Scenic Discovery Expedition Yachts proudly offer guests unparalleled helicopter flights to experience one of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters on the planet: the remote emperor penguin colony on Snow Hill Island in the Weddell Sea. Home to more than 4,000 breeding pairs, Snow Hill is one of the most inaccessible places in Antarctica—a destination that Scenic makes possible.
This unique experience is made possible by Scenic's state-of-the-art technology, the advanced design of its Discovery Yachts, its extensive expertise, and the two helicopters on board. Specifically built for polar regions, Scenic Eclipse boasts Polar Class 6 certification, sophisticated navigation systems, and GPS Dynamic Positioning, enabling precise maneuvers without the need to anchor in sensitive seabeds. The two Airbus H130-T2 helicopters, custom-designed to be the quietest in the sky, provide unparalleled access to Snow Hill Island, whose combination of ice and geography makes it inaccessible from the shore to other vessels.
After landing, Scenic Eclipse's expert expedition team guides guests on a short snowshoe hike to a carefully selected viewing spot (to avoid disturbing the colony). Accompanied by the onboard ornithologist, guests witness the spectacle of emperor penguins and their chicks—one of the most heartwarming wildlife experiences in the world.
At the heart of every Antarctic voyage is the Scenic Discovery team, comprised of up to 20 polar experts, naturalists, and field leaders, whose skill and knowledge define each guest's experience, ensuring safety and profound enrichment. Helicopter, submersible, Zodiac, kayak, paddleboard, and land exploration excursions are complemented by the comforts of all-inclusive ultra-luxury: world-class cuisine and beverages, the 550-square-meter Senses Spa, and spacious suites with verandas and butler service.
Scenic's Antarctic voyages continue to lead the industry in exclusive access and depth of experience. This includes the upcoming season in East Antarctica and the Ross Sea, where guests can visit the historic Mawson Huts and the McMurdo Dry Valleys for exclusive helicopter landings. These itineraries are made possible by Scenic's unparalleled technology platform, innovative design, and decades of expedition experience.
Featured itineraries with the opportunity to visit Snow Hill Island
- Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands
20 days | Departure from Buenos Aires, November 15, 2026
This all-inclusive expedition combines three of the Southern Ocean's most spectacular destinations with the exclusive opportunity to join the helicopter excursion to Snow Hill Island^. Explore the wildlife-rich Falkland Islands; the dramatic landscapes of South Georgia, home to the world's largest king penguin colonies; and the pristine Antarctic Peninsula.
Experience multiple daily landings led by the Scenic Discovery team of specialists, with all-inclusive luxury offering up to 10 culinary experiences and spacious veranda suites.
- Antarctica in Depth
13 days | Departure from Buenos Aires, December 17, 2026
Embark on an extraordinary polar expedition focused on the breathtaking glacial landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula and its unique wildlife encounters. With the opportunity to join the helicopter excursion to Snow Hill Island, you can observe emperor penguin colonies in their natural habitat during peak season.
This itinerary, designed to maximize time in Antarctica, includes daily Zodiac landings, kayaking excursions, and expert-led explorations. The voyage is geared toward a deeper immersion in the pristine landscapes, with Scenic Eclipse's signature 6-star all-inclusive luxury and a near 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio.
The helicopter tour to Snow Hill Island is an additional cost and is subject to weather and ice conditions. It includes significant time spent near the colony and a guided snowshoe hike led by Scenic's expert ornithologists.
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