Antarctica's Ross Sea - Majestic Ice & Wildlife

• Day 1 - Hobart, Australia

  The Tasmanian capital, Hobart, always makes an impression, from the boats bobbing in its harbour to its thought-provoking art galleries such as MONA and produce-driven restaurants. As you board Scenic Eclipse II, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the Captain and crew with a glass of Champagne. Settle into your spacious verandah suite, meet your butler, and explore the world-class facilities of your Discovery Yacht. Then, gather on the Observation Deck to toast to the remarkable journey ahead as you sail away from Australia toward the world’s last great frontier.

  Please book your flight to arrive into Hobart prior to 02:00 PM.

• Day 2 - At Sea

  Today you’ll have the chance to meet some of Scenic’s on-board experts. The polar Discovery Team will enrich your Antarctic experience with their encyclopaedic knowledge of geology, glaciology, photography, marine biology, history, ecology and more. They’ve been exploring the world’s most remote reaches for years and will fascinate you with facts and stories beyond anything you can find in guidebooks or websites.

  Join an introductory presentation about your expedition by the Discovery Team in the state-of-the-art theatre. Feel the excitement building as they explain how your Zodiac and other Discovery Excursions will work in the coming days.

  Due to the extraordinary nature of the region, Discovery excursions throughout your Expedition Voyage are dependent on the ice and weather conditions. Your experienced Captain and specialist polar Discovery Team, who have made countless journeys to Antarctica, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, making the most of your time in this spectacular destination.

• Day 3 - At Sea

  Sea days aboard Scenic Eclipse II offer a perfect opportunity to unwind, connect with fellow guests, and dive into the rich history, environment, and unique wildlife of this captivating part of the world.

  During the day, the theatre comes alive with captivating lectures from our Discovery Team. Be sure to check the Daily Program on your TV for timing—you won’t want to miss these inspiring sessions!

  Your Discovery Yacht’s state-of-the-art technology allows for smooth navigation through Antarctica’s waters due to its Polar Class 6 rating, electronic Azipod propulsion system and oversized stabilisers.

  Prepare yourself for unparalleled ‘pinch-me’ moments and for the unpredictability of the region.

• Day 4 - At Sea

  It’s time to ease into your ultra-luxury surroundings. This might be the day you sleep in, conserving energy for the activities ahead, then relax in your suite, which cocoons you within the comforts of a 6-star hotel.

  Perhaps you’d like to begin the day with a fitness class, followed by a soak in the heated Vitality pool. Reward your active start by calling your butler to bring breakfast to your room. Then make a date with new friends over a relaxed lunch at the Yacht Club.

  Alternatively, enjoy lectures from the expert polar Discovery Team in the state-of-the-art theatre or look for the region’s unique wildlife using your suite’s binoculars or Swarovski telescopes in the Observation Lounge.

• Day 5 - At Sea

  When you’re visiting some of the world’s most fragile ecosystems, you have a commitment to protect them for future generations. Take advantage of our open bridge policy to meet with the Captain and his team to find out all about Scenic Eclipse II’s state-of-the-art technology and environmentally sustainable systems that aim to leave as small a footprint as possible.

  During the day, the theatre comes alive with captivating lectures from our Discovery Team. Be sure to check the Daily Program on your TV for timing—you won’t want to miss these inspiring sessions!

  Later, choose one of up to 10 dining experiences, enjoy a casual lunch at Azure Bar & Café and an elegant dinner at Elements.

• Day 6 - At Sea

  Located on Deck 4, the state-of-the-art theatre serves as the heart of onboard entertainment, featuring advanced cinemascope technology, multiple viewing screens for an immersive 270-degree experience, a sparkling night sky ceiling, and supremely comfortable reclining lounge chairs.

  During the day, the theatre hosts engaging talks and lectures led by our expert Discovery Team. A visit to Antarctica naturally inspires a deeper appreciation for its environment, and our enrichment sessions offer the perfect opportunity to learn more about its unique ecosystem and conservation efforts.

  At night, enjoy a performance in the theatre before you retreat to your ultra-luxury suite with a nightcap.

• Day 7 - At Sea

  Wake up reinvigorated after a good night’s sleep on your signature Scenic Slumber Bed. Then, begin your day with a barista coffee brought by your butler, or perhaps with your choice of a buffet or an à la carte breakfast in the Yacht Club.

  A true culinary journey awaits every day on board with up to 10 extraordinary all-inclusive dining experiences and eight bars and lounges. As dusk falls, choose between steak and seafood at Elements, channel the spirit of Asia at Koko’s or journey to France at Lumière.

  Alternatively, enjoy lectures from the expert polar Discovery Team in the state-of-the-art theatre or look for the region’s unique wildlife using your suite’s binoculars or Swarovski telescopes in the Observation Lounge.

• Day 8 - Antarctica's Ross Sea Region

  Be sure to stay close to your verandah as you enter the Ross Sea – wandering albatrosses are a common sight, and icebergs will begin to pop up around you as well. The pristine, nutrient-rich ocean is popular among orcas, seals, penguins and whales.

  This rugged and remarkable body of water is surrounded by sky-scraping mountains and carved by glacial ice tongues, vast ice shelves and drifting sea ice. Some of the most famous Antarctic explorers – Scott, Shackleton, Amundsen and Borchgrevink among them – used it as a gateway on their quest to the South Pole.

  The conditions here can be quite extreme, with the weather and ice influencing your daily plans. Your Captain and Discovery Leader will seek out the safest opportunities for you to explore the area.

  Over the next few days on Ross Island, at the base of Mount Erebus, you'll walk in the footsteps of legendary explorers Ernest Shackleton and Robert Falcon Scott. These pioneers chose Cape Royds and Cape Evans as the sites for their base camps, where they prepared for their iconic Antarctic expeditions.

  Discovery:
  An opportunity today to fly on one of the two on board helicopters^ to the McMurdo Dry Valleys. This area is one of the world’s driest and coldest deserts, devoid of snow, revealing a stark, moon-like landscape. Guided by your Discovery Team, marvel at rare archaeological sites while treading lightly to preserve this delicate ecosystem.

  Today you may have the opportunity to explore this fascinating landscape on the fleet of custom-built Zodiacs, kayaks, stand-up paddleboarding, guided and self-paced hikes. Your expert Discovery Team can take you on enlightening excursions to historic explorers’ huts.

• Day 9 - Antarctica's Ross Sea Region

  Weather and ice conditions permitting, we will arrive at Beaufort Island, a remote and rugged volcanic outpost rising dramatically from the icy waters of the Ross Sea. Located on the edge of the Ross Ice Shelf, this isolated sanctuary is home to a thriving Adélie penguin colony, as well as skuas and other seabirds. Its towering cliffs and icy shores create a breathtaking landscape, offering a rare glimpse into Antarctica’s untouched wilderness.

  Discovery:
  You may have the opportunity to explore this fascinating landscape on the fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. Alternatively, conditions permitting, you may experience an exclusive flightseeing excursion on one of the two on board helicopters^, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Antarctic wilderness.

• Day 10 - Antarctica's Ross Sea Region

  Few sights in Antarctica are as dramatic as Mount Erebus, the southernmost active volcano on Earth. Sit down with your expert polar Discovery Team in the theatre to learn why Sir James Clark Ross and Sir Ernest Shackleton came here and how they built their huts. Both huts are still here today and are classified as an Antarctica historical monument.

  Throughout the day, keep an eye out for Adélie penguins.

  Cape Bird is home to one of the region’s largest colonies, where these charming birds nest along its rugged, rocky shores.

  Further south, Cape Royds blends history and wildlife. It’s home to Shackleton’s well-preserved 1908 Nimrod expedition hut.

  Discovery:
  Another exciting opportunity to soar over the breathtaking landscape with flightseeing on one of the two on board helicopters^.

  Alternatively, you may explore this fascinating landscape and spot Ross Sea wildlife on the fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, stand-up paddleboarding, guided and self-paced hikes. Your expert Discovery Team may take you on enlightening excursions to historic explorers’ huts.

• Day 11 - Antarctica's Ross Sea Region

  Today, weather and conditions permitting step into the world of Antarctic exploration as we navigate toward Cape Evans. This is home to one of the most important historical sites on the continent, Robert Falcon Scott’s Terra Nova Hut, the base for his legendary 1911–1913 expedition to the South Pole.

  You will land via Zodiac directly at Cape Evans, where you will have the rare opportunity to walk through Scott’s Hut, preserved much as it was over a century ago. This is one of Antarctica’s most moving and well-preserved monuments to human endurance and ambition.

  Back on board join your Discovery Team historians for a fascinating lecture on the rivalry between Scott, Amundsen, and Shackleton, deepening your appreciation for the sheer determination it took to survive in this formidable landscape.

  Discovery:
  Depending on weather and ice conditions, you may have the chance to explore this remarkable landscape in a variety of ways. Take to the water on a Zodiac cruise through icy waters in a kayak or stand-up paddleboard~, or, for a truly unique perspective, soar above the frozen expanse on an exclusive flightseeing excursion by helicopter^. Your expert Discovery Team may take you on enlightening excursions to the historic explorers’ huts.

• Day 12 - Antarctica's Ross Sea Region

  Today, if conditions allow, prepare for one of the most exclusive experiences in the world - a helicopter flight^ over the McMurdo Dry Valleys.

  A stark, otherworldly landscape, the Dry Valleys are one of the driest places on Earth. The only way to glimpse this dramatic landscape is by adding an optional excursion on one of Scenic Eclipse II’s helicopters^ – weather permitting, your pilot may even land on this end-of-the-Earth landscape.

  For those staying on board, the day offers enriching experiences - from wildlife spotting in the Observation Lounge to deep-dive lectures on the region’s pioneering research stations.

  Discovery:
  Experience the breathtaking McMurdo Dry Valleys from above with an optional helicopter^ flight, offering a rare glimpse of this otherworldly, arid landscape, often compared to Mars.

  Alternatively, embark on a Zodiac cruise across pristine Antarctic waters on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard~. Keep an eye out for orcas and Emperor penguins, while your Discovery Team shares fascinating insights into the region’s history.

• Day 13 - Cruising Ross Sea Ice Shelf

  Experience the edge of the world as you cruise along the Ross Ice Shelf, the largest floating ice mass on the planet. Towering up to 50 metres (160 feet) above sea level, this frozen fortress is one of the most spectacular sights in Antarctica.

  As the day unfolds, your Captain and Discovery Leader will seek out the best opportunities for exploration—perhaps a Zodiac cruise alongside the towering ice cliffs or wildlife encounters with Weddell seals resting on the frozen landscape.

  Discovery:
  Depending on conditions, you may have the opportunity to fly on one of the two on board helicopters^ to the Ross Sea Ice Shelf. On this unforgettable optional flightseeing excursion, see the spectacular ice shelf from above and possibly land on it.

  Alternatively, you may explore this fascinating landscape and spot Ross Sea wildlife on the fleet of custom-built Zodiacs, kayaks, stand-up paddleboarding~, guided and self-paced hikes.

• Day 14 - Antarctica's Ross Sea Region

  Today, we may visit one of Antarctica’s most poignant historical sites, Inexpressible Island, where six men from Robert Falcon Scott’s Terra Nova Expedition (1910–1913) spent an unthinkable winter, stranded with almost no supplies.

  Your Discovery Team historians will bring their story to life, recounting tales of sheer resilience and determination that remain among the most incredible feats in polar history.

  Beyond its historical significance, Inexpressible Island is also a haven for wildlife. Adélie penguins thrive here, and the surrounding waters are often frequented by Weddell and crabeater seals. If conditions allow, we may explore the dramatic coastline by Zodiac.

  Back on board, consider unwinding at the Senses Spa#, indulging in a soothing treatment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the past days.

  Discovery:
  Today, you may have the opportunity to explore this fascinating landscape on the fleet of Zodiacs , by Kayak or stand-up paddleboarding~. You may also have the opportunity to experience this incredible landscape from the air by taking an exclusive helicopter^ flight.

• Day 15 - Antarctica's Ross Sea Region

  All jagged cliffs and ink-black escarpments backed by the towering Admiralty Mountains, the Adare Peninsula is a dramatic postcard. Much of the spectacle comes courtesy of the 250,000 breeding pairs of Adélie penguins – the largest colony in Antarctica – that call the region home.

  This place has drawn avid expeditioners for centuries. It was the site of the first documented Antarctic landing on the continent in 1895. Norwegian explorer Carsten Borchgrevink’s two 1899 huts remain on land.

  Sip a hot beverage in the Observation Lounge, where you can read books and play board games in between wildlife watching. In the evening, up to 10 extraordinary dining experiences await.

  Discovery:
  Weather and conditions permitting, you may have the opportunity to explore the hut remains with your Discovery Team. Or explore this fascinating landscape on the fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards~, guided and self-paced hikes.

• Day 16 - At Sea

  Sea days aboard offer a perfect opportunity to unwind, connect with fellow guests, and dive into the rich history, environment, and unique wildlife of this captivating part of the world. The Discovery Team will deliver engaging talks and presentations on the local wildlife and history.

  Alternatively, step into the tranquil Senses Spa# on Deck 6 with its steam rooms, saunas, Salt Therapy Lounge and Vitality Thermal Lounge. Stop for a coffee or a cocktail at one of the eight bars and lounges on board or curl up in the library of the Observation Lounge.

• Day 17 - Balleny Islands

  This 160-kilometre-long chain of volcanic islands, some of them still active, straddles the Antarctic Circle. Here, you will have a front-row seat to one of the greatest convergences of wildlife in the world.

  Humpbacks, fin and minke whales may put on a show while we are nearby, breaching, blowing, and slapping their tails. Crabeater, Weddell Ross Sea Seals and leopard seals loll about, sunbaking between swims. Join a Discovery excursion or just take in the view from the Observation Deck or your private verandah.

  Discovery: Daily experiences may include cruising on Zodiacs, stepping ashore to view vast penguin rookeries or kayaking around icebergs. Wherever your voyage takes you, you will have countless “pinch me" moments.

• Day 18 - At Sea

  Over the next few days, settle into the pace of life at sea. Your Discovery Team will present a daily schedule of educational activities for you to enjoy. Be sure to join the lectures and daily recaps to stay updated on the progress of the voyage.

  Explore more of your Discovery Yacht. Begin with a yoga class, followed by a soak in the heated Vitality pool, the endless horizon your outlook. Your active start to the day means you can reward yourself by calling on your butler to bring breakfast to your room. You could enjoy lunch here as well.

  The only thing you need to do now is decide which bar or lounge to move to, making the most of the all-inclusive beverage menu, including premium top-shelf wines and spirits.

• Day 19 - At Sea

  The past weeks have delivered an abundance of emotions and active explorations. As you begin to sail away from Antarctica, today could be the day for some downtime in the expansive 550m² Senses Spa#.

  Be rejuvenated with a yoga or Pilates session or add a tailored treatment# and indulgent wellness experiences, from dreamy massages and facials to body wraps and scrubs, manicures and pedicures. Then take some time out on one of the thermal lounges; your limbs will thank you later.

  Tonight could be the night you enjoy contemporary French fine dining at Lumière with your new friends. Stay up late in the bar or retire to the library for a moment of blissful solitude before bed.

• Day 20 - At Sea

  Countless penguins, seals, whales and birds and endless expanses of ice. The remarkable sights of the world’s southernmost continent take a while to digest. Perhaps edit your images, write in your journal, mark highlights on a map. Or share your memories with your fellow guests in one of restaurants, bar and lounges. Relive every moment that sparked joy over the last three weeks, looking forward to sharing these once-in-a-lifetime memories with your loved ones at home.

  Join your Discovery Team in the theatre today for another engaging lecture.

• Day 21 - Snares Island

  Remote, rugged, and richly protected, The Snares are the closest Subantarctic Islands to New Zealand - so pristine that they remain completely uninhabited. This remarkable wildlife sanctuary, consisting of two main islands and the five-island Western Chain, enjoys the highest level of conservation protection.

  Discovery: While landings are not permitted, join the Discovery Team on a Zodiac cruise along the sheltered eastern coast, weather and sea conditions permitting. Keep your eyes peeled for the endemic Snares Crested Penguin, Snares Island Tomtit, and elusive Fernbirds. The islands also host a staggering number of nesting Sooty Shearwaters.

• Day 22 - At Sea

  When you’re visiting some of the world’s most fragile ecosystems, you have a commitment to protect them for future generations. At least, that’s Scenic’s mantra. Take advantage of our open bridge policy to meet with the Captain and the team to find out all about your Discovery Yacht’s state-of-the-art technology and environmentally sustainable systems that aim to leave as small a footprint as possible.

  Visiting Antarctica positively breeds environmental ambassadors and you’ll be keen to learn more over an enrichment lecture in the theatre.

• Day 23 - Timaru

  Timaru welcomes you with stunning ocean views, golden beaches, and rich heritage.

  Step ashore and explore Timaru’s unique blend of heritage and modern charm. Stroll along the Bay Hill promenade, where stunning ocean views meet inviting cafés and boutique shops. Delve into the region’s past at the South Canterbury Museum, showcasing Maori artifacts and early settler history. For art lovers, the Aigantighe Art Gallery offers an inspiring collection of local and international works. Join one of the Scenic Freechoice activities planned for this stop and experience the best of Kiwi charm.

  Freechoice:
  Mt. Cook and Lake Tekapo: Experience a breathtaking trip from Timaru through Mackenzie Country, stopping at the turquoise Lake Tekapo and iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, then Lake Pukaki and majestic Mount Cook, with a buffet lunch and insights at the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre.

  Erewhon Sheep Station and Clydesdales: Uncover Canterbury’s high country at Erewhon Station, a 35,000-acre treasure beneath the Southern Alps. From Timaru, traverse the Canterbury Plains, stopping at Lake Clearwater and Edoras for photos, then experience Merino sheep-shearing, Hereford cattle, deer, and a Clydesdales wagon ride, before enjoying a mountain picnic lunch.

  Oamaru and the Moeraki Boulders: Uncover Oamaru’s historic charm, the mysterious Moeraki Boulders, and Dot’s Castle (Riverstone Castle), with lunch at the renowned Riverstone Kitchen featuring local flavours amidst its picturesque, serene setting.

  Town and Coastal Discovery Walk: Stroll Timaru’s waterfront from the wharf to Caroline Bay, admire ocean and mountain views, visit Benvenue Cliffs, and explore Te Ana Maori Rock Art with morning tea on Bay Hill.

• Day 24 - Timaru (Christchurch)

  Your voyage ends in Timaru, a charming port town known for its stunning coastal landscapes and warm Kiwi hospitality.

  After one last luxurious breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your new friends and crew, taking memories for a lifetime.

  You will join a standard transfer from Timaru to Christchurch.

  Please book your flight to depart out of Christchurch after 02:00 PM.

  ^Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather, ice and tidal conditions. ~Kayak and stand-up paddleboard not available in all locations. #Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board.

  The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above.

  *Locations listed within East Antarctica are subject to weather and operational conditions. Sightings cannot be guaranteed. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

Please consider that our voyages are expeditionary in nature. This means, that there are no concrete itineraries, your Captain and Expedition Leader will utilise their vast experience to chart the best course for your expedition depending on the climatic and environmental conditions. Mentioned highlights and wildlife cannot be guaranteed.