Cruise ship Scenic Eclipse II stuck in thick Antarctic ice is released by coast guard
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A cruise ship got stuck in sea ice on Saturday while traveling near Antarctica.
The Scenic Eclipse II ran aground while sailing in the Ross Sea. It called for help after it was unable to break through the surrounding ice, the US Coast Guard said in a press release.
In photos shared by a member of the Coast Guard, the USCGC Polar Star is seen parting through thick ice as it approaches the stranded vessel.
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After arriving at the ship’s location, the coastal icebreaker went through the surrounding ice to free the ice pack.
The Coast Guard said the Scenic Eclipse II struck an icebreaker Friday night after becoming stranded about eight miles from McMurdo Sound.
A passenger ship got stuck in thick sea ice in Antarctica’s Ross Sea on Saturday and needs the help of the US Coast Guard. (SWNS)
Once freed, the ship was moved a few kilometers to open water to ensure it could continue its journey safely.
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Scenic Eclipse II can carry up to 228 guests and 176 crew members, according to the cruise’s website, with fewer passengers during Antarctic cruises.
The Coast Guard came to the rescue of the Scenic Eclipse II after it became stranded about eight miles from McMurdo Sound. (SWNS)
The Coast Guard said no injuries were reported and the ship was able to continue its journey.
“Due to changes in the pack ice, progress was slower than planned, and the captain requested assistance from the nearby ship USCG Polar Star to clear the area together and avoid a long period of sailing at a reduced speed. The next day, the natural movement of the ice was open again, and the conditions were normal,” Scenic Group told Fox News Digital.
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The cruise line noted that the moment was memorable – with champagne served on the Observation Deck.
“We appreciate the professionalism and cooperation of the USCG Polar Star crew during our operations in the Ross Sea. Although the Scenic Eclipse II never required rescue services, the cooperation between the two vessels ensured that we could navigate the shifting ice safely and effectively,” said Captain James Griffiths, Scenic Group’s general manager of marine operations.
The rescue coincided with a milestone for the Coast Guard ship – which was its 50th year of service on the same day as assisting a cruise ship.
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“At 50 years old, Polar Star is still the most capable icebreaker in the world,” said Commander Samuel Blase, Polar Star’s chief operating officer.
The help came on the same day the Coast Guard vessel celebrated its 50th anniversary, the Coast Guard said. (SWNS)
Based in Seattle, the Polar Star is the only heavy icebreaker in the United States, according to the Coast Guard.
Launched in 1976, the ship is powered by a number of advanced engines that give it the power to pierce miles of thick Antarctic ice.
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The Coast Guard said the Polar Star was traveling to McMurdo Station in Antarctica as part of Operation Deep Freeze, breaking through about 21 kilometers of ice.
