Remarkable 22-day sailing acclaimed by guests as a true once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
HOLLYWOOD, FL. – For centuries the world’s most northern waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean remained impassable, with many legendary explorers trying, and failing, to carve a path through the ice-blocked conditions. That link, known as the Northwest Passage, has now become accessible for about three weeks per year. And although still beyond the boundaries of travel for many, guests aboard the ultra-luxury Scenic Eclipse are able to take in all of the amazing, rarely-seen vistas and experiences available on these historic voyages.
Booking is available for the 2023 22-day “Across the Northwest Passage”, departing Anchorage on July 29, with offers for new bookings made between Oct. 1 and Dec. 15, 2022.
“It is the ultimate journey, as we are sailing through three different oceans away from any close assistance,” shared Captain Erwan le Rouzic. “Scenic Eclipse’s state-of-the-art technology allows for smooth navigation through these waters thanks to its Polar Class 6 rating, electronic Azipod propulsion system and oversized stabilizers. The diversity of the experiences offered, the incredible wildlife viewing, the remote and almost untouched wilderness, all combined with the support of a dedicated and smiling crew and the variety of viewing options – from the sky by helicopter, underneath the surface by submarine, on the water by Zodiac or on land – made it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
The Northwest Passage also offers some of the rarest wildlife viewing opportunities on the planet. Guests were able to view more than 62 polar bears swimming, eating, and playing throughout the voyage – as well as observing narwhals, belugas, northern right whales, sea lions and snowy owls.
From sighting elusive Musk Ox’s to toasting champagne on the Beaufort Sea, this Scenic Eclipse journey was as unique as was memorable. “Wrapped up in the layers of Inuit and pre-Inuit habitation, European exploration, ongoing geo-political implications and ever-changing ice, weather and wildlife conditions, a journey through the Northwest Passage is never the same twice, and mystery lies around every corner,” offered. Danny Johnston, Scenic Eclipse Expedition Leader. “Scenic Eclipse has provided the platform for Discovery experiences crucial to accessing these remote opportunities.”
In addition to viewing Inuit cultural performances during various community visits, Scenic Eclipse became the first vessel to return the favor with our ship’s performers providing a concert for the local residents. An impromptu throat singing concert, held on board in the lounge while in Gjoa Haven, delighted guests and crew alike.
22-Day Across the Northwest Passage
Sailing from Nome to Kangerlussuaq in 2023, this Expedition Voyage traverses one of the world’s last frontiers, the rarely-transited Northwest Passage, encountering remote fjords, glaciers, and uninhabited islands on the way through one of the globe’s most inhospitable locations. Pass through the Bering Strait, a narrow 82-kilometre waterway, before arriving at Herschel Island. Guests explore the island, among many others, by Zodiac, kayak and onshore landings as well as fly above in one of two six-guest helicopters or explore the surrounding waters in Scenic Neptune, the yacht’s submersible. And learn about the native Thule and Inuit cultures from the expert Discovery team.
Beechey Island is ideal for viewing its 400,000 nesting birds and the graves of three members of the ill-fated 1845 Franklin Expedition, while stepping foot on the largest uninhabited island on Earth, Devon Island (last inhabited by the Thule settlement in 1000 AD) is somewhat surreal. A visit to a small Inuit settlement on Baffin Island, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, fjords and glaciers begins the wrap up as the voyage ends with hiking opportunities at Greenland’s Sisimiut, or kayaking the crystal waters nearby.
This 22-day voyage commences from Anchorage on July 29, 2023, and calls at Nome, the Bering Strait, Herschel Island, Prince Leopold Island, Beechey Island, Devon Island, Pond Inlet, Disko Bay, Sisimiut, Kangerlussuaq before concluding in Copenhagen.
With just 228 guests (200 in Polar regions), Scenic Eclipse Yachts are purpose-built for polar regions, featuring a strengthened hull and a Polar Class 6-rating that enables safe and comfortable navigation through polar waters. Scenic Eclipse I and II feature an impressive array of indoor and outdoor elegant spaces, such as the spectacular 5,920ft² Senses Spa, up to 10 spectacular dining experiences, nine bars and lounges and spaciously appointed suites with private verandahs and personalized butler service. And all voyages are truly all-inclusive, so guests can leave their wallet in a safe place and relax, knowing everything is taken care of. Transfers, fine dining experiences, premium branded beverages, gratuities, and once-in-a-lifetime immersive excursions are all included in the price.
Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours has grown over its 36-year plus history to include award-winning river and ocean cruises and handcrafted land journeys that take guests to many of the world’s most fascinating destinations. Since 2008, Scenic has set the benchmark for truly all-inclusive, luxury five-star river cruises in Europe and Southeast Asia. In 2019, Scenic introduced Scenic Eclipse, The World’s First Discovery Yacht, a 228-guest ultra-luxury ship, and plans to deliver a second yacht, Scenic Eclipse II, in 2023. Scenic is part of Scenic Group, which includes Emerald Cruises, Mayflower Cruises & Tours and Evergreen Tours.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.
She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
