Boston, July 2020 – Following its successful inaugural season sailing and exploring Antarctica, the world’s first Luxury Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse, has been welcomed as an official member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO).
The state-of-the-art Polar Code 6 classification luxury yacht has been purpose-built with technology and equipment to protect the environment and pristine destinations to which it travels. Its GPS dynamic positioning system allows for anchor-less docking, while an advanced wastewater treatment system and highly efficient engines help to reduce emissions, noise and vibrations for minimal disturbance to the marine life environment in the Antarctic and beyond. On board lectures educate the maximum 200 guests on environmental concerns, local wildlife, geology and a host of other topics – all led by experts in the various fields. Its six-guest submarine, Scenic Neptune, opens up new vistas for guests as they are able to explore up to 1,000 feet below the sea, while its two six-guest luxury helicopters are able to show off the otherwise inaccessible inland regions of the White Continent.
Scenic Eclipse joins 49 other Antarctica operators as a full-fledged member working to protect the future of the region. Ann Chamberlin, VP Sales, Scenic Group USA adds, “As a member of IAATO, Scenic Eclipse’s advisor partners and guests can be assured that our operations not only meet but exceed industry standards. IAATO’s mission for nearly 30 years has been to advocate, promote and practice safe and environmentally responsible tourism to the Antarctic, and is well-aligned with the ethos and philosophy of the Scenic Group. As members, compliance with IAATO rules and regulations ensures the long-term viability of Antarctica and protection of its natural environment for future generations.”
For the upcoming 2020/21 Antarctica season, Scenic Eclipse has two itineraries scheduled to operate – the 11-day Antarctica in Depth and the 20-day Antarctica, South Georgia & Falkland Islands itinerary. IAATO is currently working closely with members to determine the commencement date for the season.
Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours has grown over its 34-year history to include award-winning, all-inclusive river and ocean cruises and handcrafted land tours that take participants to many of the world’s most fascinating destinations. Since 2008, Scenic has offered river cruises in Europe, SE Asia and Russia on its 15 Space-Ships and Egypt on a luxury charter. In 2019, Scenic introduced the world’s first luxury Discovery Yacht, the 228-guest Scenic Eclipse. Sister brand Emerald Cruises, parent brand of Emerald Waterways and the newly formed Emerald Yacht Cruises, has nine branded Star-Ships offering river sailings in Europe and on the Mekong, as well as the chartered river ship along the Volga River in Russia (MS Nizhny Novgorod). In 2021, the Emerald Azzurra will be the first yacht to launch under the Emerald Cruises brand – a 100-guest super yacht that will ply the warm waters of the Mediterranean, Adriatic and Red seas.
Additional information can be obtained via travel agents; or in the US: www.scenicusa.com; phone 844-788-7985; or email: info@scenicusa.com.
Media Note: High resolution images are available for download on our website at www.gilliesandzaiser.com/clients/scenic-eclipse/hi-res/.