By
Rebecca Gibson |
International classification society Bureau Veritas is to class a new expedition cruise vessel for Australian travel operator Scenic.
To be built by Uljanik Group in Croatia, Scenic Eclipse is to be delivered in summer 2018 and has been designed with the highest passenger ship ice-class rating – Polar Class 6 – to allow it to operate in polar waters.
“Bureau Veritas was involved at an early stage of design, working closely with the owners, shipyard and well known design offices for the development of this new concept cruise ship,” said Philippe Donche-Gay, executive vice president and managing director of the marine and offshore division at Bureau Veritas. “Our expertise with safety, polar conditions and comfort onboard were all critical elements of the new concept which Scenic presents as a six-star luxury discovery yacht.”
Scenic Eclipse will be powered by two separate diesel-electric propulsion plants and two pods, and has been equipped with zero-speed stabiliser fins. The vessel will be granted the highest Bureau Veritas marks and notations, including several related to pollution prevention. These include advanced wastewater treatment system, ballast water management system, waste holding capacity and Green Passport.
BV’s Comfort Class criteria will also ensure that the vessel meets safety, Safe Return to Port and comfort standards.
“Bureau Veritas has been working for several years now with the Scenic Group on the development of its river cruise fleet, and we are proud to continue our close cooperation for this new challenging project,” said Donche-Gay.
Scenic Eclipse will weigh 16,500gt and will be able to accommodate 228 guests in 114 all-veranda suites and will also offer six onboard dining options; various bars and lounges; a 240-seat theatre. The ship will also have a 5,000 sqft spa with treatment rooms, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis and plunge pools; and a gym with a separate yoga and Pilates studio. Shore excursions will be facilitated by the vessels’ fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks, scuba diving and snorkelling equipment, two onboard helicopters, and a seven-seat submarine.
The vessel will embark on her maiden voyage on 31 August 2018, sailing from Istanbul in Turkey to Venice, Italy. This voyage will be followed by 18 different itineraries in The Americas, Antarctica, Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Arctic and Norwegian Fjords.