VESSEL REVIEW | Scenic Eclipse II – Ice-strengthened, 228-guest luxury expedition ship for Scenic Cruises

Travel company the Scenic Group has taken delivery of a new luxury expedition ship for operation by its Scenic Cruises brand.

Built by 3. Maj shipyard in Croatia, Scenic Eclipse II is the second polar-capable expedition ship in a series to be acquired by Scenic for its new luxury segment. The vessel will spend the summer season exploring the Mediterranean, Iceland, Scotland, and the Arctic before moving on to warmer Caribbean waters and Antarctica.

The ship has a length of 168 metres, a beam of 21.5 metres, a draught of 5.6 metres, a displacement of 16,500 tonnes, and space for 228 guests and 176 crewmembers across 10 decks. The propulsion arrangement includes four Anglo Belgian Corporation 16DZC engines that can propel the ship to a cruising speed of 17 knots.

Key amenities include a bar with both indoor and outdoor seating sections, lounges; a private restaurant with a maximum capacity of 14 standing or seven seated guests, nine other restaurants, an infinity pool, and a 550-square-metre spa complex with multiple therapy rooms, saunas, temperature-controlled plunge pools, relaxation lounges, a manicure/pedicure salon, and an outdoor terrace.

The guest cabins meanwhile include 114 all-balcony suites with floor areas ranging from 32 to 240 square metres. The suites also have electrochromic glass technology partitions that can switch between opaque and transparent at the touch of a button. As with the other onboard spaces, the cabins are kept comfortable with the aid of HVAC and cooling systems supplied by Heinen and Hopman. Interior designer the De Wave Group was meanwhile responsible for work in the guest and crew cabins, the wet units, and the catering areas.

Space is also available for expedition vehicles consisting of two helicopters and a custom-built submersible that can reach a depth of 300 metres. Other expedition equipment include scuba gear and kayaks.

The electronics suite includes a GPS and stabilisation systems that allow the vessel to sail smoothly across even rough waters and reduce overall emissions. The advanced positioning system also allows the vessel to maintain position without having to drop anchor in areas with fragile seabeds. Zenitel meanwhile provided a complete electronics package with a battery-less radiotelephone system for emergency use, CCTV cameras, and a combined public address and general alarm system.

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