In the shifting pack ice of Antarctica, the luxury expedition ship Scenic Eclipse II encountered constricted conditions while progressing through first-year ice near McMurdo Sound. In that sector of the Ross Sea, the USA maintains a permanent research station supported by an icebreaker presence, and the cutter USCG Polar Star was operating in the vicinity at the time.
According to the vessel’s reports, Scenic Eclipse II did not issue a distress signal nor declare an emergency. Rather, the Master sought the proximity of Polar Star to assist with clearing a practicable route and to avoid extended steaming at reduced speed under shifting ice conditions. Scenic Cruises' statement indicated the ship was never in jeopardy and that normal operations resumed when the natural movement of the ice created more favorable conditions the following day.
The company’s formal account noted that on January 17th, Scenic Eclipse II was underway in the Ross Sea near McMurdo Sound when changing pack ice slowed progress beyond the planned schedule and prompted the captain to request assistance from the nearby icebreaker to facilitate continued navigation. They reported that by the next day, the ice had shifted sufficiently to permit unimpeded transit without external support.
The operator’s communication also described the event, as experienced by those aboard, as a noteworthy episode, during which guests observed the collaborative operations from the observation deck. It was further conveyed that the general manager for ocean operations acknowledged the professionalism and cooperation of Polar Star’s crew, emphasized that rescue services had not been required, and framed the coordination between the two vessels as illustrative of the practical, respectful cooperation customary in polar navigation, where safety, seamanship and shared responsibility are fundamental.