The Scenic Eclipse offers ‘the billionaire experience’ to the not so rich

I’m a passenger on The Scenic Eclipse, where the crew outnumber guests three to one, each cabin has its own butler, there are nine dining options, an expansive spa services, and for adventure we can choose to ride in one of two helicopters or venture out in a submarine.

With just 114 suites housing 228 guests across five decks, the 168-metre long ship is billed as the world’s most luxurious passenger yacht. It was inspired by the Australian owner’s desire to offer his non-billionaire friends the billionaire experience. This type of decadence takes some getting used to.

I boarded the Eclipse in Lima on a 9-day sailing off the Pacific coast of South America to the Chilean capital of Santiago. The Scenic Eclipse is a “discovery yacht’ meaning it can safely navigate Antarctica and the Northwest Passage just as easily as it can cruise the Mediterranean or South Pacific. It also means each to the large, sound-insulated cabins have a balcony, electronically-customizable beds, Dyson hair-dryers, mini-bar, gourmet coffee maker, and oversized rain shower.