You Want Expedition-Style Adventure and Some Very Cool Onboard “Toys”
Yes, you crave the thrill of expedition-style adventure paired with the luxury of world-class amenities, and Scenic Cruises & Tours offers the perfect blend. Since entering the luxury ocean cruise market in 2019, Scenic has quickly become a favorite among international travelers seeking once-in-a-lifetime journeys to bucket-list destinations. With itineraries spanning the globe—from Antarctica to the Mediterranean and beyond—Scenic offers you the chance to explore the world’s most remote and remarkable places in unparalleled style.
Owned by: Australia-based Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, founded in 1986, offering travel to over 60 countries on all seven continents.
Ships: Scenic currently operates two nearly identical polar-ice-rated “Discovery Yachts”: Scenic Eclipse I (launched in 2019) and Scenic Eclipse II (debuted in 2023), each accommodating 228 guests (200 in Antarctica). Yes, these ships come equipped with two onboard submersibles for underwater exploration and two Airbus H130-T2 helicopters for sky-high sightseeing, ensuring your journey is as adventurous as it is luxurious.
Ambiance: Aboard Scenic Eclipse I and II, the atmosphere is a perfect fusion of excitement and indulgence. Yes, you’ll explore remote destinations like the Ross Sea and East Antarctica, as well as familiar locales like the Italian and French Rivieras, all while enjoying five-star service, exceptional cuisine, and airy, contemporary décor. With nine bars and lounges and an experienced expedition team, your experience is equal parts thrill and relaxation. Even in less remote locales, you’ll still find adventure through unforgettable underwater and flight-seeing excursions.
Dining & Entertainment: Dining aboard Scenic’s Discovery Yachts is a true culinary experience. Yes, you’ll find a variety of venues, including Lumiere for contemporary French fine dining, Elements for Italian and international dishes, and three pan-Asian restaurants: Koko’s, Sushi @ Koko’s, and Night Market @ Koko’s, offering fusion cuisine, sushi, and teppanyaki tasting menus. For the ultimate indulgence, Chef’s Table offers an invite-only, 11-course dining experience. Entertainment is low-key, focusing on enrichment with lectures, film screenings, and occasional performances in the theater. A house pianist provides live music in the lounge, creating a relaxed evening atmosphere.
Accommodations: Scenic’s 114 suites, ranging from 344-square-foot Verandah Suites to the 2,099-square-foot Owner’s Penthouse Suites, all feature private verandas or terraces. Yes, you’ll also enjoy personalized butler service and a complimentary mini-bar stocked with your preferred wines and spirits—every detail is designed to enhance your comfort.
Fares & Inclusions: Fares for Scenic’s ocean cruises range from $8,990 per person for a 12-day Canada & New England itinerary to $24,195 for a 20-day Antarctica, South Georgia & Falkland Islands expedition. Yes, your fare includes all dining, beverages, shore excursions (helicopter and submersible tours are extra), spa access, gratuities, and Wi-Fi, ensuring that every aspect of your journey is worry-free.
Best For: Adventurous couples who love to be pampered with exceptional food, fine wines, and the opportunity to explore some of the world’s most remote and fascinating destinations in the lap of luxury.