A Luxury Antarctica Cruise

My Experience on the Scenic Eclipse II’s Inaugural Voyage

As a travel planner, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing many incredible trips. Still, nothing can compare to the luxury Antarctica cruise I took aboard the Scenic Eclipse II, during its inaugural trip to Antarctica. 

The cruise to Antarctica was an intimate journey, with only 120 passengers. The ship is equipped with two helicopters that allow patrons unique opportunities to take in the continent’s vast beauty.

Our journey was filled with awe-inspiring excursions, taking us up close to the raw beauty of Antarctica. Zodiac trips, helicopter landings, paddleboarding among icebergs—each experience brought us closer to the pristine wilderness of this frozen continent. Here’s a sneak peek into the highlights of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Luxury Onboard Amenities

• Exclusive Captain’s Bridge Access – The Scenic Eclipse II offers an open-navigation bridge policy, allowing passengers a behind-the-scenes look at how the ship and its crew navigate the icy challenges of Antarctica cruises.

• Spa Suite—The luxury Spa Suite boasts features like a zero-gravity bed, a jacuzzi with panoramic views, a Dyson hairdryer, an LED light-up shower, and a mirror that doubles as a TV. The room included complimentary champagne, top-quality binoculars, parkas to keep, and laundry services – it was pure indulgence. 

• Discovery Lounge & Sky Bar – After each exciting day, we unwound at the Discovery Lounge or Sky Bar. Whether enjoying expertly crafted cocktails or light bites, it was the perfect social spot to relax and prepare for our next adventure.
• Wellness & Spa Facilities—There is nothing like spotting icebergs from the a hot tub. The spa also features saunas and soothing treatments to unwind after a long day of arctic exploration. 

World-Class Dining

Nothing says luxury Antarctica cruise like a ship that offers multiple five-star restaurants. On the Scenic Eclipse II, each evening was a celebration of world-class cuisine. The presentation was stunning, and every bite was perfect – plus it’s all-you-can-eat! The top-shelf bar featured over 70 types of whiskey, expertly mixed by skilled bartenders. 

Unmatched White Glove Service

The crew aboard the Scenic Eclipse II made this journey unforgettable. From the moment I stepped on board until my last moments, I was greeted warmly by the friendly and attentive staff. Whether guiding us on excursions, providing impeccable room service, or crafting unforgettable dining experiences, the crew made us feel like royalty.

Incredible Excursions

• Helicopter Adventures – The ship’s two helicopters offered breathtaking views of Antarctica’s hidden gems from above! We were even fortunate enough to land on Snow Hill Island, where we observed Emperor Penguins in their natural habitat.

Read more about this experience on Snow Hill Island here!

Zodiac Excursions—We explored massive icebergs and glaciers, getting up close to their stunning formations. We also searched for humpback whales and seals during our daily Zodiac excursions.

• Paddleboarding Through Ice—For the adventurous, paddleboarding in icy waters with a surprise visit from humpback whales surfacing nearby was a surreal experience.
  • View this moment here 

Polar Plunge  – A heart-pounding plunge into the frigid Antarctic waters left us invigorated, offering a once-in-a-lifetime thrill of braving the cold waters.

Bonus Tip: what to pack Antarctica cruises 

Packing for Antarctica requires some research and a lot of layers. To help save you the research part, I’ve gathered all my winter favorites here. Plus, you can watch me pack for Antarctica and see what I wore for my first step on the icy continent! 

• Watch me pack for Antarctica here!
• Watch me get ready for my first step into Antarctica here!

Ready to experience your own journey on the Scenic Eclipse in Antarctica?

Book with Adventures By Sky for exclusive perks and expert help in planning your luxury Antarctica cruise. This was an experience I’ll never forget, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Questions To Ask When Planning Antarctica Cruises

Not sure how to choose the best cruise to Antarctica for yourself?  Here are 5 questions I ask my clients to get started:

1. Trip Type

• Fly-in Cruise: Skip the Drake Passage and fly directly to Antarctica for a quicker start (about 2 hrs).
• Full Cruise: A 4-day journey through the Drake Passage for an immersive Antarctic experience.
• Hotel Stay: Yes, there’s a hotel in Antarctica! It is a bucket-list experience like no other.

2. Cruise Routes

• Classic Antarctica: Explore the main highlights around the Antarctic Peninsula (10 nights).
• Weddell Sea: I opted for this experience. The Weddell Sea route involves searching for Emperor Penguins, with some boats offering helicopter tours. (approx. 2 weeks.)
• Antarctica, South Georgia Islands, Falklands: Ideal for wildlife lovers—highly recommended if you have the time (18-22 nights).

3. Departure Points

• Depart from Chile or Ushuaia, depending on your preferences. Explore the area before you set sail!

4. Ship Type

• Small & Intimate: For a closer, more personal experience (fewer than 200 people).
• Larger Vessel: More amenities and activities for a diverse experience (250+ people).

There’s a lot to consider when choosing the best ship for you—from dining style and cabin type to ship amenities, onboard lectures, and offshore activities. Each vessel offers a unique experience!

5. Budget

Antarctica trips range from $15,000 to $70,000+. Plan according to your desired experience, from more intimate, adventurous expeditions to luxurious, all-inclusive journeys.

Bonus Tip

Shore excursions fill up fast, so aim to book your trip about a year in advance to secure your preferred activities.

Ready for the journey of a lifetime? Let’s plan your perfect Antarctic adventure. I’ll help you navigate these decisions, share my personal experiences, and get you exclusive perks and discounts on your Antarctic adventure!