Plot

Maritime Masters: Expedition Antarctica offers an intimate, unprecedented look at the daily operations of the Scenic Eclipse, the world's first discovery yacht.

'Maritime Masters: Expedition Antarctica' gives viewers intimate, unprecedented access into what it takes for Scenic Eclipse, The World's First Discovery Yacht, to operate day in day out.

A discovery yacht unlike any other. Two helicopters, one submersible and a fleet of zodiacs that run on delivering the in depth exploration. 200 crew. 200 discerning guests. Their lives in the seasoned hands of Captain Erwan Le Rouzic, as he leads all 400 souls on a new journey. A first for the yacht. Together they travel from the relatively safe warm seas of San Diego (USA) to Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador and Costa Rica, before reaching the intense ice-cold waters of the Chilean Fjords and Argentina in the preparation for the ultimate expedition to safely explore the final frontier... Antarctica.

With 'discovery' embedded into the ship's ethos, Captain Erwan and his team of 30+ different nationalities work 24/7 to fulfill their promise of groundbreaking experiences whilst putting the safety of their guests at the forefront of everything they do. Easier said than done when category 4 hurricanes, extreme seas, severe winds and isolated locations must be navigated. Due to Mother Nature's unpredictability, strict international maritime laws and the intense conditions of the freezing polar region, this journey is anything but smooth sailing for the crew... not that the guests will ever know.

Setting a benchmark in ultra-luxury cruising is not a want but a need for the team. That is why Captain Erwan is supported by the elite of the industry. Jason Flesher, Expeditions Operations Director leading the Discovery program and Director of Food and Beverage Chef Tom Goetter fronting culinary. Experienced Cruise Director Amy Kelly and rookie Cruise Director Josh Kelly, in charge of hospitality. Each crew member is the best of the best in their fields. All of them have to be at the top of their game every day, if the ten diverse dining experiences, nine innovative bars and lounges, world class spa, gym and wellness center are all to operate smoothly irrespective of the conditions.

But no matter how elite the yacht is and how amazing the staff are, the weather is always the guiding force as Scenic Eclipse forges her way to the coldest and windiest place on earth. An area so remote it is one of only a few in the world where the local animals, such as penguins and whales, don't fear mankind.

On any nautical voyage, ego must be set aside and risk must be continually assessed. Especially on a journey as extreme as this route to Antarctica. Discovery is the driver, but guest safety is paramount. The best in the industry know this. The best in the industry live and breathe this. And that is why this crew are among a select few known as Maritime Masters.