Scenic Eclipse Launches Uruguays New Cruise Season
Scenic Eclipse Kicks Off South America’s 2025-26 Cruise Season
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The cruise season in South America is officially underway! The Scenic Eclipse made history this week by becoming the first cruise ship to arrive in Uruguay for the 2025-26 season.
The luxury expedition vessel docked at the Port of Montevideo earlier this week. It was carrying passengers on a repositioning cruise to Antarctica. This arrival marked an important milestone for the region’s cruise industry.
A Warm Welcome in Uruguay
Uruguay rolled out the red carpet for the Scenic Eclipse’s arrival. High-ranking officials greeted the ship at the port. The welcoming committee included Vice President of Uruguay’s port authority Constante Mendiondo and Tourism Ministry officials.
Local officials even exchanged gifts with the ship’s crew. They presented bottles of Uruguayan wine to ship officers. This gesture highlighted the country’s famous wine production.
Mendiondo stressed how much work happens behind the scenes before cruise season starts. He also pointed out the important economic benefits that cruise ships bring to Uruguay.
Getting Ready for Antarctica Season
Before the Scenic Eclipse arrived with passengers, several expedition ships made technical stops in Montevideo. These vessels were heading to Argentina without guests aboard. They stopped for supplies and crew changes.
The lineup included ships from popular expedition companies. G Adventures, Swan Hellenic, Albatros Expeditions, and Polar Latitudes all made preparation stops. These ships are getting ready for their own Antarctica seasons.
What’s Coming This Season
Uruguay expects a busy cruise season ahead. MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises will make regular stops throughout the season. Both cruise lines plan to offer trips that start in Montevideo and visit ports in Brazil and Argentina.
Other major cruise brands will also visit Uruguay this season. Princess Cruises, Viking, Celebrity Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Holland America Line are all on the schedule.
Scenic Eclipse’s Journey
The Scenic Eclipse started its journey in Europe back in late September. It became the first ship to reach South America with passengers this season. The 228-guest vessel also opened Brazil’s cruise season before heading to Uruguay.
The ship visited nine different destinations in Brazil during its trip south. Now it’s preparing for its main mission – Antarctica expeditions.
Antarctica Adventures Ahead
Starting in mid-November, the Scenic Eclipse will offer expedition cruises from Ushuaia. These trips will take passengers to some of the world’s most remote destinations. The itineraries include Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands.
For cruise lovers interested in expedition travel, this marks the start of an exciting season. South America serves as the gateway to Antarctica for most cruise passengers. The arrival of the Scenic Eclipse signals that this unique cruise season is officially open for business.
The 2025-26 season promises to bring thousands of visitors to South American ports. This tourism boost provides important economic benefits to countries like Uruguay and Brazil. It also gives cruise passengers the chance to explore these fascinating destinations before heading to the Antarctic wilderness.
