Scenic is in talks with state governments over advanced plans to bring Scenic Eclipse to operate a 2021 domestic Australian season, it has been revealed.
The news means six small ship adventure lines are now planning to sail Australian itineraries this year – with Kimberley being on everyone’s list.
A Scenic spokesperson said talks with state governments were “positive” and advanced – but that no official statement would be forthcoming until they were concluded out of respect for guests.
But the spokesperson confirmed that talks were advanced and the Scenic Eclipse, the world’s first discovery yacht capable of carrying over 200 guests, is being prepared for its first visit to Australia.
Once permission has been granted, she will sail a season from May 30 to August 18 – subject to permissions from federal and local governments. It is possible she will have restricted berths, as many lines are offering under 100 passengers per journey to beat Australia’s biosecurity laws.
Prices range from $15,475 per person to a two-bedroomed penthouse for $71,040 per person for an 11-night cruise between Darwin and Broome. Eight itineraries are planned for the season.
Scenic joins Aurora, which announced this week the Greg Mortimer would be based in Australia, Ponant and Silversea, while home-grown lines Coral Expeditions and True North are already sailing.
