This weekend, Scenic River Cruises announced the launch of the Scenic Eclipse, the brand’s first ocean-cruising vessel. The new ship defines a new direction for the luxury travel operator, currently celebrating its 30th anniversary. Setting off from Istanbul to Venice, the Scenic Eclipse will embark on her maiden voyage on August 31, 2018.
With 114 all-veranda suites, guests will be able to choose from accommodations ranging in size from 344 square feet to 2,500 square feet. On-board there will be six dining choices including a fine dining venue and international cuisine from Italian to Pan Asian fare. The ship will also feature a nearly 5,000-square-foot spa boasting an extensive menu of treatments, plunge pools and indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis. The wellness aspect is complemented by a well-equipped gym with a separate yoga and Pilates studio.
Although many all-inclusive trips include rates for higher-end restaurants, amenities and activities, guests aboard Scenic Eclipse will not have to worry about surcharges for enhanced features. All travelers will be treated to the best of the best regardless of venue or experience. Complimentary beverages, butler service, on-board entertainment, included shore excursions, Wi-Fi and lectures in the 240-seat theater are all a part of your stay.
The Scenic Eclipse is built to the highest safety standards including the latest technological advancements. The ship has been specifically designed to navigate challenging seas in the utmost comfort and safety, as it will utilize zero-speed stabilizer fins, 50 percent larger than standard to provide even greater stability. These stabilizers, normally found only on the largest private super yachts, will also work when the ship is stationary. It will also hold the highest passenger ship ice class rating (Polar Class 6), in order to provide an added element of safety for guests. For Arctic and Antarctica cruises, travelers will be limited to 200, which enables more landings per day for each guest.
Perhaps the most important differentiators on these cruises will be Eclipse’s ability to take guests to places previously thought inaccessible by using its two on-board helicopters and seven-seat submarine. While these twin-engine helicopters take guests beyond the horizon, the custom-built submarine will be providing optimal sightseeing to the rarely-visited world below the water.
Led by experts in their fields, the Discover Team will cover a range of subjects and interests during lectures and excursions. They will be assisted by dedicated Antarctic and Arctic team members when in those two regions. A fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks and scuba diving and snorkeling equipment will be available for use. The vessel has been designed by a collaboration of internal and external naval architects including Foreship in Finland and is being built by the Uljanik Group in Croatia.
Scenic Eclipse joins the Scenic Group’s fleet of 21 river cruise ships that sail throughout Europe, Russia and Southeast Asia. The Eclipse’s maiden voyage will be followed up by discovery trips to The Americas, Antarctica, Europe and the Mediterranean, and the Arctic and Norwegian fjords.
