Travel Trends Team Attends Scenic Ikon Event in Toronto
The Travel Trends Team had the pleasure of attending the Scenic Ikon Event in Toronto at the beautiful Globe and Mail Centre, hosted by Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours Canada. The exclusive gathering brought together industry professionals and partners to celebrate Scenic’s bold vision for the future of ultra-luxury travel, headlined by the launch of their Scenic Ikon Discovery Yacht, set to debut in 2028.
A New Chapter for Discovery Yachts
Founder and Chairman, Glen Moroney opened the event with an inspiring look back at Scenic’s journey. From its early river cruises in 2005 to its expansion into ocean voyages and now, a new generation of discovery yachts. Around three and a half years ago, Moroney challenged his engineering team with a bold question: What would it take to design a yacht that could gracefully sail the Mediterranean yet withstand the extremes of the polar regions? The answer is the Scenic Ikon. A masterpiece of innovation that unites Mediterranean elegance with polar capability. Featuring 135 suites, 15 dining venues, nine pools, and a 1,500-square-meter spa, the yacht redefines modern ocean luxury while staying true to Scenic’s spirit of exploration and design excellence.
Pictured from left to right: James Griffiths, General Manager, Ocean Operations, Lisa McCaskill, VP Sales and Marketing, Tom Goetter, VP, Hotel Operations, Jason Flesher, Director, Discovery Operations
Innovation and Excellence at Sea
James Griffiths, General Manager of Ocean Operations, highlighted Scenic’s deep maritime expertise, emphasizing that every vessel is designed and engineered in-house. From dynamic positioning systems and zero-speed stabilizers to fresh-air HVAC technology and energy-efficient fuel systems, Scenic Ikon is engineered for performance, safety, and sustainability — a yacht built for the future.
Jason Flesher, Director of Discovery Operations, shared how Scenic continues to go beyond “expedition cruising” to deliver immersive discovery experiences. Guests will enjoy adventures both above and below the surface, enjoying helicopter tours and submersible dives that reveal breathtaking 360-degree views.
Redefining Dining and Wellness
Culinary innovation took center stage with Tom Goetter, VP of Hotel Operations, unveiling Scenic’s plan to “redefine dining at sea.” With 15 distinct restaurants, from global fusion to artisanal gelato, Scenic aims to deliver world-class cuisine infused with local flavors and creativity. The Senses Spa, spanning two levels, complements the onboard experience with rejuvenation and wellness at its core.
Charting a New Course
As Glen Moroney emphasized, the Scenic Ikon isn’t just another ship, it’s an invitation to experience the world in unparalleled comfort and discovery. With its maiden voyage departing on April 9, 2028, anticipation is already building for a new era in ultra-luxury exploration.
Our Thanks to Scenic
The Travel Trends Team extends a heartfelt thank-you to Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours Canada for the invitation and warm hospitality at the Scenic Ikon Event. It was an inspiring evening that showcased not only Scenic’s innovation and passion for discovery but also their dedication to redefining what it means to travel in true luxury. We’re excited to see how the Scenic Ikon will set a new standard for exploration at sea.
Continuing the Conversation
Our conversation with Lisa McCaskill, VP of Sales & Marketing at Scenic Canada, dives even deeper into the company’s philosophy of redefining luxury on the water. In Season 5, Episode 20 of the Travel Trends Podcast, Crafting Luxury River Experiences with Lisa McCaskill, Lisa shares how Scenic evolved from a land touring operator into a global leader in ultra-luxury cruising by listening closely to guest feedback. She also explores the innovations that make Scenic’s “spaceships” and their sister brand Emerald Cruises stand out, from all-inclusive amenities to purpose-built ships designed for new destinations like Southeast Asia.
Tune in to the episode to discover how Scenic continues to shape the future of travel — both on rivers and, soon, across the world’s oceans with the remarkable Scenic Ikon.
