Despite my role as a travel journalist, dispelling the notion of a glamorous lifestyle becomes challenging when I find myself enjoying champagne aboard a luxurious cruise ship with a six-star rating.
Recently, the Scenic Eclipse II made its inaugural stop in London, offering me the opportunity to explore the opulent amenities on this exclusive vessel. Docked near Greenwich Pier, the ship’s appearance resembled a high-end superyacht more commonly seen in Monaco than on the Thames.
While many cruise companies focus on constructing larger ships, the Scenic Eclipse II prioritizes intimate luxury and personalized service for its limited number of passengers. With a capacity of only 228 guests (200 in polar regions) and a nearly 1:1 staff ratio, the level of service is exceptionally individualized. Each of the 114 suites includes butler service and a private veranda for scenic views, catering to travelers’ needs in picturesque destinations.
Our group crossed the Thames on a Thames Clipper to reach the Scenic Eclipse II, relieved to step onto the stable floors of the ship. Upon boarding, the ambiance exuded luxury akin to a five-star hotel lobby rather than a typical cruise ship. Savoring champagne in the lavish lounge and browsing the top-shelf drinks available for all-inclusive guests, I toyed with the idea of stowing away on this magnificent vessel.
Opting for a discreet tour of the deluxe accommodations, I explored the Owner’s Penthouse Suites located on the top decks, offering panoramic views and luxurious amenities like private spa tubs tended by attentive butlers. These suites boasted spacious bedrooms, large living areas with bars, and walk-in closets suitable for formal events.
Even the entry-level Verandah Suites provided premium comforts, featuring king-size beds, separate living areas, and marble en-suite bathrooms. Guests in these rooms enjoy butler service, in-room dining, and various inclusive offerings, ensuring a lavish experience for all aboard.
The Scenic Eclipse II caters to cruisers seeking adventurous experiences, offering helicopter tours and submarine expeditions for unparalleled exploration opportunities. Its compact size allows access to diverse destinations, ranging from Antarctic expeditions to Mediterranean cruises, appealing to travelers with diverse interests.
One notable feature was the open navigation deck throughout the voyage, enabling passengers to interact with crew members, observe equipment up close, and indulge in fantasies of steering the ship, albeit without operational control.
With a team of 38 chefs onboard, the ship offers a wide range of culinary options, including lounges, Italian and French dining, a sushi bar, and a Teppanyaki grill. Additionally, guests can enjoy pools, a spa, gym, yoga facilities, and a lecture theatre hosting various talks, workshops, and entertainment, ensuring a vibrant and engaging cruise experience.
Following its departure from Greenwich, the Scenic Eclipse II set course for Hamburg, passing through Ostend, Belgium, and cruising the Elbe River. This five-night voyage is priced at £4,4951 per person.
The ship’s versatile design allows for future expeditions to extreme environments like Antarctica and the Arctic, as
