Scenic Group, the operator of luxury tours and cruises, has announced the construction of its third ultra-luxury cruise yacht — Scenic Ikon — for the Scenic Discover Yacht fleet. The ship is being built by the company’s own shipbuilding division, MKM Yachts, in Croatia.
Scenic took over shipbuilding operations after its Croatian partner shipyard encountered financial difficulties. The company successfully completed the construction of its flagship vessel, the Scenic Eclipse (17,545 GT), which entered service in 2019. This vessel pioneered a new class of polar expedition yachts, equipped with helicopters and a submersible for passenger excursions. It was followed by the Scenic Eclipse II in 2023.
Construction of the new yacht Scenic Ikon began with the steel cutting in February 2025 and keel laying in May. Delivery is scheduled for late 2027, with entry into service planned for April 2028.
Compared to its predecessors, the new yacht will be significantly larger:
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Gross tonnage: 26,500 GT
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Length: 205 meters (672 feet)
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Capacity: 270 guests in 135 veranda suites
By contrast, the earlier ships in the series accommodate 228 guests (and up to 200 in Antarctic voyages).
The vessel is being designed with Polar Code 6 and Ice Class 1A, allowing operations in both polar and tropical waters. Key features of Scenic Ikon include:
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Two Airbus helicopters
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A Triton AVA submersible
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Zodiac and Fassmer tenders
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Fifteen dining venues, lounge areas, and a two-level spa spanning 1,700 square meters
The yacht’s maiden voyage will depart from Venice, Italy, visiting the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas, Egypt, the Cape Verde Islands, Dakar, Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, and the Chilean fjords.
In addition to its ocean fleet, Scenic Group operates a second brand — Emerald Cruises & Tours — offering luxury river and coastal cruises. The company is also building three next-generation 128-passenger yachts in Vietnam, scheduled for delivery between 2026 and 2028.
