The Scenic Group looks to the future as construction begins in Croatia on the new Eclipse II luxury discovery yacht and a commitment to delivering five new vessels.
Construction has begun on Scenic Eclipse II, the second coveted discovery yacht from The Scenic Group in their ocean fleet, at the Rijeka shipyard in Croatia. The steel cutting of Scenic Eclipse II marks the first build of five new custom-built vessels planned for the next six years across the group.
A newly developed company, MKM Yachts, wholly owned by The Scenic Group, will now take full responsibility for all new ocean ship builds in their fleet starting with the construction of Scenic Eclipse II.
The brand-new 228-guest (200 in Polar regions) Scenic Eclipse II will feature two six-guest helicopters, one six-guest submarine, ten dining options, indoor and outdoor plunge pools and a 1:1 guest-to-staff ratio.
The move demonstrates the confidence the Australian-owned business has in the luxury yacht cruise market in a post-COVID-19 world.
Glen Moroney, owner and Chairman, The Scenic Group commented: “This heralds an exciting moment for The Scenic Group as we continue to develop our luxury ocean products under both Scenic and Emerald Cruises brands. The entire team is excited to see the project underway and look forward to welcoming guests onboard this magnificent discovery yacht.”
Once complete, Scenic Eclipse II will be the sister ship to Scenic Eclipse, voted as the best luxury ship in the world in 2019 following a successful first season sailing six-star luxury cruises through destinations including the Arctic, Antarctica, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Launched in August 2019 with a christening held in New York City on September 10, 2019, with Dame Helen Mirren doing the honours as the ship’s Godmother.
MKM Yachts confirmed an agreement with the Croatian Government to commence shipbuilding operations in a separate dedicated section of the existing Maj 3 Shipyard in Rijeka. “This outcome has been the result of a massive effort by our entire Croatian team, and in particular, our new Managing Director of MKM Yachts, Sasa Čokljat,” said Moroney.
“The Croatian Government has committed to supporting the redevelopment of the shipyard and assist in the funding of our new building program, which will comprise five custom-built vessels over the next six years. All vessels will be of the highest 6-star standard with the ability to navigate the polar regions.”
MKM Yachts will take over a portion of Rijeka’s shipyard and use existing infrastructure and knowledge of Croatian shipbuilders, working in collaboration with Scenic’s expert team.
Sailings across The Scenic Group brands (including Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours and Emerald Cruises) are currently suspended up to 30 June 2020.
Visit www.scenic.co.uk for the latest information.
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