Scenic Eclipse makes history with submarine dive

Scenic Eclipse has made history with the first submarine dive in South Georgian waters since the Falklands War.

The luxury ship’s onboard submarine, Scenic Neptune, took guests on an underwater exploration in Stomness, South Georgia, on January 31.

The historic moment took place during the 21-day Antarctica & South Georgia voyage, which departed Ushuaia on January 17, 2022.

Scenic is the first operator to be granted permission to dive submersibles on the islands after working closely with the authorities.

Captain James Griffiths, director of marine operations, said: “We’ve been eagerly awaiting this historic moment since the application process began over two years ago. After working closely with the authorities to gain permission, we’d like to thank them for placing their trust in us to operate these dives. Seeing our plans become a reality and being able to offer our guests this incredible experience unrivalled by any other cruise line is an incredible moment for our team.”

He added: “As a brand we are used to raising the bar, only two years ago we took the title for being the first operator to fly helicopters and partake in commercial submarine dives in Antarctica. Our team at Scenic has worked tirelessly to make this happen and we’re grateful for their continued dedication and passion that allows us to provide our guests with a truly unique and unforgettable experience.”

Jason Flesher, expedition operations manager, who led the first dive, said: “It was an extraordinary experience to be on board Scenic Neptune’s maiden submarine dive in South Georgia – and was a moment that both myself and our guests will remember for a lifetime. To personally accompany our very firsts guests was truly remarkable. We witnessed a diversity of rich marine life unlike anywhere else in the world, including bioluminescent jelly fish, Pelagic Antarctic Krill and a vast array of marine benthic fauna.”

The next submarine dive in South Georgia Island will take place on the March 9, 2022 voyage, with two more departures during the 2022/23 Antarctica season on November 20, 2022, and 15 February, 2023.

Prices for the 23-day voyage start from £18,875 per person. Guests booking on the 2023/24 Antarctica season can save up to 20 per cent on selected suites when paying for their cruise in full 12 months prior to departure.

Scenic Eclipse is currently sailing its 2022 Antarctica and South America season through to March 28, before travelling from Rio de Janeiro to Lisbon to commence its long-awaited inaugural Mediterranean season.