Discovery is taking to the sea and the sky with a sleek new luxury expedition cruise ship launching in 2028.
Scenic Group is preparing to take discovery to new heights and depths with new vessel Scenic Ikon, which will join the Scenic Discovery Yacht fleet in 2028 to offer a new way for luxury travelers to meet their travel goals.
Scenic Ikon is set to redefine ultra-luxury expedition cruising as it gives travelers greater access to sought-after destinations across the globe, paired with Scenic Discovery Yachts’ signature world-class design, culinary excellence, and all-inclusive ultra-luxury.
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Scenic Ikon will offer helicopter and submersible experiences. Image source: Scenic Group
Scenic Ikon is engineered for deep discovery
Purpose-built for both polar regions and warm-water destinations, Scenic Ikon will be exceptionally versatile. The expertly engineered vessel will be rated Polar Code 6 with an Ice Class 1A Super strengthened hull. To offer the ultimate in discovery, Scenic Ikon will be equipped with two Airbus helicopters, a custom-designed Triton AVA submersible, Zodiacs, and luxurious superyacht Fassmer tenders.
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“Scenic Ikon has been conceived, engineered, and built with our in-house shipbuilding division at MKM Yachts and will be operated entirely by our own dedicated Scenic crew. This remarkable vessel is the result of more than three years of passion, innovation, and development by our team, and we are delighted to share the Discovery Yacht with our valued guests, travel advisors, and partners,” said Scenic Group Founder & Chairman Glen Moroney.
Scenic Ikon will deliver all-inclusive luxury from the Mediterranean to Antarctica
Scenic Ikon will embark on its inaugural voyage from Venice, Italy in April 2028. During the ship’s maiden season, which runs through March 2029, Scenic Ikon will sail to 110 ports, 21 countries, and 26 new destinations, including the Mediterranean, Aegean and Egypt, the Cape Verde Islands, Dakar, Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, and the Chilean Fjords.
“Every element of Scenic Ikon’s design has been optimized to deliver unrivaled experiences across diverse destinations and environments, from its primary base, the Mediterranean, to the wilds of Antarctica,” said Moroney.
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The 26,500-gross-ton vessel will carry up to 270 guests in 135 luxurious, all-veranda suites ranging from 365 sq. ft to 2,691 sq. ft across five decks. Scenic Ikon will feature 15 distinctive dining venues, spacious lounges, and vibrant social and relaxation spaces, each reflecting Scenic’s truly all-inclusive philosophy.
An expanded, two-level Senses Rejuvenation Spa, will offer signature spa therapies, hydrotherapy, and thermal experiences, enhanced by world-class fitness offerings. Each voyage will include all immersive excursions, exclusive events, and entertainment.
Helicopter experiences will elevate luxury cruise discovery
Scenic Ikon’s helicopter program will take exploration to new heights, while the custom-built submersible, Scenic Neptune III — a Triton AVA-9 — will invite travelers to discover new depths in Antarctica and beyond.
Travelers who take advantage of Pay in Full offers for Scenic Ikon voyages will enjoy a complimentary flight, enhancing the all-inclusive experience.
Across the Scenic Discovery Yachts collection, travelers can elevate their voyages with new exclusive helicopter landings at renowned golf courses, celebrated local restaurants, and historic landmarks, along with immersive helicopter excursions to some of the world’s most remote and breathtaking wilderness regions. These experiences are included for Chairman’s Club members and for guests in the Penthouse and Owner’s Suites, for a unique blend of culture, exhilaration, and discovery.
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This story was originally reported by TravelHost on Oct 27, 2025, where it first appeared in the Come Cruise With Me section. Add TravelHost as a Preferred Source by clicking here.