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Scenic Eclipse Deck Plans & Reviews

Scenic Eclipse

Activities & entertainment.

• Enrichment Lectures
• Expedition Team
• Fitness Center
• Observation Terrace
• Onboard Helicopters *
• Onboard Naturalists
• Onboard Submarine *
• Onboard Zodiacs
• Pools (Indoor & Outdoor) (2)
• Spa Sanctuary *
• The Observatory & Library
• Yoga & Pilates Room
• Nightly Music
• Koko's - Asian Fusion
• Lobby Lounge - Cozy Bar
• Lumiere - French
• Chef's Table - Gourmet
• Epicure - Interactive
• Elements - International
• Teppanyaki @ Kokos - Japanese
• Azure Bar & Cafe - Light Bites
• Sushi @ Kokos - Sushi
• Excellent 23
• Very Good 5
• All languages ( 45 )
• English ( 45 )

Review: Scenic Eclipse

Reviewed by Janice Wald Henderson

What is the line? Scenic Cruises

Name of ship? Scenic Eclipse

Passenger occupancy? 228 (200 in polar regions)

Itinerary? Halifax, Nova Scotia, to New York

Start out with the big picture—what is this cruise line known for?

Scenic began in 1986 as Scenic Tours, an Aussie company operating coach tours. In 2005, Scenic entered the European riverboat market and in 2008, introduced its own posh riverboats—the first to sail on European waterways with outside balconies. With Scenic Eclipse ’s debut in 2019 as a “discovery yacht,” the brand drew a larger American audience to its river and ocean vessels. Passengers on board Scenic ships tend to be 55-plus, sophisticated travelers who want the best food, wine, accommodations, and service. The brand's devotees are eager to check out the slightly tweaked Scenic Eclipse II , which debuted in August 2023.

Tell us about the ship in general:

In 2019, the expedition cruise world was abuzz over the 228-passenger, all-suite Scenic Eclipse launch. This ultra-luxe polar ice-class ship resembles a yacht, yet still possesses all the right adventure toys, like helicopters, a submarine, Zodiacs, and kayaks. Oversized stabilizers assist with smoother sails and anchorless positioning keeps seafloors safe.

The vibes on board the Scenic Eclipse are sexier than other expedition ships: Think soft lighting, edgy furnishings, and many cozy corners for snuggling while sipping custom mixology cocktails. Modern art and eye-catching sculptures dot decks, adding extra panache. An almost one-to-one passenger-crew ratio delivers near-instantaneous service. So many amenities—like in-suite dining, alcohol, shore excursions, gratuities, ship transfers, and butler service—are included in cruise fares. Tom Göetter, the savvy corporate executive chef, oversees 10 complimentary dining options. I sailed with this top toque and his modern global cooking blew me away. (No wonder; turns out he was a Top Chef finalist in Germany, and appeared on the 20th anniversary Top Chef: World All-Stars .)

Who is onboard?

The group depends upon the itinerary. On more adventurous polar sails, well-heeled 30-, 40-, and 50-somethings prevail, eager to check off their bucket-lists. Tamer cultural itineraries may draw a 55-plus crowd. Count on interacting with more couples than groups of friends, a mix of well-traveled Americans, Europeans, and Aussies, gleefully pursuing the good life at sea.

Describe the cabins:

Scenic Eclipse offers 114 suites across five decks. I stayed in a deluxe verandah suite, which runs between 344 to 366 square feet. The king bed was comfortable and the pillow menu is a pampering touch. The décor, with clean modern lines and neutral hues, felt fresh. Shoutout to Scenic co-owner Karen Maroney for including Dyson hairdryers with numerous attachments, including a diffuser—a must for curly-haired cruisers like me. Ambient lighting provided modes for every mood.

The sofa and pouf by the marble table delivered enough chill space. My butler did all the right butler things, like bringing morning coffee (although I could use my Illy machine) and restocking my complimentary minibar with vodka.

Another suite plus was the unusual quietness; I didn’t hear any neighboring noise as can often happen on ships, even luxury ones. I spent much time on my balcony—so idyllic for soaking up views or ogling the sunset over flutes of bubbly.

The ship's Grand Deluxe Suites, the next highest level, deliver more space—up to 430 square feet. Spa Suites dramatically increase the luxury: the living rooms are larger and the double-size Philippe Starck bath design includes vitality mist showers with color-light therapy, and glass partitions that switch between clear and opaque. Plus, passengers receive a complimentary one-hour spa treatment and priority shore excursion selections, among various perks. Panorama and Grand Panorama Suites overlook the bow and are huge—between 1,130 and 1,184 square feet—and include such posh appointments as spacious terraces with sun loungers and priority for, well, everything. Owner’s Penthouse Suites run more than 2,000 square feet; count the spa day bed that transforms into a treatment table for a private experience, and a spa pool, among other amenities.

Tell us about the crew:

A one-to-one passenger-crew ratio ensures service excels. Butlers attend to all passengers, fetching cocktails, making dinner reservations, and handling just about every request, whether for onboard or ashore. I found my dark-suited (no tux) white-gloved butler appropriately formal. Overall, the crew—particularly servers—are relaxed and friendly, embracing a private yacht demeanor more than the stiffer one seen on traditional cruise or expedition ships. Kudos to the shore excursion staff, who dealt with changing weather conditions and the ability to board the submarine with aplomb.

What food and drink options are available on board?

Scenic Eclipse offers 10 complimentary dining choices, including 24-hour in-suite service. I was impressed with the modernness of the sophisticated cuisine and the quality ingredients.

I ate my way through most restaurants and determined Sushi@Koko’s as a favorite. Here, you hop on a bar stool or sit at a countertop overlooking the ocean and tuck into the freshest fish—sashimi like yellowtail, and sushi such as ebi (sweet shrimp). The adjacent Koko’s masters Asian fusion; don’t miss the Thai pumpkin coconut soup with grated ginger and lemongrass. The sunken seating and the chance to share multiple dishes with friends made for great fun and good eats.

Reservations are needed for Night Market@Koko’s, where just eight guests sit at a teppanyaki grill while a chef prepares night market-influenced plates with Asian, Indian, or Middle Eastern flavors. Sadly, this tiny eatery opened after I sailed. I can’t wait to try it.

Applause, also, to the Yacht Club, for casual breakfasts and lunches big on flavor and healthy ingredients. Since I’ve been onboard, the indoor pool was (rightfully) removed from the area, creating more lounging space, both inside and out. I often wandered into the all-day Azure Bar & Café for a macaron or barista-made espresso. Lumière, a contemporary and sophisticated French restaurant, also won my heart (and stomach). The onion soup with double oxtail wagyu beef consommé, and grilled duck breast with leg confit, are standouts.

How lovely to sit at a bar where someone pours 1 er (Michel Forge Brut NV) and Grand Cru Champagne (Autréau Blanc de Blancs NV). These are smaller house bubbly, rather than luxe ship’s usual big-house offerings. Servers also present luscious nibbles like fried oysters and caviar.

Main dining room Elements completely satisfied. Servers clad in black vests and black ties act attentive yet not intrusive, and the menu meanders between Italian dishes and American favorites like steak and seafood.

I’d be remiss to not dive deeper into the complimentary alcohol. The buzzy Whiskey Bar, with more than 130 bottles including 12-year-old Yamazaki and 14-year-old Balvenie, is a well-deserved passenger hangout. I already mentioned the of-the-moment Champagne bar. Restaurant wine lists also emphasize smaller vintners, with detailed bottle descriptions.

Is there a spa on board and is it worth visiting?

Senses Spa is humungous: 5,920 square feet for indulging in treatments and staying fit in a fully equipped gym and yoga and Pilates studio. Expect indoor and outdoor vitality pools, Jacuzzis, women’s and men’s saunas, steam rooms and relaxation lounges, thermal loungers and experience showers, among wellness amenities. Note Japanese shiatsu and Ayurvedic massages among less typical therapies. I didn’t have a treatment but I did take a Tibetan Bowl sound healing session. I entered the room skeptical and emerged hooked. Lying on a mat and listening to the tones felt relaxing and invigorating all at once.

How about the activities and entertainment?

As Scenic Eclipse is an expedition ship, most activities revolve around outings off the vessel, via kayaks, paddleboards, E-bikes, water skis, Zodiacs, helicopters, and submarine. Onboard, passengers can soak in an outdoor Jacuzzi. The up to 20-member expedition team often give talks, and I did take in a lecture or two; the speakers were engaging.

Local entertainment may perform in the spacious theater, though I didn’t catch any shows. I did take an impressive cooking class in Scenic Epicure. While classes are not hands-on, you can learn more about the chef, carefully watch him work, and learn some clever hacks.

How was the experience for families?

Children 12 and up are welcome onboard. I didn’t see any on my sailing, but I imagine at this luxury level, they’re well-traveled and well-behaved. I’ve been told that while the ship doesn’t offer kids special activities, the crew showers them with special attention.

Where did it sail and how were the excursions? Did anything stand out?

My voyage sailed from Halifax, Nova Scotia, to New York. Unfortunately, stormy weather ruled out water sports and the submarine. However, I went on fun land excursions, such as a Halifax walking tour that was spellbinding. Our charismatic local guide was incredibly well-versed in Halifax fact and lore—he even shared ghost stories that gave me goosebumps.

In Newport, Rhode Island, a guide led us through jaw-droppingly beautiful, insanely lavish Gilded Age mansions. We also visited Boston, where I explored solo as I know the city well. Such sails are typical East Coast fall foliage cruises, although most begin in Montreal or Quebec City and traverse between Canada and New York. You can score this itinerary on many ships, ranging from mass-market to boutique ultra-luxe lines.

Are there any stand out sustainability or green initiatives about this cruise?

Good to know that the ship provides 100% fresh air throughout the ship, including suites. With anchorless positioning, the seafloor is undisturbed. Newer emission technology and low-sulphur fuel are used.

Anything we missed?

The ship offers complimentary exclusive private dinners, dubbed Chef’s Table@Elements, by invitation only. I’m not sure how you score an invite (I’m guessing it’s for occupants of the priciest suites and other such VIPs), but I did manage to dine here with nine other guests once. The an 11-course degustation tasting is held in a private dining room off of Elements, where each dish is paired with wine. The head chef introduces each course, and as you dine, you see white-toque chefs slicing, dicing, searing, and plating through a glass window.

Finally, give a sentence or two on why the cruise is worth booking.

I’d pretty much sail anywhere on Scenic Eclipse, even if the itinerary leaned more cultural than expedition. The ship is so stylish and the service and cuisine is superb.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Scenic Eclipse

The Scenic Eclipse is intimate and luxurious, with every amenity you could wish for. The ship has been designed with you in mind, delighting both the keen explorer and elegant traveller. Every single aspect of your comfort and peace of mind has been considered, including your airport transfers, all tipping and gratuities both on shore and onboard, making your cruise a truly carefree experience.

Every one of the 114 spacious and beautifully designed suites features a private verandah, a separate lounge area, and Butler Service. Akin to the finest hotels in the world, staying onboard is one of the greatest luxury experiences you’ll ever have.

Scenic Eclipse delivers the ultimate Antarctica cruise expedition experience with state-of-the-art Airbus EC-130-T2 helicopters which will take you above and beyond the horizon. Enjoy an underwater experience like no other, journey to the depths of the ocean on board Scenic Neptune, Scenic Eclipse’s customised submarine.

From active discovery excursions by Zodiac, kayak or snow shoe, and other activities, you’ll have absolute freedom throughout your Scenic Eclipse cruise to select whatever is your preference. Whether you’re a keen naturalist, adventurer or prefer more laid back adventure, there is a choice for you. Your expert Discovery Team and knowledgeable expedition guides will ensure every destination surprises and delights – no question is too big or small and no effort is too much. With an almost 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio, your time on board will be one of unparalleled indulgence. From the moment you step on board, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Unsure if the Scenic Eclipse  ship is right for you? Review our Antarctica destination overview  for full details on seasonality, routes, ship selection, pricing, expedition inclusions and how North South Voyages can help make your Antarctica dream become reality.

Antarctica in Depth

Beyond the antarctic circle.

Verandah Suite

Deluxe verandah suite, grand deluxe verandah suite, panorama suite, grand panorama suite, owner's penthouse suite.

• Pool & Spa Terrace
• Theatre Gallery
• Airport transfer and accommodation in arrival destination on day 1, post airport transfer based on individual itinerary
• Spacious all verandah suite accommodation
• Personal service with an almost 1:1 staff to guest ratio
• Butler service for every guest
• All inclusive dining & beverages
• Comprehensive choice of all inclusive shore excursions
• 16 member Specialist Polar Discovery Team- lecture & education program
• Scenic discovery Excursions- Kayaking
• Complimentary expedition parka, water bottle and use of special polar boots
• Sences Spa, gym, yoga and Pilates Studio, indoor & outdoor swimming and plunge pools
• Complementary wifi
• All tipping and gratuities on board and onshore

Not Included

• International flights*
• Any optional activities
• Personal travel insurance
• Extra expenses (souvenirs, etc)
• Visas for Chile and/or Argentina, passport expenses, and any arrival and/or departure tax, if applicable

*Note that we will quote flights for you when provided with your desired travel dates. Costs will vary depending on your travel dates. 

Similar Ships

National geographic endurance, private: crystal endeavor, private: le commandant charcot.

Cruise Passenger Ultimate Guide: Scenic Eclipse

Scenic Eclipse continues to set the bar as a 6-star ultra-luxury yacht by unveiling 76 sailings from December 2023 through February 2026. 

According to Scenic, the 2024-25 season marks a call on over 500 ports across 60+ countries for both Scenic Eclipse and its sister ship Scenic Eclipse II. 

Her sister, Scenic Eclipse II ,  is set to sail the South Pacific and the Australian coastlines for the first time in 2024 with a special Chairman’s Voyage in April 2024. 

This 168-metre-long lady of the sea has a gross tonnage of 17,085 and sails at an average speed of 17 knots. Additionally, it had her maiden voyage in August 2019 via a 13-day discovery cruise from Iceland’s capital Reykjavik to Quebec, Canada. 

Scenic Eclipse suites and staterooms

This world-renowned ultra-luxury ship has 114 cabins for 228 passengers. Additionally, all of its staterooms have step-out balconies and all cabins are in Suite categories. 

Its expansive two-bedroom Penthouse Suite with Balcony Jacuzzi measures 255 square metres, plus a 60-square-metre private balcony with a Jacuzzi tub overlooking the sea. Ideal for up to four guests, the suite features two separate bedrooms, along with plenty of living space to relax in style. There are two staterooms for this category. 

Additionally, the exclusive Owner’s Penthouse Suite provides VIP accommodations for up to two guests across 195 square meters of living space. There are only two suites in this category on board, featuring a private balcony with a Jacuzzi tub in addition to the luxuriously appointed interior rooms. This suite ensures an ultra-premium experience.

The ship also has the Panorama Suites which range from 105 square metres to 110 square metres. On the other hand, the 12 stateroom Spa Suite ranges from 46 square metres to 50 square metres with a uniform balcony size of four square metres. 

Scenic Eclipse’s 24-stateroom Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite ranges from 38 square metres to 40 square metres in size having a uniform balcony size of 3 square metres. 

Furthermore, the ship’s 72-stateroom Balcony Cabin is the smallest of all the stateroom categories. It ranges from 32 square metres to 34 square metres and has a uniform balcony size of three square metres. 

All Scenic Eclipse staterooms have the following complimentary services and amenities:

• Luxury King Size Bed (1 double or 2 twins)
• smart UHDTV
• walk-in wardrobe, electronic safe box and life jackets 
• en-suite bathroom 
• lounge area 
• mini-bar and refrigerator
• Step-out balcony 
• Hypoallergenic air purifiers
• Dedicated butler service

Scenic Eclipse’s dining and culinary experience

The extensive selection of menus and the exquisite dining venues onboard Scenic Eclipse are always a treat for the guests. The line offers an all-inclusive culinary experience ranging from contemporary French fine dining to a more relaxed and chill setting. 

Elements is Scenic Eclipse’s main restaurant which features Italian cuisine, steak, and seafood. This dining hub offers a relaxed dining experience where guests can enjoy their breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This restaurant can accommodate up to 104 guests. 

In addition, the Elements bar has an array selection of wines, classic beverage program, and an extensive menu of international cheeses. 

Chef’s Table @ Elements

Situated within Elements, guests can enjoy a sumptuous meal in an exclusive and by invitation-only dining at Chef’s Table. Here, a group of 10 guests are treated to enjoy an exquisite 11-course dégustation meal with each dish paired with premium beverages.

Lumière is Scenic ’s French fine dining restaurant that offers dinner services only. The Champagne Bar located within Lumière serves premium beverages while guests enjoy fried oysters and caviar, lamb chops and lobster. This dining hub can accommodate 35 guests and requires a dining reservation. 

Azure Bar & Café

For guests who are into light meals like pizzas, salads, and snacks, the Azure Bar & Café is the place to go. This dining hub offers indoor and outdoor seating and accommodates 50 guests inside and 35 guests outside. 

At night time, Azure Bar & Café serves an array of treats like biscotti, macaroons, and other chocolate delights. 

The ship’s Yacht Club is a grill and bar restaurant that serves only breakfast and lunch. Located at Deck 7, this casual dining venue offers a sumptuous breakfast where guests can enjoy smoked fish, grilled potatoes, sausages, scrambled eggs and a selection of pastries. For lunch, fish and pork dishes are part of the selections together with mouth-watering pasta meals. 

Sushi @Koko’s

Passengers who love authentic Japanese cuisine always find their way to Sushi @Koko’s. This dining hall caters to up to 18 guests where they get to enjoy the freshest sushi. 

Night Market @ Koko’s

This restaurant offers an authentic teppanyaki grill and can only accommodate eight guests who will enjoy an intimate dining experience with the chef. However, bookings are required for guests to experience Night Market @ Koko’s which is located at Deck 4. 

Scenic Eclipse activities

The Scenic Eclipse ultra-luxury cruise ship is said to have been built for adventure- and she’s taking it to new heights. Equipped with Zodiacs, kayaks and other discovery fleet transports, Scenic Eclipse brings her guests beyond typical tourist destinations to remote corners of the world rarely accessed by the average traveller. Not to mention the breathtaking onboard activities and amenities in store for the ship’s guests. 

Entertainment

Since Scenic Eclipse prides itself on destination immersion, guests will not find Vegas-style productions on board. The nightly entertainment is relaxed and low-key – think karaoke, dance parties or intimate concerts from guest musicians. The main theatre hosts movie nights with popcorn as well as farewell parties. 

Bars and Lounges

The Lobby Lounge on deck 4 has a large space that could accommodate all passengers onboard. It has a whiskey bar which has over a hundred varieties of scotch and whiskey. 

There’s also the Observation Lounge & Library at the forward of Deck 5 where guests could spend some time reading books or gazing at the horizon using Swarovski telescopes. 

Scenic Eclipse offers all-inclusive beverages onboard. Guests can have France’s finest at the Champagne Bar or they may try the wide selection of premium beverages at the Elements bar. 

The ship also provides all-inclusive wellness facilities at the expansive 550-square-metre gold-leaf emblazoned Senses Spa. In addition, guests may opt to dive into the temperature-controlled Vitality Pool. 

Scenic Eclipse’s helicopters and submarine

One of the amazing features of Scenic Eclipse voyage is the chance to soar above the glaciers and mountains on board the state-of-the-art Airbus EC-130-T2 helicopter. With a seating capacity of up to six passengers, guests can experience one of the quietest helicopters while enjoying the whole view of the ship from above. 

Meanwhile, guests will also have a chance to explore the wonders of the deep via U-Boat Worx Cruise Submarine 7, Scenic Neptune . This submarine is capable of going 300 metres deep with a seating capacity of six people. 

Scenic Discovery excursions

The ship’s fleet of Zodiacs and tandem kayaks allow guests to enjoy observing pods of whales and exploring through waterways in an all-inclusive Scenic Discovery excursion. 

Scenic Eclipse deck plan

This 10-decker ultra-luxury vessel showcases a total of 114 staterooms for 228 guests, eight of which are wheelchair-accessible, 10 dining options which include nine restaurants and a 24-hour room service.

The ship has a Mud Room used for Zodiac Boat Landing, a Medical Centre, the aft-located Marina Platform dedicated to launching watercraft, and the Helipad.  

Deck 4 houses the Theatre and some dining venues such as Elements, Koko’s, Night Market, and the Sushi @ Koko’s. On the other hand, Lumiere, Azure Bar & Grill, and the Observation Lounge and Library are located on deck 5. In addition, Senses Spa and the Spa Vitality Pool are both located on the ship’s deck 6. 

The fore-situated Wheelhouse, Yoga and Pilates area, the Gym and Fitness centre, and the Yacht Club are all located on deck 7. Meanwhile, the Helipad and the Helicopter hangars are found on deck 8. 

Staterooms are located from Deck 5 through Deck 8 while the guests’ service laundry area is at Deck 3. 

please send 2024 itineraries and prices. Do you have single supplements?

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TPG's first look at expedition cruise ship Scenic Eclipse: What I loved and what needs work

Editor's Note

Scenic Eclipse, the James Bond of ships, is elegant yet formidable.

The ship is the first expedition-focused vessel from Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, a cruise line known for its upscale river cruises and land-based trips.

Until recently, expedition ships were spartan, offering only bare-bones amenities and less-than-swanky accommodations. However, Scenic is among a number of lines bringing luxury to the adventure cruising scene. I expected the line would get the upscale touches right, and indeed, Eclipse is over-the-top elegant without trying too hard. However, does the ship blend style and function?

The answer: Yes. Seamlessly.

I've just disembarked my first-ever expedition cruise, an 11-day voyage to the Arctic, and I'm in love. Not just with the stunning scenery and cute animals, but with this ship which, like the polar bears we watched from its observation decks, commands respect because it's built to survive the terrain and is fully capable of doing so.

Scenic Eclipse is small in size, holding only 200 passengers. It's able to visit remote places that many other cruise ships can't. In that, it feels exclusive.

However, its welcoming interior belies a reinforced hull that can break through first-year ice with ease. I soaked in the magic of the region in absolute comfort while surrounded by landscapes many early explorers found to be deadly. The disparity was thrilling.

Nearly three years after it first set sail — and more than two years after its initial voyages were cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic — the ship quietly arrived in the Arctic for the first time, bringing with it improvements from initial rounds of passenger feedback. Here are my impressions of the first in Scenic's line of luxury expedition vessels.

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What I loved

Form and function.

Scenic Eclipse resembles a large yacht rather than a standard cruise ship — and its aura of sophistication and exclusivity made me feel like royalty. A powerhouse in the luxury space, Scenic knows a thing or two about pampering its passengers, so I wasn't surprised that the line nailed that part.

What fascinated me more was how well the ship was built to handle the wilderness of polar cruising and how successfully practical spaces were incorporated into its gorgeous design. In other words, the vessel isn't merely pretty; it's functional. The juxtaposition doesn't go unnoticed.

Underneath the ship's sleek exterior are a slew of amenities. They include a central lounge and bar serving 130 different whiskies (all of them free), a theater with cushy leather lounge chairs instead of standard seating, a high-end spa, a specially designed kitchen space for cooking classes and even a submarine and pair of helicopters for passengers who want to take their excursions to the next level.

Mudrooms are standard on expedition ships. However, I was surprised by how Scenic Eclipse made this mundane room feel fancy with its leather seating, simple-but-polished design and orderly cubbies for storing Muck boots, which are provided to passengers for use during sailings.

It also doubles as well-organized storage for kayaking suits, booties, gloves and life jackets, which are doled out by the kayaking leaders before each excursion.

Everything — mudroom, laundry room, boot cleaners and water sports equipment storage on the lowest decks — is laid out to maximize efficiency and keep the grime away from other areas of the ship, allowing intrepid exploration to harmoniously coexist with the leisurely way of life on board.

Even the superstructure is designed to allow for upscale functionality, with the vessel's aft exterior walls able to fold in to allow room for the helicopters to take off and land. (Note: Scenic Eclipse is not allowed to use the helicopters in the Arctic.) It's also outfitted with stabilizers, so efficient we barely felt any movement during the voyage.

In an effort to be more environmentally friendly, the ship runs on cleaner-burning fuel. It also employs some fancy technology, such as a dynamic positioning system (instead of anchors, which can harm the ocean floor and wildlife living in the off-the-beaten-path places where it sails) that uses GPS coordinates and thrusters to keep the ship in one spot when it stops.

Public spaces

My favorite space on the ship was the Scenic Lounge, where passengers can sprawl out in alcoves in what feels like a cozy living room flanked by the guest services desk and the aforementioned whiskey bar. It made me want to curl up on a couch and read in my pajamas, but I resisted the urge.

With furnishings crafted from sustainable materials, the lounge is the central location for daily trivia hosted by the entertainment staff, as well as the meeting point for daily excursions, which are organized by color groups.

The observation lounge, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and comfortable sitting areas, was my second-favorite onboard area. It was almost always underused, which meant I could find a quiet place to work, read (it's also the ship's library) or grab a cup of coffee while staring out at the scenery.

Sadly, the self-serve coffee machine was often empty, and when it worked, the drinks tasted watered down. The full wall of gourmet Kusmi teas made up for it, though.

My only gripe (and it's been echoed by passengers before me): The sightlines here are truncated by the vessel's bow, so it doesn't offer the uninterrupted views you'd expect from an observation lounge.

One of the other complaints passengers reported when Scenic Eclipse debuted was an ill-placed indoor pool found smack in the center of the ship's buffet. The line took note and removed the buffet pool, replacing it with an open seating area. (The move did leave the ship without a main pool, though passengers can take a dip in either of the two tiny plunge pools in the spa.)

Seeing what the venue looks like now, I can't imagine how cramped, humid and loud it must have been trying to eat with fellow passengers splashing away in the same enclosed space. Now, the area has much more seating and offers one of the most aesthetically pleasing buffet experiences I've ever had at sea, along with superb food.

Expedition guides and entertainment leaders

Normally I shout out the crew on ships where service is stellar. On Scenic Eclipse, my butler, room steward and the guest services team were phenomenal, as one might expect on a cruise vessel of this caliber. However, here I want to focus on two groups of staff who truly set this cruise apart: the entertainment leaders and the expedition guides.

Cruise director Amy and her assistant, Pablo, led daily trivia, often with fun twists like musical clues that they sang themselves.

On a ship so tiny, there were trivia regulars, including the people in my group and me. On days when we missed the quizzes because they conflicted with excursions, they found time to read us the questions later in the day and provided additional brain teasers like word scrambles and rebus puzzles.

Additionally, the ship's expedition guides, who were friendly and exceedingly knowledgeable about all things flora, fauna, rocks and ice, were quick to answer questions and share their vast wealth of facts. Everyone I encountered was accommodating and insightful.

They led us on daily Zodiac sailings, kayaking excursions and hikes, where they pointed out wildlife and remnants from previous visitors to the areas where we landed. They discussed flowers and the differences between local birds. They talked about why female polar bears are the ones to wear collars and how long they stay with their young. They also gave daily enrichment presentations, where they shared information about the history of Svalbard and quirky tidbits like how many McDonald's Big Macs an adult human would have to consume for enough energy to trek through the Arctic.

They were allowed to be more social with passengers than on more mainstream vessels, which created an extra layer of personalization. If invited, they were permitted to join us for dinner, which they did on several occasions. It was during mealtimes that we learned more about how they started their careers and what continues to draw them back on board.

What might not be immediately apparent is that Scenic Eclipse offers an outsized number of dining options for a ship of this class. Each venue is small, but the menus are practically perfect in terms of selection. They're also delightfully fancy — but no egos get in the way of special requests or substitutions.

As a somewhat picky eater, I'm not a fan of certain types of meat and was worried I'd be hard-pressed to enjoy some of the restaurants on the ship. It turns out my fears were completely unfounded, and the culinary staff couldn't have been more gracious in accommodating my likes and dislikes.

At the reservation-only venues — including French restaurant Lumiere, Koko's Sushi and Night Market teppanyaki, as well as the chef's table (by invitation) — I was able to either find something I liked on the menu or request a vegetarian substitute. At Lumiere, I opted for a fabulous plant-based steak, and before dining at the chef's table, a quick call to the front desk meant my candied foie gras was replaced by an exquisite candied date instead.

A vegetarian travel companion commented that she was impressed with the selection for people who don't eat meat at all, grateful that it extended beyond merely steamed vegetables and French fries.

My favorite food items from this trip were a Mediterranean tuna taco and falafel with beetroot and yogurt from the Night Market, which featured a new cuisine each night; a beef stick made to look like a cigar at the Chef's Table; and chicken tikka masala from the Yacht Club buffet.

Other standouts included Swedish pancakes with lingonberries from the room service breakfast menu; cookies, a hamburger, fruit pavlovas and Margherita pizza from the Azure Cafe; and truffle fries and daily risotto creations in Elements, the Italian restaurant.

Oh, and whatever you do, don't miss the out-of-this-world grape cotton candy from Koko's, which houses two Asian dining options, including a sushi venue that has all of its fish flown in from Japan.

For travelers who like to cook their own meals, there's also a special kitchen where passengers can sign up to cook with the chef.

As for drinks, remember to ask your expedition guide if you can grab a chunk of ice from a nearby glacier to take back on board after a Zodiac tour. The bar staff will rinse it and break it up for use in your favorite cocktails. (You can hear it snap, crackle and pop as it melts in your glass and releases air bubbles trapped inside.)

In line with the rest of the ship, the cabins on Scenic Eclipse are ritzy but somewhat dark. Most of the time, that wasn't a problem for me, as it created a feeling of calm.

Everything is high-end, from the beds that adjust with remote controls and Illy coffee machines to the rainfall showerheads and Dyson hair dryers. (Finally, a ship hair dryer that actually worked — perhaps a little too forcefully, given how thoroughly it knotted my hair.)

All cabins are suites, offering far more space than what you'll find on most other ships — especially expedition vessels — and they're gloriously soundproof. I could barely hear any noise from the hall, and I couldn't hear any at all from above, below or next door.

I'm not a big drinker, but with just about all onboard beverages included, it was nice to see a minifridge stocked with soda, beer and other libations. There was also a decanter set that could've been filled with my favorite liquors, had I asked for them. Carafes of water, replenished as they ran low, rounded out the choices.

My butler — yes, every cabin has one — also got into the habit of bringing me daily treats like bowls of potato chips or plates of cheese.

Other cabin flourishes include a surplus of outlets and USB ports for charging, as well as bathrobes, umbrellas and binoculars for use during the sailing.

I had a large balcony, which was lovely, but I only used it a handful of times during my cold-weather cruise. It provided a terrific vantage point for photos on most days, and it allowed me to take some wonderful videos when we found ourselves in the middle of an ice field.

The balcony has an electronic blackout shade that lifts and lowers with the push of a button. It's immensely useful in polar regions, where you'll get 24 hours of light at times of the year.

Most standard bathrooms are shower-only, and the ship provides its own brand of Espa toiletries: two-in-one hair and body wash, conditioner and lotion. I appreciated the nightlight at the base of the sink, too. (I never did figure out how to turn it off, though.)

What still needs work

While we're on the subject of cabins, I'd be remiss if I didn't point out some elements that don't work as well.

The first is the bathroom sink. The entirety of the top is a slope down which the water flows to a trough at the bottom. There is absolutely no counter space, which is particularly frustrating for anyone trying to do their hair or put on makeup, or for men who like to shave by filling up the sink basin.

Oddly, the cube-shaped pewter handle on the shower makes it difficult to open said door, as it provides no grip and hurts if you hold it a certain way. To get in the shower, I had to grab the top of the door and pull to get it open.

And then there is the television. Its placement in front of the couch isn't ideal because it catches a glare from the overhead lights and the balcony (especially when the midnight sun shines during summer in the Arctic). It's also cleverly hidden inside of a floor-to-ceiling glass mirror, which means it can't be angled to allow for in-bed viewing. The ship's first passengers complained bitterly about this, but the line has yet to correct the problem.

Shoreside operations

I can't overstate how amazing the staff was on my cruise. They were friendly, knowledgeable and anticipated our every need. Shoreside operations still need quite a bit of work, though. The most critical issue Scenic needs to address right now is its off-ship logistics and communications.

For example, all fares for Scenic's expedition voyages include a pre-cruise hotel stay. The accommodations arranged by the line were fine for me. However, passengers expecting luxury (and with fares starting at $13,000 per person for a 10-day sailing, who wouldn't?) were disappointed.

Check-in took a very long time, the rooms were fairly basic (at least I got one that wasn't already occupied, unlike some travelers) and the embarkation-day breakfast was a brown bag with an apple and yogurt.

Again, just about everything involving the onboard experience was top-notch, so the irritation among passengers quieted until the disembarkation briefing, which was held on the second-to-last night of the cruise.

A future-cruise consultant who was running the presentation told everyone the charter flight from Svalbard back to Olso, originally scheduled to depart around midday, had been changed to 7 p.m.

Passengers demanded to know why they weren't informed sooner, given that many of them had dinner reservations in Oslo that evening or, worse, connecting flights home that they would miss due to the new later departure time.

Scenic knew about the change just a couple of days into the voyage (the public relations team that organized the press trip I was on told me as soon as they found out), so it was unclear why other passengers weren't immediately informed. Also, the fact that the line scheduled two tours in Svalbard to help cruisers pass the time until the later flight only seemed to anger them more.

"I don't want to spend six hours at some stupid museum that only takes me an hour to see," said one woman.

Several people from the U.S. and U.K. then raised their hands to complain that they emailed customer service with various questions prior to sailing but received no response.

Another said he got two confirmation emails for a helicopter booking, despite the fact that the ship's helicopters are not allowed to be used in the Arctic. (That was also not clearly communicated to passengers before embarkation, leading to much disappointment.)

As more passengers weighed in, a trend became clear: The onboard team has its act together; shoreside operations does not.

On the last day, the shipboard staff rallied to allow us to stay on board until it was time to leave for the airport, stretching their resources thin as they prepared breakfast and lunch for us and turned over all the cabins for the next group of cruisers embarking later that day.

However, the folks handling land-based logistics dropped the ball again when a member of our travel party, who requested wheelchair assistance in advance, had no chair and no attendant waiting for him when we landed in Oslo.

A few days after arriving home, my fellow passengers and I received an email from the line's founder and executive chairman, Glen Moroney, offering an apology for the scattered nature of the pre- and post-cruise experiences and explaining why certain aspects of the trip had gone awry.

He blamed a recent hacking incident, which necessitated a full website rebuild, delaying communications between the line and passengers.

To solve the issues, the letter said the line has beefed up its cybersecurity, and is currently working to hire and train additional reservations staff. It wasn't done quickly enough to stave off problems on my sailing, but, hopefully, logistics and communication will improve going forward.

What's next

Overall, Scenic Eclipse is a luxurious vessel run by helpful and knowledgeable staff who go above and beyond to make sure passengers have the best time possible. The line has listened to its passengers and made onboard improvements to areas like the buffet, but there are still some quirks to be worked out, particularly in the way of shoreside logistics.

Looking ahead, Scenic's next expedition ship will be Scenic Eclipse II, a sister vessel to Scenic Eclipse. Although the general layout will be similar, and the ship will still have two helicopters, the line plans to make tweaks to the ship's design. They include the addition of an outdoor pool and an upgraded submarine with an expanded capacity of eight passengers, plus a driver. Scenic Eclipse will also replace its submarine with a newer model.

In terms of new activities, one of the expedition guides let it slip that the cruise line is considering offering added-fee heliskiing. The expedition ships would use their helicopters to take cruisers to the top of a mountain and allow them to ski back down. There has been no official word yet on when this might be available and whether passengers would need to bring their own gear.

Scenic Eclipse II floated out at a shipyard in Croatia in July and is due to make its debut in April of 2023. After Scenic Eclipse II, the line has ordered three additional ships.

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• Scenic Cruises introduces Scenic Eclipse 2022-2023 Antarctica...

Scenic Cruises introduces Scenic Eclipse 2022-2023 Antarctica & South America programme

Scenic Cruises unveiled the 2022-2023 Antarctica & South America programme of Scenic Eclipse.

The brochure of Scenic Eclipse features Scenic Freechoice options, new discovery experiences, and an itinerary sailing Antarctica’s Weddell Sea, along with a range of South America luxury land trip extensions. Each itinerary has been selected to give passengers true immersion in the remote region.

Highlights of the 2022-2023 programme include:

• A new 16-day Into the Weddell Sea cruise that crosses into the Weddell Sea is possible due to Scenic Eclipse’s Polar Class 6 rating, industry-leading features, and world-class design. Passengers enjoy 24 hours of daylight during Christmas and New Year’s sailing while paddling by kayak or getting up close to the wildlife on a stand-up paddleboard experience. Prices start at CAD$26,225 per person, double occupancy, on a December 20, 2022, departure.
• Scenic Eclipse’s helicopter trips have been expanded to include helicopter ice landings so passengers can head for an in-depth exploration of the Antarctic landscape. The more adventurous can ski on Antarctica’s terrain, as the onboard helicopters take guests to the top of its mountain slopes on helicopter skiing trips.
• Scenic Neptune, Scenic Eclipse’s submarine, is the first submersible permitted to operate in South Georgian waters. Passengers will be embarking on an underwater discovery with a submarine capable of diving up to 1,000 feet below the surface while keeping vacationers enclosed with 270-degree views.

Scenic Cruises has also added 3 new 8-day land tour extensions, all with a maximum of 20 guests. The prices shown are the combined voyage and land add-on fares.

• Glaciers & Wilderness - Argentinean Patagonia is a brand new tour in Argentinean Patagonia, beginning in El Calafate and ending El Chalten. Passengers take in the Perito Moreno Glacier, view majestic wildlife, and stay at picturesque accommodations. Scenic Cruises have exclusive use of the Explora El Chalten resort. The 8-day tour can be combined with the 13-day Antarctica in Depth (CAD$32,840 pp), 20-day Antarctica, South Georgia & Falkland Islands (CAD$41,175 pp), or 14-day Chilean Fjords & Cape Horn (CAD$25,838 pp).
• Wild Landscapes of Atacama - a new Chilean tour, beginning and ending in Santiago (Valparaiso) . The focus is on exploring vibrant Chile. Passengers enjoy stellar accommodations at Explora Atacama, situated in the oasis of San Pedro de Atacama. The 8-day tour can be combined with the 14-day Chilean Fjords & Cape Horn (CAD$22,788 pp) or the 11-day Latin America Delights (CAD$17,400 pp).
• Icons of Peru, a Luxury Journey explores Peru, beginning and ending in Cuzco. This 8-day tour can be added to the 11-day Latin America Delights (CAD$20,070 pp) or the 11-day Peru to Panama: Along the Andean Coast (CAD$21,145 pp).

All cruises are all-inclusive, meaning flights, premium beverages, meals with up to ten dining experiences, shore trips, and even the in-suite mini-bar are all included as standard. An expert Discovery Team of up to 20 members is onboard to lead Scenic Discovery trips and to host engaging education programs. Complimentary water bottles, expedition parkas, and use of polar boots are available for all passengers while in the polar regions.

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The World’s First   Discovery Yachts 

Combining innovative design and state-of-the-art technology, Scenic Eclipse sets the benchmark in 6-star ocean cruising. It’s more than an ultra-luxury voyage; it’s immersive, all-inclusive exploration and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. 

Where ultra-luxury meets   discovery 

Enjoy the discovery experience of a lifetime as we reveal the many wonders of the world’s magnificent oceans and waterways from the elegant surrounds of Scenic Eclipse. 

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Ultra-luxury cruising is coming to Australia

Our newest Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse II, will arrive in Australia for a two-year season from 19 April 2024.

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Create Stories for Life in 2024 & 2025

• The World’s First Discovery Yacht
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Why choose Scenic Eclipse II? 

Scenic Eclipse II has been designed to be the ultimate 6-star ultra-luxury cruise experience of a lifetime for only up to 228 guests. From natural landscapes to cultural experiences, ancient monuments and remarkable cities, create stories for life in 2024 and 2025. 

Two State-of-the-Art Helicopters

Soar above some of the most breathtaking landscapes and gain a birds’ eye view of places inaccessible from the coastline. In the Kimberley, choose from up to 10 exhilarating helicopter experiences. From flightseeing tours over the iconic King George River and Horizontal Falls to landings at a pearl farm, the best fishing hotspots, Darwin Aviation Museum, and secluded locations. In New Zealand experience from above the splendour of the Fiordland National Park, glacier landing in Forbes Mountains, heli-hiking in Rotoura or reaching remote dinning venues and vineyards to indulge in the local produce.

Explore helicopter and submersible experiences .

Scenic Neptune II Submersible

Dive below the ocean for a new multi-sensory underwater adventure in the South Pacific, Great Barrier Reef and the last frontier of East Antarctica. Witness the unexplored and pristine polar waters on board the custom-built Scenic Neptune II submersible^, taking you on an unrivalled, next generation exploration.

Explore  helicopter and submersible experiences .

Expert Discovery Team

A specialist Discovery Team of up to 15 experts, along with local guides, will provide deep insights and safely guide you throughout your journey in Australia, the South Pacific, Indonesia and East Antarctica. For our inaugural season in the Kimberley the team will be led by Mike Cusack, a local expert with a passion for Australia’s Northwest who has been guiding for more than three decades and has extensive experience in the region.

Learn more about your on board team .

All-Inclusive Excursions

All Scenic Eclipse II voyages are truly all-inclusive and feature a range of excursions designed to immerse you in your chosen destination. From historic and cultural excursions in New Zealand to discovering natural landscapes and the wildlife of Australia and the South Pacific, enjoy a blend of handcrafted experiences matched with relaxed ultra-luxury.

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Ultra-luxury Suites

Scenic Eclipse is in a class of its own in ultra-luxury ocean cruising with 114 elegant suites across five decks. Designed as your own indulgent haven, each suite features stylish amenities and is incredibly spacious and range from 32sqm Verandah Suites to the 245sqm Two-Bedroom Owner’s Penthouse. Separate zones for sleeping and the lounge area are filled with natural light, thanks to floor-to-ceiling sliding doors opening onto a verandah or terrace. Your butler will ensure everything is taken care of, from bringing your morning coffee to your suite, attending to your laundry, re-stocking your included mini-bar or delivering Champagne or cocktails.

Explore ultra-luxury suites .

World-Class Dining & Beverages

The impressive selection of cuisines with up to 10 dining experiences and up to eight bars and lounges offers you a variety of choices that will satisfy your palate. Open galleys invite you to see first-hand the passion and expertise that goes into preparing every meal. Each dining venue features a menu reflecting the produce and region you are sailing in, and choices will be refreshed throughout your voyage.

Explore dining & beverages .

Fitness & Wellness

Scenic Eclipse II has an abundance of space, providing a relaxing vantage point to spot incredible landmarks and wildlife, ensuring you make the most of every moment. Indulge in the expansive 550sqm Senses Spa#, rejuvenate in the PURE: Yoga and Pilates studio and POWER: Gym, and visit the Sky Deck & Bar which includes a Vitality pool, cabanas, and relaxed seating.

Explore fitness & wellness .

State-of-the-Art Technology & Sustainability

Scenic Eclipse II features state-of-the-art technology, including customised stabilisers, 50% larger than other ships to provide greater stability, a strengthened hull, forward bow thrusters, and an electronic Azipod propulsion system. GPS Dynamic Positioning assists in maintaining location without dropping anchor onto sensitive seabeds. The Advanced Wastewater Treatment system and highly effective engines reduce emissions, noise and vibrations, reflecting our commitment to minimise the impact on the precious environments we visit.

Explore the Scenic Eclipse experience .

Your guide to Scenic Eclipse II 2024 & 2025 Voyages

#Spa treatments at additional cost.

^Helicopter and submersible excursions at additional cost and subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather and ice conditions.

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Ship Experience

Excursions & Discovery

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Featured Itineraries

Australian Odyssey: Western Australia & The Abrolhos Islands

West Australian Coastal Odyssey

Natural Treasures of Indonesia, Borneo & Taiwan

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Along the East Coast of Australia: Beaches & the Great Barrier Reef

Coral Sanctuaries and Pristine Islands

Antarctica's Ross Sea: Majestic Ice & Wildlife

Treasures of the Pacific: The Yasawas to New Zealand

Idyllic Islands and Dazzling Skies

New Zealand In Depth

Discover Authentic New Zealand

Your guide to cruising Australia & the South Pacific

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Review: Greenland on 'Scenic Eclipse II' Expedition Cruise

W e came bursting out of our cabin doors, pulling cameras from their bags faster than an Arctic gyrfalcon diving for prey. Only moments earlier, Captain Erwan Le Rouzic had come onto the ship's loudspeaker and said, "You all must come to the outside decks. There's not 10, not 20, not 50, not 100, but probably several hundred whales here. They're all around us." We had to see it.

He wasn't exaggerating. From our perch on the Observation Deck, it looked like the Fountains at the Bellagio had been stretched across the horizon, thanks to the blowhole sprays of several hundred fin and humpback whales.

"This is so rare, even for Greenland," an expedition guide told us, adding that whales don't typically travel in pods anywhere near this large and that they'd likely been enticed into this bay by an abundance of food. "It makes you feel like a real explorer."

"That's exactly why we've come," I think. In a world that's been explored to the point of overtourism, Greenland stands out. Though it's the planet's largest island (roughly three times the size of Texas), the mostly Indigenous population is made up of just 57,000 residents, and prepandemic, only about 68,000 people visited annually. (For context, Times Square sees nearly twice as many total visitors on an average day.)

Granted, visitation will likely increase in the coming years-advancements in polar sailing, such as a growing number of ships with ice-breaking abilities, are making exploration of this region more accessible. In recent years, a slew of cruise companies have launched their first trips to Greenland.

What it's like sailing on the "Scenic Eclipse II"

In fact, this was the first time the ship we were aboard, the 228-passenger Scenic Eclipse II , the latest discovery yacht in Scenic Luxury Cruises ' portfolio, which launched in April 2023, had sailed to the ice-covered isle.

The new 10-deck ship has no shortage of comforts. All cabins (which range from the two-person 344-square-foot entry-level suite to the four-person 2,745-square-foot penthouse suite) boast private balconies, mini-bars that are restocked daily, a flat-screen TV, beds with remotes that allow you to adjust pressure and position, and butler service.

Then there are the eight dining options, which include two reservation-only tasting-menu restaurants (the French-themed Lumiere, where caviar, escargot, and champagne are givens, and the Night Market, which features different Asian cuisines each night), and the invite-only Chef's Table (which boasts a 14-course gastronomic experience, complete with wine pairings). Then there's the main bar, on the lobby level, that features a wall of more than 100 complimentary whiskeys and bourbons. (If you tell your butler which you prefer, they'll arrange for a decanter of it to be left in your room.)

Other amenities include a library, a gym, a spa complex (with massages, facials, and nail and hair treatments and gendered sauna, steam, and salt therapy rooms, which are always available to guests), a laundry room (free for guests to use), and a heated plunge pool. We spent much of our time in the theater, where expedition staff give daily lectures on everything from Arctic animals to how climate change is reshaping Greenland.

As amazing as the onboard areas and offerings are, the real appeal of the ship is its ability to access wilder areas.

Because the ship doesn't need to be anchored (it holds position with stabilizers), it can tuck into areas that other, larger ships can't. And onboard toys, like kayaks and Zodiacs (eight-person inflatable, motorized boats), get passengers even closer to nature. (Although it wasn't available on our sailing, all future cruises will also have access to a custom-built submersible called the Scenic Neptune II, which can dive 650 feet.)

One day, in an Edenic bay off the coast of the Nansen Fridtjof peninsula, we loaded into a Zodiac to zoom between bits of glacial ice. Roughly 80 percent of Greenland is covered in ice. During the summer, when it's warmer, large chunks break off and float along the shore. The pieces come in all sizes, ranging from massive tabular icebergs, as big as aircraft carriers, to smaller, baseball-sized bergy bits that float like corks in the choppy water. They also come in all kinds of surrealistic shapes, like a child's winsome doodle come to life.

Another ship amenity, a pair of Airbus H130-T2 helicopters, helped us take in the landscape from on high. With Scenic Eclipse II parked before the lolling tongue of a massive tidewater glacier in the Skjoldungen Fjord, three other passengers and I were swept into the sky. From 1,000 feet, we followed the river of ice, marred with veins of crevasses hundreds of feet deep and sprinkled with pools of water so otherworldly blue that they looked like a portal into another realm through the mountain pass. Soon, we found ourselves flying over the Greenland Ice Sheet, a pure white mass that's more than 1,200 miles long and 500 miles wide, so the horizon goes on endlessly. It's a landscape that feels both lunar in its starkness and more dazzling than the brightest sunset.

We were lucky to have that window to fly. Later in the trip there were few opportunities for airborne pursuits; the cloud ceiling was too low.

The unpredictability of cruising in Greenland

On the first day, following a lecture on being responsible visitors (including avoiding trampling plant life, not petting wild dogs, and being respectful of local communities), expedition leader Xavier Garcia told all the passengers that flexibility would be key to having a memorable and enjoyable trip. Sure, we'd be stopping in a few towns (Narsaq, Nuuk, and Ilulissat), where activities like visiting with a local family over a meal of smoked Arctic char or touring museums to get a better idea of how locals have lived in such a harsh environment were planned. But our excursions outside of port towns would be determined somewhat on a day-to-day basis.

While that's true of all expedition sailings, which are characterized by visiting remote regions where the weather often scrambles plans, it's especially true on sailings to Greenland.

Unlike other expedition destinations, such as the Galápagos islands, Svalbard, and Antarctica, which have been regular offerings from cruise companies for decades, Greenland is somewhat of a newcomer to the scene. Companies are still learning where along the 27,000 miles of coastline they can stop for activities like hikes, Zodiac rides, and polar plunges. (We did a polar plunge near the spindly finger of a tidewater glacier, where the water was just above 40 degrees-most jumpers came up shivering and swearing.)

For Garcia, who'd only been to Greenland once before our sailing, that meant reading about the history of the land and ice we'd pass, looking at navigational charts, and scouting out areas with the helicopter ahead of time. They're still learning, but those itineraries will only get better as time progresses. In 2024, this itinerary will be called the Greenland Explorer- it will start in Reykjavík before sailing to Fjallfoss in Iceland's Westfjords and then onward to Greenland for 11 days. (Three days are in towns, while the rest could be spent anywhere along Greenland's coast between the Fridtjof Nansen peninsula in the southeast and Upernavik in the west.) Afterward, guests will be flown to Copenhagen, where the journey will conclude.

"We're not planning only for this voyage, we're also researching for all the years to come," Garcia told me, before adding that regardless of when guests come or where they stop, his hope for them is that what they leave with isn't just a check on their bucket list, but a relationship with this vast and rugged wilderness. That they become better stewards of this fragile environment, where climate change and the effect it has on nature and wildlife is front and center. That they become modern explorers, not in the sense that they conquered, like the sailors of old, but instead, connected.

Bailey Berg is the associate travel news editor at AFAR, where she covers breaking news, trends, tips, sustainability, the outdoors, and more. When not interviewing sources or writing articles, she can be found exploring art galleries, visiting craft breweries, hiking with her dogs, and planning her next adventure (at present, she's been to 75+ countries and hopes to spend time in every one someday).

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Explora Journeys’ Explora I

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It’s not every day a new cruise line arrives. The debut of the remarkable Explora I was a moment years in the making for Explora Journeys , the upstart luxury operator that aims to bring a European sensibility to the world of vacations at sea. So far, the project is a smashing success, thanks to the ship’s low-key vibe, standout food and beverage, and intriguing itineraries that visit in-demand ports in Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. My own August 2023 trip on Explora I , from Copenhagen to Hamburg, Germany, included fulfilling visits to places such as Oslo and the town of Stavanger, Norway, a gateway to adventurous hiking with a postcard-perfect Old Town. The ship itself was also a destination, with its abundance of outdoor space — including an alfresco fitness center — and pools at seemingly every turn. The 461 suites, all of them with balconies, are filled with luxurious touches such as Frette linens and robes, heated marble floors, and Dyson hair dryers. But Explora I truly shines when it comes to food: During the week I was aboard, it was impossible to find a bad meal — and I was often astonished at the quality of, in particular, the pasta served in the Emporium Marketplace and the sushi on offer at Sakura, two of the nine restaurants aboard. The most ambitious of them all is Anthology, a rotating-chef concept that has seen a residency from seafood whiz Mario Ulaissi, known for his Michelin three-starred restaurant on Italy's Adriatic coast, and that recently welcomed Emma Bengtsson, from Aquavit , in New York City. Much has been made of Explora I ’s Rolex boutique — the first on any cruise ship — but for my money, the other shops on board were more interesting: The company has tapped family-owned businesses around the world to create capsule collections of resort wear, handbags, fragrances, sunglasses, and beautiful gifts that can’t be found elsewhere. From $2,050 per person for a six-day sailing. Accessible ship. — Paul Brady

Oceania Cruises’ Vista

Nick Tortajada/Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

The new Oceania Vista is in a class of its own; no really, it’s the first in Oceania Cruises ’ new Allura class. Of its 11 bars and restaurants, three are entirely new to the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings–owned brand — including a high-end cocktail spot called Founders’ Bar, serving 26 intricate drinks that use house-made syrups and top-shelf booze like Whistle Pig and parsley-infused Grey Goose. As Oceania levels up, the cruise line has produced a ship that feels more like a floating resort than the vessels that came before. There’s pickleball; a health-conscious restaurant, Aquamar, serving made-to-order salads and pressed juices; and a coffee shop that looks like one in walking distance of my home in L.A. (marble counters, gold accents, leather bar stools) and pulls an espresso shot of similar quality. Vista has more suites than others in the Oceania fleet, too: There are 14 Oceania Suites (up to 1,200 square feet); eight Vista Suites (up to 1,850 square feet); and three Owner’s Suites with Ralph Lauren Home decor and two massive terraces (2,400 square feet). But the most hotel-like touch? A celebrity chef–driven restaurant, Toscana, where Giada De Laurentiis — the ship’s godmother — supplied two recipes for the menu. As someone who watched a lot of Everyday Italian in the early aughts, I was particularly excited to try her signature, Capri-inspired lemon spaghetti, and lemon-cream sauce with grilled shrimp and capers didn’t disappoint. From $2,499 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ sixth ship, the Seven Seas Grandeur , sailed its inaugural season in December, joining sibling ships Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor as the newest member of the luxury fleet. The cruise line is a favorite among T+L readers for its gorgeous ships and all-inclusive pricing that covers unlimited shore excursions, dining at specialty restaurants, and even round-trip airfare. Grandeur lives up to its name thanks to stunning, art-filled spaces designed by cruise ship interior experts Studio Dado: signature restaurant Compass Rose is enchanting with interiors inspired by a fairy-tale forest; the Observation Lounge sparkles with an undulating chandelier and swanky bar; and the $11,000-per-night Regent Suite has a private en suite spa and custom Treesse mini pool. As I boarded Grandeur for the ship’s inaugural sailing, I was mesmerized by the grand staircase and glittering chandelier. And with a maximum capacity of 744 guests, I found it easy to take time to myself in the myriad of quiet spots tucked throughout the ship, whether in the Serene Spa and Wellness area, in the Library, or on the Sports Deck overlooking the ocean. Seven restaurants include specialty steakhouse Prime 7, pan-Asian restaurant Pacific Rim, and breakfast and lunch buffet La Veranda, which refines the cruise buffet experience with daily specials like paella and sushi. Several bars and lounges, a pool and hot tubs, a casino, Broadway-style productions, and cooking classes at the Culinary Arts Kitchen make the ship a destination in itself, though guests will want to take advantage of those included excursions on Caribbean, Central American, North American, and European itineraries, ranging from seven to 16 nights, during the ship’s 2024 season. From $4,669 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Silversea’s Silver Nova

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Carrying 728 passengers, Silver Nova is big for the luxury sector, but boasts a hugely important metric: a capacious passenger space ratio — that is, the number of guests relative to the size of the ship. Simply put, this ship offers more elbow room per passenger than almost any other cruise vessel. Silver Nova is wrapped in glass, with an asymmetrical layout; the funnel is positioned off-center, so is the pool, offering an expansive, uncluttered pool deck. Many features of the brand-new ship recall previous Silversea successes, my favorite of which is the S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) program, expanded for Silver Nova . S.A.L.T. perks include a gorgeous, sea-facing lab for hands-on culinary lessons (at no additional cost), plus a new concept, the Chef’s Table, where an 11-course menu is prepared for just 24 diners. All facets of the S.A.L.T. ecosystem, including ingredients, a bar, lectures, and shore excursions, are keyed to the region Nova is sailing. While food is a drawing card for Silver Nova , accommodations also received a revamp. Tied to the theme of bringing the outside in, there are brilliant new suites found in the aft starboard corner of the ship, with wraparound balconies revealing a 270-degree view.  This is where you can tuck me in when I win the lottery and head off on a world cruise. But until then, Silver Nova will summer in Alaska and spend northern hemisphere winters in Australia and New Zealand, places where top-deck views should prove ceaselessly rewarding. From $3,250 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — David Swanson

It List 2024