December 7, 2023 - A rather unusual cruise takes guests to the emperor penguin colony on Snow Hill Island in Antarctica. You travel on the Discovery Yacht Scenic Eclipse. They cover the last kilometers to the penguins in the two on-board helicopters.
“Antarctica in Depth” is the title of Scenic Eclipse’s upcoming 13-day ultra-luxury voyage. The trip starts on December 17, 2024 Buenos Aires. and can be booked from 13.555 euros per person. The actual destination on the 371 square kilometer Snow Hill Island in the Weddell Sea is the emperor penguin colony. Twenty years ago, more than 4.000 breeding pairs nested on the colony's ice plateau.
Emperor penguins on Snow Hill Island - Photo © Scenic Group
To protect the animals, the helicopters land 1.600 meters from the breeding colony. Then we continue on foot. The state-of-the-art Airbus H130-T2 helicopters on board the Scenic Eclipse are among the quietest and most environmentally friendly aircraft in the world. The shipping company assures that the guidelines and biosecurity protocols of the IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) are adhered to when the helicopters and passengers approach. The helicopters hold up to six passengers. With their spacious interiors and large windows, they allow passengers to immerse themselves in the spectacular surroundings.
Helicopter approaching Scenic Eclipse - Photo © Scenic Group
The ship
With a maximum capacity of 200 guests and a nearly 1:1 ratio of crew members to passengers, passengers enjoy an all-inclusive trip with the utmost comfort. The price includes experiences such as Zodiac, kayak or paddleboard tours to observe seals and whales, as well as shore excursions to the icebergs or penguin colonies. The Discovery Yacht features over 114 spacious suites with verandas and personal butler service, the 550 square meter Senses Spa, two vitality pools, ten dining options and an experienced Discovery team. Excursions with the two helicopters or the on-board submarine can be booked for an additional charge.