Mawson’s Antarctica: Along the East Coast

Fly from the UK to Queenstown. Queenstown is the kind of place that will leave you breathless – in more ways than one. There are the high altitudes of the Southern Alps, mirror-like Lake Wakatipu, dreamy vine-laced countryside and the atmospheric town itself, where wood fires crackle and wine glasses toast the end of another remarkable day.
Enjoy your one-night stay in Queenstown.

This morning, travel by coach through the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island to Bluff. Along the way, admire rugged mountains, tranquil lakes, and lush forests. Upon arrival, board your Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse II, where a warm welcome awaits. Settle into your suite, meet your butler, and begin exploring your ultra-luxury home for the journey ahead.

Scenic Eclipse II will remain docked in Bluff overnight, allowing a full day in port tomorrow to enjoy Scenic Freechoice options before setting sail.

The most southernmost town in New Zealand, Bluff (or The Bluff as it is locally known) is perhaps the most European of all the settlements in the country. Called Campbelltown until 1917, the city was officially renamed after the 265 meter conical hill that towers above it. One of the farthest corners of the British Empire, the inaugural Royal Tour of New Zealand by Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, concluded at Bluff in January 1954. Nowadays however, it is the Bluff oysters that are the stars of the show. Reputed to be the best in the world, these local heroes are what have really put Bluff on the map and are celebrated every May with a lively festival honouring Ostrea chilensis (that’s Latin for Bluff oyster). But gastronomy aside (and it is mostly oyster related), Bluff offers the adventurous traveller much in the way activity. Gateway to Stewart Island, day trippers here might enjoy hopping on the ferry for the hour long trip to Stewart Island, or New Zealand’s third island. Unspoilt, tranquil and stunning, Stewart Island is a showcase for New Zealand’s undiscovered tourism spots due to its privileged (yet remote) position in the world. However, for those who wish to stay on the mainland, the Bluff Maritime Museum is a “must visit” for anyone travelling along the Southern Scenic Route, with fascinating historical information about the many early shipwrecks in these challenging southern waters and coastlines. The comprehensive network of walking tracks will delight the ornithologists amongst you – just don’t forget your binoculars!

At the very southern tip of the South Island, Bluff is one of New Zealand's oldest European settlements. It began life as a whaling station in the 1830s and has retained its strong ties to the sea, with one of the world’s few natural oyster beds sitting just offshore in the Foveaux Strait. Bluff is the gateway to Stewart Island and Antarctica beyond, offering travellers a taste of the rugged character of an oystering port.

Freechoice:
Invercargill Sights & Transport World: Visit Invercargill to admire antique vehicles at the Transport World Museum and enjoy the town’s stunning gardens.

Southern Sojourn: Explore Southland's art and history from Bluff, starting with a scenic drive to Gore. Visit the Moonshine Museum and Eastern Southland Art Gallery, where you'll discover local and international artworks.

Scenic Drive & Walking Tour: Discover Stirling Point, the southernmost tip of the South Island, and explore Bluff Hill for panoramic views. Travel along the scenic coastline to Oyster Cove Marina, enjoy Ocean Beach's wild beauty, and explore seafaring history at the Bluff Maritime Museum.

The most southernmost town in New Zealand, Bluff (or The Bluff as it is locally known) is perhaps the most European of all the settlements in the country. Called Campbelltown until 1917, the city was officially renamed after the 265 meter conical hill that towers above it. One of the farthest corners of the British Empire, the inaugural Royal Tour of New Zealand by Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, concluded at Bluff in January 1954. Nowadays however, it is the Bluff oysters that are the stars of the show. Reputed to be the best in the world, these local heroes are what have really put Bluff on the map and are celebrated every May with a lively festival honouring Ostrea chilensis (that’s Latin for Bluff oyster). But gastronomy aside (and it is mostly oyster related), Bluff offers the adventurous traveller much in the way activity. Gateway to Stewart Island, day trippers here might enjoy hopping on the ferry for the hour long trip to Stewart Island, or New Zealand’s third island. Unspoilt, tranquil and stunning, Stewart Island is a showcase for New Zealand’s undiscovered tourism spots due to its privileged (yet remote) position in the world. However, for those who wish to stay on the mainland, the Bluff Maritime Museum is a “must visit” for anyone travelling along the Southern Scenic Route, with fascinating historical information about the many early shipwrecks in these challenging southern waters and coastlines. The comprehensive network of walking tracks will delight the ornithologists amongst you – just don’t forget your binoculars!

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.

Wake up to the breathtaking beauty of nature’s most remote frontiers, where towering ice formations and untouched landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see. This is a world of pure wilderness, where silence is broken only by the crackle of shifting ice and the calls of seabirds soaring overhead.

Today invites you to fully immerse yourself in this extraordinary environment. Step onto the ice for an unforgettable exploration, where every crisp breath and crunch beneath your boots connects you to the raw, untamed beauty of this frozen realm.

Discovery:
Weather and ice conditions permitting, step ashore on the rugged, windswept terrain, where the stark beauty of Antarctica unfolds before you. Here, Adélie penguins waddle across the ice, and seabirds soar overhead, their cries the only sound in this frozen wilderness. Zodiac cruises may offer the chance to glide between sculpted ice formations, revealing hidden glacial caves and towering ice cliffs.

Today you may see some of the ocean’s most elusive giants in their natural habitat as towering icebergs drift silently across the horizon.

This could be the day you encounter the legendary blue whale. The sight of a 30-metre-long silhouette breaking the surface is a moment of pure magic. The elusive Type C orcas could also make an appearance.

Whether observed from the comfort of the Observation Deck, during an exhilarating Zodiac cruise, or perhaps even from the above in the helicopter^, today is a rare opportunity to witness Antarctica’s most awe-inspiring marine life in its natural element.

As we navigate the untamed waters of East Antarctica, the landscape is a breathtaking spectacle of floating ice cathedrals. Towering tabular icebergs, sculpted by wind and time, stand sentinel, while smaller bergs, growlers, and shifting pack ice drift silently, creating a mesmerizing frozen mosaic. Amidst this pristine wilderness, Adélie penguins waddle across the ice, Crabeater and Weddell seals bask in the Antarctic sun and minke whales surface gracefully, offering fleeting glimpses into their world.

Wake up to a Christmas morning unlike any other, surrounded by an endless expanse of pristine white ice. Throughout the day, special dining, treats and entertainment bring the magic of Christmas to the heart of the frozen continent.

Today, weather and ice conditions permitting, prepare for an extraordinary Zodiac cruise to the Mertz Glacier Tongue—a colossal river of ice extending into the Southern Ocean.

If nature permits, you may witness the powerful moment of ice calving, as enormous chunks break away and thunderously crash into the sea—a phenomenon both humbling and exhilarating.

Discovery: Enjoy daily Discovery excursions. Cruise on the Zodiacs around ice formations, step onto islands to view vast penguin rookeries and seals. Kayak and stand-up paddleboard around icebergs and hear the ice cracking and whales feeding below. For the ultimate perspective, take to the skies on an optional helicopter flight^, soaring over the vast, untouched landscapes of East Antarctica.

As your Discovery Yacht navigates deeper into East Antarctica’s remote frontier, prepare for a day of extraordinary exploration in an area few have ever set foot. Stillwell Island is an unparalleled polar experience, where stunning, ice-draped landscapes transport you to a captivating world of frozen wonder. Towering glacial cliffs, sculpted icebergs, and vast, untouched expanses provide an unforgettable backdrop to today’s exploration.

Discovery:
Weather and ice conditions permitting, embark on an exhilarating Zodiac cruise, gliding through icy waters that mirror the towering ice formations above. Keep your binoculars ready—these remote islands are known for their thriving seabird populations, including snow petrels and skuas soaring high above. If the conditions allow, you may even step ashore on the rugged, windswept terrain, experiencing the raw, untouched majesty of these seldom-visited outposts.

Today, you will have the rare opportunity to follow in the footsteps of one of history’s greatest explorers, the legendary Sir Douglas Mawson, as you embark on an unforgettable experience retracing his historic 1911–14 Australasian Antarctic Expedition. Discover the remote, wild beauty of East Antarctica as you navigate the iconic Commonwealth Bay, explore Mawson's Main Base huts, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes that defined the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration. This is your opportunity to experience the extraordinary - just as the pioneers did over a century ago.

Discovery:
Weather and ice conditions permitting, embark on an unparalleled journey back in time with a visit to the iconic Mawson’s Huts—one of the most historically significant sites in Antarctica. Scenic Eclipse II is the only ship offering an included helicopter flight shuttle experience, allowing all guests to take in aerial views of Commonwealth Bay before landing near the huts to explore this living time capsule of Antarctic exploration. Due to its historic nature, only four people are permitted inside the hut at a time. Scenic Eclipse II will be positioned in this area for several days, providing guests one opportunity to visit this extraordinary site over the next few days.

Daily experiences may include thrilling Zodiac excursions, stepping ashore to observe vast penguin rookeries, or kayaking past sculpted icebergs, each moment revealing breathtaking landscapes and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters.

As you venture further into the Antarctic region, join our Discovery Team in the theatre for lectures that provide deep insights about the fantastic world around you.

As you continue your journey through Commonwealth Bay, you’ll witness the same untamed landscapes and powerful elements that led Mawson to famously call this place "Home of the Blizzard."

Today, presents an opportunity for guests still to visit the historic huts and other significant sites to experience the vivid and immersive insights into this remarkable era in Antarctic history.

After a day of exploration, restore your senses back on board. Book a luxurious spa treatment# in the tranquil Senses Spa, whether it’s an ESPA facial, a hot stone massage, or an Ayurvedic-inspired therapy. Then embrace the ultimate relaxation in the KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge.

Discovery:
Katabatic winds and ice permitting, today’s exploration will be another unforgettable immersion into the heart of East Antarctica. Step ashore at Mawson’s Huts, where history comes alive in its most untouched form. As you stand where legendary explorers once braved the elements, you will gain a profound appreciation for the resilience of early Antarctic pioneers.

Daily experiences may include thrilling Zodiac excursions, stepping ashore to observe vast penguin rookeries, or kayaking past sculpted icebergs, each moment revealing breathtaking landscapes and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters.

Back on board, our scientists and conservationists will share their latest research, offering rare insights into the fragile Antarctic ecosystem and ongoing efforts to protect it.

This extraordinary corner of East Antarctica is not only home to Mawson’s legendary huts, but also one of the rare ice-free wildlife havens on the continent. Here, thousands of Adélie penguins waddle along the rocky shoreline, snow petrels glide effortlessly above, and Wilson’s storm petrels dance across the water’s surface in search of food.

Throughout the day, delve deeper into the wonders of Antarctica with expert-led lectures and dynamic discussions in the state-of-the-art theatre. If conditions allow, you may even have the unique opportunity to contribute to real-time research projects, assisting in polar discovery like never before.

Discovery: Weather and ice permitting, today presents another extraordinary opportunity for guests still to visit Mawson’s Huts, a truly remarkable experience where history comes alive. Step inside these century-old structures and stand in the footsteps of the fearless explorers who braved the harshest conditions on Earth.

Daily experiences may include thrilling Zodiac excursions, stepping ashore to observe vast penguin rookeries, or kayaking past sculpted icebergs, each moment revealing breathtaking landscapes and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters.

Today, you will sail past Macquarie Island, a remote subantarctic sanctuary in the Southern Ocean. Macquarie Island is home to millions of seabirds and marine mammals, including royal, king, rockhopper, and gentoo penguins, as well as large populations of elephant seals. The Island and surrounding areas are strictly protected as part of an Australian Nature Reserve, ensuring its delicate ecosystems remain preserved.

Subject to the necessary permits being granted, as well as favourable local weather and ice conditions for safe passage, we may have the opportunity to land or embark on a Zodiac cruise in this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site.

In the event that permits are not granted, you can still look forward to a scenic day of cruising as we search for whales and other incredible wildlife.

Conservation efforts have successfully restored native wildlife, making it one of the world’s most pristine and untouched environments. This is also one of the few places on Earth where rocks from the Earth’s mantle (from beneath the crust) are exposed above sea level, making it a site of unique geological importance.

Whether you have the opportunity to land or simply admire this natural wonder from several vantage points on the ship’s decks, Macquarie Island is a truly rare and remarkable sight, offering a glimpse into the wild beauty of the Southern Ocean.

Macquarie Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its major geoconservation significance. It is the only island in the world that is entirely composed of oceanic crust and rocks from the mantel. The unique diversity of the island makes it a truly remarkable place to visit. Sand Bay is located on the east coast where you will find Royal and King Penguin rookeries as well as Southern Elephant Seals, and if the weather permits, you will have the opportunity to get closer on a Zodiac®.

With an overnight stay in Hobart, immerse yourself in a city where heritage meets creativity. Wander through Salamanca’s lively streets, marvel at MONA’s groundbreaking exhibitions, and soak in the charm of the historic waterfront. Indulge in world-class Tasmanian cuisine and experience the city’s vibrant arts scene after dark.

Freechoice:
Hobart Explorer: Explore Salamanca Place’s historic warehouses, now charming shops and restaurants. Photograph Hobart and Bruny Island from Mt Nelson, then stroll the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens’ unique collections.

MONA Museum of Old and New Art: A must for the Art lover, visit the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), Australia’s largest private museum, featuring underground galleries of contemporary art and antiquities from David Walsh’s collection, plus stunning grounds.

Wine & Oysters: Journey to Barilla Oyster Farm to sample fresh, delicious oysters from pristine southern waters, then enjoy wine tasting at Coal Valley Vineyard before a scenic Hobart tour with a Rosny Hill lookout stop.

Cascades Female Factory: Discover the Cascades Female Factory, Australia’s key historic site for female convicts, where over 6,000 women and children were imprisoned from 1828 to 1856, sharing tales of resilience and hardship with local guides.

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.

Your voyage ends in Hobart – knowing there’s still nothing between you and Antarctica but swathes of icy ocean helps take away the sting of everyday life. After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your new friends and the dedicated Scenic Eclipse crew, who have made your voyage so remarkable. Fly home carrying once-in-a-lifetime memories with you, or choose to extend your journey to explore the captivating city of Hobart. Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK.

Please book your flight to depart out of Hobart after 12:00 PM.

Please note, the itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons and weather conditions. As such, Scenic cannot guarantee the cruise will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above.

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.