Cruise ship trapped in heavy sea ice is freed by US Coast Guard icebreaker

The Scenic Eclipse II became stuck in pack ice in the Ross Sea and contacted the USCGC Polar Star; the icebreaker made multiple passes to break up the ice and free the vessel, and there were no reported injuries.

The Scenic Eclipse II became stuck in heavy sea ice while sailing near Antarctica and requested assistance. The ship was reported to be about eight miles from McMurdo Sound in the Ross Sea when it contacted the USCGC Polar Star. The Polar Star made multiple close passes to break up and loosen the surrounding pack ice. The cruise line and the Coast Guard reported there were no injuries. Details: - The cruise ship Scenic Eclipse II reported it could not break through surrounding pack ice and requested assistance late Friday night. - The USCGC Polar Star approached and made several passes through the ice to break and clear a path around the vessel. - Once freed, the Scenic Eclipse II was escorted several miles to open water to ensure it could continue safely. - The cruise line said the ship was never in need of rescue services and noted the event was memorable for passengers on deck. - The Polar Star marked its 50th year of commissioned service on the same day and is the United States' only active heavy icebreaker, which conducts annual Operation Deep Freeze missions to McMurdo Station. Summary: The coordinated operation cleared the pack ice and allowed the Scenic Eclipse II to be escorted to open water, with no reported injuries. The event coincided with the Polar Star's 50th anniversary of commissioned service and reflects the cutter's routine role in Antarctic icebreaking. Undetermined at this time.