Antarctica's Ross Sea: Majestic Ice & Wildlife

The Tasmanian capital, Hobart, always makes an impression, from the boats bobbing in its harbour to its thought-provoking art galleries such as MONA and produce-driven restaurants. As you board Scenic Eclipse II, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the Captain and crew with a glass of Champagne. Settle into your spacious verandah suite, meet your butler, and explore the world-class facilities of your Discovery Yacht. Then, gather on the Observation Deck to toast to the remarkable journey ahead as you sail away from Australia toward the world’s last great frontier.

Please book your flight to arrive into Hobart prior to 02:00 PM.

Straddling the Derwent River at the foot of Mt. Wellington's forested slopes, Hobart was founded as a penal settlement in 1803. It's the second-oldest city in the country after Sydney, and it certainly rivals its mainland counterpart as Australia's most beautiful state capital. Close-set colonial brick-and-sandstone shops and homes line the narrow, quiet streets, creating a genteel setting for this historic city of 215,000. Life revolves around the broad Derwent River port, one of the deepest harbors in the world. Here warehouses that once stored Hobart's major exports of fruit, wool, and corn and products from the city's former whaling fleet still stand alongside the wharf today.Hobart sparkles between Christmas and New Year's—summer Down Under—during the annual Sydney-to-Hobart yacht race. The event dominates conversations among Hobart's citizens, who descend on Constitution Dock to welcome the yachts and join in the boisterous festivities of the crews. The New Year also coincides with the Tastes of Tasmania Festival, when the dockside area comes alive with the best of Tasmanian food and wine on offer in numerous cafés, bars, and waterfront stalls. Otherwise, Hobart is a placid city whose nightlife is largely confined to excellent restaurants, jazz clubs, and the action at the Wrest Point Casino in Sandy Bay.The Hobart Tasmanian Travel and Information Centre hours are weekdays 8:30–5:30 and Saturday 9–5.

Be sure to stay close to your verandah as you enter the Ross Sea. The pristine, iceberg-rich ocean is popular among orcas, seals, penguins and whales.

This rugged and remarkable body of water is surrounded by sky-scraping mountains and carved by glacial ice tongues, vast ice shelves and drifting sea ice.

Your Captain and Discovery Leader will seek out the safest opportunities for you to explore the area.

Over the next few days on Ross Island, at the base of Mount Erebus, you'll have the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of legendary explorers Ernest Shackleton and Robert Falcon Scott.

Discovery:
Today you may have the opportunity to explore this fascinating landscape on the fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, stand-up paddleboarding, guided and self-paced hikes. Alternatively, you may add a flight on one of the two on board helicopters^.

Weather and ice conditions permitting, we will arrive at Beaufort Island, a remote and rugged volcanic outpost rising dramatically from the icy waters of the Ross Sea. Located on the edge of the Ross Ice Shelf, this isolated sanctuary is home to a thriving Adélie penguin colony, as well as skuas and other seabirds. Its towering cliffs and icy shores create a breathtaking landscape, offering a rare glimpse into Antarctica’s untouched wilderness.

Discovery:
You may have the opportunity to explore this fascinating landscape on the fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. Alternatively, conditions permitting, you may experience an exclusive flightseeing excursion on one of the two on board helicopters^, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Antarctic wilderness.

Few sights in Antarctica are as dramatic as Mount Erebus, the southernmost active volcano on Earth. Sit down with your expert polar Discovery Team in the theatre to learn why Sir James Clark Ross and Sir Ernest Shackleton came here and how they built their huts. Both huts are still here today and are classified as an Antarctica historical monument.

Throughout the day, keep an eye out for Adélie penguins.

Cape Bird is home to one of the region’s largest colonies, where these charming birds nest along its rugged, rocky shores.

Further south, Cape Royds blends history and wildlife. It’s home to Shackleton’s well-preserved 1908 Nimrod expedition hut.

Discovery:
Another exciting opportunity to soar over the breathtaking landscape with flightseeing on one of the two on board helicopters^.

Alternatively, you may explore this fascinating landscape and spot Ross Sea wildlife on the fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, stand-up paddleboarding, guided and self-paced hikes. Your expert Discovery Team may take you on enlightening excursions to historic explorers’ huts.

Today, weather and conditions permitting step into the world of Antarctic exploration as we navigate toward Cape Evans. This is home to one of the most important historical sites on the continent, Robert Falcon Scott’s Terra Nova Hut, the base for his legendary 1911–1913 expedition to the South Pole.

You will land via Zodiac directly at Cape Evans, where you will have the rare opportunity to walk through Scott’s Hut, preserved much as it was over a century ago. This is one of Antarctica’s most moving and well-preserved monuments to human endurance and ambition.

Back on board join your Discovery Team historians for a fascinating lecture on the rivalry between Scott, Amundsen, and Shackleton, deepening your appreciation for the sheer determination it took to survive in this formidable landscape.

Discovery:
Depending on weather and ice conditions, you may have the chance to explore this remarkable landscape in a variety of ways. Take to the water on a Zodiac cruise through icy waters in a kayak or stand-up paddleboard~, or, for a truly unique perspective, soar above the frozen expanse on an exclusive flightseeing excursion by helicopter^. Your expert Discovery Team may take you on enlightening excursions to the historic explorers’ huts.

Today, if conditions allow, prepare for one of the most exclusive experiences in the world - a helicopter flight^ over the McMurdo Dry Valleys.

A stark, otherworldly landscape, the Dry Valleys are one of the driest places on Earth. The only way to glimpse this dramatic landscape is by adding an optional excursion on one of Scenic Eclipse II’s helicopters^ – weather permitting, your pilot may even land on this end-of-the-Earth landscape.

For those staying on board, the day offers enriching experiences - from wildlife spotting in the Observation Lounge to deep-dive lectures on the region’s pioneering research stations.

Discovery:
Experience the breathtaking McMurdo Dry Valleys from above with an optional helicopter^ flight, offering a rare glimpse of this otherworldly, arid landscape, often compared to Mars.

Alternatively, embark on a Zodiac cruise across pristine Antarctic waters on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard~. Keep an eye out for orcas and Emperor penguins, while your Discovery Team shares fascinating insights into the region’s history.

Experience the edge of the world as you cruise along the Ross Ice Shelf, the largest floating ice mass on the planet. Towering up to 50 metres (160 feet) above sea level, this frozen fortress is one of the most spectacular sights in Antarctica.

As the day unfolds, your Captain and Discovery Leader will seek out the best opportunities for exploration—perhaps a Zodiac cruise alongside the towering ice cliffs or wildlife encounters with Weddell seals resting on the frozen landscape.

Discovery:
Depending on conditions, you may have the opportunity to fly on one of the two on board helicopters^ to the Ross Sea Ice Shelf. On this unforgettable optional flightseeing excursion, see the spectacular ice shelf from above and possibly land on it.

Alternatively, you may explore this fascinating landscape and spot Ross Sea wildlife on the fleet of custom-built Zodiacs, kayaks, stand-up paddleboarding~, guided and self-paced hikes.

Today, we may visit one of Antarctica’s most poignant historical sites, Inexpressible Island, where six men from Robert Falcon Scott’s Terra Nova Expedition (1910–1913) spent an unthinkable winter, stranded with almost no supplies.

Your Discovery Team historians will bring their story to life, recounting tales of sheer resilience and determination that remain among the most incredible feats in polar history.

Beyond its historical significance, Inexpressible Island is also a haven for wildlife. Adélie penguins thrive here, and the surrounding waters are often frequented by Weddell and crabeater seals. If conditions allow, we may explore the dramatic coastline by Zodiac.

Back on board, consider unwinding at the Senses Spa#, indulging in a soothing treatment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the past days.

Discovery:
Today, you may have the opportunity to explore this fascinating landscape on the fleet of Zodiacs , by Kayak or stand-up paddleboarding~. You may also have the opportunity to experience this incredible landscape from the air by taking an exclusive helicopter^ flight.

All jagged cliffs and ink-black escarpments backed by the towering Admiralty Mountains, the Adare Peninsula is a dramatic postcard. Much of the spectacle comes courtesy of the 250,000 breeding pairs of Adélie penguins – the largest colony in Antarctica – that call the region home.

This place has drawn avid expeditioners for centuries. It was the site of the first documented Antarctic landing on the continent in 1895. Norwegian explorer Carsten Borchgrevink’s two 1899 huts remain on land.

Sip a hot beverage in the Observation Lounge, where you can read books and play board games in between wildlife watching. In the evening, up to 10 extraordinary dining experiences await.

Discovery:
Weather and conditions permitting, you may have the opportunity to explore the hut remains with your Discovery Team. Or explore this fascinating landscape on the fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards~, guided and self-paced hikes.

This 160-kilometre-long chain of volcanic islands, some of them still active, straddles the Antarctic Circle. Here, you will have a front-row seat to one of the greatest convergences of wildlife in the world.

Humpbacks, fin and minke whales may put on a show while we are nearby, breaching, blowing, and slapping their tails. Crabeater, Weddell Ross Sea Seals and leopard seals loll about, sunbaking between swims. Join a Discovery excursion or just take in the view from the Observation Deck or your private verandah.

Discovery: Daily experiences may include cruising on Zodiacs, stepping ashore to view vast penguin rookeries or kayaking around icebergs. Wherever your voyage takes you, you will have countless “pinch me" moments.

Remote, rugged, and richly protected, The Snares are the closest Subantarctic Islands to New Zealand - so pristine that they remain completely uninhabited. This remarkable wildlife sanctuary, consisting of two main islands and the five-island Western Chain, enjoys the highest level of conservation protection.

Discovery: While landings are not permitted, join the Discovery Team on a Zodiac cruise along the sheltered eastern coast, weather and sea conditions permitting. Keep your eyes peeled for the endemic Snares Crested Penguin, Snares Island Tomtit, and elusive Fernbirds. The islands also host a staggering number of nesting Sooty Shearwaters.

The Snares Islands, also known as ‘The Snares’ are the northernmost of New Zealand's subantarctic islands. The islands are totally uninhabited and land mammals were never introduced on the islands, so it is only inhabited by sea mammals, birds and flora. The area is among one of five subantarctic island groups forming the New Zealand Subantarctic Islands, designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Timaru welcomes you with stunning ocean views, golden beaches, and rich heritage.

Step ashore and explore Timaru’s unique blend of heritage and modern charm. Stroll along the Bay Hill promenade, where stunning ocean views meet inviting cafés and boutique shops. Delve into the region’s past at the South Canterbury Museum, showcasing Maori artifacts and early settler history. For art lovers, the Aigantighe Art Gallery offers an inspiring collection of local and international works. Join one of the Scenic Freechoice activities planned for this stop and experience the best of Kiwi charm.

Freechoice:
Mt. Cook and Lake Tekapo: Experience a breathtaking trip from Timaru through Mackenzie Country, stopping at the turquoise Lake Tekapo and iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, then Lake Pukaki and majestic Mount Cook, with a buffet lunch and insights at the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre.

Erewhon Sheep Station and Clydesdales: Uncover Canterbury’s high country at Erewhon Station, a 35,000-acre treasure beneath the Southern Alps. From Timaru, traverse the Canterbury Plains, stopping at Lake Clearwater and Edoras for photos, then experience Merino sheep-shearing, Hereford cattle, deer, and a Clydesdales wagon ride, before enjoying a mountain picnic lunch.

Oamaru and the Moeraki Boulders: Uncover Oamaru’s historic charm, the mysterious Moeraki Boulders, and Dot’s Castle (Riverstone Castle), with lunch at the renowned Riverstone Kitchen featuring local flavours amidst its picturesque, serene setting.

Town and Coastal Discovery Walk: Stroll Timaru’s waterfront from the wharf to Caroline Bay, admire ocean and mountain views, visit Benvenue Cliffs, and explore Te Ana Maori Rock Art with morning tea on Bay Hill.

Situated almost equidistant between Christchurch and Dunedin, Timaru has oft been overlooked by those just needing to get from one city to another but more fool them! The town’s name comes from the Māori name Te Maru, meaning ‘place of shelter’ and the pretty town reveals not only stunning Middle Earth landscape and views to write home about, but an intact Victorian / Edwardian shopping precinct with many of the building being built in local volcanic bluestone. Understandably, beach life is very important here and the long ribbons of white sandy beaches and clean seas are perfect for a swimming, sunning and spoiling yourself! Voted one of New Zealand’s top 10 most loved beaches, Caroline Bay is simply a treasure. Built on the rolling hills created from the lava flows of the extinct Mt Horrible volcano, Timaru is a melting pot of culture, history, adventure and dramatic scenery. Art lovers too will not be left wanting as the city’s art gallery holds the third largest public art collection in the South Island. Walking enthusiasts will not want to miss one of the many walks along the coast or rivers that vary from short paved paths – ideal for pushchairs and wheelchairs to longer, more strenuous hikes. Well signposted and maintained, these tracks are especially beautiful in the autumn when the leaves are turning colour. And do not forget to be on the lookout for penguins, which will happily waddle alongside you some of the way!

Your voyage ends in Timaru, a charming port town known for its stunning coastal landscapes and warm Kiwi hospitality.

After one last luxurious breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your new friends and crew, taking memories for a lifetime.

You will join a standard transfer from Timaru to Christchurch.

Please book your flight to depart out of Christchurch after 02:00 PM.

^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.  ~Kayak and stand-up paddleboard not available in all locations. #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.

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.

*Locations listed within East Antarctica are subject to weather and operational conditions. Sightings cannot be guaranteed. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

Situated almost equidistant between Christchurch and Dunedin, Timaru has oft been overlooked by those just needing to get from one city to another but more fool them! The town’s name comes from the Māori name Te Maru, meaning ‘place of shelter’ and the pretty town reveals not only stunning Middle Earth landscape and views to write home about, but an intact Victorian / Edwardian shopping precinct with many of the building being built in local volcanic bluestone. Understandably, beach life is very important here and the long ribbons of white sandy beaches and clean seas are perfect for a swimming, sunning and spoiling yourself! Voted one of New Zealand’s top 10 most loved beaches, Caroline Bay is simply a treasure. Built on the rolling hills created from the lava flows of the extinct Mt Horrible volcano, Timaru is a melting pot of culture, history, adventure and dramatic scenery. Art lovers too will not be left wanting as the city’s art gallery holds the third largest public art collection in the South Island. Walking enthusiasts will not want to miss one of the many walks along the coast or rivers that vary from short paved paths – ideal for pushchairs and wheelchairs to longer, more strenuous hikes. Well signposted and maintained, these tracks are especially beautiful in the autumn when the leaves are turning colour. And do not forget to be on the lookout for penguins, which will happily waddle alongside you some of the way!