Scenic Eclipse II
Setting the benchmark in ultra-luxury expedition cruising, Scenic Eclipse II boasts a world-class design with state-of-the-art technology that offers guests an unrivalled expedition voyage of a lifetime.
Setting the benchmark in ultra-luxury expedition cruising, Scenic Eclipse II boasts a world-class design with state-of-the-art technology that offers guests an unrivalled expedition voyage of a lifetime.
Elements is the main restaurant featuring Italian, steak and seafood from an à la carte menu. Located on Deck 4, it’s a relaxed dining option for dinner. Dine solo, with your travel partner or join friends on larger tables. Enjoy premium beverages from Elements Bar, hosting with fine wines matched to the daily menu and broad selection of international cheeses.
Located within Elements, dining at Chef’s Table is an exclusive, by invitation-only degustation experience. Accommodating a group of just 10 guests, this 11-course degustation meal is paired with premium beverages. The Executive Chef and the culinary team will enthral you as they present each dish, explaining the world-class techniques and ingredient origins used in each creation.
Enjoy contemporary Asian fusion in a vibrant ambience. Traditional ingredients and innovative techniques interweave to celebrate the diverse flavours of Asia. Up to 26 guests can be seated for dinner service at either regular tables or sunken seating inspired by traditional Japanese dining practices. Sample from share plates to discover new flavours as you enjoy the luxurious atmosphere.
Savour the excitement of an interactive dining experience as our expert chefs craft dishes inspired by the lively markets of Asia, India and the Middle East before your eyes. For only eight guests in each seating, this exclusive Teppanyaki grill experience will be a highlight of your culinary journey.
Indulge in a genuine culinary experience as skilled chefs handcraft the freshest sushi, including exquisite options with vegan salmon and tuna. Catering for up to 18 guests, you can dine along the ocean view benchtop or at the bar, watching as your chefs hand-make your meal.
Visit the Azure Bar & Café for relaxed, all-day grazing. Take in the spectacular views from the indoor or outdoor terrace seating. Delight your tastebuds with a variety of pizzas, salads, snacks and healthy meals, coupled with barista-made coffee and beverages. Enjoy after-dinner treats, such as macaroons, biscotti and chocolates with a brandy, port, or tea. This relaxed café has a serene and laid-back feeling with inside and outside seating.
Indulge in contemporary French cuisine and Champagne. This fine dining restaurant has an elegant and modern atmosphere. Enjoy a pre-dinner drink, fried oysters and caviar before you are seated for an evening of world-class cuisine, with the option of a set degustation menu.
Be immersed in the gastronomical delights of local cuisine and wines with dedicated masterclasses led by our expert chefs and sommelier. Book in to see the chef create an array of authentic dishes from the regions you’re cruising through. Located on Deck 5 with a special cooking station and large TV screen, you’ll catch every detail.
When the mood strikes to dine in the privacy of your suite, your personal butler can arrange everything. Choose from the 24-hour in-suite dining and beverage menus. Your butler will also ensure your in-suite mini-bar is re-stocked daily to your liking. With an in-suite espresso machine, savour your morning coffee in the solitude of your suite or soak up the sunlight on your verandah or terrace.
There are many intimate and relaxed venues which provide the option of private dining at no additional cost.
Groups can dine at a restaurant of their choice or in the privacy of their suite. Night Market @ Koko’s offers private dining for up to eight guests and Chef’s Table is the ultimate degustation dining by invitation-only experience for 10 guests.
Soar above and dive below with unparalleled access to some of nature’s most remarkable sites. Scenic Eclipse II is equipped with two state-of-the-art Airbus H130-T2 helicopters^ which seat up to six guests, plus the pilot.
^Helicopter, helicopter experiences and submersible at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather and ice conditions.
Discover a fascinating underwater world
Dive below the horizon for an unforgettable experience on board our custom-designed submersibles^, Scenic Neptune I and II.
Take your seat with up to eight fellow guests alongside our expert pilot and prepare for a sightseeing experience like no other, 100 metres beneath the surface. Scenic Neptune redefines underwater exploration. With large, ultra-clear acrylic spheres, our submersibles have been designed for optimum viewing and total immersion.
^Submersible at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather and ice conditions.
The Discovery Team are expert operators of our fleet of Zodiacs. On both Expedition and Discovery Voyages the team will guide guests on Zodiac excursions to view stunning coastlines and wildlife, as well as onshore landings.
Enjoy unrivalled exploration of extraordinary polar destinations on an all-inclusive Scenic Eclipse voyage.
Bringing Ultra-Luxury to Expedition Cruising
The World's First Discovery Yachts have been purpose-built for Expedition Voyages to the most remote and extreme environments, with a Polar Class 6-rating and state-of-the-art technology and design.
With only up to 228 guests (200 in Antarctica), you will experience multiple daily shore landings via Zodiac. You’ll enjoy truly all-inclusive Scenic Discovery Excursions led by an expert Discovery Team of up to 20 specialists, ensuring you get the most out of these remarkable locations.
World-Class Design & Technology
Scenic Eclipse is purpose built for the Expedition Voyages, with a Polar Class 6 rating, custom-built stabilisers, providing greater stability, a strengthened hull, forward bow thrusters, an electronic Azipod propulsion system, advanced sonar and environmentally sustainable systems. The state-of-the-art technology enables for safe and comfortable navigation through polar waters.
Scenic Discovery Excursions
Gain rich insights into your destination with Discovery Excursions. Our expert Discovery Team of up to 20 marine biologists, historians, geologists, naturalists and local guides share their knowledge and regional expertise. Cruise on Zodiacs and kayaks* around ice formations in Antarctica and go on nature walks through the Arctic tundra, under their expert guidance.
Blending exploration with rejuvenation
Reach small ports and remote destinations on board our custom-designed Scenic Eclipse Discovery Yachts. Ignite your inner explorer with exciting excursions during the day, then enjoy breathtaking vistas from the comfort of luxurious dining, bar and wellness spaces on board.
With only up to 228 guests on board and an expert Discovery Team of up to 15 specialists, tailor your days with a wide range of all-inclusive Discovery Excursions, Scenic Freechoice activities and bespoke Scenic Enrich experiences.
Scenic Discovery Excursions
Gain rich insights into your destination with Scenic Discovery Excursions. Our expert Discovery Team of up to 15 scientists, marine biologists, historians, geologists and expert local guides share their knowledge and regional expertise. Cruise on Zodiacs to remote island beaches, explore onshore with guided hikes, snorkel with expert marine biologists, and kayak with Discovery guides.
Scenic Enrich
On select voyages, enjoy unique and exclusively handcrafted encounters in the most spectacular surroundings. Go behind the scenes, to the heart of your destination, with private access and immersive experiences in an iconic location. From a barbeque on a secluded beach, to ritual ceremonies and immersive experiences with local tribes, these memories will stay with you forever.
Scenic Freechoice
Choose from a wide range of curated Scenic Freechoice activities, catered to your fitness level. From diving into Vanuatu’s hot springs, to snorkelling secluded bays or taking a local food tour. Whether you prefer an active or relaxed pace, there’s something for everyone.
Scenic Eclipse Cruise Voyages take you to the heart of quaint seaside villages and glamorous European cities, the remarkable landscapes of New Zealand and the unseen riches of Japan. Explore your destination guided by our team of local experts, sharing their knowledge of the land, history and cultures. Or relax on board and soak up the sun and spectacular coastlines poolside, with a premium beverage of your choice.
Scenic Enrich
Enjoy unique and exclusively handcrafted encounters in the most spectacular surroundings. Go behind the scenes, to the heart of your destination, with private access and immersive experiences in iconic locations. Create memories that will stay with you forever, like a classical concert from the Harpsody Orchestra performed in the historic halls of the Oceanographic Museum in Monaco, or the authentic flamenco ballet production, Carmen.
Scenic Freechoice
Choose from a wide range of curated Scenic Freechoice activities. From learning about the traditional “Kogin-sashi” embroidery of Aomori, to a cooking class with fresh du paize pasta. Whether you prefer an active or relaxed pace, there’s something for everyone.
Warm Water Exploration
In the Mediterranean, enjoy a range of exciting or relaxing water activities from Scenic Eclipse's Marina including ocean swimming, Tiwal Sail Boats and stand-up paddleboards. There’s an aquatic activity for everyone to enjoy.
Learn about the unique wildlife, landscapes, history and culture of your destination from our knowledgeable experts during enriching lectures and education programs, hosted in the Discovery Yacht’s impressive state-of-the-art theatre.
Discovery Team Lecture Series
On Expedition and Discovery Voyages the Scenic Eclipse Discovery Team provide deep insights throughout your journey. A curated team of top experts in their respective fields, the Discovery Team is handpicked for each destination and made up of professionals including historians, geologists, glaciologists, ornithologists, marine biologists and naturalists.
On a regular basis throughout your voyage, the Discovery Team will host engaging lectures and presentations in the state-of-the-art theatre – both before and after they guide you through Discovery Excursions. Before venturing out, you’ll learn about your location, what you’re likely to see, and any particulars that will really enhance your understanding of the region. They'll ensure you make the most of your precious moments discovering these spectacular parts of the world.
Led by Director of Discovery Operations, Jason Flesher, the Discovery Team ensures unparalleled exploration and rich cultural immersion on Expedition and Discovery Voyages.
Our team of up to 20 specialists on Expedition Voyages, and up to 15 on Discovery Voyages, spans fields like history, biology, archaeology, naturalism, geology and photography. Enhancing your experience with their passion and expertise.
You will be supplied with everything you’ll need to fully immerse yourself in the journeys that await. On polar Expedition Voyages a Scenic Eclipse parka and water bottle will be in your suite on arrival, yours to take home. Plus, the use of specialised polar boots, trekking poles and kayaking equipment and apparel is included for your convenience.
The Observation Lounge & Library is a serene haven for guests seeking a peaceful retreat to read and observe the world. While we don't serve food in this tranquil space, you can still enjoy a variety of beverages as you unwind and watch the world go by.
You can recline into plush seating and read a book or play board games as you enjoy a specialty tea or coffee. Take a closer look at landscapes and wildlife as you pass them through the Swarovski telescopes.
Gain insights into the regions you’re visiting during regular lectures and information sessions, hosted by expert Discovery Team members, Captain and crew in the world-class theatre. Here, guests can also enjoy nightly musical performances spanning a range of genres.
Enjoy unrestricted views of your destination from the luxurious bar on Deck 10. On Scenic Eclipse II, the stunning marble Sky Bar features indoor and outdoor seating and six private cabanas. On Scenic Eclipse I, relax at the stylish bar with sun loungers by the pool.
Relax in the Yacht Club grill restaurant and bar for breakfast, lunch and special themed dinners. This casual dining experience is fitted with food islands, outdoor and lounge seating. Come to dine, mingle, relax in swing chairs overlooking the view, or taste our freshly-made gelato.
Our expert team on board Scenic Eclipse are the finest in their field and deliver an unrivalled level of service.
The Scenic Lounge Bar is the main bar and heart of the yacht located next to Reception. The mixology cocktail program and whiskey bar for connoisseurs and aficionados are key attractions. You will also be entertained by the resident entertainer throughout the night.
Let our bartenders guide you towards your premium beverage of choice, be it Champagne, wine, whiskey, cocktails, an afternoon espresso or an after-dinner liqueur whilst the on board musician sets the scene with live music.
Take a closer look at landscapes and wildlife as you pass them through the Swarovski telescopes.
The Boutique can be found on Deck 4.
Venture to the bridge and see Scenic Eclipse II in full operation. The unique policy provides guests access to one of the best viewing areas on the ship, as well as the opportunity to learn about the technical capabilities of The World’s First Discovery YachtsTM.
Elements Bar is your gateway to global cheese exploration, featuring a meticulously curated selection of international cheeses. Indulge in an array of textures and flavours, expertly paired with complementary accompaniments for a truly memorable tasting experience.
Keep up your fitness during your voyage in the fully equipped, state-of-the-art gym. Raise your heart rate with a cardio or strength workout as you overlook spectacular ocean views. Train your way or opt for a personal training session with one of our qualified, onboard instructors.
Our yoga and Pilates studio on Deck 7 is the only studio of its kind at sea. Rejuvenate your mind and body with a private session. Or mix it up with one of our holistic therapy sessions, including aerial yoga, TRX, mindfulness meditation and Tibetan sound bowl classes.
Soak in the serenity with unsurpassed wellbeing experiences. Trained, specialist staff and state-of-the-art wellness facilities on board bring you a cruising experience like no other.
Step into the rejuvenating Vitality Pool on Deck 6, directly adjacent to Senses Spa. Relax in this tranquil pool admiring the spectacular landscapes, perhaps after a revitalising treatment or yoga class.
Our Vitality Lounge offers unique thermal loungers to gently purify the body. Enjoy the tranquillity as music plays through your Bose® headset. Succumb to the serenity in this zen-like space, with ambient lighting and exquisite ocean views.
Our on board therapists provide ultra-luxury spa and hair salon treatments# to keep you looking and feeling your best. Visit the hair salon for a treatment and style or enjoy a manicure and pedicure. Gentlemen, treat yourself to a beard-trim or shaving service.
Rejuvenate and transform your skin’s appearance with a facial. ESPA facials use a pioneering Tri-ActiveTM formula containing plant extracts, marine actives and essential oils to achieve maximum results.
Enjoy a range of alternative therapies#, developed and celebrated by cultures across the world for centuries. Reflexology, Thai massage, Japanese Shiatsu, Indian Ayurvedic massage and Tibetan Bowl Sound Healing are all available on board for your comfort and relaxation.
Quieten your mind and release tension with a massage# from our exclusive ESPA menu. Discover the skin and aroma-therapeutic benefits of natural oils while our massage therapist tailors their service to your needs, whether it is overall muscle relaxation, or targeting problem areas.
The Sauna & Steam Room can be found on Deck 6.
Handcrafted and extraordinary in every way, our Owner’s Penthouse Suites are the ultimate indulgence. Boasting the best views on board, a private spa pool on the spacious terrace, dedicated lounge and dining area, a super-sized bathroom with dual vitality mist showers, and a personalised butler service, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Suite Features
At an enormous 195m² in size, the Owner’s Penthouse Suites are located on Deck 9.
Suite names and amenities are the same across both Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II, however, both have been thoughtfully curated to suit the cruising experience of these ships.
Separate Lounge & Bedroom
Staying in one of only two Owner’s Penthouse Suites is the ultimate indulgence. Your home away from home is located at the bow of the yacht, on Deck 9, boasting the best views on board. With a private dining area that can comfortably seat up to eight guests, you'll never want to leave.
For a once-in-a-lifetime cruising experience, combine the Owner’s Penthouse Suites with a Spa Suite to create a lavish Two-Bedroom Penthouse Suite – an incredible 245sqm of unsurpassed ultra-luxury and opulence.
Spacious Terrace & Pool
Your curved terrace, complete with a personal private spa pool and sun loungers, is the perfect place to indulge in ultra-luxury relaxation.
Super-sized Bathroom
Featuring a super-sized bathroom, your relaxation and comfort are enhanced with a dual steam shower, therapeutic spa bath and guest powder room with dual vanity. On Scenic Eclipse II, enjoy the healing benefits of two KLAFS infrared seats.
Priority Reservations & Embarkation
Guests in our Owner’s Penthouse Suite will enjoy the privilege of priority dining in the specialty restaurants as well as priority choice of Scenic Freechoice, Scenic Discovery, helicopter^ and submersible^ excursions. VIP embarkation and disembarkation are standard inclusions at the start and finish of your cruise.
Amenities & Features
Marvel at incredible panoramic seascapes from the front of Scenic Eclipse as you relax on your spacious terrace in our luxurious Panorama Suites.
Located on Deck 6 and 8 at the front of the Discovery Yacht and overlooking the bow, these remarkable suites feature a spacious curved terrace, perfect for marvelling at incredible wildlife and landscapes.
Suite Features
Ranging in size from 105-110m², grandeur and style are taken to a whole new level in our Panorama and Grand Panorama Suites.
Suite names and amenities are the same across both Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II, however, both have been thoughtfully curated to suit the cruising experience of these ships.
Separate Lounge & Bedroom
These grand suites include a host of special features and services. Curl up in your lounge with a kindle e-book from your in-suite library and sip your favourite aperitif, personally delivered by your butler. All before enjoying an intimate dining experience, in the plush and private surroundings of your suite. Even from the comfort of your bedroom, you’ll never miss a photo opportunity – accessing the outside world through your drop-down balcony window, with the gentle touch of a button, and with your in-suite binoculars.
Spacious Terrace
Your curved terrace is the perfect place to relax on a sun lounger and be the first to spot wildlife and incredible landscapes.
Luxurious Bathroom
The luxurious Panorama Suite bathrooms feature a vitality mist shower with colour light therapy, full bath, dual vanity, VIP amenities and Dyson hairdryer.
Priority Reservations & Embarkation
Guests in our Panorama Suites will enjoy the privilege of priority dining in the specialty restaurants as well as priority choice of Scenic Freechoice, Scenic Discovery, helicopter^ and submersible^ excursions. VIP embarkation and disembarkation are standard inclusions at the start and finish of your cruise.
Amenities & Features
Imagine returning from an exhilarating day of all-inclusive excursions to your private hideaway and relaxing in your luxurious spa bath. Our indulgent Spa Suites will provide the ultimate rejuvenation.
Suite Features
Ranging in size from 46-50m², our Spa Suites are located on Deck 8 and 9.
Suite names and amenities are the same across both Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II, however, both have been thoughtfully curated to suit the cruising experience of these ships.
Lounge and Sleeping Area
With a premier location on the higher Decks 8 and 9 and an impressive 46-50m2 in size, our opulent Spa Suites provide the most inviting of ultra-luxury retreats. Featuring a separate sleep zone with a four-poster king-size Scenic Slumber Bed, a lounge area as well as a private verandah, they are the perfect retreat after a day of discovery.
Luxurious Spa
Step into the private sanctuary of your Spa Suite and soak in a steaming bath drawn by your butler. Gaze out over your verandah to the vistas beyond and sip on a glass of Champagne – heaven.
Scenic Eclipse I features the signature double-sized Philippe Starck-designed spa bath, while Scenic Eclipse II offers a luxurious circular spa bath overlooking your verandah. Exclusive to these suites, the baths provide the perfect way to rejuvenate after your day of activities.
There are variations between the Spa Suite configurations on Scenic Eclipse I and II, and these distinctions are subject to the respective ship's specifications and design.
Private Verandah
Your private verandah is the perfect place to unwind. Be immersed in the tranquillity of the sea or be the first to catch sight of wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Amenities & Features
Our spacious Verandah and Deluxe Verandah Suites are thoughtfully designed with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open onto a private verandah or terrace. Enjoy unwinding in the separate lounge area with your choice of refreshments.
Suite Features
Ranging in size from 32 - 34m², located on Deck 5 to 8, each suite includes:
Lounge & Sleeping Area
Your private hideaway is furnished with the finest ultra-luxury amenities, including plush king-size bed, pillow menu and a lounge area where you can relax after a day of discovery.
Private Verandah
Admire your window to the world. These incredibly spacious and thoughtfully designed suites feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open onto sprawling vistas, spectacular seascapes and marvellous marine life. Your private verandah or terrace is the perfect place to unwind as a new world of wonder moves by.
Amenities & Features
Our spacious Verandah & Deluxe Verandah Suites are thoughtfully designed with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open onto a private verandah or terrace. Enjoy unwinding in the separate lounge area with your choice of refreshment.
Suite Features
Ranging in size from 32 - 34m², located on Deck 5 to 8, each suite includes:
Lounge & Sleeping Area
Your private hideaway is furnished with the finest ultra-luxury amenities, including plush king-size bed, pillow menu and a lounge area where you can relax after a day of discovery.
Private Verandah
Admire your window to the world. These incredibly spacious and thoughtfully designed suites feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open onto sprawling vistas, spectacular seascapes and marvellous marine life. Your private verandah or terrace is the perfect place to unwind as a new world of wonder moves by.
Amenities & Features
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Sales Manager for SixStarCruises
Senior Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Senior Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Sales Manager for SixStarCruises
Each day is just an incredible as the next in the Galápagos; you never know what you are going to see and the scenery is just stunning, you could blink and miss something incredible.
This really is a once in a lifetime experience where no day is the same, and I can honestly say this was the most incredible trip I have ever taken in my life. The Galápagos Islands are an absolute must for your bucket list!
Celebrity Flora is a luxury yacht holding a maximum of 100 guests which is considerably smaller than any ocean cruise liner, so you have a much more intimate experience where you can get to know who you're travelling with.
The Galápagos itinerary is packed with either one or two islands being visited per day and up to three excursions. There aren't any sea days on this itinerary, and because you don’t want to miss out on any opportunities to see the wildlife, you tend to do all three everyday. We did all the activities offered, and they are catered to all ages which is great. Because of this, the evenings are laid back and relaxed which is nice.
You have a 7PM overview of the day, then at 7:15, you sign up for the activities for the following day. Dinner then starts at 7:30 and most people tend to retire to their suites once they have eaten.
It is an early start most mornings, with the first tour usually beginning around 8AM to 8:30AM, but you do enjoy around three to four hours free time in the afternoon to relax on the top deck.
The staff on Celebrity are phenomenal - I have been on a lot of cruises and this was the best service I have ever received. They knew you by name when you boarded, had your drinks ready for you after the first day, remembering exactly what you preferred. It honestly felt like the staff and guests were one big family, and they went above and beyond in every aspect.
Swimming with penguins, sharks and sea turtles was a memory that I will never forget. Although I'd have to say that my main highlight was the Giant Tortoise Ranch. These animals are just incredible to witness, and having the opportunity to be surrounded by them in the wild and walking with them was simply mesmerising.
My main advice is to immerse yourself in every opportunity to explore. The itinerary is very busy, being only a week to two weeks, so make the most of every moment you have while on your trip.
When packing, comfort is key, due to the itinerary. I'd recommend packing some water shoes or closed toed sandals for the wet landings (As you will be disembarking onto the beach with water around knee height). And make sure you bring a good camera for all of the great pictures that you will capture! Walking shoes or sturdy trainers are also important for the walks and hikes to ensure you're as comfortable as possible.
Senior Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
I travelled on a 12-night Arctic expedition on board Greg Mortimer - a trip that should be on anyone’s bucket list. The morning after embarkation in Svalbard, we had about an hour of free time, where I took the opportunity to walk on the top deck and enjoy the scenery. During the lecture we were given a Polar Bear Safety briefing, they advised us in detail on what we would do as a collective group if we were out on the Zodiacs/on land should we encounter one of these amazing creatures.
Being advised that there was a pod of humpback whales on the port side of the ship on day eight brought an overwhelming excitement on board, as we all made our way up to the top deck. They were spectacular! The ship was able to virtually anchor right beside them so we could watch these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. We were all mesmerised by their beauty and felt incredibly lucky to have seen such a magnificent pod.
We all enjoyed a Zodiac landing in Recherchefjord the next day, I opted for the long walk and thoroughly enjoyed it. We were able to see some of the flowers that we had been advised about the day before in the lecture. The terrain was very spongy underfoot but still quite rocky. We saw several varieties of birds such as king eiders, guillemots, purple sandpipers and kittiwakes.
Being able to wake up with the ship stationary and surrounded by ice was so peaceful and tranquil. Everyone was on polar bear watch and eager to find this magnificent animal.
We were all incredibly excited when we were informed that they were going to allow us to walk on the ocean. It was something I don’t think I’ll ever be able to explain as the feeling when you step on the ice sheet was overwhelming. The land where the polar bears roam was right under my feet, and being able to walk where they call home was an experience I will never forget.
Much to our surprise, we then saw a pod of about 40-50 Beluga whales, it was unbelievable, the whales were too far to photograph to get a clear image of these beautiful animals, but the sight was magnificent.
We then had our daily recap, and they gave us some further information about Beluga whales.
After dinner we then went to enjoy our evening…but then we heard ‘Ding Ding Starboard Side!’ – there was a buzz in the air as we ran to any viewing platform we could find and grabbing the binoculars and cameras for our first glimpse of the one thing we had all been searching for… the polar bear! It was a mesmerising moment seeing how gracefully this beautiful animal walked along the shore one through the water and onto the sheet ice whilst it stalked the seals it had hoped to catch. We were all in awe of its beauty and watched this magnificent polar bear until the early hours of the morning.
Watching a polar bear walking along the ridge, before entering the water and swimming in front of us - what an amazing experience! Walking out onto a floating ice sheet where polar bears roam was another experience I will treasure for the rest of my life. The childlike excitement from the passengers as they’re making snow angels in the ice was just magical. Each day is different to the next, and every moment is more surreal and spectacular than you could ever imagine. We also enjoyed a Zodiac cruise around Yoldiabukta Bay.
We had an unbelievable time, admiring the pointed mountain backdrops and tidewater glaciers. We were in awe of the amazing walrus we were able to see as they really are huge! It was incredible how close we were able to get to these amazing animals.
We were also taken to a beautiful landing spot where we were able to see many of the Arctic birds – kittiwakes, Brünnich’s guillemot and northern fulmars. It was stunning! We were even lucky enough to see some puffins!
Whether it’s diving into the Arctic waters for the polar plunge or the moment you set eyes on a polar bear, every traveller takes away something truly special from an Arctic Expedition. My advice is to throw yourself into it and grab hold of every opportunity - it is a once in a lifetime experience, so savour every moment!
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
My entire trip to Antarctica was just incredible - an absolute dream come true. The pictures do not do it justice, and it is a place one must experience and see first hand to understand the continent's beauty. I sailed with Silversea and the ship was incredibly luxurious, the food was exceptional and with a small ship, the service is unbeatable. It was a once in a lifetime adventure!
My favourite experiences were kayaking and seeing the whales whilst out on a zodiac cruise. I also loved sitting on my balcony, sailing past the icebergs and watching the penguins, which was such a surreal moment.
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
My expedition around the British Isles was an incredible experience. It was wonderful to enjoy the adventure whilst still experiencing the luxury of Seabourn. I'm going into my 15th year working in the travel industry and this was the best trip I've ever done.
The welcome/safety meeting onboard is where we first met the crew. There are 19 Expedition Team Members on board, ranging from academics, scientists and naturalists. Their knowledge, passion and enthusiasm really showed throughout the whole cruise, the tours and the lectures. You can tell they are genuinely excited to be there.
We spotted plenty of puffins and seals while exploring the Isle of Man and Isles of Scilly on zodiac excursions, led by members of the expedition team. They were always on hand to share their knowledge and expertise so we could learn more about the incredible creatures we were seeing. We had Luciano Bernacchi, the Expedition Leader, guiding our zodiac excursion. We sailed around the coast of the Calf of Man, taking our Swarovski binoculars (which are available to all guests) to spot the variety of different wildlife.
There are 24 zodiacs on board, varying in size. I was surprised by how sturdy they are on the water, even at speed. The guide gauges how fast you want to go, either a leisurely ride or a full-on jet ride as they’re taking you to and from the shore.
The onboard experience was phenomenal; exquisite dining and expedition talks really do bring the day’s activities and excursions to life. The relaxed ambience on board provided the perfect respite from a busy day of exploring. Expedition cruising with Seabourn truly combines the best of exploration and ultra-luxury cruising.
One of the notable differences with an Expedition cruise is that the schedule is fluid, plans can and do change depending on sightings, the weather and many other factors - safety will always come first. Seabourn talked about one of their Expedition cruises where the captain stopped the ship at 1am as there was a polar bear right beside them, and guests were woken up to take pictures!
The Seabourn Venture ship itself has a very different feel compared to ocean ships; you really feel like you're staying in a luxury ski lodge. There were only 160 guests on board, with maximum capacity of the ship holding 264 passengers. There are no formal nights and the dress code is much more relaxed. There are two main restaurants on board: the Colonnade, for more relaxed dining and The Restaurant, which is perfect if you want something a little more formal. We had breakfast delivered to the suite and dined on the veranda several times.
All in all, we had a fantastic trip. It really helped me get an even better understanding of the product and just how special the expedition cruises are. I cannot wait for my next one!
If you have been looking into expedition cruising, enjoy a bit of adventure, or would like some more information, I would be happy to speak with you in more detail about the operations behind the expeditions and how it all works on board.
My favourite moment has to be using the zodiacs and getting up close and personal to the all the wildlife! It was incredible to enjoy the adventure whilst experiencing the luxury of Seabourn.
Seabourn have Parka jackets, designed exclusively for them by Helly Hansen. We ordered our Seabourn Expedition Parkas six days before travelling, which I'd recommend, as they were then waiting for us in the suite when we embarked. Mine was a little on the large side, however, and this was easy to change at the Parka Exchange the following day. The parka is multi-layered and perfect for zodiac tours.
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Senior Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
Specialist Cruise Concierge and Expedition Specialist
We would love to help you plan your next luxury cruise holiday. Our team are luxury cruise experts with first hand experience of our partner cruise lines. Simply request a call back and one of our luxury cruise experts will be in touch at a time to suit you.
If you would like to contact our service team, you can select a service call back below, or alternatively we’re available on live chat where our team are ready and waiting to help.
If you request a call back for now we’ll get back to you within 15 minutes, we’ll be calling you from 0161 333 4459 so you can recognise our call.
