Scenic Eclipse II

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Scenic Eclipse II

Cruise Reviews

Scenic Eclipse II

Scenic Eclipse II Reviews & Ratings: Is It the Right Cruise for You?

Billed as “The World’s First Discovery Yachts,” the Scenic Eclipse II (launched in 2023) blurs the line between a billionaire’s private mega-yacht and a hardcore polar expedition vessel. Carrying a maximum of just 228 guests (and only 200 in polar regions), this ultra-luxury, 6-star ship offers a truly all-inclusive, no-expense-spared experience.

The ship’s most famous features are its “toys”: she carries two state-of-the-art Airbus helicopters and a custom-built, 8-person submarine. In 2026, she will spend her summer cruising the glittering Mediterranean and European coasts before heading south for the ultimate bucket-list expedition: Antarctica.

Scenic Eclipse II at a Glance

  • Cruise Line: Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
  • Ship Type: Ultra-Luxury Expedition Yacht (Capacity: 228 passengers)
  • 2026 Key Destinations: Mediterranean & Northern Europe (Summer), Antarctica (Late 2026 / Early 2027) out of Buenos Aires.
  • Best For: Affluent travelers, hardcore adventurers who want 6-star luxury, and those who want to fly over icebergs in a private helicopter.

2026 Itineraries & Deployment Updates

Because she is so small, the Scenic Eclipse II can visit ports that larger ships cannot dream of reaching:

    • Summer 2026 (Europe & Mediterranean): Sailing 7- to 11-night voyages, she will explore the Greek Isles, the Amalfi Coast, and the Iberian Peninsula. In August 2026, she heads north for breathtaking explorations of the Norwegian Fjords and the Baltic Sea.

    • Fall/Winter 2026 (Antarctica): By November 2026, she repositions to Buenos Aires/Ushuaia for her 12- to 21-night “Antarctica in Depth” expeditions. Her Polar Class 6 ice-strengthened hull allows her to push deep into the Weddell Sea and the Antarctic Peninsula.

Onboard Experience: What to Expect

Helicopters & Submarines

The excursions are what define this ship. You can book a flight in one of the two Airbus H130-T2 helicopters to soar over active volcanoes or untouched Antarctic glaciers. Alternatively, dive up to 300 meters below the surface in the Scenic Neptune II submarine to view deep-sea marine life. (Note: Helicopter and submarine excursions carry a hefty additional fee).

6-Star Luxury & Spa

The ship features a massive 550-square-meter Senses Spa, complete with thermal lounges, Nordic plunge pools, and salt therapy lounges. The ship also features a state-of-the-art theater and multiple boutique lounges.

All-Suite Accommodations

Every single cabin on the Scenic Eclipse II is a suite, and every suite features a private verandah and dedicated butler service. The entry-level Verandah Suites are a massive 344 square feet, featuring luxury king beds and Dyson hairdryers, while the top-tier Owner’s Penthouse Suite is a staggering 2,099 square feet.

Dining & All-Inclusive Policies (Updated 2026)

Scenic operates on a truly all-inclusive model. Once you pay your fare, almost everything is covered.

    • Included Dining: Despite holding only 228 guests, the ship boasts 10 unique dining experiences. Lumière offers contemporary French fine dining with a champagne bar. Koko’s serves exceptional Asian fusion, sushi, and teppanyaki. Night Market @ Koko’s offers a private, 8-person authentic grill experience.

    • What Else is Included: All premium beverages (including top-shelf spirits and fine wines), all daily gratuities (onboard and ashore), unlimited Wi-Fi, return airport transfers, and almost all daily shore excursions (Zodiac cruises, kayaking, and guided hikes).

Pros & Cons of Sailing on Scenic Eclipse II

Pros:

  • Truly 6-star, all-inclusive luxury (food, premium alcohol, and gratuities).
  • State-of-the-art expedition equipment (Zodiacs, kayaks, submersible, helicopters).
  • Every cabin is a massive suite with a balcony and butler service.
  • 10 distinct, exceptional dining venues for only 200 guests.

Cons:

  • Astronomical price point; fares for a 12-day Antarctica cruise easily exceed $18,000+ USD per person.
  • Helicopter and submarine dives are not included in the fare and are highly dependent on weather conditions.
  • Very quiet nightlife; entertainment is focused on educational lectures rather than stage shows.

Have You Sailed on Scenic Eclipse II?

Your experience helps other travelers make informed decisions! Did you ride the submarine, or were you blown away by the 10 onboard restaurants? 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Scenic Eclipse II

Is everything included on the Scenic Eclipse II?

Almost everything. Your flights (often), transfers, all meals in all 10 restaurants, unlimited premium beverages, butler service, Wi-Fi, gratuities, and standard expedition excursions (like Zodiac tours) are included. The only things you pay extra for are spa treatments, and flights/dives on the helicopters and submarine.

How many passengers are on Scenic Eclipse 2?

The yacht holds a maximum of 228 passengers. However, when sailing in polar regions like Antarctica or the Arctic, the capacity is strictly capped at 200 passengers to comply with environmental regulations and maximize shore landing times.

Do you get seasick on the Scenic Eclipse II?

While the Drake Passage to Antarctica can be incredibly rough, the Scenic Eclipse II is equipped with massive, custom-built, zero-speed stabilizer fins that are 50% larger than those on standard ships, significantly reducing the roll of the vessel even when stationary

Disclaimer: All information, policies, and details presented on this page are gathered from publicly available resources and are subject to change. Please verify directly with the cruise line before booking.