Jane McDonald: From Pole to Pole – New Channel 5 Series Featuring Scenic & Emerald Cruises
Jane McDonald: From Pole to Pole – airing from 2 January 2026!
We are delighted to share news of a brand-new Channel 5 travel series, Jane McDonald: From Pole to Pole. This six-part journey follows Jane as she travels from Antarctica all the way to the Arctic Circle, sailing on the ultra-luxury Scenic Eclipse and Emerald Sakara. The series showcases spectacular landscapes, remarkable wildlife and immersive excursions, with Jane’s trademark warmth and humour throughout.
Each episode focuses on a different region, giving viewers a taste of polar exploration, South American highlights and sun-soaked Mediterranean coastlines. Along the way, Jane experiences helicopter flights, Zodiac outings, whale watching and more, all while enjoying the comfort and style for which Scenic and Emerald are known.
All episodes will be shown on Channel 5 at 9pm, on the following dates in 2026:
Episode One – Scenic: Antarctica – Friday 2 January
Episode Two – Scenic: South Georgia and the Falkland Islands – Friday 9 January
Episode Three – Scenic: Uruguay and Brazil – Friday 16 January
Episode Four – Scenic: Brazil – Friday 23 January
Episode Five – Emerald Yacht Cruises: Greece and Italy – Friday 30 January
Episode Six – Scenic: Arctic – Friday 6 February
Across the series, viewers will see how these expedition and yacht-style cruises blend discovery with comfort. Scenic Eclipse offers an ice-strengthened hull, expert expedition teams and a wealth of included experiences, while Emerald Sakara brings a sleek yacht atmosphere with an intimate on-board feel. Together, they provide an inspiring look at what is possible on a modern expedition or yacht cruise, from remote Antarctic landings to the fjords and glaciers of the far north.
Scenic Group UK managing director of sales and marketing, Nichola Absalom, commented that the company is thrilled to be working alongside Channel 5 and JetSetTV on a new television series. She explained that the programme will highlight the remarkable scenery and broad appeal of sailing from one polar region to the other aboard the group’s luxury yachts.
She also noted that collaborating with Jane McDonald has been a hugely positive experience. Moreover, the partnership has created an excellent platform to produce fresh and engaging travel content, designed to inspire audiences with immersive experiences in distinctive destinations across a range of vessels.
Jane McDonald shared her enthusiasm for returning to sea on a brand-new journey with Channel 5, Scenic Group and JetSetTV. She added that the series will travel to some of the world’s most remote locations, bringing breathtaking destinations straight into viewers’ homes, while inviting audiences to settle in and enjoy the adventure.
If Jane McDonald: From Pole to Pole sparks ideas for your next holiday, our team can help you explore similar itineraries with Scenic and Emerald. Whether you are drawn to penguins and icebergs, the cities and beaches of South America, or the dramatic Arctic, there are selected cruises and tours designed to bring these destinations within reach.
Episode 1 – Antartica
Jane McDonald begins an epic journey in one of Earth’s least explored regions, the Antarctic Peninsula, reached by sea, air and foot. During her adventure, awe-inspiring wildlife is encountered, striking geological phenomena are witnessed, and personal limits are tested. Excitement follows with Zodiac rides around Winter Island, offering close-up views of icebergs and native species, alongside life onboard with fellow travellers. Courage is required as Antarctic waters are tackled by kayak, balance is maintained through aerial yoga, and volcanic Livingstone Island is explored by sea. Finally, the journey continues on foot across dramatic glacial landscapes, where unforgettable encounters with imposing elephant seals await.
Episode 2 – South Georgia Islands & Falklands
Jane McDonald’s not-for-the-fainthearted voyage continues to the British Overseas Territories of South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. Following in the footsteps of legendary explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, she explores powerful stories of endurance while learning about the islands’ brutal whaling history and remarkable conservation successes. In South Georgia, civilisation is rediscovered at Grytviken, where an historic whaling station is brought to life by a museum curator, before Jane traces Shackleton’s daring missions across dramatic terrain. Awe follows at Fortuna Bay, as thousands of King Penguins fill the landscape, alongside visits to former havens for whalers and explorers and practical insights into staying warm in extreme conditions. The journey then continues to the Falkland Islands, where Jane immerses herself in the Port Stanley community, enjoys an afternoon tea celebrating local produce, meets singers from the world’s most southerly military wives’ choir, and shares her own wellbeing tips while onboard. Adventure concludes on a Saunders Island sheep farm, where quad biking, herding, and a hands-on shearing experience reveal the realities of life in this remote setting.
Episode 3 – Rhythms of the Brazilian Coastline
Jane McDonald continues her adventure along South America’s Atlantic coast, journeying from Uruguay to Brazil aboard Scenic Eclipse. Her voyage begins in Montevideo, where colonial history and local cuisine take centre stage. In Maldonado, she visits a vineyard in one of Uruguay’s fastest-growing wine regions, before enjoying an exclusive invitation to the ship’s bridge to meet the captain. In Brazil, Jane explores the colourful heritage of São Francisco do Sul and takes part in traditional weaving. A thrilling speedboat tour along the coast from Pontal do Sul reveals hidden caves, local legends and close-up dolphin encounters. From vibrant cities to remote islands, this journey offers a rich blend of culture, nature and discovery.
Antarctica, South Georgia & Falkland Islands – 23 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Buenos Aires, where time is allowed to relax and prepare for the expedition ahead.
Day 2: A flight takes you to Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city, where Scenic Eclipse is boarded and the voyage begins.
Day 3: A day at sea is spent settling into life onboard while sailing through the Southern Atlantic.
Days 4–5: Exploration of the Falkland Islands, known for rugged landscapes, historic settlements and abundant wildlife, including penguins and seabirds.
Days 6–7: Scenic Eclipse continues east across open waters en route to South Georgia, with expert talks and onboard experiences enhancing the journey.
Days 8–12: Time is dedicated to South Georgia, where dramatic mountain scenery, vast king penguin colonies and historic Antarctic exploration sites are discovered through Zodiac landings and guided walks.
Days 13–17: The voyage reaches the Antarctic Peninsula, offering unforgettable experiences among towering glaciers, icebergs and wildlife, with daily Discovery excursions by Zodiac, and opportunities for kayaking and other activities, conditions permitting.
Day 18: A day at sea follows Antarctic exploration, allowing reflection on the experiences while enjoying the ship’s ultra-luxury facilities.
Days 19–20: Scenic Eclipse sails north, with time onboard to enjoy dining, wellness facilities and expert-led talks.
Days 21–22: The journey continues towards South America, offering final days at sea to relax and take in the vast ocean surroundings.
Day 23: Arrival in Buenos Aires, where the expedition concludes and onward travel arrangements are made.
All Inclusive Features
- An intimate Discovery Yacht experience, welcoming up to 200 guests
- Spacious all-verandah ultra-luxury suites throughout
Personalised butler service for every guest, with an almost 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio - Up to ten culinary experiences, ranging from relaxed dining to refined cuisine
- Up to nine elegant bars and lounges on board
- An extensive selection of included beverages available all day, every day, including over 130 whiskies at the Scenic Bar
- Indulgent 550sqm Senses Spa facilities, alongside a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, and Vitality Pools
- Daily entertainment offered in the state-of-the-art theatre and Scenic Lounge
- An engaging onboard lecture and education programme led by experts
- Swarovski telescopes in the Observation Lounge and binoculars provided in every suite
- In-depth insight from a Polar Discovery Team of up to 20 specialists
- Included programme of Zodiac excursions and guided paddling Discovery experiences
- Complimentary expedition parka and water bottle, plus use of specialist polar boots
- Selected Scenic Enrich events and personalised Scenic Freechoice experiences
- Internal flights and return airport transfers on arrival and departure
- All tipping on board and onshore included, along with complimentary Wi-Fi
Departure Dates
24 February 2026
10 November 2026
Prices from £27,327pp including Art of Travel Discount!
Rhythms of the Brazilian Coastline – 12 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Buenos Aires, where Latin passion and European romance combine to create one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Enjoy a warm welcome and a glass of champagne as you board Scenic Eclipse, your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht for the next 11 nights. Settle into your suite and toast the start of your journey from the Sky Bar.
Day 2: Time to explore Montevideo, Uruguay’s elegant capital. The city’s historic centre features colonial architecture, leafy boulevards and vibrant plazas, including the neoclassical Solís Theatre. In the evening, enjoy the onboard inclusions and all-suite luxury.
Day 3: Sail to Punta del Este, the ‘Monaco of the South’. Discover Playa Brava and its famous ‘La Mano’ sculpture, explore art galleries, or stroll golden beaches that have drawn global travellers for over a century.
Day 4: A relaxing day at sea. Enjoy a morning yoga or Pilates session, followed by time in the Senses Spa, plunge pool or one of the many bars and lounges onboard. Dining options abound, from casual bites to fine French cuisine at Lumière.
Day 5: Another day at sea allows for leisure and exploration of Scenic Eclipse’s many amenities. Take in the views from the Observation Lounge, enjoy a speciality tea, or unwind in a private cabana on Deck 10.
Day 6: Arrive in São Francisco do Sul, Brazil’s third oldest city. Wander cobbled streets lined with pastel colonial buildings and soak in the rich heritage of this beautifully preserved settlement.
Day 7: Visit Ilhabela, the ‘Beautiful Island’, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve home to jungle-covered peaks, waterfalls, and a remarkable diversity of wildlife. Enjoy nature walks or relax with an indulgent spa treatment onboard in the afternoon.
Day 8: Explore the colonial town of Paraty, with its car-free cobbled streets and brightly coloured buildings framed by lush green mountains. Keep an eye out for toucans, parrots and hummingbirds as you stroll through the historic centre.
Day 9: Discover the unspoiled beauty of Ilha Anchieta, a forested island with peaceful walking trails and wildlife in abundance. Enjoy swimming and snorkelling, or simply unwind in a beachside paradise.
Day 10: Arrive in Búzios, once a quiet fishing village, now a stylish resort made famous by Brigitte Bardot. Visit boutique shops, cafés and beaches spread across three picturesque settlements on this stunning peninsula.
Day 11: Scenic Eclipse glides into Rio de Janeiro, Brazil’s iconic coastal city. From Sugarloaf Mountain to Christ the Redeemer, Rio’s landscape is unforgettable. Enjoy an overnight stay to fully absorb the city’s rhythm, colour and energy.
Day 12: Disembark in Rio after a final breakfast onboard. Transfer to the airport for your flight home, taking with you lasting memories of a vibrant and luxurious South American journey.
All Inclusive Features
A Discovery Yacht experience for only up to 228 guests
Exclusive Scenic Enrich events and Scenic Freechoice experiences
Spacious all-verandah ultra-luxury suites?with personalised butler service for every guest
Nth degree service with a close to 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio
Up to 10 culinary experiences, from casual to fine dining
Up to nine bars and lounges
The finest selection of included beverages+, all day, every day, with a choice of over 130 whiskeys at the Scenic Bar
Indulgent 550sqm Senses Spa facilities, gym, yoga and Pilates studio and Vitality pools
Daily entertainment in the state-of-the-art theatre and Scenic Lounge
Swarovski Telescopes in the Observation Lounge and in-suite binoculars
Return airport transfers upon arrival and departure in destination
All tipping on board and onshore, complimentary Wi-Fi and water bottle to take home
Departure Dates
7 March and 3 November 2027
26 March 2028
Prices from £8,322pp including Art of Travel Discount!
Explore the Wonders on Board Scenic Eclipse
Step aboard Scenic Eclipse, where superyacht elegance combines with advanced technology for remarkable journeys worldwide. Thanks to its Polar Class 6 rating, further-reaching exploration is made possible. Meanwhile, refined comfort is enjoyed while remote waters are navigated, guided by an expert Discovery Team.
Extraordinary Discovery Excursions are offered, from exploring beneath the ocean’s surface to viewing landscapes from above. Unrivalled access is provided by two helicopters^ and the custom-built Scenic Neptune submersible, creating truly immersive experiences.
Following each adventure, relaxation awaits on your luxurious Discovery Yacht. Guests are welcomed into up to nine bars and lounges, alongside a choice of up to ten dining venues. In addition, complete rejuvenation is found within the expansive Senses Spa, supported by attentive, world-class service.
A journey aboard Scenic Eclipse goes beyond traditional ocean cruising, delivering a 6-star ultra-luxury expedition experience unlike any other.
