Scenic Eclipse will be one of the first cruise ships to return to Antarctica, when it resumes sailing its ultra-luxury expedition voyages from 8 January next year.
Scenic Group COO Rob Voss was pleased to make the global announcement that, “Our team and the Scenic Eclipse crew are so delighted to be able to welcome guests back on board the world-class yacht, Scenic Eclipse.
“Besides the opportunity to be one of the first cruise lines to return to Antarctica after nearly two years of no visitors, we are also excited to showcase several enhancements on board Scenic Eclipse – a number of which were driven by our guests’ feedback.”
This decision to operate the Antarctica 2022 season, from early January has been made possible due to the resumption of international travel for residents of many countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States of America and Canada.
Scenic is continuing to monitor closely the vaccination progress and the potential easing of travel restrictions for Australian and New Zealand clients.
Anthony Laver, Group General Manager Sales & Marketing Australasia said, “We are pleased to see selected international borders re-opening around the world and cruising operations recommencing.
“We are committed to providing regular updates to our travel advisors and their clients for the 2022 Antarctica season, in line with the New Zealand Government’s plans to safely re-open international borders.”
Scenic Group’s dedicated Health & Safety Steering Committee ensures all guests’ wellbeing and safety is taken care of to the highest standard. Protocols include:
- All guests and crew must be fully vaccinated
- On embarkation, all guests are given a Rapid Antigen test at no additional cost, and temperature checks are ongoing throughout the duration of the voyage
- Rapid response protocols to any COVID-19 positive test
- State-of-the-art Heating, Ventilation & Air-Conditioning (HVAC) systems provide 100% fresh air through a three-stage air purification process to the spacious all-balcony suites and public areas
- Guests will be looked after throughout their voyage with personalised service due to an almost 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio
- Social distancing and use of face masks when moving around public indoor areas
- A range of up to 10 dining experiences and nine bars and lounges ensures variety, flexibility and space for all guests.
Scenic says it is working closely with all relevant cruise industry bodies (including CLIA) and key National and local government authorities, to ensure operations adhere to all necessary guidelines and protocols.
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