The new flagship, built internally in Croatia, will enter service in 2028 and will offer exclusive experiences between the Mediterranean and Antarctica
Adelaide – The luxury tourism group Scenic Group has announced the construction of its third ultra-luxury expedition ship, the Scenic Ikon, destined for the Scenic Discover Yacht fleet. Work is already underway at the Mkm Yachts shipyard in Croatia, managed directly by the group’s internal division, a choice made after the financial difficulties of the previous shipbuilding partner.
Founder and Chairman Glen Moroney recalled that the experience gained with the Scenic Eclipse (entered service in 2019) and with the Scenic Eclipse II (2023) inspired the design of the new vessel, conceived to combine luxury and the ability to sail in extreme environments.
The Scenic Ikon, larger than the two previous sister ships, will have a gross tonnage of 26,500 tons, a length of 205 meters, and will accommodate 270 passengers in 135 suites with a private veranda. Construction, which began with the first steel cut in February and the keel laying in May 2025, is proceeding on schedule: delivery is expected by the end of 2027, with entry into service in April 2028.
Designed to operate in both polar regions and tropical waters, the ship will have a hull with Polar Code 6 and Ice Class 1A classification. It will be equipped with two Airbus helicopters, a customized Triton AVA submarine, Zodiac inflatable boats, and Fassmer tenders. Onboard it will offer 15 restaurants and lounges, plus a two-level spa of 1,700 square meters.
The inaugural voyage will depart from Venice and will call at the Mediterranean, the Aegean, and Egypt, continuing towards Cape Verde, Dakar, Antarctica, the Falklands, and the Chilean fjords.
In addition to the Scenic line, the group also manages Emerald Cruises & Tours, which operates river cruises and two luxury ocean yachts, with three new 128-passenger units under construction in Vietnam for the 2026-2028 period.
