Latest news with #Scenic
The Age
6 days ago
- The Age
No luxury cruise line does things quite like this Australian one
On Scenic, none of that is true, perhaps because most of the guests on my Indonesia cruise are Australian. Australians don't generally go in for pretension and formality, least of all in tropical destinations or while on holiday. That makes Scenic Eclipse II the luxury ship for those wary of luxury ships. No need to bring your suit or your jewellery. Not many stilted cocktail conversations at the bar. No complicated menus that you need a multilingual dictionary to decipher. That doesn't mean standards are lowered on this ship. Far from it. Menus might be easy to navigate, but the food is upmarket and the quality and variety outstanding. It has one of the best lunchtime buffets at sea (in a restaurant venue called Yacht Club), and one of the best French restaurants (Lumiere) and Mediterranean restaurants (Elements), too. For a ship of this size, the dining choices are remarkable. Among other venues is Koko's Asian Fusion, which delivers the welcome big flavours of South-East Asia, India and China, and which also features a separate sushi counter and teppanyaki-style grill. In the latter, a few guests at a time enjoy small plates inspired by Asian street food, prepared in front of them by the chefs. It's a smart way to bring very relaxed dining onto a cruise ship without resorting to the same-old pool grill. The ship's decor is boutique-hotel chic in a moody, minimalist way, which makes the odd burst of art and colour all the more arresting. The Asian restaurant has striking geisha-inspired art; the walls of the Observation Lounge erupt in fantastical jungle motifs in which animals lurk. Heated plunge pool? Tick. Suave spa? Yes, and even bigger than the one on sister ship Scenic Eclipse. It has unusual offerings like a salt-therapy lounge and infrared sauna designed to propel you into Zen-like somnolence. Sky Bar? Why not? In the world's wild places, you can't beat a cold drink with a hot view. Even the ship's theatre is plusher than any other I've been in. It has swivel leather chairs like you'd see in a home cinema, second only in comfort to the king-size bed in my suite, which I discover has electronic controls to adjust it just right. The most ultra-luxe things on Scenic Eclipse II are the helicopters and submersible but, as they can't operate in Indonesia, these Mission: Impossible toys are grounded except on Cape York at the start of my voyage. Even so, this chic yacht is a serious expedition vessel, and we put Zodiacs and kayaks to good use. The Zodiac drivers, faces swathed like ninjas against the sun, are rather silent: the only exception to general crew chattiness. The expedition team that accompanies them know their stuff and are only too happy to share it both ashore, on the reef, or during lectures in the theatre. I follow Babsi Neubarth into the water at every opportunity. The marine biologist's enthusiasm is infectious and her knowledge of corals and critters seemingly endless as we snorkel our way through Indonesia's islands. If you want to know the difference between staghorn and elkhorn coral – and which curious traveller doesn't – then Neubarth will enlighten you. Is there anyone on this ship who is less than agreeable and entertaining? Even the captain, affable Frenchman Erwan le Rouzic, is laid-back and gregarious. The door to the bridge is almost always open, and any guest can wander in for a chat with the officers about navigation and the ship's advanced technologies. Everyone on this ship gets butler service. My butler, Crispin, is like an unflappable character from an Edwardian novel, shimmering unobtrusively about so I hardly know how my minibar has been restocked with my preferred gin brand, or my books straightened on my bedside table. Crispin is up and down the corridor, delivering guests' champagne buckets and fresh towels, making restaurant reservations and arranging the ironing. He's a busy man, but never forgets anyone's name, always pauses for a chat, and wants to know if there's anything more he can do. Short of conjuring up a unicorn, I'm not sure what else this ship could provide. Launched in 2023, Scenic Eclipse II retains its new, fresh feel and is barely scuffed. A few redesigned spaces have brought minor improvements compared to predecessor Scenic Eclipse. Could I quibble? Of course, because that's what travellers do. On a luxury ship, I might expect more fresh and fewer plastic flowers, and more than a couple of shelves of books: bring your own reading, or you might be disappointed. In my ensuite, the flat sink has the requisite designer-chic looks but doesn't function well and, on an expedition ship in particular, there ought to be more bathroom racks on which to hang towels and wet clothes. Some passengers find the ship's decor monochrome and monastic, but I like the muted greys, sense of space, lack of clutter and bling, and attractive soft lighting. Scenic Eclipse II is a confident ship that doesn't need to shout about its luxury credentials. What the decor lacks in exuberance, it makes up for in tranquillity. We're all cocooned in comfort, exceedingly well-fed and surrounded by mind-soothing spaces. There's even a specific mind-soothing space designed for yoga and Pilates. Scenic Eclipse II carries only 228 passengers and never feels crowded. Everything is all-inclusive. You have no bother on this beautiful ship, and will look forward to every meal. Loading But best of all, passengers and crew alike are relaxed and informal. This is luxury that requires no performance, and makes you smile. It's just what Australians want, and more holidays should be like this. THE DETAILS CRUISE Scenic Eclipse II sails a Kimberley season between early July and mid-September 2025 before crossing the Top End into the Pacific towards New Zealand. From mid-December, it sails three unusual Ross Sea itineraries to Antarctica. Then in March 2026, it heads across the Pacific and transits the Panama Canal for a summer season in Europe.
Sydney Morning Herald
6 days ago
- Sydney Morning Herald
No luxury cruise line does things quite like this Australian one
On Scenic, none of that is true, perhaps because most of the guests on my Indonesia cruise are Australian. Australians don't generally go in for pretension and formality, least of all in tropical destinations or while on holiday. That makes Scenic Eclipse II the luxury ship for those wary of luxury ships. No need to bring your suit or your jewellery. Not many stilted cocktail conversations at the bar. No complicated menus that you need a multilingual dictionary to decipher. That doesn't mean standards are lowered on this ship. Far from it. Menus might be easy to navigate, but the food is upmarket and the quality and variety outstanding. It has one of the best lunchtime buffets at sea (in a restaurant venue called Yacht Club), and one of the best French restaurants (Lumiere) and Mediterranean restaurants (Elements), too. For a ship of this size, the dining choices are remarkable. Among other venues is Koko's Asian Fusion, which delivers the welcome big flavours of South-East Asia, India and China, and which also features a separate sushi counter and teppanyaki-style grill. In the latter, a few guests at a time enjoy small plates inspired by Asian street food, prepared in front of them by the chefs. It's a smart way to bring very relaxed dining onto a cruise ship without resorting to the same-old pool grill. The ship's decor is boutique-hotel chic in a moody, minimalist way, which makes the odd burst of art and colour all the more arresting. The Asian restaurant has striking geisha-inspired art; the walls of the Observation Lounge erupt in fantastical jungle motifs in which animals lurk. Heated plunge pool? Tick. Suave spa? Yes, and even bigger than the one on sister ship Scenic Eclipse. It has unusual offerings like a salt-therapy lounge and infrared sauna designed to propel you into Zen-like somnolence. Sky Bar? Why not? In the world's wild places, you can't beat a cold drink with a hot view. Even the ship's theatre is plusher than any other I've been in. It has swivel leather chairs like you'd see in a home cinema, second only in comfort to the king-size bed in my suite, which I discover has electronic controls to adjust it just right. The most ultra-luxe things on Scenic Eclipse II are the helicopters and submersible but, as they can't operate in Indonesia, these Mission: Impossible toys are grounded except on Cape York at the start of my voyage. Even so, this chic yacht is a serious expedition vessel, and we put Zodiacs and kayaks to good use. The Zodiac drivers, faces swathed like ninjas against the sun, are rather silent: the only exception to general crew chattiness. The expedition team that accompanies them know their stuff and are only too happy to share it both ashore, on the reef, or during lectures in the theatre. I follow Babsi Neubarth into the water at every opportunity. The marine biologist's enthusiasm is infectious and her knowledge of corals and critters seemingly endless as we snorkel our way through Indonesia's islands. If you want to know the difference between staghorn and elkhorn coral – and which curious traveller doesn't – then Neubarth will enlighten you. Is there anyone on this ship who is less than agreeable and entertaining? Even the captain, affable Frenchman Erwan le Rouzic, is laid-back and gregarious. The door to the bridge is almost always open, and any guest can wander in for a chat with the officers about navigation and the ship's advanced technologies. Everyone on this ship gets butler service. My butler, Crispin, is like an unflappable character from an Edwardian novel, shimmering unobtrusively about so I hardly know how my minibar has been restocked with my preferred gin brand, or my books straightened on my bedside table. Crispin is up and down the corridor, delivering guests' champagne buckets and fresh towels, making restaurant reservations and arranging the ironing. He's a busy man, but never forgets anyone's name, always pauses for a chat, and wants to know if there's anything more he can do. Short of conjuring up a unicorn, I'm not sure what else this ship could provide. Launched in 2023, Scenic Eclipse II retains its new, fresh feel and is barely scuffed. A few redesigned spaces have brought minor improvements compared to predecessor Scenic Eclipse. Could I quibble? Of course, because that's what travellers do. On a luxury ship, I might expect more fresh and fewer plastic flowers, and more than a couple of shelves of books: bring your own reading, or you might be disappointed. In my ensuite, the flat sink has the requisite designer-chic looks but doesn't function well and, on an expedition ship in particular, there ought to be more bathroom racks on which to hang towels and wet clothes. Some passengers find the ship's decor monochrome and monastic, but I like the muted greys, sense of space, lack of clutter and bling, and attractive soft lighting. Scenic Eclipse II is a confident ship that doesn't need to shout about its luxury credentials. What the decor lacks in exuberance, it makes up for in tranquillity. We're all cocooned in comfort, exceedingly well-fed and surrounded by mind-soothing spaces. There's even a specific mind-soothing space designed for yoga and Pilates. Scenic Eclipse II carries only 228 passengers and never feels crowded. Everything is all-inclusive. You have no bother on this beautiful ship, and will look forward to every meal. Loading But best of all, passengers and crew alike are relaxed and informal. This is luxury that requires no performance, and makes you smile. It's just what Australians want, and more holidays should be like this. THE DETAILS CRUISE Scenic Eclipse II sails a Kimberley season between early July and mid-September 2025 before crossing the Top End into the Pacific towards New Zealand. From mid-December, it sails three unusual Ross Sea itineraries to Antarctica. Then in March 2026, it heads across the Pacific and transits the Panama Canal for a summer season in Europe.
The Herald Scotland
6 days ago
- Sport
- The Herald Scotland
Goodwood assignment pencilled in for Scenic
The duo could clash again in the Yorkshire equivalent on the Knavesmire next month, but first Scenic will head to the Sussex Downs on August 2, as she embarks on what could be the final stages of her career. 'I was thrilled with her and very proud of her, it was a huge run in new ownership,' said Walker. 'She heads to the Lillie Langtry now. I was devastated she was beaten, but Richard Brown (Wathnan's racing adviser) was delighted as it means she won't have a penalty at Goodwood. 'She's a real star and a yard favourite. She's helped fly the flag for us for a few years and has been seriously consistent since winning the Galtres Stakes at York, it was almost like that was a turning point in her career. I don't know why, but since then has barely put a foot wrong and if anything is improving. 'I'm excited about her and the three races for her really are the Lillie Langtry, Yorkshire Oaks and Prix de Royallieu. I imagine they will be the last three runs of her career, she's a star.'
North Wales Chronicle
05-07-2025
- Sport
- North Wales Chronicle
Estrange edges Lancashire Oaks verdict
The David O'Meara-trained Estrange had made a huge impression when landing the Group Three Lester Piggott Stakes over the course and distance in late May, with targets as lofty as the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe being mentioned in the aftermath. Carrying the colours of Cheveley Park Stud, the grey was a 2-7 favourite to follow up at Group Two level and while she managed to get the job done in the hands of Danny Tudhope, her supporters were made to sweat. 🔴🔵⚪️ Estrange beats Scenic & captures the @bet365 Lancashire Oaks in a thrilling tussle 👇🏻 — Haydock Park Races (@haydockraces) July 5, 2025 O'Meara told Racing TV: 'Danny was caught in a position where the leader (Love Talk) went off and it's a question of when do you go after them. 'Danny said she normally falls asleep in her races, but today she was trying to chase the leader a bit and didn't quite drop the bit and ended up in front then a long time. It isn't really how we'd like to play her, but it was a means to an end I guess. 'She's four from five now and she's won her Group Two today, so it's brilliant.' Just four runners went to post for the Merseyside feature, with rank outsider Love Talk taking the quartet along for much of the mile-and-a-half journey before Estrange was coaxed into the lead approaching the final two furlongs. However, James Doyle covered the move aboard Ed Walker's Scenic and following a final furlong tussle, Estrange found just enough to win the argument by a neck. While the victory was harder work than many expected, Paddy Power reacted by cutting the winner's Arc odds to 12-1 from 20-1. 'We were hoping we wouldn't turn up on good to firm so the drop of rain helped. I don't think she's absolutely reliant on heavy ground or anything like that, she just doesn't want to be running on very quick ground,' O'Meara added. 'The Yorkshire Oaks would be the next target and we've got five or six weeks until York. 'She's very relaxed, she's unbelievable. Today she wasn't as relaxed as she normally is because of the way the race developed, but it's fine.'
Leader Live
05-07-2025
- Sport
- Leader Live
Estrange edges Lancashire Oaks verdict
The David O'Meara-trained Estrange had made a huge impression when landing the Group Three Lester Piggott Stakes over the course and distance in late May, with targets as lofty as the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe being mentioned in the aftermath. Carrying the colours of Cheveley Park Stud, the grey was a 2-7 favourite to follow up at Group Two level and while she managed to get the job done in the hands of Danny Tudhope, her supporters were made to sweat. 🔴🔵⚪️ Estrange beats Scenic & captures the @bet365 Lancashire Oaks in a thrilling tussle 👇🏻 — Haydock Park Races (@haydockraces) July 5, 2025 O'Meara told Racing TV: 'Danny was caught in a position where the leader (Love Talk) went off and it's a question of when do you go after them. 'Danny said she normally falls asleep in her races, but today she was trying to chase the leader a bit and didn't quite drop the bit and ended up in front then a long time. It isn't really how we'd like to play her, but it was a means to an end I guess. 'She's four from five now and she's won her Group Two today, so it's brilliant.' Just four runners went to post for the Merseyside feature, with rank outsider Love Talk taking the quartet along for much of the mile-and-a-half journey before Estrange was coaxed into the lead approaching the final two furlongs. However, James Doyle covered the move aboard Ed Walker's Scenic and following a final furlong tussle, Estrange found just enough to win the argument by a neck. While the victory was harder work than many expected, Paddy Power reacted by cutting the winner's Arc odds to 12-1 from 20-1. 'We were hoping we wouldn't turn up on good to firm so the drop of rain helped. I don't think she's absolutely reliant on heavy ground or anything like that, she just doesn't want to be running on very quick ground,' O'Meara added. 'The Yorkshire Oaks would be the next target and we've got five or six weeks until York. 'She's very relaxed, she's unbelievable. Today she wasn't as relaxed as she normally is because of the way the race developed, but it's fine.'
