Expert Discovery Team

Scenic Eclipse Expert Discovery Team

The Scenic Eclipse Discovery Team is at the core of our Cruise Voyages. We have the top experts in their field, from historians and geologists, to archaeologists and photographers.

The Discovery Team will provide enduring insights and safely guide you every step of the way. They will ensure you get the most out of the places you visit. From on board lectures in the state-of-art theatre, to guided kayak and stand-up paddleboarding excursions and nature walks, to visiting unique and small ports to discover the history and culture of this region. The Discovery Team will share with you their passion for, and knowledge of, the picturesque Europe and the Mediterranean regions..

Meet some of our Europe and the Mediterranean Discovery Team experts:

Nicki D’ Souza,

Discovery Leader

Nicki has over 20 years’ experience working as a Discovery Leader, with a deep enthusiasm for exploring all seven continents and beyond. She began travelling throughout Europe and Asia at age 16, working on expedition cruise ships to develop her skills. Countless voyages have brought her back many times to the Mediterranean, an area Nicki enjoys as it offers a wealth of opportunities for discovery, education and pure enjoyment. Nicki has explored all of the Mediterranean - from the French Riviera to hiking trails of Cinque Terre. There is no better way to explore the region than by ship, with access to a multitude of countries in a short duration, and from the comfort of Scenic Eclipse.

Alex D’Souza

Naturalist

Alex developed a keen passion for nature and different cultures with over 20 years’ experience working on small luxury ships. His quest for adventure and skill in spotting wildlife in many of the world’s most remote locations, and popular tourist destinations, led him to pursue a career as an expert naturalist guide on expedition ships. Alex lives in the South of France in the fishing village of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a popular haunt for artists such as Vincent van Gogh, where he developed insight into the French way of life. A former sommelier and chef in his spare time, Alex revels the opportunity to share his trade secrets with fellow food and wine aficionados.

Scottie Kiefer

Ecology, Conservation, Lecturer, Assistant Discovery Leader

Scottie has a passion for ocean conservation, cultural heritage and the fine arts. His Master’s degree in Environmental Science and Policy from Johns Hopkins University provided unique opportunities to do field work and study in Germany, Belgium, Washington D.C. and Oceania. His professional career has direct contributions to policy development, scientific research, conservation management and the establishment of a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site. “My goal is to experience as many UNESCO World Heritage Sites as possible. There is a powerful energy at these sites; an interconnection with cultural heritage and the natural world that inspires creativity and elevates consciousness.”

Dr Vickie Heaney

Ornithologist, Discovery Guide & Lecturer

Vickie is driven by a quest for knowledge and a passion for natural history. With a degree in Zoology from Oxford University and PhD on seabirds, having completed ornithological research and guiding contracts all around the world. Having worked in BBC Wildlife television, Vickie now combines Island Restoration work with fine-art print-making on the shipwreck strewn Isles of Scilly in the UK. Combining her expert knowledge and personality to engage and safely guide and educate guests in the rich mosaic of distinctive habitats to be found across Europe and the Mediterranean.