Scenic Eclipse ll will enter service in 2020 and sail a maiden voyage from Athens to Lisbon ahead of its debut season which includes itineraries in the European and Russian Arctic.

The company said the decision to expand its fleet had come as a result of “extraordinary global interest” for “six-star Discovery Yacht” Scenic Eclipse – set to launch in August.

Building of the new vessel will commence next year in Pula, Croatia, where Scenic Eclipse is currently under construction and floated out on January 31.

Scenic Eclipse ll will be of similar design, the company said, including 114 all-verandah suites, nine restaurants, eight lounges and bars, a Spa Sanctuary, marina deck, helicopters and a submarine.

Itineraries for the ship’s debut season will be released in April.

“Since we first announced our foray into ocean cruising we have had unprecedented interest in Scenic Eclipse, from guests keen to experience our unique blend of six-star luxury meets expedition cruising,” said Scenic founder and chairman Glen Moroney.

“The debut of Scenic Eclipse ll will not only allow us to expand our offering and pioneer new destinations, such as the Russian Arctic, it will also allow us to continue our passion for innovation in design and innovation in handcrafted itineraries, which we are confident will appeal to a wide variety of guests.”

Angela Sloan, head of sales UK, added: “Scenic Eclipse will offer an experience of a lifetime, and we are thrilled that our ocean fleet is growing.

“We have been overwhelmed with the response through travel agents for Scenic Eclipse, and can only expect even greater things from Scenic Eclipse ll. These incredible yachts will venture to beautiful and unique locations, which could not previously be accessed; it is an exciting and innovative new product we are incredibly excited to offer.”