking and paddleboarding amongst icebergs, stepping ashore to see penguin rookeries and seals, and taking hikes with expert marine biologists and geologists.

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Guests will also be able to take submarine trips aboard the yacht’s custom-built six-guest submarine. Those who want to see the landscape from above can take a helicopter ride in one of the ship’s two six-guest Airbus helicopters.

Onboard the yacht, features include education programs from the expert Discovery Team, the Senses Spa with a yoga and pilates studio and a plunge pool, 10 dining choices, two Vitality Pools, and the top-deck Panorama Bar.

Scenic’s current health and safety measures include a vaccine requirement for all guests and crew, testing on embarkation day, temperature checks, social distancing, and the use of masks when moving around public areas.

State-of-the-art HVAC systems provide 100 percent fresh air through a three-stage air purification process to the all-balcony suites and public areas, and advanced HEPA filtrations and rapid COVID-19 response protocols are also in place.

In celebration of the return to Antarctica, Scenic is offering 2 for 1 business class flights and up to 20 percent off select 2022 Antarctica sailings when the booking is paid in full 12 months prior to sailing or 48 hours (if booked with less than 12 months before departure). The line is also offering a “book three suites get one free” when you book select January through March 2022 Antarctica and South America sailings.

Scenic’s Flexible Booking Policy allows guests to defer their travel plans or cancel up to 60 days prior to departure with no additional booking fees.

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