Antarctic near-shore ecosystems experience conditions and pressures at the boundary between terrestrial and open ocean systems, and perhaps the most variable conditions of all Antarctic marine ecosystems. Coastal benthic communities can be excellent sentinels of change, as they respond to warming, freshening and acidification of seawater. Their composition is often highly correlated with sea ice conditions that are a major driver and responder to climate change. We present the results of a depth stratified (10 - 80 m deep) sampling campaign that aimed to characterise benthic communities and habitats at multiple locations in the coastal Ross Sea, using high resolution remotely operated vehicles and advanced analytical techniques. We describe patterns in benthic flora and fauna and their links to sea ice conditions (e.g. length of cover and timing of breakout), including the sensitivity of some benthic species and the general resilience of others. We also highlight the locations we have selected as sentinels for ongoing long term observations. These will be used to detect and interpret benthic community responses to, and better understand the implications of, environmental change in the highest latitude seas on Earth.