From NYC to the Ends of the Earth: Scenic Eclipse Redefines Ultra-Luxury Exploration

2025-07-23

Richard Shane
Founder and CEO
The World’s Greatest Vacations

 

📍 New York City, September 10, 2019 — A moment that marked the dawn of a new era in luxury expedition cruising.

🚢 The Launch Heard Around the World

The Scenic Eclipse docked in NYC during its official christening, with Dame Helen Mirren, ownership, and ship's captain in attendance.
The Scenic Eclipse docked in NYC during its official christening, with Dame Helen Mirren, ownership, and ship’s captain in attendance.

It’s been six years since I was fortunate to participate in the dazzling debut of the world’s first Discovery Yacht™ Scenic Eclipse on September 10, 2019, at Manhattan’s cruise terminal. The christening ceremony was led by Dame Helen Mirren, joined by Scenic’s ownership and the ship’s captain.

🌟 Personal Encounters & Celebrations

Richard Shane gives a thumbs-up to a historic day for luxury exploration.
Richard Shane gives a thumbs-up to a historic day for luxury exploration.
Richard Shane alongside Dame Helen Mirren at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal.
Richard Shane alongside Dame Helen Mirren at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal.
Dame Helen Mirren delivers remarks at the Scenic Eclipse christening ceremony.
Dame Helen Mirren delivers remarks at the Scenic Eclipse christening ceremony.

The event was more than ceremonial—it was symbolic. With a star-studded guest list and a vessel unlike anything seen before, Scenic Eclipse boldly declared that luxury and exploration could live in harmony.

🛥 What Makes Scenic Eclipse a Discovery Yacht?

Richard Shane with the ship’s captain during launch events.
Richard Shane with the ship’s captain during launch events.

With room for just 228 guests and a nearly 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio, Scenic Eclipse reimagines what a luxury cruise can be. Designed to handle polar waters yet draped in refined elegance, the ship features:

  • Two state-of-the-art helicopters

  • A custom-designed submersible

  • All-suite accommodations

  • Michelin-level dining

  • Spa, wellness center & vitality pool

It quickly earned recognition as one of the finest luxury expedition yachts afloat.

🌍 5 Years of Firsts and Global Impact

Guests and crew gather to celebrate a new chapter in expedition travel.
Guests and crew gather to celebrate a new chapter in expedition travel.

From Arctic ice to the tropics, Scenic Eclipse has visited over 350 destinations across 63 countries in just five years. In 2023, sister ship Scenic Eclipse II joined the fleet—featuring upgrades like a Sky Bar, salt-therapy lounge, and an expanded spa.

Unforgettable milestones:

  • ✅ First commercial helicopter landing on Antarctica’s Snow Hill Island (2023)

  • ✅ First submersible dives in South Georgia in over 40 years

  • ✅ Mexico’s first-ever commercial night dive

A close-up of the flower presentation during the christening ceremony.
A close-up of the flower presentation during the christening ceremony.

🔮 The Future: Innovation and Expansion

Scenic Eclipse docked in NYC with skyline views—symbolizing where adventure meets luxury.
Scenic Eclipse docked in NYC with skyline views—symbolizing where adventure meets luxury.

Looking ahead, Scenic Cruises shows no signs of slowing down:

  • ⚓ Scenic Eclipse II now offers expanded itineraries including Monaco Grand Prix and East Antarctica

  • ✨ Emerald Kaia, a next-gen ocean yacht, debuts in 2026

  • 🗺️ Voyages across the South Pacific, Oceania, and Asia now available

✨ In Summary

From a red-carpet christening in New York to record-breaking polar adventures, Scenic Eclipse has gone from a single ship to a symbol of modern exploration.

Scenic isn’t just building ships—it’s building experiences that redefine what’s possible at sea.

📍 scenicusa.com

Scenic Eclipse in NYC