VANCOUVER — If Scenic Eclipse’s sea trials are any indication, then Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours has another winner on its hands.

Ahead of its official launch on Aug. 15, the ship – regarded as the world’s first Discovery Yacht – has successfully completed its sea trials and will now undergo the final touches to its interior and exterior.

According to Captain James Griffiths, the trials surpassed every one of his expectations.

“It was a real pleasure to take Scenic Eclipse out to sea for the first time,” he said. “Sea trials are a critical milestone in the construction process as it is the first time all the ship systems are operated together and is a key opportunity to confirm the theoretical information from the tank tests and computer modelling.”

Captain Griffiths added: “I was also delighted with how quiet the ship is. She was vibration free and virtually silent during all our trials, exceeding our expectations in terms of stability, maneuverability and performance. Scenic Eclipse really does manage to combine small ship maneuverability with big ship levels of comfort and quietness. It’s quite remarkable to experience it.”

When the ship officially sets sail this summer, it will offer 114 all-verandah suites, 10 dining options, a 5,920 square-foot spa with a gym and separate yoga and Pilates studio, two six-guest helicopters and one six-guest submarine, indoor and outdoor plunge pools, and butler service for all guests. It will also boast the highest passenger ship ice class rating – Polar Class 6 – not to mention a 1:1 guest-to-staff ratio.

To watch a video of the ship’s sea trials go to www.scenicusa.com/ocean-cruises.

For more information or to download Scenic’s brochure go to scenic.ca or email info@scenic.ca.