Australia's Scenic Cruises has added a second luxury expedition cruiseship newbuilding in Croatia.
It has declared an option for a 17,100-gt, 228-passenger vessel at Uljanik Shipyard, "following the extraordinary global interest in Scenic’s soon-to-launch Scenic Eclipse."
This first vessel was ordered in 2016.
The owner said the second ship, Scenic Eclipse II, will "further strengthen Scenic’s position as the leading innovator in the cruise industry, setting an unparalleled benchmark in design, luxury and technology."
Launching in 2020, Scenic Eclipse II will embark on a maiden voyage from Athens to Lisbon, before the debut sailing season, which will include the European and Russian Arctic.
Scenic founder and chairman Glen Moroney said the expansion of Scenic’s ocean cruise fleet was a natural progression for the company and one he was very excited about.
“Since we first announced our foray into ocean cruising we have had unprecedented interest in Scenic Eclipse," he added.
“The debut of Scenic Eclipse II will not only allow us to expand our offering and pioneer new destinations, such as the Russian Arctic, it will also allow us to continue our passion for innovation in design and innovation in handcrafted itineraries, which we are confident will appeal to a wide variety of guests."
Itineraries for the ship’s debut season will be released in April 2018.
Building will commence next year in Pula.
