Scenic has announced plans for a new luxury Discovery Yacht: The Scenic Eclipse. The new ship will embark on its maiden voyage August 31, 2018, sailing from Istanbul to Venice, followed by discovery voyages to the Americas; Antarctica; Europe and the Mediterranean; and the Arctic and Norwegian Fjords. Scenic also said there is an option for a second ship to be delivered in June 2019.
The Scenic Eclipse will carry 228 guests in 114 all-veranda suites, ranging from the 344-square-foot Verandah Suite to the 2,500-square-foot, two-bedroom Owner’s Penthouse Suite.
In terms of public spaces, there will be six onboard dining options, including contemporary fine dining and French cuisine, as well as Pan Asian, Italian, steak and casual al fresco eateries. There will also be Jacuzzis on the Sun Deck and a 5,000-square-foot spa with an extensive treatment menu, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis and plunge pools. Wellness-minded guests can also take advantage of a gym with a separate yoga and Pilates studio.
Scenic's rates include 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 theater, as well as all tips and gratuities, complimentary Wi-Fi, expert local guides for included shore excursions, a choice of included Scenic Freechoice activities and Scenic Enrich special events.
The ship's interiors have been designed by Karen Moroney, who derived inspiration from a number of the world’s leading luxury hotels.
Scenic Eclipse will also use zero-speed stabilizer fins, 50 percent larger than standard, to provide stability, even while the ship is stationary. The ship will also have the highest passenger ship ice class rating – Polar Class 6 (Ice Class 1A Super). For Arctic and Antarctica cruises, guest numbers will be limited to 200, which the line said enables more landings per day for each guest.
For excursions ashore and in the water, the ship will have two onboard helicopters and a seven-seat submarine. The onboard Discovery Team will consist of experts in their respective fields, covering a range of subjects and interests during lectures and excursions. The Discovery Team will 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, plus scuba diving and snorkeling equipment.