Scenic has unveiled its latest East Antarctica and Ross Sea itineraries for 2025–2026, with ultra-luxury voyages aboard the state-of-the-art Scenic Eclipse II. Departing directly from Hobart, Queenstown and Christchurch, these limited-edition expeditions give travellers the chance to explore some of the most remote and untouched corners of the continent—closer to home than ever before.
A new perspective on Antarctica
The 28-day “Queenstown and Mawson’s Antarctica: Along the East Coast” voyage, departing 10 December 2025, takes guests deep into Antarctica’s eastern frontier. Following in the footsteps of explorer Sir Douglas Mawson, the journey includes a complimentary helicopter flight to Mawson’s Huts and exclusive access to insights from polar experts and conservationists.
Guests will witness towering glaciers, sprawling penguin colonies and majestic whales while learning about the region’s fascinating history from special guest lecturers on board. This voyage offers a rare blend of discovery, wildlife encounters, and connection to the heroic age of Antarctic exploration.
Explore the majestic Ross Sea
Scenic’s 27-day “Christchurch & Mt Cook with Antarctica’s Ross Sea: Majestic Ice & Wildlife” voyage departs 26 January 2026 from Timaru (via Christchurch). Travelling through the Ross Sea, this expedition explores vast ice shelves, gem-like glaciers, and wildlife-rich coastlines that were once the domain of Shackleton and Scott.
Guests have the exclusive opportunity to take a helicopter flight to the McMurdo Dry Valleys—an extraordinary landscape that’s considered one of the driest places on Earth and studied by NASA for its Mars-like conditions.
Ultra-luxury discovery, redefined
With a maximum of 200 guests, Scenic Eclipse II is purpose-built for polar exploration. All-verandah suites come with butler service, and up to 10 dining experiences offer globally inspired cuisine. The 550m² Senses Spa provides infrared saunas, thermal lounges and wellness programs, while the ship’s two helicopters offer a level of access to Antarctica few others can match.
Early bird offers now available
Guests booking early can take advantage of savings up to $10,000 per person. Bonus offers include a three-night pre- or post-cruise stay with guided Scenic Freechoice excursions—think winery tours in Queenstown, or a ride on the iconic TranzAlpine train through New Zealand’s Southern Alps.
