Following the launch of the highly anticipated Scenic Eclipse, we took the opportunity to sit down with Nichola Absalom, Scenic’s UK Director of Marketing and talk about what to expect with the World’s First Discovery Yacht.

Scenic Eclipse is the first purpose-built discovery yacht from Scenic Ocean. Tell us a little bit about launching your first ocean ship?

It’s been an exciting couple of years for us knowing we were about to launch a ship that would change the industry forever. From the keel laying ceremony, to cutting the steel and watching her first ‘float out’, the Scenic global team have been there every step of the way. Slightly later than her original launch day, it was such a proud moment to see her set sail for the first time on 10th August from Reykjavik with our first passengers on board.

Scenic Eclipse ship - Scenic Ocean

How does the ship differ from other Scenic offerings?

This is Scenic’ s first ocean ship. It’s also the first time that six-star luxury and expedition have been combined in this way. This is a new era in luxury expedition travel, where industry leading safety and environmental standards combine with state-of-the-art technology and the six-star experience, to yet again set the benchmark on an international stage.

What would you say is a must-try for everyone on-board Scenic Eclipse?

There’s just so many innovative features on board that it’s hard to choose. A helicopter excursion will offer a ‘birds-eye-view’ and every guest will experience incredible sights that are nearly impossible to see by any other method of transportation.

Heli Deck - Scenic Eclipse - Scenic Ocean

Soaring smoothly above Icelandic geothermal lakes or the Norwegian fjords, guests are welcome to use their cameras or mobile phones. However, each of the aircraft is equipped with video systems that will capture some of the most breath-taking scenery in some of the most remote locations.

Another must-try is our 550sqm Senses Spa that is equipped with separate men and women’s saunas and steam rooms fitted with innovative infrared saunas, signature thermal loungers, temperature-controlled plunge pools, relaxation lounges, experience showers and a fully equipped gym, yoga and Pilates studio. All facilities are complimentary for all guests.

Yoga and Pilates Studio - Scenic Eclipse - Scenic Ocean

Can you tell us more about the helicopters and submarine on-board?

The two state-of-the-art Airbus helicopters on-board allow guests to soar above places previously thought inaccessible to the ordinary traveller. Guests will enjoy access to some of nature’s most beautiful sites. And of course, Scenic Eclipse boasts its very own six-seater submarine, capable of diving to a depth of 300 metres. Custom built for sightseeing, diving with our submarine is ‘an out of this world’ experience.

Scenic Ocean - Zodiac and submarine

Who do you believe is the typical customer for Scenic Eclipse?

Scenic Eclipse appeals to anyone with a sense of adventure. There are so many hand-crafted itineraries with an extensive range of experiences and shore excursions that are all-inclusive and designed to showcase the extraordinary wonders that each destination has to offer. From the top of the world to the bottom, and everywhere in between, there’s a journey that will appeal to everyone.

What sets Scenic Eclipse apart from other luxury cruise ships?

In addition to unsurpassed levels of luxury and refinement, Scenic Eclipse is also equipped with the highest polar class ice-breaking hull of any luxury vessel (Polar Class 6) ensuring safe navigation in polar waters in complete safety and comfort.  She is a fully equipped expedition vessel with a full complement of the latest expedition equipment including our fleet of exploratory Zodiacs and kayaks.

Submarine - Scenic Eclipse

When did you initially start developing plans for the world’s first discovery yacht and what inspired you to make the concept a reality?

Scenic Eclipse is three years in the making. Our CEO and Founder, Glen Moroney, saw a gap in the market for luxury expedition cruising and instantly knew he could develop and deliver a class of ship that wasn’t currently available anywhere in the world.

From our early beginnings we have had a constant desire to provide exceptional travel experiences to our guests, and how our guests travel is equally as important as the destination itself. With over 30 years of experience in providing luxury travel and developing world class industry leading products, Scenic Eclipse was always going to be something very special.

Bar - Scenic Eclipse - Scenic Ocean

Which destination would you pick to explore with Scenic Eclipse, and why?

Definitely Antarctica. To explore one of the most remote regions in the world and get up close to the wildlife, would be simply incredible. Scenic Eclipse’s six-star experiences by helicopter and submarine open a new era of exploration and discovery. This really is the stuff dreams are made of.

Guests on-board Zodiac - Scenic Ocean

What can we look forward to with Scenic Eclipse’s sister-ship and when will she launch?

Basically, much of the same. Eclipse 2 will be a replica of Eclipse 1 offering the same six-star experience and equipped with the same world class facilities. We expect her to launch in 2022.

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Emma Smith
Emma has more than seven years' experience as a writer and has been in the travel industry for nearly five years. She loves learning about new places and cruise ships coming to market, as well as discovering fun and exciting activities to do while you sail. She has cruised with Princess Cruises, Cunard, Celebrity Cruises, Virgin Voyages, Avalon Waterways and Royal Caribbean and is looking to get something in her diary for 2024! Her favourite things to see on a ship include excellent entertainment, a delicious cocktail menu and extraordinary dining venues.

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