US Coast Guard Aids Luxury Cruise Ship Trapped in Antarctic Ice
The US Coast Guard lent a helping hand to the luxury expedition cruise ship, Scenic Eclipse II, on January 17, 2026. The vessel found itself ensnared in pack ice roughly eight miles from McMurdo Sound in Antarctica’s Ross Sea. The Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star, the United States’ only active heavy icebreaker, performed two close icebreaking passes to liberate the marooned vessel.
The Scenic Eclipse II, an Australian-owned luxury cruise ship with a capacity of up to 228 guests, sought assistance after experiencing slower-than-anticipated progress through shifting pack ice conditions. The cruise line clarified that the ship was never in distress. However, the captain requested help to prevent an extended sailing period at a reduced speed. The following day, natural ice movement resulted in more favorable conditions, and operations resumed as usual.
For passengers aboard the vessel, the operation turned into a memorable highlight of their Antarctic voyage. Champagne flowed on the Observation Deck as guests observed the coordinated effort between both vessels. Adding historical significance to the event, the rescue operation coincided with the 50th anniversary of the commissioning of the USCG Cutter Polar Star. The Antarctic voyage, which began in Hobart, Tasmania on January 6, is set to wrap up in Dunedin, New Zealand on January 29, 2026.
Source: TravelPulse