Travel agents have seen an increase in Antarctica bookings for Scenic Group on the back of the Jane McDonald: From Pole to Pole TV series, filmed on board Scenic and its sister line Emerald Cruises.
Billy Rusbridge from ROL Cruise sold two Antarctica bookings of more than £65,000 for the 13-day ‘Antarctica In Depth’ itinerary on Scenic Eclipse, both departing in February 2027.
Meanwhile, Natasha Yarnold from Fred Olsen Travel Lymington, Dan McMahon from SixStarCruises, and Natalie Werrett from ROL Cruise, all individually booked more than £50,000 of cruises visiting Antarctica, South Georgia and Falkland Islands, departing in 2027, while the show aired.
The six-part Jane McDonald: From Pole to Pole series began airing on 2 January on Channel 5 and followed the singer and TV presenter as she embarked on an expedition from Antarctica to the Arctic, on the ultra-luxury yachts Scenic Eclipse and Emerald Sakara.
Billy Rusbridge said: “Jane McDonald: From Pole to Pole has been a powerful tool in helping me sell Scenic Eclipse to cruise customers, as it brings the ship and its expedition experience vividly to life. Seeing the luxury, the technology, and the real emotions of polar exploration on screen builds instant trust and excitement, especially for clients who may feel uncertain about expedition cruising.”
Scenic Group Head of Sales Jonathan Davies said: “Since the show hit our screens, we’ve seen genuine demand translate directly into agent success. By showcasing the once-in-a-lifetime experiences on board Scenic Eclipse and Emerald Sakara, from helicopter flights to intimate wildlife encounters, the series has helped to turn aspiration into action. It proves that inspiring storytelling not only excites viewers but actively supports our agent partners by driving high-value bookings.”
