The christening of Scenic Eclipse II is the birth of a new standard of ultra-luxury cruising

To be invited to a christening of a newborn is an honor indeed. When that ‘newborn’ is the ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht Scenic Eclipse II, then that honor is magnified in direct proportion to the size of what can only be described as an exquisitely designed floating palace. As a bundle of joy, it comes in at 16,500 metric tons, which rather leaves its average human counterpart in the shade.

Out of this World Godmother

In early June, on the Costa del Sol where the Scenic Eclipse II was berthed, the excitement around Málaga's seaport had been rising all day. As the sun set on the birthplace of Picasso, the atmosphere was as bubbly as the bottle of Champagne that was soon to be smashed against the ship’s bow. Crowds flocked to the wharf to see the christening spectacle and guests lined the decks to witness the yacht's deeply impressive godmother, NASA astronaut Kathryn Sullivan, perform this famous ritual.

"I am touched and honored to be Scenic Eclipse II’s godmother."

Scenic Group Co-Owners Glen and Karen Moroney both made stirring speeches to commemorate the launch of this, one of the world’s most technologically advanced Discovery Yachts, as did President of the Málaga Port Authority Carlos Rubio. Then it was over to the vessel’s godmother.

"Seeing the level of ultra-luxury that is possible in what is truly an expedition vessel, has me wondering what the Moroneys could do with the rather restrictive confines of the Space Shuttle and the super cramped environment of the submersible we used to dive the Mariana Trench," Sullivan said.

Hailed as the Most Vertical Person on Earth, thanks to her missions to space and dives to the lowest point on the planet, it’s a testament to just how special Scenic Eclipse II is that it prompted Sullivan to remark, "I am touched and honored to be Scenic Eclipse II’s godmother."

Glen Moroney was just as delighted with Sullivan.

"The depth of her experiences above our planet and below our seas, and her incredible passion for exploration, is truly inspiring and is what we feel makes her the perfect representation of our newest Scenic Eclipse Discovery Yacht," Moroney said of his adventurous guest. "Although we are not able to duplicate some of her more extreme adventures – yet – we do believe that Scenic Eclipse II offers our guests exploration possibilities unlike any in the industry."

Continuous Innovation

The Scenic Group is rightfully proud to be an industry leader with its commitment to continuous innovation, and the latest addition to the Scenic Eclipse fleet elevates this reputation even further. The ship boasts 10 dining experiences, from French fine dining at Lumière to the fresh Asian fusion of Koko’s (and everything delicious in between).

There is a new Sky Deck featuring 270-degree views; a state-of-the-art Sky Bar, including six private cabanas; an enhanced Senses Spa, including a dedicated Pilates and yoga studio; and a large, oval swimming pool. The 114 suites can host up to 228 guests who enjoy almost 1:1 guest-to-staff service from a 172-strong, laser-focused multinational crew.

6-star Service

The butler service in the suites is second to none and the host of extra touches make a guest’s stay akin to staying in a comfortable, yet undeniably luxurious, home. Think Dyson Supersonic hair dryers in the spacious bathrooms, throw blankets to ward off any chill from stargazing on your private veranda and a bed so sumptuous that christening guests were overheard pondering how they could get one home.

"We believe that Scenic Eclipse II offers our guests exploration possibilities unlike any in the industry."

But while this Polar Class 6 vessel’s refined design of quiet opulence (all thanks to Karen Moroney’s keen eye for detail and comfort) undoubtedly sets Scenic Eclipse II apart, its standout feature is the breadth of discovery experiences offered to guests hoping to get the most out of their adventure.

These include flights aboard the two seven-seater Airbus H130 helicopters garaged on board, exploring via one of the 12 Zodiacs with the help of the enthusiastic and highly experienced Scenic Discovery team, wakeboarding, water skiing, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and, for onshore exploration, e-bikes.

A new addition to the adventure menu is coming soon in the shape of Scenic Neptune. This electric submarine can take eight guests down to depths of 300 meters, making a cruise on the Australian company’s newest launch a memorable 360-degree experience. Now that’s truly a christening worth popping Champagne for.

Scenic Eclipse II will spend November 2023 to February 2024 in Antarctica. Come 2024, its cruise itinerary includes New Zealand, Western Australia’s remote Kimberley region and Coral Coast, Tahiti, Fiji, Borneo and Japan. Find out more at scenic.com.au.