USA. Small ship travel specialist Scenic Group and LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton company Starboard Cruise Services have entered a new partnership to deliver bespoke retail experiences. They will be installed on discovery and luxury yachts in the fleets of Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours and Emerald Cruises.
The shopping programmes – described by Starboard as “curated bespoke collections and experiences for the most discerning travellers at sea” – are being custom-designed for different types of sailing destinations in remote corners of the world.
Starboard Cruise Services division Starboard Luxury’s retail programmes have already debuted onboard the award-winning luxury yacht Emerald Azzurra and the ultra-luxury Scenic Eclipse II Discovery yacht.
This will be followed by launches on Scenic I tomorrow (3 May) and the newly-built Emerald Sakara on 5 August.
Aligned with Scenic Group’s tailored itineraries, the boutiques onboard will offer a broad assortment of items and gifts.
For polar voyages onboard Scenic Eclipse, guests will see shopping choices optimised for the weather conditions, such as expedition gear (all-weather performance binoculars and waterproof attire), skin care formulated to protect against all climate elements, and an ‘elevated’ range of apparel.
Warm water voyages in the Caribbean, Red Sea and Mediterranean will introduce new collections of exclusive local artisanal items, in addition to unique vintage pieces, fine jewellery and gifts locally sourced from the region.
Scenic Luxury Cruises &and Tours Group Chief Operating Officer Damien Thomas said: “We deliver the experience of a lifetime to our guests who are avid explorers. Nowhere else will they find unique aspects of adventure cruising, such as zodiacs, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and onboard Scenic Eclipse, two custom built helicopters and a submarine for unrivalled exploration.”
He added: “We are delighted to partner with Starboard Luxury as our onboard retail provider, who will provide our guests with the opportunity to purchase quality, specially crafted items throughout their journey.”
Starboard Luxury Division Vice President Stacy Shaw commented: “Luxury travellers look for personalised experiences that offer comfort, convenience and quality in every aspect of their holiday. We have built a custom assortment for the guests sailing on Scenic Luxury Cruises or Emerald Cruises that will satisfy those desires, even in some of the world’s most remote locations.”
She added: “Whether that’s a one-of-a-kind jewellery piece made from the region’s unique gems, or an adorable plush penguin toy the grandkids will cherish, we seek out opportunities to surprise and delight guests.” 
