Scenic Unveils World’s First Discovery Yacht
As it celebrates its 30th anniversary, Scenic has announced the launch of its First Discovery Yacht, the Scenic Eclipse.
Three years in planning, Scenic’s recently established Ocean Cruising Line will usher in a new era for the luxury operator when Eclipse embarks on its maiden voyage on Aug. 31, 2018. The vessel will sail from Istanbul to Venice, followed by discovery voyages to The Americas, Antarctica, Europe and the Mediterranean, and the Arctic and Norwegian Fjords. A video is available at http://www.youtube.com/c/Scenicusa.
The ultra-luxury mega yacht, described as a “6-star” ship, will carry 228 guests in 114 all-veranda suites – from the spacious 344-sq.-ft. Verandah Suites to the 2,500-sq.-ft. two-bedroom Owner’s Penthouse Suite.
Guests can enjoy a choice of six on-board dining options – from contemporary fine dining with French cuisine, to Pan Asian, Italian and steak to casual al-fresco dining on the Pool Deck or in the Ocean Cafe Lounge. Guests can also relax in one of the Jacuzzis on the Sun Deck or enjoy a drink in one of the spacious bars and lounges on board.
The ship will also feature a nearly 5,000-sq.-ft. spa offering an extensive menu of luxury treatments, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis and plunge pools. The wellness aspect is complemented by a well-equipped gym with a separate yoga and Pilates studio.
Scenic’s signature brand of all-inclusive luxury includes all meals (no surcharge at any on-board dining venue), complimentary top-shelf beverages all day every day, butler service with an almost 1:1 guest-to-staff ratio and on-board entertainment and lectures in the 240-seat theatre. As with all Scenic cruises, all tips and gratuities are also included as is complimentary Wi-Fi, expert local guides for included shore excursions, a choice of included Scenic Freechoice activities to personalize the guest experience plus numerous Scenic Enrich special events.
Eclipse has been specifically designed to navigate challenging seas in the utmost comfort and safety. The ship will utilize innovative zero-speed stabilizer fins, 50% larger than standard to provide even greater stability. The Scenic Eclipse will also have the highest passenger ship ice class rating – Polar Class 6 (Ice Class 1A Super), providing an added element of safety for guests. For Arctic and Antarctica cruises, guest numbers will be limited to 200 which enables more landings per day for each guest.
Adding even more to the uniqueness of the product, the Scenic Eclipse will take guests to places previously thought inaccessible by using its two on-board helicopters, as well as a seven-seat submarine.
An on-board Discovery Team will assist guests in experiencing the very best of these remote regions. Led by experts in their fields, the team will cover a range of subjects and interests during lectures and excursions and be assisted by a full complement of dedicated Antarctic and Arctic team members when in those two regions. A fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks are also on board, as well as scuba diving and snorkeling equipment for use during “in-depth discoveries.”
Scenic has an option for a second ship to be delivered in June of 2019. Eclipse joins the Scenic Group’s fleet of 21 river cruise ships throughout Europe, Russia and Southeast Asia.
An Eclipse brochure, detailing 18 different itineraries, will soon be available.
