Scenic Discovery Yachts is offering freshly released departures to see the remote Emperor penguin colony of Snow Hill Island in the Weddell Sea – one of Antarctica’s most inaccessible sites. Snow Hill Island is home to more than 4,000 breeding pairs of Emperor penguins.
Accessed by the pair of Airbus H130-T2 helicopters aboard Scenic Eclipse I and Scenic Eclipse II, the choppers are custom-designed to be the quietest in the sky, and provide seamless access to Snow Hill Island, which, due to ice and geography make it inaccessible from the coastline by most other ships.
Purpose-built for the Polar regions, Scenic Eclipse carries a Polar Class 6 rating, sophisticated navigation systems and GPS Dynamic Positioning, allowing precise manoeuvring without dropping anchor on sensitive seabeds.
Upon landing, the Scenic Eclipse specialist Discovery Team lead guests on a short snow hike (of around one kilometre) through the snow to a carefully selected vantage point (to not disturb the colony). Guided by the on-board ornithologist, guests witness the spectacle of Emperor penguins and their fluffy chicks – one of the most profound wildlife experiences anywhere in the world.
Scenic says that during this unique experience, and throughout Antarctica, its dedicated crew ensures all IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) and biosecurity protocols are adhered too.
At the core of every Antarctic voyage is the Scenic Discovery Team – of up to 20 polar experts, naturalists, and field leaders whose skill and knowledge shapes each guest’s experience, ensuring it’s both safe and profoundly enriching.
Featured itineraries with an opportunity to visit Snow Hill Island, by helicopter, include:
Antarctica, South Georgia & The Falkland Islands
20 Days | Departing Buenos Aires, 15 November 2026
This all-inclusive expedition combines three of the Southern Ocean’s most spectacular destinations with the exclusive opportunity to join the Snow Hill Island helicopter excursion^. Explore the wildlife-rich Falkland Islands, South Georgia’s dramatic landscapes home to the world’s largest King penguin colonies, and the pristine Antarctic Peninsula.
Prices start from AU$44,245 per person* with savings from $9,000 per person* and includes flights to Ushuaia and a pre-night stay in Buenos Aires.
Antarctica in Depth and the Weddell Sea
13 Days | Departing Buenos Aires, 24 November 2027
Embark on an extraordinary polar expedition focusing on the Antarctic Peninsula’s breathtaking glacial landscapes and unparalleled wildlife encounters. With the opportunity to join the Snow Hill Island helicopter excursion^, witness Emperor penguin colonies in their natural habitat during the optimal viewing season.
Prices start from AUD $27,360 per person* with savings from $6,000 per person* and includes flights to Ushuaia and a pre-night stay in Buenos Aires.
For complete itinerary details and pricing, visit scenic.com.au.
^The Snow Hill Island helicopter excursion is offered at an additional cost and is subject to weather and ice conditions. This exclusive experience includes significant time near the colony and a guided snow hike led by Scenic’s expert ornithologists.
