This year marks the celebration of 5 years since the inaugural launch of Scenic Eclipse, setting the benchmark in ultra-luxury experiences, state-of-the-art technology and custom ship design.
Christened by Dame Helen Mirren in New York City on 10 September 2019, Scenic Eclipse set sail along the Atlantic and into a class of its own. Over the next five years, Scenic Eclipse charted a course around the world and to the top of the industry, garnering many awards along the way.
In 2023, Scenic Eclipse was joined by a twin, Scenic Eclipse II, which was christened by NASA scientist Dr Kathy Sullivan.
Together, the Discovery Yachts have navigated all seven continents and the world’s most remote and breathtaking destinations while continuing to raise the bar for discovery experiences and innovation. Industry-leading features and sleek design combine to allow Scenic Eclipse to reach destinations inaccessible by larger ships.
Custom stabilising technology enables the Discovery Yacht to navigate rough seas in comfort for guests, while GPS Dynamic Positioning negates the need to drop anchor on pristine underwater environments.
A Polar Class 6 rating and strengthened hull means Scenic Eclipse can safely visit Arctic and Antarctic regions and access unique locations others cannot, and two on-board Airbus H130-T2 helicopters and the custom-designed Scenic Neptune submersibles deliver unrivalled excursions above, below and beyond the horizon.
The innovations continue inside. At launch, Scenic Eclipse redefined wellness experiences on cruise ships. From the indulgent 550sqm Senses Spa which features state-of-the-art technology to create a sanctuary for rejuvenation to the dedicated gym and Pilates and yoga studio, Scenic Eclipse instantly stood apart for wellness at sea.
The spacious suites have also set new benchmarks in ultra-luxury. From the 32sqm Verandah Suites to the extraordinary Panorama and Owner’s Penthouse Suites, all were thoughtfully crafted with the grandeur and style of a 6-star hotel yet contain innovations and elegant furnishings far beyond that ideal.
“There are a lot of people in the industry that say cruise ship dining can’t compare to restaurants on land,” says Chef Tom Götter, Scenic Group’s VP Oceans Hotel Operations. “I wanted to prove them all wrong, and that comes down to the crew.” Behind the scenes, a culinary team of over 38 chefs from 15 countries works from a menu repertoire of more than 3,000 recipes to provide incredible variety.
The specialist Discovery Team is also carefully chosen for their expertise, knowledge of each region and ability to guide guests in all climates and conditions. “I select the best of the best expedition guides from all over the world,” says Scenic’s Director of Discovery Operations Jason Flesher.
Scenic’s strong focus on citizen science means guests are also involved in the research and discoveries made by the team. “Not only are we providing that enriching experience for our guests, but we’re also protecting the pristine regions we operate in, like Antarctica and the Arctic,” Flesher adds.
Over the last five years, the World’s First Discovery Yachts have ventured to more than 350 extraordinary destinations across all seven continents. From the stunning coastlines of the Americas to the breathtaking scenery of the Arctic regions, the idyllic South Pacific islands and the historic regions of the Mediterranean, the reach of Scenic Eclipse is unique. “Scenic Eclipse is just as at home moored alongside superyachts in Monaco as she is breaking ice less than 900 kilometres from the true North Pole.
She is truly a ship for all regions and seasons,” Captain James Griffiths says. And then there’s Antarctica. Scenic has defined ultra-luxury discovery voyages in the seventh continent.
All-inclusive Discovery Excursions by Zodiac, kayak, and stand-up paddleboards to enjoy penguin, whale and seal sightings, flyovers of the staggering McMurdo Dry Valleys and submersible dives beneath the seas of South Georgia are just some of the experiences offered on a Scenic Eclipse Expedition Voyage.“We’re the pioneers in polar exploration,” Flesher says. “The itineraries we’ve developed in Antarctica and the Arctic region are very conducive to discovery and exploration.”
In just five short years, Scenic has redefined ocean cruising into a realm of ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht voyages. With voyages throughout the world available, now is the time to book and experience the Scenic difference for yourself.
5 Days Nice to Nice
Operator: Scenic
15 Days Broome to Perth
Operator: Scenic
12 Days Bridgetown to Rio de Janeiro
Operator: Scenic
11 Days Lautoka to Auckland
Operator: Scenic
Regions