When the six-star Scenic Eclipse sets sail on its 13-day inaugural voyage from Reykjavik, Iceland to Quebec, Canada on August 15th, 2019, the launch promises to set a new standard for cruisers seeking a mix of luxury and adventure on the high seas.
The ship has been aptly termed a “discovery yacht” because it will serve as a base for guests to experience unique, bucket-list adventures beyond those that have typically been available on expedition ships.
Ultra-luxury and creature comforts
The new vessel—sized more like a large yacht rather than a small ship— boasts 114 all-verandah suites with a maximum passenger capacity of 228 guests.
The suites include 66 verandah suites, 28 deluxe verandah suites, 14 spa suites, grand panorama and owner’s penthouse suites. These luxury staterooms range in size from spacious 345-square-feet verandah suites to apartment-like, 2,650-square-foot owner’s penthouse suites.
Personal service—including butler service for every suite—will be provided by a crew that numbers 172 (and increases to 182 on polar expeditions). Guests will discover and learn with the assistance of experienced “discovery guides” leading a wide range of shore excursions and providing lectures in the ship’s high-tech theater-in-the-round.
Nine onboard dining options will satisfy every type of food lover. These include an Asian-Fusion restaurant, French fine dining restaurant, Chef’s Table and poolside buffet. The indoor and outdoor plunge pools are complemented by a sybaritic, 5,920-square-foot spa and fitness area that include a well-equipped gym, and a yoga and Pilates studio.
Cutting-edge technology
Because the ship is designed and engineered to sail to hard-to-reach destinations, there’s been a strong emphasis on technological innovation to deliver exceptional onboard and onshore experiences.
To provide greater stability, the ship has zero-speed stabilizer fins that are 50 percent larger than standard ones. A GPS dynamic positioning systems allows for stationary positioning with an anchor, reducing adverse environmental impacts in sensitive regions.
Safety has also been a foremost consideration. The ship has the highest possible ice class rating, Polar Class 6, and has been built with redundancies in propulsion, navigation, safety systems and good refrigeration to adapt to changing weather conditions.
Two six-guest, H130 helicopters and a six-guest submarine, capable of reaching depths of nearly 1000 feet, will allow air, land and sea explorations of nature and wildlife. The helicopters, which can land on the deck of the Scenic Eclipse, will be stored in specially designed onboard hangars.
A unique vessel deserves a unique Godmother
Source: Irene S. Levine
