The Scenic Eclipse is one of the world's most extraordinary cruise ships — a 228-passenger ultra-luxury expedition vessel designed specifically for the world's most remote destinations. With a submarine, two helicopters, a fleet of Zodiacs, and butler service in every suite, it represents the absolute pinnacle of expedition cruising. For Australians, it's particularly relevant for Kimberley and Antarctic expeditions. Here's an honest assessment of whether the price is justified.
What Makes the Scenic Eclipse Different
- 228 passengers maximum — exceptionally small for a ship this size, creating a genuine boutique experience
- Two helicopters onboard — used for flightseeing over glaciers, landing in remote locations inaccessible by Zodiac
- A submarine — the Scenic Neptune submarine carries 6 passengers and crew to depths of 300 metres
- 10 dining venues — from casual to formal, all included in the fare
- Butler service in every suite — all cabins are suites with private butler
- All-inclusive pricing — drinks, excursions, helicopter flights, and submarine dives all included
- Scenic Eclipse II — sister ship launched 2023, identical specifications
Itineraries Relevant to Australians
Kimberley, Western Australia
The Scenic Eclipse's Kimberley season (April–September) is one of the most compelling luxury expedition options for Australians who want to see the Kimberley coast without the cost and complexity of a helicopter charter. The helicopter access opens up waterfalls and gorges that smaller expedition ships can't reach. Prices start from approximately AUD $15,000 per person for 10–14 nights.
Antarctica
The Scenic Eclipse Antarctic season (November–March) offers one of the most comprehensive Antarctic experiences available — helicopter flightseeing over the ice, submarine dives under the ice, and Zodiac landings at research stations and penguin colonies. Antarctic pricing starts from approximately AUD $20,000 per person for 14-night expeditions.
Arctic and Northwest Passage
Northern hemisphere summer expeditions through the Northwest Passage, Svalbard, and the Russian Arctic. Typically AUD $25,000–45,000 per person for 20–30 night expeditions.
What's Included — The All-Inclusive Model
Scenic Eclipse operates on a genuinely all-inclusive model — unusual in expedition cruising:
- All meals across all 10 dining venues
- All beverages including premium spirits and wine
- All shore excursions and Zodiac landings
- Helicopter flights (number per person varies by itinerary)
- Submarine dives (waitlist-based, not guaranteed for all passengers)
- Expedition gear including parka and boots
- Butler service
- Wi-Fi
- Gratuities
Is Scenic Eclipse Worth the Price for Australians?
The honest answer depends entirely on what you value. Compared to other Kimberley expedition options:
| Scenic Eclipse | Coral Expeditions | True North | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (Kimberley, per person) | AUD $15,000–25,000 | AUD $8,000–14,000 | AUD $15,000–22,000 |
| Passengers | 228 max | 72–120 | 36 |
| Helicopter access | Yes — 2 onboard | No (some itineraries charter) | Yes — 1 onboard |
| Submarine | Yes | No | No |
| All-inclusive | Yes — drinks + excursions | Most excursions included | Most excursions included |
| Suite-only accommodation | Yes | No — varied cabin types | Yes |
The Scenic Eclipse earns its premium for Australians who specifically want helicopter access to remote locations, the submarine experience, and a genuinely luxury (not just comfortable) expedition. If the expedition experience matters more than the luxury amenities, Coral Expeditions and True North deliver comparable remote access at lower cost.
Travel Insurance for Scenic Eclipse Expeditions
A Scenic Eclipse booking represents one of the highest-value travel investments most Australians will make. Comprehensive cruise travel insurance with unlimited cancellation cover is essential — the full booking value should be covered. For expedition cruising, ensure your policy also covers helicopter activities and any adventure activities included in your itinerary. Compare at our travel insurance comparison. FastCover and Cover-More both cover expedition cruise activities with the appropriate add-ons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Scenic Eclipse worth the price for the Kimberley?
Yes, for travellers who specifically want helicopter access to remote waterfall and gorge locations, the submarine experience, and a full luxury environment. For expedition-first travellers who prioritise the Kimberley experience over amenities, Coral Expeditions delivers comparable destination access at AUD $6,000–11,000 less per person.
How far in advance should I book Scenic Eclipse?
12–18 months ahead for popular Kimberley and Antarctic seasons. The ship carries only 228 passengers and demand from Australian travellers for the Kimberley season is particularly strong. Best suites sell out first.
Does Scenic Eclipse include helicopter flights for all passengers?
Yes — helicopter flightseeing is included for all passengers on itineraries where helicopter activities are scheduled. The number of flights per passenger varies by itinerary length and weather conditions. The submarine operates on a waitlist basis — not all passengers are guaranteed a dive on every voyage.