Scenic to launch its first ocean cruise ship: Scenic Eclipse ultra-luxury mega yacht for Arctic and Antarctica sailing

Scenic has announced the launch of the world's first discovery yacht - Scenic Eclipse – dubbed a 'six-star ultra-luxury mega yacht'. It is the first ocean cruise ship for the company that specialises in luxury river cruises.

Speaking at an event over the weekend, Scenic chairman Glen Moroney said the new luxury yacht will improve tourist access to remote ice regions of the world that only a "fortunate few" are able to visit.

"In many cases only the supremely wealthy or explorers and adventurers could've travelled to the Antarctic hinterland or have ventured below the surface to witness polar wildlife in their natural habitat but now we are making these experiences accessible to our guests whilst they travel in the utmost luxury and safety," he said.

The new yacht is an ambitious undertaking for an Australian travel operator that runs a 21-river-cruise-ship-fleet throughout Europe, Russia and South-East Asia.

Scenic Eclipse, which will launch in August 2018, is said to offer luxury that exceeds five-star. It will feature 114 suites all with verandahs, ranging from 32sqm-Verandah Suite to a 233sqm-two-bedroom Owner's Penthouse Suite, and can cater for up to 228 guests.

The 165-metre long, eight-deck vessel will have jacuzzis on its sun deck, a 450sqm-spa with indoor and outdoor jacuzzis and plunge pools, and a gym with a separate yoga and pilates studio. It will offer six onboard dining options, including French, Pan Asian and Italian cruise, ranging from fine dining to casual al-fresco dining.

The ships interiors, designed by Karen Moroney, will be elegant and opulent in style, and said to be inspired by some of the world's leading luxury hotels.

Like other Scenic cruises, Eclipse will offer all-inclusive itineraries that include: all meals (no surcharge for any on board dining venue), complimentary top-shelf beverages, butler service, cocktails to your room, on board entertainment in a 240-seat theatre, all tips and gratuities, complimentary Wi-Fi, expert local guides for included shore excursions, a choice of included Scenic Freechoice activities and Scenic Enrich special events. Eighteen different itineraries will be available.

Eclipse will also be one of the most technological advanced ships at sea. It has been designed with innovative zero speed stabiliser fins said to be 50 per cent larger than standard stabilisers to provide greater stability when navigating through rough seas. The stabilisers are usually found on large private super yachts. It will also be rated Polar Class 6 (Ice Class 1A Super), the highest passenger ship ice class rating.