Scenic Eclipse has announced its first helicopter excursion, to view the Emperor penguin colony at Antarctica’s Snow Hill Island.
The announcement marks a successful start to Scenic 2023/2024 Antarctica season led by Captain Radomir Novosel and the specialist Polar Discovery Team on its recent 13-day Antarctica in Depth ultra-luxury voyage.
Guests joined an exclusive helicopter excursion to land on the Sea Ice near Snow Hill Island, located in the Weddell Sea where they had the rare opportunity to view the emblematic Emperor penguin colony, which is home to over 4,000 breeding pairs.
Scenic says that with two onboard helicopters, it is uniquely positioned to offer this exclusive Discovery excursion.
The custom-built Airbus H130 aircraft are the “quietest helicopters in the sky”, ensuring minimal disturbance to wildlife and the environment.
Led by the expert Polar Discovery Team, guests landed one kilometre from the colony and enjoyed a snow hike to view the Emperor penguins.
Scenic Eclipse’s Ornithologist Dr. Maricel Grilli, who has been working with Scenic in Antarctica since 2020, provided deep insights into the behaviour and ecology of Antarctica’s most iconic wildlife.
The dedicated crew ensured all IAATO and biosecurity protocols were followed during this unique excursion.
Prices start from £22,940pp plus flights with Scenic’s best available offers.
The additional cost for the helicopter flight and landing on Snow Hill Island is £1,186 per person*, which includes significant time near the location of the colony.
Catering to a maximum of 200 guests, the ultra-luxury Discovery Yachts feature an impressive array of indoor and outdoor spaces for an intimate voyage and the opportunity for guests to take part in multiple landings each day.
All Scenic Eclipse voyages are all-inclusive, meaning guests can leave their wallets in a safe place and relax, knowing everything is taken care of.
Internal flights, transfers, fine dining experiences, premium branded beverages and immersive Discovery excursions are all included.
On each Expedition Voyage, the Scenic Eclipse Discovery Team comprises up to 20 experts, from naturalists to marine biologists, and glaciologists with Zodiac, kayak and stand-up paddleboard excursions for a low-impact way to explore.
Alternatively, guests can choose to take to the skies in one of two state-of-the-art helicopters or venture below the ocean’s surface in a custom-built submersible for an incomparable exploration.
*Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather and ice conditions.
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