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Scenic Group has unveiled a major expansion of its 2028 yacht cruising programme, adding new Asia-Pacific itineraries and returning Scenic Eclipse II to Australia, the South Pacific and Antarctica.
The company says the move reflects strong demand for luxury yacht and expedition cruising, particularly across Australia and the wider Oceania region.
New yacht to sail Asia and Australia
Emerald Cruises will launch new superyacht Emerald Xara in 2028, joining the fleet after Emerald Raiya in 2027.
Emerald Xara will operate 15 new itineraries across Asia and Australia, visiting destinations including Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia’s Raja Ampat, Darwin, the Kimberley and Papua New Guinea.
Scenic Eclipse II returns south
Scenic Eclipse II will return to the region in 2028 after deployments in the Mediterranean and Arctic.
Its programme includes voyages through Tahiti and the Pacific islands to the Kimberley coast, before continuing through Australia’s Top End to Hobart, then New Zealand for two East Antarctica and Ross Sea sailings.
Growing demand for premium cruising
Tom Batchelor, acting vice president deployment, product and port operations – ocean, says the return follows strong demand from earlier seasons.
“We are delighted to be bringing Scenic Eclipse II back to the Kimberley, Oceania and East Antarctica from March 2028, following two highly successful seasons that highlight the region’s strong appeal for world-class expedition and discovery journeys,” Tom says.
Tourism relevance for New Zealand
The inclusion of New Zealand in the 2028 programme signals continued interest from premium cruise operators in using the country as part of wider South Pacific and Antarctic itineraries.
Luxury expedition cruising remains a high-value segment for the visitor economy, particularly for regional ports and extended-stay travellers.
Pre-registrations for Scenic Eclipse II and Emerald Xara 2028/29 voyages are now open.
