'Blew my mind': Incredible behind the scenes moment during Antarctica cruise

The captivating white continent of Antarctica is a vast, untamed wilderness, but with its rugged mountains and sheer density and diversity of wildlife it was even more  mesmerising than I could have ever imagined.

Beyond the bracing cold and the wind there is a raw beauty that is unparalleled. What a privilege to experience this wonder in my life.

I had dreamt of visiting Antarctica for many, many years and after decades away from the Getaway screens I was somewhat surprised to get a call asking me "if I remembered how to present".

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I'll be honest, I didn't answer straight away but curiosity got the better of me and once Antarctica was mentioned I knew this was one trip I could not miss. 

While Antarctica is accessible from different ports in the south , our departure point - required us to fly from Australia into Santiago, Santiago to Buenos Aires and then Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, nicknamed "the end of the world" as it sits right at the tip of South America.

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From there it was smooth sailing onboard Scenic Eclipse, a few days in excited anticipation (and comfort) heading south to the white wonderland. 

After 2 days at sea we arrived at Paradise Harbour - a grand ice sculpture strewn sanctuary  with the elements as the artist. Our onboard glaciologist served as a curator explaining the subtleties and life histories of the glaciers all written into their individual patterns and striations. He really brought the glaciers to life and I was eager to learn as much as I could. 

Next stop was Mickelson Harbour, once a whaling station, it's now a refuge for charming little gentoo penguins. The day that we visited was blowing a gale, just another day for the  penguins who were totally unfazed by the conditions. 

Back in the calm and comfort of my suite I was able to reflect on the experiences of the morning.

But, it wasn't long until I was out the back preparing to take the polar plunge. This is a rite of passage for guests as they strip off to their swimmers and jump into the (literally) freezing water.

I was just about ready to take my turn when a couple of minke whales decided to indulge us in a close encounter, rubbing their bodies against the stern to the total amazement of us half naked guests. This was a once in a lifetime experience for us all and I was thankful to postpone my plunge to watch them as they put on a show. 

Scenic Eclipse also houses a submersible for a closer look at what's under the water and two state of the art Airbus helicopters for a birds eye view. Trust me, it's quite the experience.

But what really blew my mind was the stand up paddleboard adventure that took me past my first leopard seal sighting and another wonderful minke whale encounter. Truth be told - I may have cried a little. 

This trip really was what dreams are made of. The scenery, the wildlife, the luxury - together it was truly unbelievable.

You can view Tina's Scenic Eclipse Antarctica cruise on 9Now, and watch Great Getaways Thursdays at 7:30pm on 9 for more exciting travel adventures.