NASA Astronaut Christens New Luxury Expedition Cruise Yacht

The growing number of expedition cruise ships being built is intersecting with the cruise tradition of godmothers naming and blessing newly-embarking ships to highlight some of the amazing accomplishments of women explorers, scientists and outdoor pioneers.

Scenic Luxury Cruises has christened its new expedition ship, Scenic Eclipse II in Malaga, Spain. The honor was done by American astronaut, former U.S. Navy officer, geologist and oceanographer Dr. Kathryn Sullivan. She is the first American woman to walk in space and also the first woman to visit the deepest place in the oceans, was Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and Administrator of NOAA (the National Oceania and Atmospheric Administration.)

She successfully christened Scenic Eclipse II while toasting the ship and all guests and crew who sail upon her, joined by Scenic Group owners Glen and Karen Moroney and other VIP guests in port in Spain.

You may know about the first ocean expedition ship for Scenic: Scenic Eclipse I, which made a splash with its pair of onboard touring helicopters.

Her new sister ship, the 228-guest Scenic Eclipse II, has two state-of-the-art six-guest helicopters, Zodiacs, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and other expedition cruising ‘toys’ as well as a next generation American-made electric submersible, capable of comfortably holding eight guests.

There’s a newly-designed Sun Deck, including a new Sky Bar with indoor and outdoor seating and privacy cabanas, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy the stunning views with a drink in hand, and a large, oval-shaped pool with relaxation space that serves as a perfect venue for sail-away deck parties.