These days when we travel, we want an experience that goes above and beyond. Scenic has truly set the benchmark and has expanded its range of expedition voyages for 2023 and 2024 with Scenic Eclipse, The World’s First Discovery Yacht™, and the launch of Scenic Eclipse II in early 2023. Scenic is also introducing new itineraries that literally take you to the skies and below the ice-capped surface in and around Antarctica, exploring deeper into the Weddell Sea and beyond the Antarctic Circle. Now this is what we call an immersive adventure.

From October 2023, you’ll be given wings in more ways than one when you book one of the new Scenic Antarctica voyages, including venturing beyond the Antarctic Circle to join an elite group of people who not only have been to Antarctica but have ventured into a region seldom visited.

You can also make the most of the guest experience by getting airborne. One of Scenic’s exclusive offerings that takes it above and beyond is providing helicopters^ for guests wishing to take to the skies to get a bird’s eyes perspective of the awe-inspiring frozen landscape below. Perched on Scenic Eclipse, the two Airbus H130-T2 helicopters are designed to take you closer than ever before to the incredible features of this ice-capped wonderland, making your memories more personal and intimate than just about any other trip available on Earth. Seeing the wonders of the world up above without breaking a sweat? Now that’s ultra-luxury.

Antarctica’s wonders can also be found below as well as above the surface. The discovery yacht’s Scenic Neptune submarine^ holds up to six guests at a time and dives up to 200 metres below the sea. This is a dream come true for anyone who has ever wondered what it felt like to be Jacques Cousteau, or perhaps experience life from the perspective of the majestic marine creatures of the ice.

Back to the ultra-luxury yacht again and we haven’t even scratched the surface of what Scenic Eclipse has to offer. On board (and guiding you every step of the way when you’re out and about) is the specialist Discovery Team, each of them recognised as experts in their fields. You’ll hear their passion when they give their commentary on the ship, leaving no iceberg unturned and no question unanswered.

If you’re keen to explore this frozen continent at a slower, more intimate pace, you can make use of the kayaks, the stand-up paddleboards and Zodiacs on offer. And when you’re ready to thaw out again, your ultra-luxurious ship has much to offer – with a maximum of 200 guests in spacious suites, there are up to 10 dining experiences, nine bars and lounges and an expansive 500m2 Senses Spa waiting to pamper and warm your soul from head to toes.

Top picks for 2023

Here’s a sneak peek at three Scenic Antarctica itineraries showcasing how this fascinating region can be explored according to your interests.

ANTARCTICA IN DEPTH (13 DAYS)

This is the ultimate trip for first-time travellers to Antarctica, encompassing all the top highlights of this magical destination. You’ll see diverse marine wildlife, breathtaking scenery and untouched icescapes, and witness penguins and seals in their natural habitat. Board in Ushuaia (Argentina) and enjoy two days at sea before reaching the pristine white continent.

Depart: November 21, 2023; December 2 and 27, 2023; January 7, 18 and 29, 2024
Prices: From $20,397 pp*, including economy flights.
Save up to: $7,672

ANTARCTICA AND THE WEDDELL SEA (16 DAYS)

This is the voyage of a lifetime through some of the most untouched places on Earth. The Weddell Sea, is also said to have the clearest waters on Earth, with whales often seen breaching in season. You can even take the optional helicopter excursion to Snow Hill Island, where elusive emperor penguins breed. At landfall, take in the rare sight of Adélie penguins, and happy, fat, lazing seals in colonies surrounded by ice. Depart Buenos Aires and take in highlights of Ushuaia, Port Lockroy, Lemaire Channel, Weddell Sea, South Shetland Islands and more.

Depart: December 20, 2022, December 13, 2023
Prices: From $26,015 pp*, including economy flights
Save up to: $11,324 pp

BEYOND THE ANTARCTIC CIRCLE (16 DAYS)

When the edge of the Earth just isn’t far enough, this is the trip for you. Wake up to the sight of the land of the midnight sun and embrace your snowy moonscape. This is where you will witness landscapes few can claim to ever have seen.

Highlights include close encounters with leopard seals and humpback whales, visits to Port Lockroy, Lemaire Channel and South Shetland Islands, and sailings further south along the Antarctic Peninsula than most other cruise options, returning finally to the starting point of vibrant Buenos Aires.

Depart: February 9, 2024
Prices: From $26,215 pp*, including economy flights
Save up to: $11,424 pp

* Prices subject to availability. For terms and conditions, visit scenic.com.au/terms-and-conditions
More: Scenic.com.au/cruises/antarctica