Oct 1, 2020
Polar bears, towering glaciers, dramatic fjords and the midnight sun, these are just some of the natural wonders that an Arctic cruise brings to your mind. When you take a voyage on board Scenic Eclipse, The World’s First Discovery YachtTM, you will be privy to an even larger world of exploration unavailable to the ordinary Arctic traveller. From the icescapes of Greenland to the lush greenery of Iceland, our expert 16-member Discovery Team will lead you on unforgettable discovery excursions in these extraordinary lands. Here are some of the highlights you can look forward to on a Scenic Eclipse Arctic expedition cruise.
The World’s First Discovery YachtTM: Purpose built for Arctic waters
With a rating of Polar Class 6, the highest of any luxury vessel, Scenic Eclipse was specifically built for the safest navigation through the Arctic Ocean. Its sleek and compact design can access small ports that are inaccessible to larger ships, so that you can experience regions other travellers can’t enjoy. Moreover, with only 200 guests on board, you will be disembarking much faster, exploring your destinations for longer, and sharing the iconic sights with a small group of like-minded travellers.
Awe-inspiring views from every location
From the sea to the skies, a discovery voyage to the Arctic region offers some of the most splendid views on the planet. When you cruise on board Scenic Eclipse, you enjoy the best sights all day, every day, and from every part of the ship. Toast to the passing icescapes with a glass of Champagne, as you relax at the outdoor Yacht Club, or witness the wondrous phenomenon of the midnight sun from your luxurious suite’s private balcony. The many outdoor lounges and terraces will ensure you never miss a viewing moment. Your suite is also equipped with a pair of binoculars and the Observation Lounge has a state-of-the-art Swarovski telescope, so that you can get to the heart of the action, without even leaving your Discovery Yacht.
Experiencing the Arctic way of life through discovery excursions
Our in-depth range of discovery excursions is where Scenic Eclipse really excels in the polar regions. Discover what lies beneath the icy waters of Greenland in the on board submarine^ or look into the craters of Iceland’s volcanoes from above, as you fly over in one of two on board helicopters^. Join the daily shore excursions in our fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks. Or using snowshoes and stand-up paddleboards, learn about the region’s rich history and ecology from our expert Discovery Team leaders. Our comprehensive program of all-inclusive Scenic Freechoice program has activities to suit all paces and interests. As you discover spectacular new wonders around every corner, your complimentary expedition parka and special polar boots will ensure you are warm and comfortable throughout your exploration. There is really no better way to experience the Arctic.
“Arriving at Eric the Red’s village in Greenland was the first-time in 2019, we were scheduled to run all discovery activities at once – including kayaking, helicopter flights, submarine dives, tours and guided hikes. At the end of the day, as the last kayak and Zodiacs returned to Scenic Eclipse, we knew that we had set the benchmark, creating exceptional experiences for our guests on water, land and in the air.”
– Jason Flesher, Expedition Operations Manager
Gain insights from our expert Discovery Team
On your discovery voyage, our professional subject matter experts – Scenic Eclipse’s exceptional 16-member Discovery Team – will accompany you and reveal the hidden wonders of the Arctic, while providing a wealth of information on the sites. Ornithologist and Naturalist, Vickie Heaney has been guiding groups across the region for over 5 years and will share insights into the Arctic Marine and Land Birds. Discovery Leader, Historian, Naturalist and Zodiac Driver, Terence Christian has been Arctic guiding for over 8 years and will regale you with stories of the region’s proud Viking heritage. While Assistant Discovery Leader, Geologist, Glaciologist, Naturalist and Zodiac driver, Jonathan Fuhrmann will share more about the imposing glaciers.
Glorious landscapes, majestic wildlife and intriguing cultures
The northern polar region is home to a range of extraordinary natural wonders, explored only by a select few. Discover the vast spectacular landscapes of Iceland, learn about the fascinating Inuit culture of Greenland and be mesmerised by the magnificent wildlife, including polar bears, in Norway.
In Iceland, on your Scenic Eclipse shore excursions you can sample delicious Icelandic foods, hike over the volcanic lava fields, explore glacial landscapes and cross the Arctic Circle. A land that features many active volcanoes and steaming hot springs, as well as snow-capped peaks and gushing waterfalls, Iceland is a land of surprises best explored on our Discovery Yacht.
In Norway, the dramatic Norwegian fjords will spellbind you as your sleek luxurious yacht manoeuvres past the snow-capped mountains. To enjoy this stunning scenery from a different perspective, take an included Scenic Freechoice ride on board Flåm Railway, indisputably one of the most beautiful train rides in the world. Explore beyond the horizon through kayaks, Zodiacs, e-bikes and nature walks with your Discovery Leader. In Svalbard, keep your binoculars ready as you enjoy the superb wildlife views around this remote region. From arctic foxes to polar bears, and whales to seabirds, Scenic Eclipse will bring arctic wildlife closer than ever.
Explore the world’s largest island, i.e. Greenland, and visit Ittoqqortoormiit – the most remote inhabited community in the Western Hemisphere. This is a rare chance to visit the isolated community with less than 500 settlers and learn about their fascinating Inuit culture and traditions, as you wander past their pastel coloured chocolate box houses.
Enjoy the included signature Scenic Enrich experiences which will have you immersed into the rich cultures of each destinations. Enjoy a private Icelandic culture and folklore performance in Heimaey. And be serenaded by beautiful Norwegian folk songs during a private performance inside, Tromsø’s elegant Arctic Cathedral.
“Known for its magnificent glaciers, granite cliffs and soaring mountains, Prins Christiansund is a highlight from any angle when voyaging in and around majestic Greenland. Scenic Eclipse guests were able to take this experience to the next level with the opportunity to soar above the region on one of our on board helicopters.”
– Jason Flesher, Expedition Operations Manager
Bringing the Arctic on board with Nordic well-being and dining
When you’ve completed your day’s exhilarating on shore discovery excursions, you can look forward to returning to the Discovery Yacht and relaxing in ultra-luxury. Indulge in the ancient art of Nordic bathing in our Scandinavian-inspired plunge pools and saunas. Dip in and out of the temperature-controlled pools and complete the Nordic experience at our specialist experience showers. You can also book yourself a rejuvenating treatment# at Scenic Eclipse’s Senses Spa – 550 square metres (5,920 square feet) of pure indulgence to soothe your tired muscles after an exciting day of discovery.
Enjoy some of the finest Arctic and globally inspired cuisines at Scenic Eclipse’s dining experiences, complemented by unlimited included beverages*. Our expert chefs draw inspiration from the destinations we cruise through and use fresh, seasonal and some locally sourced produce to create the exquisite on board cuisine. So, you can look forward to sampling a new delicacy every day. With up to 10 dining experiences available, from the exclusive Chef’s Table to relaxed café-style and in-suite dining, there is something for everyone.
“When curating the menus on Scenic Eclipse, I take inspiration from the countries and regions we sail through; this often leads me to discover flavours and dishes I have never tried before. When we launched Scenic Eclipse last year, one of the first regions we visited was the Nordics and it reminded me of a very special dish I had made years ago. You cook seafood in beer, fennel and caraway seeds, which may sound crazy because you lightly ferment the stock, but the outcome of the flavours is amazing!”
– Tom Götter, Executive Chef
^ At additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather and ice conditions.
*All drinks on board are included except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits.
#Additional charge
*All drinks on board are included except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits.
#Additional charge