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Antarctic in Depth: A Magical Christmas

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Antarctica in Depth

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Antarctica in Depth
Antarctica in Depth
Antarctica in Depth
Flights Included Cruise Festive
Our Price From
US$16,495
Save $26,445pp
Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
13 Days
 Cruise Starts
Buenos Aires
 Cruise Finishes
Buenos Aires
13 Day Antarctic in Depth: A Magical Christmas Itinerary (Scenic)
Countries Explored: Argentina, Antarctica
 Cruise Length
13 Days
 Cruise Starts
Buenos Aires
 Cruise Finishes
Buenos Aires
13 Day Antarctic in Depth: A Magical Christmas Itinerary (Scenic)
Countries Explored: Argentina, Antarctica
Cruise Line
Scenic
Ship
Departures
Passengers
228
Crew
176
Launched
2019
Cruise Code
101S-2
Cruise Line
Scenic
Ship
Departures
Passengers
228
Crew
176
Launched
2019
Cruise Code
101S-2

Overview

Discover Antarctica’s majestic tabular icebergs, immense penguin colonies and historic tales. This Expedition Voyage will take you to remote polar regions of beautiful, untouched icescapes and captivating wildlife. You will celebrate Christmas on board, making it the most magical holiday season of all. This 13-day polar expedition to Antarctica is filled with awe-inspiring glacial landscapes, unbridled adventure and wildlife that will capture your heart, from humpback whales to colonies of waddling penguins. This special departure coincides with Christmas, making it a truly unforgettable moment. read more Enjoy Zodiac excursions and go kayaking in Antarctica under the guidance of the experienced Polar Discovery Team. Dive deep into the pristine waters in our custom-designed submersible Scenic Neptune, or take to the skies in our state-of-the-art helicopters. Throughout your voyage, combine your discovery of this extraordinary part of the world with an indulgent ultra-luxury experience on board your 6-star Discovery Yacht. From up to 10 dining experiences and nine bars and lounges to the expansive Senses Spa# and your spacious verandah suite, every moment will be one to cherish forever.
Follow in the footsteps of the world’s greatest explorers on an unforgettable journey to the icy expanse of Antarctica. This is a destination that defies the imagination with its untouched icescapes and wildlife. Prepare yourself for an Expedition Voyage that will take your breath away at every turn. Embark on an extraordinary 13-day polar expedition with breathtaking glacial landscapes, thrilling adventure, and unparalleled wildlife encounters. Witness majestic whales, vast colonies of penguins, and towering icebergs in an ever-changing panorama of natural wonder—perfect for both professional read more and amateur photographers.

Led by an expert polar Discovery Team, explore Antarctica up close with Zodiac landings and guided kayaking excursions. Elevate your experience with once-in-a-lifetime moments—dive beneath the icy waters in our custom-designed submersible, Scenic Neptune, or take to the skies in one of the two on board helicopters. Throughout your journey, enjoy the all-inclusive, ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, where world-class dining, personalised service, and unrivalled comfort redefine expedition cruising.

Itinerary

Welcome to Buenos Aires, where you’ll have an overnight hotel stay. Perhaps plan to spend some time in the city, nicknamed the ‘Paris of South America’. Resplendent with Belle Epoque buildings, sidewalk cafes and green spaces, there’s the fiery passion of Latin America – a collective love for football, flame-cooked meats (asado) and the tango.

Some of the highlights are La Boca, a colourful, creative mecca with a must-do art walk, and San Telmo, a former aristocratic neighbourhood that was abandoned during a 19th-century epidemic. Mansions were turned into conventillos (shared housing), boutique hotels, antique shops, and tango clubs, exuding a captivating bohemian vibe.

Fly from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, the main island of Tierra del Fuego and the southernmost city in the world. The Captain and crew will warmly greet you as you board your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse.

Toast the start of your once-in-a-lifetime expedition as you depart South America and cruise through the calm and scenic Beagle Channel, named so for the ship that carried Charles Darwin on his five-year discovery journey. Admire the dramatic views of the Andean mountains from the comfort of your private verandah or from the Observation Deck with its commanding view of the bow. (B/D)

Wake up in your own time as we cruise across the Drake Passage, the infamous waterway that connects South America to Antarctica. Perhaps ask your butler for breakfast to be delivered to your spacious suite or meet fellow guests in the Yacht Club.

Today, join an introductory presentation about your polar 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. The theatre is where you can watch talks, lectures, movies and documentaries during the day. At night, enjoy world-class productions from musical theatre and cabaret to pop music, dance and fun interactive game shows. (B/L/D)

Today you will enter Antarctic waters, an unpredictable but stunningly beautiful environment that always surprises. Put on your complimentary polar parka and head to the Observation Deck to spot icebergs for the first time – it’s a feeling that will stay with you forever.

Watch out for whale blows in the distance and your expert polar Discovery team will be on hand to provide and answer any insightful information. Comprised of up to 20 members, this team of geologists, historians, ornithologists, marine biologists, and glaciologists is at the heart of your Antarctic Voyage. (B/L/D)

Arriving in Antarctica for the first time is unlike anything you have experienced before. Slide open the floor-to-ceiling doors of your verandah suite to see icebergs sculpted by nature and glacial mountains rising thousands of metres from the ocean. Antarctica is a birdwatcher's paradise, with more than 40 different species, so keep your eyes peeled for wandering albatrosses, which have the largest wingspan of any flying bird, as well as shearwaters, giant petrels, and more.

Due to the extraordinary nature of the region, excursions throughout your Expedition Voyage depend on the ice and weather conditions. Your experienced Captain and specialist 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 18–20 hours of daylight.

Discovery: Daily experiences may include cruising on Zodiacs, stepping ashore to view vast penguin rookeries or historic huts, and kayaking or paddle boarding around icebergs. Wherever your voyage takes you, you will have countless “pinch me" moments. (B/L/D)

Portal Point ^^– a former British refuge hut – may be a potential landing site during your voyage.

Or you may visit Deception^^ Island as part of your itinerary. Nestled in the South Shetland Islands archipelago, it is one of the only places in the world that ships can sail directly into the centre of a submerged caldera of an active volcano. With her world-class design and state-of-the-art technology, Scenic Eclipse can sail through a rocky gap into the horseshoe-shaped harbour. The island is also home to a few small scientific outposts and hundreds of thousands of chinstrap penguins.

Tonight could be the night you enjoy Sushi^ @ Koko’s with your new friends. Stay up late in the bar or retire to the library for a moment of blissful solitude before bed. (B/L/D)

Various species of penguins can be found in Antarctic and the sub-Antarctic region, with around 12 million penguins living on the Peninsula, including Adélie, Chinstrap, Gentoo, and the very rare Emperor penguins. Guided by the expert Discovery Team, you’ll witness colonies up close; hear their mighty calls and watch as they clumsily waddle along and interact with each other.

Whales are another majestic creature you may encounter, whether a minke, a humpback or an Orca. Watch them from the comfort of your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, in a Zodiac with an experienced Discovery Team member, or from their level in a kayak or stand-up paddleboard – a breathtaking experience.

Discovery: When enjoying daily Scenic Discovery excursions, ask for your expert Discovery Leader for photography tips and guidance on how to spot the wildlife around you. They will help you immortalise these incredible moments while cruising on the Zodiacs, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding around impressive ice formations. (B/L/D)

Lemaire Channel^^. renowned for its picturesque views and often referred to as 'Kodak Alley', could be our next exciting destination. If during your voyage the Scenic Eclipse weaves through this channel, make sure you set your alarm and embrace the cool air from the Observation Terrace. Pass through the 11-kilometre-long channel, just 700 metres wide at its narrowest point, and be amazed at the dramatic rocky mountains and glowing blue icebergs so close to the ship.

In between Scenic Discovery experiences, enjoy a specialty tea or coffee in the Observation Lounge and watch the world float by through Swarovski telescopes. (B/L/D)

On Christmas Day, enjoy a relaxed morning, perhaps with breakfast served by the butler to your spacious suite. Then rug up in your complimentary polar parka and head to the Observation Deck to spot icebergs for the first time – it’s a feeling that will stay with you forever.

Throughout the day, themed dining and entertainment experiences will keep the festive celebrations alive – it will be the whitest Christmas you’ve ever had.

Discovery: Daily experiences may include cruising on Zodiacs, stepping ashore to view vast penguin rookeries or historic huts, and kayaking around icebergs. Wherever your voyage takes you, you will have countless “pinch me" moments. (B/L/D)

Be sure to pack your swimming costume because you could be going for a swim today. For many, the polar plunge is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and a rite of passage on an expedition to Antarctica. Once throughout your voyage, Scenic Eclipse will stop, and the team will set up the marina ready for the brave people who want to jump into the freezing Antarctic waters.

Excitement will spread through the Discovery Yacht, and you will start hearing the contagious nervous laughter. As you stand on the edge, ready to jump, you will feel the adrenaline rush while you second-guess whether this is a good idea. When you jump, the moment before you hit the water will feel like it goes forever, but soon, an invigorating, exciting, and surprisingly refreshing sensation will take over.

If you choose to skip the polar plunge, make sure you find a good viewing location as you feel the chills of everyone coming out of the water. Join them for a cup of hot chocolate or toast with a glass of whiskey. (B/L/D)

Cruising the Drake Passage back to the tip of South America, there is plenty of time to indulge in the ultra-luxury of your Discovery Yacht and reflect on the magic moments you’ve experienced in the Southern Ocean.

Freshly squeezed juice, steaming barista-made coffee or tea delivered to your door by the butler will help start your day. Head to the gym for an invigorating workout or the studio for a Pilates class, some guided stretching or aerial yoga.

In the evening, settle in at the spacious Scenic Lounge Bar to enjoy your beverage of choice, whether it be aged whiskey or a glass of wine. With Scenic’s signature all-inclusive ultra-luxury philosophy, indulge in top shelf spirits, over 130 whiskeys, a premium wine list and French champagne. (B/L/D)

Have you visited the bridge yet? Thanks to the Captain’s open bridge policy, guests are welcome any time to learn more about the technical abilities of The World’s First Discovery Yacht and see it in full operation. The bridge is also one of the best viewing areas on the ship.

Make sure you book a treatment# at the tranquil Senses Spa before your Discovery expedition ends. Perhaps an ESPA facial# or an alternative therapy including Ayuverdic massage or Japanese shiatsu. Afterwards, hold on to that feeling of calm for a while longer in the Zen-like space of the Vitality Lounge. (B/L/D)

Your voyage ends this morning as you farewell the crew and fellow guests. Disembark after breakfast to fly to Buenos Aires, taking away memories of a truly unforgettable experience.

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. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

^Reservation required

^^Subject to weather and operational conditions. Sightings cannot be guaranteed. ^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. #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. (B)

Welcome to Buenos Aires, where you’ll stay overnight. Perhaps plan to spend some time in the city, nicknamed the ‘Paris of South America’. Resplendent with Belle Époque buildings, sidewalk cafes and green spaces, there’s the fiery passion of Latin America – a collective love for football, flame-cooked meats (asado) and the tango.

Some of the highlights are La Boca, a colourful, creative mecca with a must-do art walk, and San Telmo, a former aristocratic neighbourhood abandoned during a 19th-century epidemic. Mansions were turned into conventillos (shared housing), boutique hotels, antique shops, and tango clubs, exuding a captivating bohemian vibe. Enjoy an overnight stay at your hotel.

Depart Buenos Aires on an exclusive charter flight to Ushuaia the gateway to Antarctica and the world’s southernmost city, nestled on the rugged shores of Tierra del Fuego. The Captain and crew will warmly greet you as you board your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht.

Raise a glass of Champagne as you set sail through the legendary Beagle Channel, tracing the path of Charles Darwin’s historic voyage. From your private verandah or the Observation Deck, take in breathtaking views of the snow-capped Andean peaks and pristine Patagonian wilderness—marking the beginning of an unforgettable expedition. (B/D)

Enjoy breakfast in your suite as your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht navigates the legendary Drake Passage bound for Antarctica. Take in the vast expanse of the Southern Ocean as moment brings you closer to an unforgettable adventure.

Feel the excitement building up as the Discovery Team shares with you all the details on how your Zodiac, helicopter^, submarine^ and other discovery expeditions will work. Get familiar with the team and your polar equipment – your expedition kit includes an expedition parka and water bottle that are yours to take home, plus the use of specialised polar boots, trekking poles and specific equipment you need for kayak and paddleboard excursions.

Between landings, your outdoor gear will be stored in a personal locker in our convenient Discovery Centre. Prepare yourself for unparalleled ‘pinch-me’ moments, and be exposed to the unpredictability of the region, with your expert team deciding the course of action in the coming days.

The team will make every attempt to have many landings and Discovery Excursions, including Zodiac tours, kayaking and optional helicopter^ flights and submarine^ dives. (B/L/D)

Today you will enter Antarctic waters, an unpredictable but stunningly beautiful environment. Put on your complimentary polar parka and head to the Observation Deck to spot icebergs for the first time – it’s a feeling that will stay with you forever.

Watch out for whale blows in the distance. Your Discovery Team is available to provide insightful information.

Be sure to check your daily program for the essential biosecurity and boot fitting schedule. And join the fascinating enrichment lecture on marine and seabird life – a captivating experience that will enhance your knowledge and connection to the natural world around you. (B/L/D)

Slide open the floor-to-ceiling doors of your verandah suite to see icebergs sculpted by nature and glacial mountains rising from the ocean. Antarctica is a birdwatcher's delight, home to a variety of species, so keep your eyes peeled for wandering albatrosses, shearwaters, giant petrels and more.

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

Discovery: Daily experiences may include cruising on Zodiacs, stepping ashore to view vast penguin rookeries or historic huts, and kayaking or paddle boarding around icebergs. Wherever your voyage takes you, you will have countless “pinch me" moments. (B/L/D)

Start your day with freshly squeezed juice, steaming barista-made coffee or tea delivered to your door by your butler. Then set out on Zodiac excursions to explore breathtaking glaciated bays, tranquil channels and pristine landing sites. As you trek across the Antarctic wilderness, meet the adorable chinstrap, Adélie and gentoo penguins that inhabit this magical region

Small groups offer the best way to experience an environmentally sensitive destination like Antarctica. Guests will board the zodiacs according to their designated colour, where our expert polar Discovery Team will guide them, ensuring an unforgettable and unique adventure. (B/L/D)

Various species of penguins can be found in Antarctic and the sub-Antarctic region, including Adélie, Chinstrap, Gentoo, and the very rare Emperor. Guided by the expert Discovery Team, you’ll witness colonies up close; hear their calls and watch as they clumsily waddle along and interact with each other.

Whales are another majestic creature you may encounter, whether a minke, a humpback or an Orca. Watch them up close in a kayak or a Zodiac with the Discovery Team or observe them from the comfort of your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht. However, you see them, it’s a breathtaking experience.

Discovery: Ask your expert Discovery Leader for photography tips so you can best capture the incredible wildlife and landscape around you. (B/L/D)

From the moment it was discovered, Antarctica has held an irresistible allure for intrepid adventurers. The bold exploits of legendary explorers like Scott, Shackleton, and Amundsen have fueled its mystique, inspiring generations to venture into this untamed wilderness.

On this unforgettable day, you’ll cruise past Antarctica's stunning icy mountains before stepping ashore by Zodiac to immerse yourself in the polar wilderness. With ample time to explore, this voyage ensures you experience the magic of this awe-inspiring landscape up close.

Back on board, enjoy a specialty tea or coffee in the Observation Lounge and take in the views through Swarovski telescopes. (B/L/D)

In the untouched silence of this frozen wilderness, nature’s rare sounds become unforgettable—whether it’s the endearing chatter of penguins squabbling over prized pebbles or the thunderous roar of a glacier calving into the sea.

Towering glaciers provide one of the most awe-inspiring spectacles of your journey, with the chance to witness massive ice formations breaking away, creating brand-new icebergs before your eyes—a moment of pure wonder.

On board, explore some of your Discovery Yacht’s indulgent spaces, from the welcoming Observation Lounge to the expansive Senses Spa#. Choose one of up to 10 world-class dining experiences on board tonight. (B/L/D)

Wake up to a truly magical Christmas morning in the heart of Antarctica. Start the day at your own pace—perhaps with breakfast delivered by your butler to your spacious suite. Then, bundle up in your complimentary polar parka and step onto the Observation Deck, where the breathtaking icy landscapes provide a once-in-a-lifetime backdrop for this special day of exploration.

Festive dining and entertainment throughout the day will ensure a celebratory spirit onboard—this will be the whitest Christmas you’ve ever experienced. Relax in the inviting lounges of your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, sharing stories and holiday cheer with fellow guests as you take in the beauty of your surroundings.

On your ultra-luxury yacht, every moment is crafted for both comfort and connection. Our inviting lounge provides the perfect setting to unwind and share unforgettable experiences with like-minded travellers.

For those craving adventure, the legendary Polar Plunge offers a thrilling rush—an unforgettable dive into icy waters, expertly coordinated by the Expedition Leader and Captain.

If you prefer to stay warm, find a prime viewing spot and enjoy the spectacle as fellow guests take the plunge, then join them for a toast with a glass of whiskey or a steaming cup of hot chocolate.

Discovery: Glide past towering icebergs on a zodiac, step onto untouched white snow, and soar over vast mountain ranges. This is one of the world's few remaining pristine wildernesses, awaiting your exploration. (B/L/D)

As you cruise back across the Drake Passage toward South America, take this time to indulge in the ultra-luxury comforts of your Discovery Yacht and reflect on the awe-inspiring moments you’ve experienced.

Start your day with an invigorating workout in the state-of-the-art gym, a guided Pilates session, or a moment of relaxation in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio.

As evening arrives, unwind in the elegant Scenic Lounge Bar, where you can toast to your expedition with a perfectly aged whiskey, a glass of fine wine, or a flute of French Champagne—all part of Scenic’s truly all-inclusive ultra-luxury philosophy. (B/L/D)

Make sure you book a treatment# at the tranquil Senses Spa before your expedition ends. Perhaps an ESPA facial or massage# or an alternative therapy including Ayuverdic massage or Japanese shiatsu. Afterwards, hold on to that feeling of calm for a while longer in the Zen-like space of the Vitality Lounge.

On your last night onboard for dinner choose from Koko’s Asian Fusion Sushi @ Koko’s (available by on board reservation) to watch the chefs at work or enjoy the spectacle of teppanyaki-style dining inspired by the markets of Asia at Night Market @ Koko’s (available by on board reservation). (B/L/D)

This morning, bid farewell to your expert crew and fellow travellers as your extraordinary journey comes to an end. After a final indulgent breakfast on board, disembark in Ushuaia and board your flight to Buenos Aires, carrying with you memories of an unforgettable adventure in the pristine landscapes of Antarctica.

#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. ^Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather conditions. Sightings cannot be guaranteed.

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. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. (B)

Life Onboard Scenic Eclipse I

Luxury Meets Discovery
Luxury Meets Discovery

Designed to deliver the ultimate experience of a lifetime the Scenic Eclipse fleet takes ocean cruising to a whole new level. Read more

On board Inclusions
On board Inclusions

Intimate and luxurious, with every amenity you could wish for, the Scenic Eclipse fleet has been designed with you in mind. Read more

Onshore Inclusions
Onshore Inclusions

Taking you beyond exploration to all-inclusive discovery is our fleet of Zodiacs, tandem kayaks, e-bikes, snorkel gear and snowshoes. Read more

All-Inclusive Dining
All-Inclusive Dining

Dining on board Scenic Eclipse promises to be a sensory delight. With an unrivalled choice of up to 10 dining experiences. Read more

All-Inclusive Beverages
All-Inclusive Beverages

Unlimited complimentary beverages*, full mini-bar restocked daily, still and sparkling water in-suite and an extensive range of specialty teas and coffees. Read more

Scenic Sixth Star Experience
Scenic Sixth Star Experience

Helicopter and submarine excursions, par for the course. Read more

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Scenic Eclipse Worldwide (2025-27) Brochure

Scenic Eclipse Worldwide (2025-27)

On a Scenic Eclipse voyage, you can look forward to once-in-a-lifetime moments that will truly immerse you in the extraordinary destinations you visit. Combining state-of-the-art technology with luxurious suites, world-class dining and wellness facilities and a dedicated crew, we’ll elevate your travel experience beyond your expectations.

Download Brochure

Scenic Eclipse Worldwide (2025-27) Brochure

Scenic Eclipse Worldwide (2025-27)

On a Scenic Eclipse voyage, you can look forward to once-in-a-lifetime moments that will truly immerse you in the extraordinary destinations you visit. Combining state-of-the-art technology with luxurious suites, world-class dining and wellness facilities and a dedicated crew, we’ll elevate your travel experience beyond your expectations.

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Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Scenic. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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