Metamorphosis
Visionaries of the world’s first “Discovery Yacht” have come a long way in 30 years. This month, luxury cruise and tour operator Scenic marks three decades in the business. Guy Dundas tells the story so far.
Founded in Newcastle by Glen Moroney, Scenic started in 1986 with coach tours operating throughout Australia. In the early 1990s the company expanded to New Zealand, followed by Norfolk Island and Southern Africa in 1998. By the end of the decade Scenic started hosting tours to Canada and Alaska, quickly establishing itself as the leading touring company in the region. Throughout the early 2000s new destinations across Europe and Russia, throughout Asia and South and Central America became part of Scenic’s touring itineraries. A new and historic chapter commenced in 2008 as Scenic took on the burgeoning world of ship-building. Exclusive, all-inclusive Scenic ‘Space-ships’ were launched on Europe’s waterways; more akin to floating hotels and it wasn’t long before guests were flocking to experience private balconies, world-class dining and butler service. Over the next seven years Scenic continued to expand its Space Ship fleet as well as upgrading existing vessels, aspiring to bring the ultimate in luxury to all river cruise guests. This year, Scenic has a grand total of 20 ships sailing across Europe rivers including the Main, Rhine and Danube as well as on the Volga River in Russia. In France alone, Scenic now has ships on the Seine, Bordeaux, Saone and Rhone rivers and this year began sailing through Portugal on the Douro. This year also marked the debut of Scenic’s first foray into Southeast Asia river cruising with vessels on both the Mekong and Irrawaddy rivers. In 2015, in preparation for yet another chapter of development, Scenic Tours transitioned through a significant rebrand to be identified wholly as ‘Scenic’ and focused on the sense of wonder guests experience. And wonder was certainly high on the agenda when Scenic unveiled plans in January for its most ambitious move to date,
Scenic Eclipse. The world’s first “Discovery Yacht” will set new standards for ocean cruising, taking guests to places previously thought inaccessible. Scenic Eclipse is equipped with two on-board helicopters and a seven-seat submarine. Still completely and proudly Australianowned, today Scenic has offices around the globe, two sister companies - Evergreen Tours and Emerald Waterways - and at the grand old age of 30, is looking towards an exciting future. Validating its strength, capabilities and international presence, Scenic is a member of CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association Australasia), IATA (International Air Transport Association) and is ATAP Accredited (Australian Tourism Accreditation Program). Scenic has been the recipient of national and international accolades from the industry and its partners, as well recognised within the industry for its exemplary product and operations. This year, Glen Moroney was welcomed into the Cruise Lines International Association Hall of Fame for his pioneering work in the rapidly growing river cruise sector. After 30 years in the business, Scenic is still as passionate about travel and committed to guest satisfaction as it was in 1986. Scenic goes to the Nth degree to ensure its guests have the holiday of a lifetime.