Scenic, the Australian luxury travel operator best known in North America for its river cruise operation, has announced that its new Ocean Cruising Line will launch the 228-passenger Scenic Eclipse, the world’s first “discovery yacht,” sailing Aug. 31, 2018. The announcement also came with the news that a second ship may be in the works for June 2019.
The new ship will sail to the Americas, Antarctica, Europe, the Mediterranean, the Antarctic and the Norwegian fjords. For Arctic and Antarctica cruises, guest numbers will be limited to 200, which enables more landings per day. Eclipse will be all-suite and all-veranda, with suites ranging from 344 square feet to the 2,500-square-foot, two-bedroom Owner’s Penthouse Suite. Six onboard dining venues run the gamut, from Pan-Asian, Italian and steak to alfresco casual meals.
Major selling points include two onboard helicopters, a seven-seat submarine, a nearly 5,000-square-foot spa, complimentary top-shelf beverages, butler service and Scenic Enrich special events, as well as the inclusion of gratuities, free Wi-Fi access and a choice of shore excursions. A fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks are also onboard, in addition to scuba diving and snorkeling equipment that allows passengers to experience the destinations at a greater depth.
The elegant, modern interior was designed by Karen Moroney, wife of Scenic chairman Glen Moroney, who says his intent for the ocean cruise line is to open up the private discovery yacht experience so that guests can explore regions previously only visited by a fortunate few.
He adds that, in general, only the wealthy or serious explorers and adventurers were previously able to travel to the Antarctic hinterland or venture below the surface to witness polar wildlife in their natural habitat. Now, Scenic is making these experiences accessible to its more diverse guests while they travel in luxury.
Led by experts in their fields, the onboard Discovery Team will cover a range of subjects and interests during lectures and excursions, assisted by dedicated Antarctic and Arctic team members when in those two regions.
The Scenic Eclipse brochure, which details 18 different itineraries, is available this month.
The Details
Scenic
www.scenicusa.com
www.scenic.ca
