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 10 September 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. 

Industry-leading features and sleek design combine to allow Scenic Eclipse to reach destinations inaccessible by larger ships. Custom stabilising 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 unrivalled excursions above, below and beyond the horizon.

The innovations continue inside. At launch, Scenic Eclipse redefined wellness experiences on cruise ships. From the indulgent 550sqm 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 32sqm 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.

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 redefined ocean cruising into a realm of ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht voyages. With voyages through to 2027 available, now is the time to book and experience the Scenic difference for yourself.