Novocastrians will get a glimpse of "next level" ocean cruising when a new-age ultra-luxury ship visits the port next week.
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The small discovery ship, Scenic Eclipse II, will arrive in Newcastle on Monday as part of its inaugural voyage exploring Australian waters.
It will be a homecoming of sorts for tour company Scenic, which was founded in Newcastle 38 years ago.
Scenic Eclipse II, which launched in 2023, has 114 luxury suites - all with balconies - over five decks. There are butlers for every suite and, if the budget stretches, there is a two-bedroom "owner's penthouse".
The 10 dining options on board range from casual to high-end restaurants, and there are eight bars and lounges.
The company says it's the only cruise ship with two on-board helicopters, which are used for guest flights and heli-fishing.
There's also an electric submersible, Scenic Neptune II, that can take up to eight people 100 metres below for panoramic underwater viewing.
A Discovery Team, made up of 15 experts from geologists to anthropologists, is on board to accompany passengers on exploration trips via a Zodiac to remote beaches.
Pools, floating hammocks, and a inflatable trampoline are also attractions.
