Cruise

Scenic Introduces New Eclipse Itineraries

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours has unveiled two new itineraries for its newest ship, Scenic Eclipse.

“Taste of the Caribbean” is a 13-day exploration (Oct. 8-20) of one of the world’s most cruise-visited regions – but with a unique focus on some lesser visited ports. The 11-day “Colombia & Panama,” departing Miami on Oct. 20 combines some of the region’s major ports with off-the-beaten-path opportunities.

Stops on the “Taste of Caribbean” include Long Island, a paradise with cliffs, long white sand beaches and coral reefs; one of the Caribbean’s best birdwatching sites, Great Inagua Island, home to more than 140 species of native and migratory birds including 80,000 flaming reddish-pink West Indian Flamingo; the remote pine-shrouded Guanaja Island in Honduras, a premier destination for snorkeling with 90% of the island dedicated to national forest reserve and marine park; and Half Moon Caye, designated as a wildlife protected area in 1924 due to its sea turtle nesting habitat and home to the red-footed booby. The sailing departs from Nassau and disembarks in Miami. Fully inclusive fares start at $10,275 per person, double.

Guests depart Miami on Oct. 20 for the “Colombia & Panama” sailing and, after a stop in Key West, head to Central America. In Belize City, guests explore colonial houses, seaside parks and Mayan ruins, while in Roatan Island, the focus is on snorkeling or relaxing for the day on the white sand beaches. Isla de Providencia is part of Colombia – its remoteness made it an ideal location for the former base of the notorious pirate Henry Morgan and now offers guests a place to explore away from the tourist crowds. Other ports include Costa Rica’s Puerto Limón, where guests visit the Jaguar Rescue Centre and Sloth Sanctuary; and the San Blas Islands, home to the remote Kuna people and ideal for snorkeling and learning about the lifestyle of the natives. Disembarkation is in Cartagena, Colombia. Fully inclusive prices start at $11,345.

Scenic Eclipse launches Aug. 15 and will spend six weeks sailing along the North American east coast. The Polar Class 6 ship, the highest passenger ship ice class rating, has 114 all-verandah suites, 10 dining options – from Asian Fusion to French fine dining to a chef’s table to a poolside buffet, a spa with well-equipped gym and separate yoga and Pilates studio, two six-guest helicopters and one six-guest submarine capable of depths of nearly 1,000 feet, a 240-seat theatre for entertainment and lectures, indoor and outdoor plunge pools, butler service for all guests and an almost 1:1 guest-to-staff ratio.

(https://www.scenic.ca)