Jane McDonald series leads to uptick in luxury Antarctica bookings 

Agents have reported an uptick in luxury Antarctica bookings following the airing of Jane McDonald: From Pole to Pole filmed with Scenic Cruises.

The six-part documentary programme started on January 2 on Channel 5 and was filmed on board Scenic Eclipse and Emerald Sakara.

Following the show, ROL Cruise agent Billy Rusbridge confirmed two Antarctica bookings for a 13-day itinerary on Scenic Eclipse more than £65,000 for February 2027.

He said the programme had been “a powerful tool” to help sell Scenic Eclipse, adding: “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.”

While the show was broadcast, Natalie Werrett, also from ROL Cruise, booked cruises worth £50,000 visiting Antarctica, South Georgia & the Falkland Islands departing in 2027, as did Natasha Yarnold from the Fred Olsen Travel Lymington branch, and Dan McMahon from Six Star Cruises.

Patrick Hill, head of sales at Paramount Cruises, said the agency’s dedicated blog on the programme had garnered 2,000 views, and he was optimistic this would translate into future sales.

Similarly, Cruise2 owner Chander Prakash said there had been “a spike” in enquiries for the destination.

Jonathan Davies, head of sales at Scenic Group, 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 onboard 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.”