Ultimate East Coast, Northern Australia & the Indonesian Archipelago

Kia Ora and welcome to New Zealand. You’ll begin your journey in the nation’s largest city, Auckland. Home to around a third of the entire New Zealand population, Auckland is a stylish, cosmopolitan city set around two grand harbours.

Today, step aboard your 6-star, ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht and be warmly welcomed by the crew. Your personal butler will show you to your spacious suite and you can meet your fellow guests over a glass of chilled champagne in the Observation Lounge.

Please book your flight to arrive into Auckland prior to 02:00 PM. (D)

The Bay of Islands is one of the world’s most spectacular sailing destinations, so make sure you’re on your verandah or standing on the terrace of the Observation Lounge as you arrive mid-morning. With its unique sub-tropical climate, around 150 islands and thousands of postcard-perfect coves, this is a little slice of paradise on the North Island.

Scenic Eclipse will anchor off the coast of Russell, the first seaport in New Zealand, dating back to the early 1800s. The town retains much of its historic charm, with its orderly streets, whitewashed houses and the country’s oldest church, the 1835 Christ Church. You can even have a drink at New Zealand’s oldest licensed establishment, the Duke of Marlborough, that still occupies pride of place along the waterfront. Discover deserted beaches, charming villages, remote walking tracks and historic sites. (B/L/D)

Today is yours to do as much or as little as you want as Scenic Eclipse II sails north towards Norfolk Island. Perhaps you’d like to take things slowly, starting with breakfast brought to your suite by your butler, enjoyed on the verandah looking out over the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean. Or you could start the day with an invigorating work out in the gym or a class in the Yoga & Pilates studio.

Take some time to explore the ship, from the Sky Bar and outdoor Vitality Pool on Deck 10 to the tranquil Senses Spa on Deck 6 with its steam rooms, saunas, plunge pool and KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge. Stop for a coffee or a cocktail at one of the nine bars and lounges on board or curl up with a good book in the library of the Observation Lounge. Check the daily program to see what lectures or discussions the Discovery Team are running and learn more about upcoming ports, wildlife or activities on offer. (B/L/D)

Stand on your verandah or on the Sky Deck early this morning and you’ll feel like one of the early seafaring explorers, arriving at a remote island after days at sea. This tiny dot in the middle of the South Pacific is Norfolk Island, more than 800km north-west of the New Zealand coast and almost 1,500km east of Australia. The first thing you’ll see will be the tall Norfolk pines dotted along the clifftops, looking out over windswept coastline, deserted beaches and surging seas.

Though the island is technically part of Australia, it has its own distinct personality and a fascinating past. Settled just weeks after the First Fleet arrived in Sydney in 1788, the island was first used for agriculture before becoming a convict prison famed for its harsh treatment of prisoners. In the 1850s, the island was given to the Pitcairn Islanders, descendants of the Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian wives. This turbulent history has created a unique culture and language that’s a blend of 18th century English and Polynesian. (B/L/D)

Make the most of a second sea day indulging in the many exceptional dining experiences on board Scenic Eclipse. Start with breakfast al fresco at the Yacht Club (be sure to return later to visit the large gelato fridge). For lunch, Azure Bar & Café serves light meals, pizza and salads that are available for grazing throughout the day. Elements is the ship’s main restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, where the menu ranges from Italian to steak and seafood.

The selection of specialty restaurants on board allows you to dine around the world each night. Channel the spirit of Asia at Koko’s Asian Fusion; choose one of the sunken Japanese-style tables for an authentic ambience. Grab a seat at the bar at Sushi @ Koko’s to watch the chefs at work or enjoy the spectacle of teppanyaki-style dining inspired by the markets of Asia at Night Market @ Koko’s, an exclusive experience for just eight guests at a time. Journey to France at Lumière, a contemporary fine dining French restaurant replete with a luxe Champagne bar. (B/L/D)

Enjoy another luxurious day at sea as Scenic Eclipse II sails to mainland Australia. Today could be the perfect time to relax and recharge in the indulgent Senses Spa on Deck 6. Inside this luxurious retreat you can be pampered with a range of ESPA treatments^ including massages, facials, manicures and pedicures, as well as alternative therapies like Tibetan bowl sound healing.

After your treatment, cool off in the Vitality plunge pool on the Senses Spa Pool Deck or warm up in the exclusive KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge, where heated beds have special healing properties. You’ll also find saunas, steam rooms, therapeutic pressure showers, and a hair and beauty salon within the spa complex.

Once you’re ready to venture out, watch the world slip by as you relax in a cabana on Deck 10, before taking a dip in the Vitality Pool with a refreshing drink in hand. Read a book in the Observation Lounge library or take one with you and find the hanging egg chairs on Deck 7. Alternatively, ask your butler to bring afternoon tea or cocktails to your suite for you to enjoy on the private verandah while marvelling at the endless ocean. (B/L/D)

Lady Elliot Island is your first stop at the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef. Adorned with lush rainforest, the island paradise is known for its large population of giant manta rays and turtles. It’s also known for its commitment to sustainability through its use of renewable energy, invasive species eradication and other notable environmental initiatives. Here, the glittering white beaches are made entirely of crushed coral. The highly protected ‘Green Zone’ is a sanctuary for over 1,200 species of marine life and an extraordinary unspoilt coral reef. Walk around the island and take in the lush rainforest surroundings, the centre of the island’s life force.

Then Scenic Eclipse II will continue Lady Musgrave Island. Lady Musgrave Island sits in a lagoon formed by a huge, circular protective coral wall, creating calm and crystal-clear waters. Perfect for first-time snorkellers, the sheltered lagoon is home to the complete cast of the marine “Great 8”, namely, clown fish, giant clams, manta rays, maori wrasse, potato cod, reef sharks, and turtles. Almost completely untouched, the island’s only full-time inhabitants are 22 breeding seabird species.

After a day dipping in and out of the ocean, swimming, snorkelling and marvelling at the colourful natural aquarium, it’s time to relax in ultra-luxury surrounds. Perhaps with a toast of Champagne in one of the nine bars and lounges to congratulate yourself for the unforgettable experiences and the magical marine memories you’re making. (B/L/D)

Great Keppel Island is the quintessential tropical island playground. Paddle serenely along crystal-clear calm waters along the coastline where you may spot turtles, dugongs and playful dolphins. Swim and snorkel from the yacht or from one of the 17 white-sand beaches along Great Keppel’s shore. On the island itself, discover island's rich Aboriginal heritage and abundant native wildlife, including more than 90 species of birds. Those who like to climb can go on the 3.5km rigorous hike up Mount Wyndham, the island’s highest point.

Back onboard, with a cocktail in hand, watch a magnificent island sunset from the comfort of your own suite’s verandah or from the Sky Bar, Sky Deck outdoor seating or private cabanas. As the sky transitions from bright blue to pastel hues until finally dark, enjoy the tropical evening under a trillion sparkling stars. (B/L/D)

Due to its size and environmental credentials, Scenic Eclipse II is one of the few ships able to access this rarely visited island. Middle Percy is sometimes described as Robinson Crusoe Island, a dense wooded hilltop that rises above the depths of the Coral Sea. Explore West Beach and find an eclectic collection of memorabilia of bygone days donated by visiting sailors who’ve stopped beneath the coconut palms at the rustic A-frame hut.

Take a walking trail to see magnificent views, secluded bays and sandy beaches. Swim or snorkel in tropical waters or take a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to a secluded beach. Alternatively, relax in the temperature-controlled Vitality Pool on Deck 10, soaking in the panoramic views. (B/L/D)

Imagine wide stretches of white sandy beaches, palm trees with fronds gently rustling and hammocks slowly swinging. The easy access from Airlie Beach has made it a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the 74 islands of the Whitsundays. The best way to explore the islands is by cruise, and with Scenic Eclipse II, it’s 6-star ultra-luxury discovery at its finest.

Dive below the crystal-clear water, perfect for snorkelling and visibility of coral and marine life with all colours of the rainbow. Soar above in one of two on board helicopters^ for a birds-eye-view of the iconic love heart-shaped reef. End your perfect day with a glass of France’s finest at the Lumière Champagne Bar or indulge in over 100 varieties of aged whiskey at the Scenic Lounge Bar. Scenic Eclipse II’s truly all-inclusive philosophy ensures you can enjoy premium beverages* all day, every day. (B/L/D)

Another day, another incredible tropical paradise. Magnetic Island is two-thirds national park and surrounded by 23 secluded bays and golden beaches. Renowned for its natural beauty and serenity, discover an untouched haven of open roads, Eucalypt trees with sleeping koalas and hiking trails.

Lay back and enjoy the panoramic views from a lounge on Deck 10 or relax on your suite’s verandah and take in the dramatic coastline of giant boulders and majestic hoop pines. The island is a sanctuary for native wildlife including rock wallabies, koalas, possums and over 100 different bird species. At Horseshoe Bay on the sheltered north side of the island, there’s a thriving local community sprinkled with eclectic art galleries. Enjoy a sumptuous meal for your final evening in one of up to 10 dining 6-star dining experiences on board Scenic Eclipse II. (B/L/D)

Welcome to Cairns. Cairns is the only place on Earth where two World Heritage-listed sites collide –the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. (B/L/D)

It’s just a short sail north to your first port, to the glamorous resort town of Port Douglas. Once a sleepy fishing village, the town became the state’s most famous tourist destination in the 1980s thanks to its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. Today, the streets are lined with high-end boutiques and chic restaurants, while dazzling yachts bob off the multi-million-dollar marina.

Spend the morning strolling through the charming town waterfront, sampling local produce on offer at the many cafes and restaurants along Macrossan Street. Or head to the stunning Four Mile Beach, a long strip of golden sand fronting on to calm, turquoise water just on the edge of Port Douglas.

Departing Port Douglas just after lunchtime and begin sailing north alongside the Great Barrier Reef. Cruising through crystal-clear waters dotted with hundreds of islands and coral cays is a truly spectacular sailing. Grab a seat at the Observation Lounge or ask your butler to bring afternoon tea to enjoy on your private verandah. (B/L/D)

The Great Barrier Reef runs almost the full length of the Queensland coast and this morning you’ll be cruising in the northermost section, alongside the remote Cape Yorke Peninsula. Sitting on the outer edge of the reef, around 60km from the mainland, is Creech Reef and the secluded Sandy Cay, only accessible by smaller vessels like Scenic Eclipse II. The coral reefs here spread up to 40km wide and comprise some of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet.

Scenic Eclipse II will stop off Sandy Cay, so you can step off into your own private island in the middle of the Coral Sea. The GPS Dynamic Positioning allows your Discovery Yacht to maintain her location without dropping anchor into sensitive seabed, preserving the pristine destinations you're visiting.

This is one of the best snorkelling locations on the Great Barrier Reef, where an incredible variety of fish and coral awaits, and the warm water temperature means you can happily bob about in there for hours. In these calm waters, Scenic Eclipse II can open the marina so you can dive straight in or make use of the many water toys on board. (B/L/D)

Continue north overnight and discover a truly unique location in Queensland and a travel wish list of many Australians as we dock in Cape York, the northernmost point of mainland Australia. This experience is marked by the sight of the rocky headland overlooking startlingly aqua seas few people ever get to see. Toast your visit with a glass of Champagne from the Sky Bar or Observation Terrace as your ultra-luxury yacht cruises past the “Tip of Australia”.

Then, continue on to the Torres Strait; an archipelago of more than 100 islands that stretch from Cape York to Papua New Guinea. These islands have a fascinating and distinct blend of cultures, influenced by both ancient Indigenous peoples and modern history. Arriving at Thursday Island this afternoon, you’ll be able to learn more about this captivating cultural mix as well as the history of British settlement and the region’s pearling industry. (B/L/D)

Enjoy two relaxing days in ultra-luxury comfort at sea as Scenic Eclipse II makes her way north-west into Indonesian waters. This morning, you can do as much or as little as you want. Perhaps soak in the comforts of your luxuriously appointed suite, which cocoons you with the luxuries of a 6-star hotel. Or ask your butler to bring breakfast to your suite, where you can enjoy it on the verandah as the deep blue waters of the Arafura Sea slip by outside.

Then take some time to explore your Discovery Yacht. Visit the Sky Bar and outdoor Vitality Pool on Deck 10, where you can watch the world slip by from the comfort of a private cabana. Step into the tranquil Senses Spa on Deck 6 with its steam rooms, saunas, plunge pool and KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge. Stop for a coffee or a cocktail at one of the nine bars and lounges on board. Curl up with a good book in the library of the Observation Lounge or take one with you and find the hanging egg chairs on Deck 7. For something more interactive, check the daily program to see what lectures or discussions the Discovery Team are running and learn more about upcoming ports, wildlife or activities on offer. (B/L/D)

Make the most of another relaxing sea day indulging in the many exceptional dining experiences on board Scenic Eclipse II. Start with breakfast al fresco at the Yacht Club (be sure to return later to visit the large gelato fridge). For lunch, the Azure Bar & Café serves light meals, pizza and salads that are available for grazing throughout the day. Elements is the main restaurant, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, where the menu ranges from Italian to steak and seafood.

The selection of specialty restaurants on board allows you to dine around the world each night. Channel the spirit of Asia at Koko’s Asian Fusion; choose one of the sunken Japanese-style tables for an authentic ambience. Take a seat at the bar at Sushi @ Koko’s to watch the chefs at work or enjoy the spectacle of teppanyaki-style dining inspired by the markets of Asia at Night Market @ Koko’s, an exclusive experience for just eight guests at a time. Journey to France at Lumière, a contemporary fine dining French restaurant replete with a luxurious Champagne bar. (B/L/D)

You’ll spot land early this morning, the remote Tanimbar Islands. One of Indonesia’s most far-flung outposts, this archipelago of 65 islands sits just a few hundred kilometres north of Darwin. The islands range from densely forested hills to low lying swamplands and deserted beaches. As Scenic Eclipse II sails towards the largest island, Yamdena, and the capital, Saumlaki, discover a bustling city home to around 20,000 people.

Smaller villages on the island have retained many of their unique cultural traditions, including music, dance and crafts. The Tanimbar Islands are also famous for the rare birds that inhabit the untouched forests, making it a popular destination for ornithologists. Be sure to listen closely as the Scenic Eclipse gently and silently glides by. (B/L/D)

There are millions of beaches in Indonesia yet the ones you’ll see today might be the country’s most beautiful. The Kai Islands are part of the Maluku Province and are made entirely of white sand and coral. Talcum powder beaches are lapped by the strikingly blue waters of the Banda Sea and fringed with lush rows of palm trees. Despite their jaw-dropping beauty, these islands remain far off the tourist trail, and you’ll be unlikely to see another visitor.

Spend today living out your castaway fantasies on a deserted island, swimming and snorkelling in the warm water or just lazing on the sand. (B/L/D)

The Banda Islands have long fascinated travellers for more than 700 years. Once known as the Spice Islands, this legendary cluster of exotic ports was a thriving trading hub for rare spices like nutmeg and mace. In 1512, Portuguese explorer Francisco Serrao completed an arduous round the world journey and became the first European to ever set foot on Banda Neira.

For the next three centuries, these tiny volcanic outcrops were highly prized and fiercely fought over by every great colonial power. This intriguing history is woven into the fabric of the island, with grand Portuguese, Dutch and British architecture lining the streets and imposing forts looking over the harbour. Explore the town, hear its colourful stories, and get an insight into its tumultuous past. Offshore, the snorkelling around Banda Neira is some of the best in Indonesia and can be enjoyed by Scenic’s selection of water toys, like stand-up paddle boards or kayaks. (B/L/D)

Today is the perfect opportunity for some relaxation and rejuvenation whilst we sail out to sea. For the ultimate wellbeing at sea, the indulgent Senses Spa awaits on Deck 6. This expansive 550m2 gold-leaf emblazoned spa is like nothing you’ll see on any other ship in the world. Inside this luxurious retreat you can be pampered with a range of ESPA treatments* including massages, facials, manicures and pedicures, as well as alternative therapies like Tibetan bowl sound healing.

After your treatment, cool off in the Vitality plunge pool on the Senses Spa Pool Deck or warm up in the exclusive KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge, where heated, aromatherapy-scented loungers gently purify the body. You’ll also find saunas, steam rooms, therapeutic pressure showers, and a hair and beauty salon within the spa complex.

For a more active indulgence, the state-of-the-art gym is fully equipped for cardio workouts and strength conditioning – all with a spectacular view of the ocean. The Yoga & Pilates Studio, the only of its kind at sea, offers traditional yoga and Pilates classes, plus aerial yoga (using silk hammocks strung from the ceiling), TRX and mindfulness meditation. (B/L/D)

After sailing across the Banda Sea, Scenic Eclipse II will arrive at Alor Island this morning. The easternmost and largest of the 20 islands in the Alor archipelago, Alor has rugged volcanic terrain dotted with traditional villages. A site to behold and one for the avid photographer.

Alor Island is home to a number of unique Indigenous tribes that live in the same way they have for thousands of years. Visit a local village this morning to see the striking architecture and well-preserved customs. Alor is also known as ‘the island of a thousand mokos’. Mokos are a small bronze drum believed to have originated from the Don Dong culture of Vietnam and many homes on Alor will have one in pride of place.

Just after midday you’ll set sail for Sika Island, a tiny outcrop off the north coast of Alor. This beautiful island is a conservation area and best known for its population of dugongs. Reaching up to three metres long and weighing 400kg, these enormous sea mammals float gracefully through the crystal-clear water munching on sea grass and can be spotted from Deck 10 or the Observation Lounge through Scenic’s Swarovski crystal telescope.

Tonight, order a night cap from your butler and stay up late as you’ll be sailing past an extraordinary island around 11 pm. Pulau Komba is home to Mount Batutara, an active volcano that erupts every 20 minutes. Even at night, you should be able to see the glowing lava and explosive spray as you pass by. (B/L/D)

Flores Island is fast becoming one of Indonesia’s most popular destinations. Set on the far eastern edge of the island, it was founded by the Portuguese in the 15th century, and spent many years as the trade and administrative centre of the region.

Scenic Eclipse II will be able to dock right in the centre of the city. Wander the streets at your leisure and soak in its cool maritime flavour. Witness the Portuguese connection, along with a rich Catholic history in the buildings that surround you. Admire the famous Katedral Reinha Rosari, known as the Church of Iron and resembling an ornate Disney castle. The city is a major pilgrimage site for Catholics over Easter and you may see early preparations underway for the grand Holy Week celebrations. (B/L/D)

Sailing along the southern coast of Flores, you’ll arrive at the port of Ende this morning. One of the largest towns on the island, it offers a dramatic approach, sitting on a peninsula surrounded by black sand beaches. Whilst the town is small it’s the nearby Kelimutu National Park that entices countless visitors.

The park is home to Mount Kelimutu, a dormant volcano that has three spectacular lakes in its craters. The lakes change colour throughout the year, thanks to underground gases being released through volcanic vents. They may be vivid turquoise, blue, green, white or even pink. Local legend says that the lakes are the resting place for departed souls, some evil, some innocent. Stare into the milky waters and you’ll soon see why they inspire such myths. If you can draw your eyes away from the lakes, look up and try to spot the park’s endemic bird species, like the Floresian eagle, Timorese tesia and Wallacea owl. (B/L/D)

This is a momentous day for all those aboard Scenic Eclipse II, cruising into one of the world’s great natural treasures. Today come face to face with the eponymous species of giant lizard that has been roaming these forests for millions of years.

Stretching up to three metres in length and weighing over 150kg, the Komodo dragon is a lizard unlike any other. It lives on just a handful of islands in the Indonesian archipelago, with the majority found on Komodo Island.

Board Scenic Eclipse II again at midday to cruise around the island to the famous Pink Beach. The soft sand is coloured pink by finely crushed pieces of coral and shells, just one of seven pink beaches found anywhere in the world. The turquoise water that laps the shoreline makes for a striking contrast. Beneath the surface, the wonders continue with hundreds of species of coral and an abundance of fish. (B/L/D)

Sailing west overnight, Scenic Eclipse II will arrive at the port of Badas on Sumbawa Island this morning. Order your breakfast to your room and get ready for sights to behold. Though it is close to Bali and Lombok, Sumbawa has yet to be discovered by tourists and retains its strong cultural identity. The few who do venture here come mostly for the epic surf, spectacular reefs and wild terrain, and there’s plenty to satisfy a taste for adventure.

The island of Sulawesi sits directly north of Sumbawa and its local Makassarese culture has had a strong influence on the island. You can tour a village where you’ll see centuries-old traditional cultures still in practice, like rice pounding and weaving. (B/L/D)

After more than two weeks exploring volcanic highlands, traditional villages and untouched wilderness, it’s time for some relaxation. This morning, Scenic Eclipse II will arrive at the perfect place – Senggigi Beach on Lombok Island. Your Discovery Yacht will depart close to midnight, so you have a full day to unwind, partake in water activities or simply soak up paradise

Lombok is just a short distance from Bali, but the islands are worlds apart. With far-fewer tourists, you’ll be able to find a quiet stretch of sand, empty waves and more laid-back shopping streets. Senggigi Beach is Lombok’s main strip, and the beginning location for many adventures. With a late departure, toast to the final sunset of your cruise enjoying the stunning views from the Sky Bar with your favourite cocktail in hand. (B/L/D)

Arrive at your final port this morning, Bali, the Island of the Gods. It’s just one of more than 18,000 islands that make up the country of Indonesia, but it’s long been a favoured destination for Australian travellers. Spectacularly beautiful, culturally diverse and brimming with luxury, Bali is truly a little piece of paradise.

Scenic Eclipse II will dock off the coast of Benoa, a peninsula on the southern edge of the island. Farewell your fellow guests and crew before you depart, taking with you memories of exotic islands, fascinating cultures and unparalleled 6-star indulgence.

Please book your flight to depart out of Denpasar after 12:00 PM.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the cruise will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. (B)