Chimu Blog The Expedition cruising world just got a taste of what lies in the future with the announcement that Australia’s Scenic Tours will be launching a brand new, purpose built expedition ship – the MV Eclipse in 2018. Travel on the Eclipse will be unlike any other expedition trip today, surrounded by 6 star luxury this is Scenic’s first foray into the world of ocean cruises after cutting their teeth in the cruising business in the rivers of Europe, and later on, Asia. With this experience, and the feedback from their guests they believe they have created something pretty spectacular.
The Eclipse will be an all-suite vessel, with plenty of room for the discerning traveller. With the motto ‘Where luxury meets discovery’ the suites all have large windows, and many of the suites with private balcony. The suites are large, with the penthouse being a whopping two bedroom, 233 square metre space that would be fitting in any luxury hotel in the world. Simply unheard of in expedition cruising to date. Combined with excellent food from renowned chefs to an out of this world class beverage menu, there is something for every traveller onboard this ship.
If the marketing is to believed, the Eclipse travel experience will ‘take you further’ – Scenic will be offering the regular zodiac excursions, with optional on-board activities ranging from kayaking, to a trip on one of the two helicopters aboard. The helicopters will allow guests to travel inland, something that is quite rare especially in Antarctica – with only a select few ships able to offer this option. Allowing you to travel inland will open up the remote Emperor penguin colonies to guests aboard.. a little seen treat! To take it further (or deeper) than anyone has ever been on a pleasure cruise – The on-board submarine will offer guests a rare glimpse into the underwater worlds where the ship is operating. From Sea turtles of the tropics, to whales in the Polar Regions, a trip on this ship really will be something special.
This ship will operate across the world. From the Arctic to the Antarctic, from the tropics to the Mediterranean. However with her 1A ice rating, she will really be at home in the Polar Regions where she will fully show her capabilities. Interest in this vessel is sky high, and from this early stage we do think she is worth a look when considering an expedition vessel.
Chimu Adventures is able to take bookings as a sales partner on the Eclipse as well as expedition cruise vessels of all categories and sizes, and if this trip is of interest, please don’t hesitate to contact our knowledgeable, friendly team.
Chimu Adventures is Australia’s leading Antarctic travel expert since 2004. Working with over 28 different ships in the Antarctic region, no other company is as well placed to help you plan your ultimate bucket list adventure. Whether you wish to cruise in Luxury, to a fully-fledged expedition on a research vessel, we have all avenues covered.
