Scenic Eclipse II has touched water for the first time at a float-out ceremony in Croatia, after its owner bolstered its UK trade team.
Ryan Readman, Scenic Group’s latest acquisition, has joined the firm’s 10-person trade team in a sales support role. New trade sales director Andrea Stafford said she now oversees “one of the biggest sales teams out on the road”.
She said: “We’ve already got great plans underway to improve and streamline our marketing information so it gives agents exactly what they need to sell Scenic and Emerald Cruises holidays.
“We are also looking at how we can effectively train agents to help transform the sales process.”
Scenic Group’s second ‘discovery yacht’ is currently being built at the 3. Maj shipyard in Croatia, and MKM Yachts, a division of the Scenic Group, is managing its construction.
Stafford added that the expanded trade sale team would attend more industry events.
Scenic Eclipse II is due to make its maiden voyage from Lisbon in April 2023. Guest feedback has led to “several enhancements” including new features in the Senses Spa, a new outdoor pool and the Panorama Bar on the top deck, said the line.
Scenic Eclipse II will be equipped with a custom-made submarine, Scenic Neptune II, that can dive down up to 200 metres.
Glen Moroney, chairman and founder of Scenic Group, said: “This is a big and important moment for all of us at Scenic.
“Scenic Eclipse II represents improved vision of our pioneering approach in the world of ultra-luxury cruising.”
Moroney thanked stakeholders, including the 3. Maj shipyard, for their “co-operation”. Both Scenic Eclipse I and II will operate itineraries that include destinations in the Mediterranean, Scotland, the Americas, the Caribbean and both Polar regions.
In 2024, Scenic Eclipse II will also visit Polynesia and Indonesia and Australia, where Scenic was founded 37 years ago.