Mawson’s Antarctica: Along the East Coast

Your journey begins in Queenstown, a playground with snow-capped peaks, clear lakes, and first-class vineyards. Enjoy an overnight stay in a luxury hotel to acclimatize and enjoy the breathtaking scenery before the expedition experience begins.

You will be taken by coach from Queenstown to Bluff, where the Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse II, awaits you. Enjoy the stunning scenery and board, where you will be welcomed with a glass of champagne. Meet your butler and toast with the other guests as you sail towards the white continent.

Bluff, at the southernmost point of the South Island, is one of New Zealand’s oldest European settlements. Originally established as a whaling station in the 1830s, the town has maintained its connection to the sea, with one of the world’s few natural oyster beds in the Foveaux Strait. Bluff is the gateway to Stewart Island and Antarctica and shows the rugged character of an oyster port.

On board the Scenic Eclipse II, you will meet experts from the Polar Discovery Team who will enrich your journey with their knowledge. Get to know the team and your polar equipment. Enjoy your suite or learn more about the yacht and its exclusive helicopters for exploration. You will reach the Antarctic Convergence to discover icebergs, albatrosses, and marine inhabitants such as whales and penguins. The Discovery excursions adapt to ice and weather conditions. Daily culinary experiences await you, with fresh juice or coffee served by your butler.

This 160-kilometer-long chain of volcanic islands lies on the Antarctic Circle and offers a unique view of one of the world’s largest animal migrations. Whales, sea otters, and leopard seals are often seen. Take part in a Discovery excursion or enjoy the view from the Observation Deck or your veranda.

Spend the morning relaxing in your luxurious suite, your personal 6-star hotel. Have breakfast brought to you or book a treatment at the Senses Spa#, such as a refreshing ESPA massage. In the evening, enjoy a drink of your choice in the Scenic Lounge Bar, with exclusive spirits, over 130 whiskies, fine wines, and French champagne.

Experience massive ice formations and pristine landscapes, interrupted only by the cracking of ice and the calling of birds. Watch blue whales and orcas and enjoy the view from the Observation Deck or on a Zodiac tour. Explore the Mertz Glacier tongue and experience the dramatic ice calving. Visit Stillwell Island with glacier cliffs and ice-covered landscapes. Follow in the footsteps of Sir Douglas Mawson and explore Commonwealth Bay and Mawson’s historic huts. Celebrate a special Christmas Day with festive food and entertainment. Observe Adelie penguins and other animals in an ice-free wildlife sanctuary.

Relax, interact with guests, and enjoy exciting lectures by experts on nature and history. In the evenings, take advantage of the all-inclusive drinks menu and Q&A sessions. Celebrate the New Year with champagne and midnight sun over the ice – an unforgettable moment in one of the most remote places on Earth.

A remote sanctuary in the South Atlantic, known for penguins and elephant seals. Depending on weather and ice conditions, you can land or take a Zodiac tour. Otherwise, enjoy a scenic cruise and look for whales and other wildlife. The island is geologically unique and a true natural wonder.

Enjoy final expert lectures and relax in the Senses Spa# or the Observation Lounge. Toast to the journey in the Scenic Lounge Bar with whiskey, wine, or champagne.

Spend a night in Hobart and experience a city where heritage meets creativity. Stroll through the vibrant streets of Salamanca, marvel at the groundbreaking exhibitions at MONA, and enjoy the charm of the historic harbor. Sample first-class Tasmanian cuisine and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant art scene after dark.

Enjoy a final breakfast on board and the view of Hobart’s picturesque harbor before disembarking.