Scenic Eclipse: 5 Years of Discovery & Innovation
The maiden voyage of Scenic Eclipse in August 2019 was a momentous event for Scenic. The debut of the World’s First Discovery Yacht marked the beginning of ultra-luxury ocean cruising for the company, already renowned for its worldwide escorted land tours and all-inclusive river cruises in Europe and South East Asia since its inception in 1986.
Continuous Innovation
Innovation abounds on board Scenic Eclipse. Since launch, Scenic has defined the benchmark and delivered pioneering advancements that set The World’s First Discovery Yachts apart.
“Since the debut of Scenic Eclipse in 2019, we have set the benchmark in ultra-luxury ocean cruising. The MKM Yachts team and our dedicated crew are very proud of the continuous innovation and unrivalled discovery yacht experiences we’ve created over the past five years”
Glen Moroney, Chairman & Founder, Scenic Group
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.
Scenic Eclipse II has built on this solid foundation, further elevating ultra-luxury treatments and wellbeing experiences including the introduction of the state-of-the-art Salt Therapy Lounge and Therabody chairs, now featured on both Discovery Yachts.
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. The concept of the luxurious floating haven – an ultimate indulgent retreat on a voyage of discovery – has been stunningly realised on board both Discovery Yachts.
Culinary Excellence
Scenic has redefined expectations of ultra-luxury cruise ship dining with the outstanding options on board Scenic Eclipse. Up to 10 world-class dining experiences are available on the Discovery Yachts, ensuring guests can enjoy a diverse range of meals and settings throughout their voyage rather than being limited to a handful of restaurants.
“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.
“Our menus reflect the talents of our chefs and the produce of the destinations we visit, and that’s really 100 percent unique,” Götter says.
Expert On Board Team
With an almost 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, Scenic Eclipse delivers a truly bespoke voyage for each guest. Each luxurious suite includes the personalised services of a butler, specifically trained to provide Scenic’s signature Nth Degree service, while the unique open bridge policy means guests can interact with the Captain and navigation crew throughout the journey.
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. They are on hand to provide deep insights for guests to truly experience their chosen destination.
“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.
A World of Wonder
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,” 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.
The Future of Discovery
The five-year journey of Scenic Eclipse was celebrated in April 2024, when the Discovery Yacht paid its first-ever visit to Australia, where Scenic was founded in 1986. With new destinations on the horizon, including East Antarctica and the Ross Sea, the Baltics and the majestic rivers of Europe and the Americas, the Scenic team is committed to making the next five years and beyond even greater.
“A Scenic Eclipse voyage means wonder in all aspects,” Senior Captain le Rouzic says. “It can be looking at what the planet has to offer, curiosity about our exceptional culinary experiences, meeting other guests and even meeting the crew.”
The success of Scenic Eclipse’s first half-decade has also inspired Scenic Group to expand its sister brand Emerald Cruises on the oceans. In March 2022, their groundbreaking luxury yacht Emerald Azzurra welcomed her first guests, followed by Emerald Sakara a year later and a new super yacht Emerald Kaia on the horizon for 2026. The luxury yachts feature an open-air infinity pool, a wellness deck with a spa and gym, and a marina platform with a variety of water toys.
For Claudius Docekal, VP Ocean Deployment, Scenic Eclipse represents a significant achievement.
“We’re extremely proud of Scenic Eclipse which, along with our dedicated expert crew and handcrafted itineraries, will continue to take our guests to places few others can reach,” he says.
“This is what truly sets us apart.”
In just five short years, Scenic has redefined ocean cruising into a realm of ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht voyages. With voyages through to 2027 available, now is the time to book and experience the Scenic difference for yourself.