The Scenic Group has confirmed that its planned exclusive Scenic Eclipse Kimberley program, which was scheduled to operate six departures from 19 June to 8 August 2021 will not proceed.
Over the past few months, Scenic has been working closely with industry bodies such as the Cruise Line Industry Association (CLIA) and the relevant Federal, State and Territory Government authorities, agencies and national health committees, to ensure it complys with all the protocols to operate in the Kimberley region.
However, despite the Scenic management and operations team’s best efforts, the existing restrictions regarding international flagged vessels mean that it is currently not feasible for Scenic Eclipse to operate in Australian coastal waters.
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Anthony Laver, Scenic Group General Manager, Sales & Marketing Australasia, said “At the time we launched our Scenic Eclipse Kimberly program we were confident that by late June 2021 we would be able to deliver a unique experience for our guests. Whilst the vaccination schedule looked very promising and there was much anticipation that lockdowns and border closures would no longer be required, unfortunately this has not been the case.
“We were preparing to bring Scenic Eclipse from the northern hemisphere to Australia with a fully quarantined, tested and vaccinated crew, on a 30+ day journey at sea and to operate in full compliance with the strict procedures specified by the various government agencies.
“However, with the continued uncertainty on the timing for permits and approvals to be granted, it is not possible for us to relocate the ship and crew in the hope that at some stage these restrictions may be lifted,” he concluded.
Given the continued uncertainty for cruising in the Kimberley region, these developments have resulted in Scenic making the difficult decision to cancel the Kimberley 2021 season.
Scenic has said this decision was not taken lightly, as the management teams were dedicated to bringing Scenic Eclipse home, to enable their guests to experience this ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht.
The cruise line says it greatly appreciates the support of its agent partners and guests during this period and looks forward to welcoming them on board a Scenic luxury cruise or land journey soon.