The first two sailings of the Scenic Icon are sold out, and space on the 3rd is almost gone.
There is clearly enormous demand for Scenic and a ship not scheduled to sail until April 2028 - some 2 and a half years from now.
Scenic has its finger on the pulse of its clientele. Joining its two Discovery Yacht sister ships, the Ikon will be designed for warm water sailing in the Med, but with the ability to sail in Antarctic waters.
The launch of the Scenic Ikon was the focus of a presentation to some 100 Toronto area media and advisors on 03NOV. Similar events, including consumer evenings, are taking place across Canada and into the US.
Speakers included Glen Moroney, Founder & Chairman of Scenic Group; James Griffiths, General Manager of Ocean Operations; Jason Flesher, Director of Discovery Operations; and Tom Goetter, Vice President of Hotel Operations.
Moroney, who founded Scenic as a “motorcoach and motel” operation almost 40 years ago in Australia, is particularly proud of his Canadian branch, established 17 years ago, headquartered in Vancouver and now boasting a staff of some 80.
Like all Scenic ships, the Ikon will be truly “all-inclusive” with all dining options, drinks and shore excursions are included. There’s also a no-tipping policy both on the water and ashore, a nod to the company’s Australian roots - there is no tipping culture in Australia - and one that its clients – Aussies and New Zealanders (particularly on the longer cruises), Canadians, Brits and Americans appreciate.
It certainly sounds as though the facilities on board the Ikon will be nothing short of stunning. 15 restaurants (none surcharged) serving 30 wines, 8 bars including a Whiskey Bar with 150 selections on offer, 12 gelatos whose flavours will change daily, and an artisanal pizzeria which will be a “unique experience”. Chef’s Table dinners will available, by invitation only.
Scenic is also known for its excursions, which range from five “Free Choice” outings offered at every port (perhaps themed on culture, nature, or shopping with the chef) to “Enriched”, which are private events such as an opera performance or concert held for Scenic passengers only.
Depending on the accommodation purchased or a client’s loyalty status, a ride on one of the ship’s two submersibles or two helicopters will be included. Other passengers can purchase these with the helicopter rides, for example starting at $495USD.
The 270 guests will be accommodated in staterooms ranging from 365 to 2,690 square feet, all with verandahs. Luxury touches include adjustable beds, a customized mini-bar and butler services. Connecting suites will be available.
Clients with mobility issues? “We will find a way – we will leave no one behind, and work with the guest to make it happen,” Director of Discovery Operations Jason Flesher told the audience.
While not inexpensive, cruises feature a lead price of approximately $1,200 Cdn per person per day – which, when you compare the inclusions put Scenic, its execs say, on a par with many of its competitors because of the extensive inclusions.
What do advisors love about Scenic? “My Scenic clients are very loyal and book again and again,” Marien Tsui of Expedia Cruises told Open Jaw. “They love the comfortable and spacious staterooms.” Added Ethel Hansen Davey of Uniglobe Enterprise Travel, “It’s the all-inclusive aspect that my clients love.”
And … how does Scenic compare to its sister brand Emerald, sometimes a point of confusion? “A number of years ago we polled our clients, and while they were on the whole happy, some pointed out that there were inclusions they didn’t need or want, such as the open bar or extensive excursions,” Juna Ueda, General Sales Manager for Canada told Open Jaw. “So we created Emerald to include the must-haves, but feature more extras as optional – the nice-to-haves.”
He added: “The wise advisor will know that the target audience for Scenic is a client who is not thinking about their forthcoming cruise, but their cruises over the next 3 to 5 years. These are the years when they have the time and money – the go-go years.” And with the company’s successful repeat clientele, it sounds like those cruises may all be with Scenic.
