A Review Of The Scenic Eclipse Yacht – By Someone Who Experienced It

After becoming known under the name Scenic Tours, the brand in charge of the Scenic Eclipse yacht took on a make-over, renaming itself Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, and expanding its reach to a luxury market worldwide.

My recent cruise aboard the Scenic Eclipse yacht solidified it as one of my all-time favorite experiences at sea. From the moment I stepped off the bus in Lima, Peru, I was greeted by Scenic’s attentive staff, a warm welcome that set the tone for the exceptional service to come. 

Join me as I tell you all about the spectacular onboard experience you can expect with the Scenic Eclipse, the world’s first discovery yacht. 

Ultra Luxury Ocean Cruising

After establishing a fleet of luxury river ships, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours made its way into the high seas with a vessel like no other. Designed to, quite literally, explore the globe, the Scenic Eclipse yacht stands out for its elegant facilities, top technology, and state-of-the-art equipment meant to take guests further than ever before. 

You may have heard about the onboard helicopter and submarine – but how about the complimentary whiskey bar with more than 130 different premium bottles from around the world? Believe me, I was surprised too!

This ultra-luxury expedition ship was built as a polar ice-class vessel while keeping a private yacht’s small size and sumptuousness. Covering itineraries to far-away destinations such as Antarctica and the Arctic, the Scenic Eclipse yacht’s oversized stabilizers and anchorless positioning ensure a smooth sailing experience, and the safety of seafloors wherever it docks. 

Let’s just say, stepping aboard the Eclipse was like entering a world of luxury. Fitting no more than 228 passengers – or 200 in the Arctic regions – it really does feel like you are sailing on your own private yacht, with soft lighting and modern art in every corner.

Top-Notch Service And Experiences 

In my 45 years as a travel advisor, I have had the opportunity to sail various times, but never have I received such a warm welcome as the one I got when boarding the Scenic Eclipse yacht, whose staff were all waiting pier-side to greet guests personally.

There are so many amenities included in the cruise fare, it is easy to recommend this ship as the one to go to if you are looking for 5-star comfort. From in-suite dining to alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, ship transfers, and butler service on every suite, this is the brand you trust when you want to be truly pampered. 

There are 114 suites onboard, distributed across five decks and each of them features a private butler who will be in charge of restocking your in-suite minibar, and bringing a fresh cup of coffee every morning.

As a person with mobility limitations, I was tremendously pleased with the staff’s assistance, who ensured me a safe and enjoyable experience all around. Even the smallest details were considered, with comfortable beds featuring individual controls on each side for personalized comfort.

From the spectacular Owner’s Penthouse Suites – boasting more than 2,000 square feet of space, a private spa day bed and pool, amongst other amenities – to the indulgent Spa Suites with their double-size Philippe Starck bath design, and the more modest Verandah Suites, there is plenty of space to spare in each category.

I will say after touring the ship, each suite boasts amazing views, great space, and thoughtful design, with elegant furnishings all around, plus a private verandah or terrace to soak up the views.

 All-Inclusive Comfort On Board

When it came to dining, the Scenic Eclipse yacht truly excelled. Guests were spoilt for choice with 10 different restaurants and 24-hour room service. at no additional charges for specialty restaurants.

The Chef’s Table offered an intimate dining experience, where the chef personally presented each course, prepared almost before your eyes thanks to the open kitchen view. Each dish was a masterpiece, expertly paired with one of ten carefully chosen wines. 

The Night Market was another one of my favorites, as it provided a lively atmosphere, where ten chefs prepared a feast around a central grill, offering guests a front-row seat to the culinary artistry. The panoramic views from the dining area added another layer of enjoyment to the experience, where you can taste plates influenced by Asian, Indian, and Middle Eastern cuisine.

For casual breakfasts and lunches, the Yacht Club was my favorite, while the main dining room Elements did not disappoint with its Italian dishes.

When it comes to the onboard experience, the Scenic Eclipse was designed specifically for Arctic and Antarctic exploration, catering to an intimate group of just 200 guests. This translates to a more personalized experience and allows access to smaller ports that larger ships simply cannot reach. 

For the ultimate adventure, the ship boasts two helicopters and a submarine (weather permitting, and at an additional cost). Guests even have the unique opportunity to visit the bridge, offering a glimpse into the intricate process of navigating the ship.

Scenic’s all-inclusive approach extends beyond meals, encompassing gratuities, beverages, internet access, and even shore excursions. The only exceptions are the helicopter and submarine adventures, which trust me, are worth paying for!

Beyond its luxurious amenities, the Scenic Eclipse caters to a variety of interests. The ship is equipped for expeditions to Antarctica and the Arctic, while also offering itineraries through the Mediterranean and Greece.

My personal itinerary, a special voyage from Lima, Peru to Santiago, Chile, included a stop at a breathtaking wildlife haven reminiscent of the Galapagos Islands. This unique route, offered only a couple of times a year when the ship repositions for the Antarctic season, provided an unforgettable experience.

The Scenic Eclipse staff truly impressed me. Their extensive knowledge and attentiveness were exceptional. A personalized video of our cruise, sent to our emails after the voyage, was a thoughtful touch. 

While the Scenic Eclipse may not feature large-scale Broadway productions, its onboard entertainment leans towards intimate cabaret shows and informative lectures about the destinations visited. The theater itself boasts some of the most comfortable seating I’ve encountered on a cruise ship, with reclining chairs perfect for relaxation.

If you’re seeking an unparalleled luxury cruise experience with exceptional service, exquisite dining, and unforgettable destinations, the Scenic Eclipse deserves a top spot on your travel wishlist. Just remember, for the ultimate indulgence, consider a suite with a whirlpool tub – you won’t regret it!

For more insider advice, make sure to call Luxury Cruise Connections – I and my fellow travel advisors can help you secure the best suite and itinerary for your preferences and exclusive deals and added amenities!