Ocean Voyages

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.

The 6-star Scenic Eclipse also changed the direction of expedition cruising, instantly setting the benchmark in ultra-luxury experiences, state-of-the-art technology, and custom ship design.   

After a christening by Dame Helen Mirren in New York City on September 10, 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 to the top of the industry, garnering many awards along the way.  

In 2023, Scenic Eclipse was joined by a second Discovery Yacht, 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.   

As Scenic’s pioneering Discovery Yachts celebrate their fifth anniversary, here’s a look at some highlights from the new era of ultra-luxury ocean cruising. 

Continuous innovation

Innovation abounds on board Scenic Eclipse. Since its 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 unrivaled 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 stabilizing 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 unrivaled excursions above, below and beyond the horizon.

The innovations continue inside. At launch, Scenic Eclipse redefined wellness experiences on cruise ships. From the indulgent 5920sqft 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 344sqft 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 of 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. 
 The waiter lifts a smoke filled glass above a dish, showcasing the prepared meal in a focused manner.  The waiter lifts a smoke filled glass above a dish, showcasing the prepared meal in a focused manner.

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 personalized 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. 
The crew of Scenic Eclipse standing together on the dec, enjoying the view and the fresh air of the Arctic. The crew of Scenic Eclipse standing together on the dec, enjoying the view and the fresh air of the Arctic.

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.

“Scenic Eclipse is just as at home moored alongside superyachts in Monaco as she is breaking ice less than 560 miles 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.

People in a Zodiac observing whales swimming nearby in a tranquil marine environment. People in a Zodiac observing whales swimming nearby in a tranquil marine environment.

“We’re the pioneers in polar exploration. The itineraries we’ve developed in Antarctica and the Arctic region are very conducive to discovery and exploration.” 

Jason Flesher, Director of Discovery Operations

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.

Emerald Kaia floats gracefully on the calm water, reflecting the serene surroundings. Emerald Kaia floats gracefully on the calm water, reflecting the serene surroundings.

New horizons

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 set the benchmark in ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht voyages. With voyages through to 2027 available, now is the time to book and experience the Scenic difference for yourself.
Scenic Eclipse 5-Year Anniversary Scenic Eclipse 5-Year Anniversary



Featured Itineraries

Explore our itineraries below and discover the remarkable destinations that await you. 
Buenos Aires

13 Days

SEASON: 2025/2026

Antarctica in Depth

Great White Wonder

From
USD
$20,470*
Queenstown to Hobart

25 Days

SEASON: 2025

Mawson’s Antarctica: Along the East Coast

In the footsteps of explorers (and penguins)

From
USD
$34,095*
Buenos Aires to Ushuaia

22 Days

SEASON: 2025/2026

Antarctica, South Georgia & Falkland Islands

The Wild Kingdom of Antarctica: Majestic landscapes and magical Emperors

From
USD
$27,903*
Darwin to Broome

11 Days

SEASON: 2024/2025

Discover the Kimberley Coastline: An Ancient Wilderness

An Ancient Wilderness Wonderland

From
USD
$33,158*
Auckland to Cairns

12 Days

SEASON: 2024/2025

Along the East Coast of Australia: Beaches & the Great Barrier Reef

Coral Sanctuaries and Pristine Islands

From
USD
$12,140*
Perth to Broome

15 Days

SEASON: 2024/2025

Australian Odyssey: Western Australia & The Abrolhos Islands

West Australian Coastal Odyssey

From
USD
$16,895*
Nice to Civitavecchia (Rome)

8 Days

SEASON: 2026/2027

Mediterranean Wonders: French & Italian Rivieras

Ancient ports and millionaires’ playgrounds

From
USD
$9,480*
Barcelona to Lisbon

11 Days

SEASON: 2026

Jewels of Spain, Morocco & Portugal

Be inspired by the Iberian Peninsula

From
USD
$12,425*
Valletta to Athens (Piraeus)

8 Days

SEASON: 2026

Island Odyssey: Malta, Sicily & the Greek Isles

Island odyssey

From
USD
$9,455*
Scenic Eclipse Worldwide Discoveries Brochure 2024-2027
Scenic Eclipse Worldwide Discoveries Brochure 2024-2027

Your guide to ultra-luxury cruising

Start planning your unforgettable Scenic journey, view details about voyages, and see our frequently asked questions.

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