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August 3, 2023

Offering the most extensive helicopter program in the Kimberley region, Scenic Eclipse II will set a new benchmark for ultra-luxury cruises in 2024. Being the only ship in the region with two helicopters on board, it will allow for unparalleled exploration in one of the wildest and most remote destinations in the world.

Starting from May 2024, Scenic Eclipse II will be the only ship sailing in the region with two state-of-the-art helicopters on board, each capable of carrying up to six passengers. Guests will have unmatched access to the wonders of this extraordinary pristine region, with a wider range of panoramic and immersive excursions than any other cruise operator.

Scenic Eclipse II‘s Airbus H130-T2 helicopters set new standards for tourism worldwide. With spacious air-conditioned interiors and large windows, guests are fully immersed in the spectacular natural environment. They are also the quietest helicopters in the sky and feature Bose noise-canceling headsets for maximum comfort. With no need for transfers to an external operator and simultaneous landings and take-offs of both helicopters directly from the ship, guests will have more time to spend in flight or at their destination.

Each journey’s helicopter program will consist of 10 exciting helicopter excursions designed by Jason Flesher, Director of Discovery Operations at Scenic. “The Kimberley is truly a breathtaking experience,” says Jason. “It’s the hidden tropical gem of the world. The only way to truly embrace all that it’s willing to reveal is through helicopters, directly from the ship, which only Scenic Eclipse II can offer.” The experienced pilots will also be trained by a Kimberley expert who has been flying in the region for over 13 years and will provide insights on each excursion.

From panoramic flights over the legendary King George River and King George Falls to visits to remote indigenous communities. Landings at the Darwin Aviation Museum and the Willie Creek Pearl Farm for VIP tours and at the remote Buccaneer Islands and Lacepede Islands. These excursions will show guests the best of the fascinating Kimberley Coast. During the journey, fishing expeditions for barramundi and beach picnics, complete with expert guides and delicacies prepared by Scenic Eclipse II’s kitchen, will be available. Guests will also have the opportunity to create their own itineraries by renting helicopters for private panoramas and specialized tours.

Scenic has also announced that Mike Cusack will lead Scenic Eclipse’s Discovery Team. Mike is an award-winning wilderness expert with a great passion for Australia’s northwest and over three decades of guiding 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 insights and accompany guests.

Scenic Eclipse II will be the first Scenic ship to sail in Australia, arriving in April 2024. With a capacity of only 228 guests and a near 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio, it will be the most inclusive ultra-luxury experience offered in the Kimberley region. Features of the Discovery Yacht include spacious veranda suites with personalized butler service, a vast 550 sqm Senses Spa, two Vitality Pools, up to 10 culinary experiences, an expert Discovery Team, two helicopters, and next-generation Zodiacs with comfortable seating and sunshades. Scenic Eclipse II will also operate its submarine during cruises in the Great Barrier Reef, the South Pacific, and Indonesia.

Between May and August 2024, there will be 12 departures for the 11-day itinerary “Discover the Kimberley Coast: An Ancient Wilderness,” sailing between Darwin and Broome.

Scenic Eclipse II Helicopter Excursions:

Transfer to Darwin Aviation Museum: This excursion takes guests on a discovery of the azure waters and breathtaking landscapes surrounding the capital of the Northern Territory, followed by a private visit to the excellent Darwin Aviation Museum. (Available for departing or arriving guests)

Panoramic Flight over King George River (30 minutes): A view of King George River from above will allow guests to admire the spectacular twin King George Falls and spot marine wildlife in Koolama Bay.

Panoramic Flight over Hunter River and Mitchell Falls (30 minutes): An experience to admire the upper and lower Mitchell Falls cutting through an incredible system of gorges, then flying over the rainforest and vast eucalyptus of the Mitchell Plateau.

Panoramic Flight over Talbot Bay, Buccaneer Islands, and Horizontal Falls (40 minutes): Flying over the 800 islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago, guests will try to spot whales in Talbot Bay and fly over the Kimberley’s famous landmark, the breathtaking Horizontal Falls.

Stay tuned for further updates, news, and reviews of Scenic on Cruising Journal.

Gabriele Bassi

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