Scenic Eclipse II is set to offer ultra-luxury cruising on a whole new level by becoming the first commercial cruise operator to provide a submersible experience in Australia’s majestic Great Barrier Reef. Its new state-of-the-art submersible, Scenic Neptune II, sets the benchmark in underwater exploration. Meanwhile, on the Kimberley coast in Australia, the ultra-luxury yacht, which accommodates 228 guests, is the only ship in the region to feature two state-of-the-art helicopters, making it possible for guests to explore one of the world’s most rugged and remote destinations like never before. Early bookings are available for two-for-one fares and other savings offers.
Submerse Yourself in Australia
Scenic Neptune II has been custom-designed in collaboration with Triton Submarines, incorporating the latest technology to accommodate up to eight guests and an expert pilot. With its ability to dive up to 600 feet below the surface, the submersible offers captivating and awe-inspiring discovery excursions into the remarkable World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef. The spacious interior and crystal-clear acrylic sphere of Scenic Neptune II provide unrestricted views, immersing guests in the mesmerizing vistas beneath the surface. Guest safety is paramount, with comprehensive Safe Return to Surface procedures and multiple fail-safes integrated into the submersible’s design.
Embarking on April 30, 2024, passengers who join Australia’s Top End: Cape York & Arnhem Land voyage will be among the first to experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef in this outstanding manner of discovery. Departing from Cairns and arriving in Darwin, passengers are submersed in old indigenous culture and Australia’s natural beauty. They can anticipate exploring unspoiled gems and far-off islands while listening to fascinating stories from locals – all while being introduced to the colorful underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef from a genuinely unique perspective aboard Scenic Neptune II and discovering Cape York, also known as the “Tip of Australia.” Prices for this voyage begin at $14,515 per person.
Flying Along the Kimberley Coastline
The Airbus H130-T2 helicopters onboard Scenic Eclipse II have set new standards for tourism worldwide. The helicopters boast spacious, air-conditioned interiors and large windows, providing guests with a fully immersive experience of the spectacular natural environment. They are also the quietest helicopters in the sky and come equipped with BOSE noise-canceling headsets for optimal comfort. With simultaneous landings and departures direct from the ship, guests can enjoy more time in the air or at their destination without transferring to an external operator.
Scenic offers two itineraries to explore the ancient wilderness of the Kimberley Coastline. There will be 12 departures from May through August 2024: Discover the Kimberley Coastline and Uncover the Kimberley Coastline, sailing in opposite directions between Darwin and Broome. Each voyage will include up to 11 helicopter excursions designed by Scenic’s Director of Discovery Operations, Jason Flesher. These excursions will showcase the best of the Kimberley Coastline, from flightseeing tours over the iconic King George River and Horizontal Falls to visits to remote indigenous communities. The itinerary includes landings at Darwin Aviation Museum, Willie Creek Pearl Farm, and the strikingly remote Buccaneer Archipelago and Lacedepe Islands. Additionally, guests can enjoy helicopter barramundi fishing expeditions and private beach picnics, complete with expert guides and delicious fare from Scenic Eclipse II’s galley. Guests can also charter the helicopters for private flightseeing and their specialized tours. Prices for these voyages start at $12,108.
With 114 all-verandah suites ranging in size from 345 square feet to 2,659 square feet, Scenic Eclipse II offers guests plenty of space to unwind and relax. The butler services provided to all guests deliver luxurious amenities such as in-suite drinks and dining, coordinating dinner and spa reservations, and personalized attention. Additionally, the yacht features ten dining experiences, a 5,920 square feet Senses Spa, and multiple public spaces with bars and a top deck pool.
Over 37 years, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours has expanded to offer guests award-winning, all-inclusive river and ocean cruises and bespoke land journeys to some of the most captivating destinations in the world. In 2019, Scenic unveiled the world’s first Discovery Yacht – Scenic Eclipse, followed by Scenic Eclipse II in April 2023. Scenic is a part of The Scenic Group, encompassing Emerald Cruises, Mayflower Cruises & Tours, and Evergreen Tours.
Emerald Cruises can be found on Twitter at @emerald_cruises, on Facebook as EmeraldCruisesGlobal and Instagram at @EmeraldCruises.global. Additional information can be found by contacting your local travel advisor on Emeraldcruises.com or calling the consumer/travel agent reservations line at 844-428-8389. Digital brochure downloads are available on the website.
