The Scenic Eclipse II will be the only ship in the region with two helicopters on board, allowing unparalleled exploration in one of the world's most rugged and remote destinations.
Starting in May 2024, the Scenic Eclipse II will bring the Kimberley region its first-ever all-inclusive, 6-star ultra-luxury cruise. The new Discovery Yacht will be the only ship sailing the region with two state-of-the-art helicopters on board, each capable of carrying up to six passengers. Guests will have unprecedented access to the wonders of this extraordinary natural landscape, with a wider range of aerial excursions and immersive experiences than any other cruise operator can offer.
The Airbus H130-T2 helicopters on Scenic Eclipse II set new standards for tourism worldwide. With a spacious, air-conditioned interior and large windows, guests are fully immersed in the spectacular natural surroundings. They are also the quietest helicopters in the sky and feature BOSE noise-canceling headphones for optimal comfort. With no need for an external operator and simultaneous takeoffs and landings of both helicopters directly from the ship, guests have more time to spend in the air or at their destination.
On each voyage, the aerial sightseeing program will be complemented by up to 10 helicopter excursions, designed by Discovery's Director of Operations, Jason Flesher. “The Kimberley is a truly breathtaking experience,” says Jason. “It’s the world’s hidden tropical gem. The only way to truly take in all it has to offer is by helicopter, directly from the ship, which only the Scenic Eclipse II can provide.” The expert pilots will also be trained by a Kimberley expert with over 13 years of flying experience in the region, who will offer insightful commentary on each excursion.
From aerial tours over the iconic King George River and Horizontal Falls to visits to remote Indigenous communities, landings at the Darwin Aviation Museum and Willie Creek Pearl Farm for VIP tours, and the stunningly remote Buccaneer Archipelago and Lacepede Islands, these excursions will showcase the best of the captivating Kimberley Coast. Throughout the voyage, barramundi fishing expeditions by helicopter and private beach picnics with expert guides and delicious dishes from the Scenic Eclipse II's kitchen will be offered. Guests will also have the opportunity to create their own itineraries by chartering helicopters for private flights and their own specialized excursions.
Scenic has also announced that Mike Cusack will lead the Scenic Eclipse Discovery Team for the season in Kimberley. Mike is a nature expert with a passion for Northwest Australia, having guided tours for over three decades and possessing extensive experience in the region. He will be joined by marine biologists, wildlife veterinarians, historians, naturalists, geologists, and ornithologists, forming a world-class Discovery Team to provide in-depth insights and guidance for guests.
The Scenic Eclipse II will be the first Scenic ship to sail to Australia, arriving in April 2024. Accommodating up to 228 guests with a near 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio, it will offer the ultimate ultra-luxury experience in the Kimberley region. The Discovery Yacht features spacious veranda suites with personalized butler service, a sprawling 550 m² Senses Spa, two Vitality Pools, up to 10 dining options, a team of experts, two helicopters, and state-of-the-art Zodiacs with comfortable seating and umbrellas. The Scenic Eclipse II will also operate its custom-designed submersible on voyages to the Great Barrier Reef, the South Pacific, and Indonesia.
Between May and August 2024, 12 departures of the 11-day Discover the Kimberley Coastline: An Ancient Wilderness itinerary will sail between Darwin and Broome.
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