Ultimate Kimberley Coastline, Western Australia & The Abrolhos Islands (Scenic Expeditions)

Arrive in Darwin, the Northern Territory’s tropical capital city.

Welcome aboard. Settle into your spacious ultra-luxury verandah suite on board Scenic Eclipse II. Butler service will assist with unpacking and guide you through the pillow menu. Take some time to familiarise yourself with the unsurpassed amenities that include nine bars and lounges, up to 10 dining experiences from casual to fine dining, the expansive Senses Spa and the state-of-the-art theatre, just to name a few. Explore the length of Scenic Eclipse II. The open-bridge policy means your Captain will welcome you in the operational centre anytime during your voyage. Toast the beginning of your journey with a glass of French champagne at Lumière or a cocktail at the open-air Sky Bar.

Please book your flight to arrive into Darwin prior to 02:00 PM.

Scenic Eclipse II sails from the Timor Sea to north of the King George River. The only way to access the 100-metre-wide King George Falls, the highest twin waterfalls in Western Australia, is on water or by air. With her sleek, yacht-shaped design, Scenic Eclipse II was custom-built to access such remote locations. Binoculars are provided in every suite to take with you on your Discovery excursions, so you can get a closer look at the amazing wildlife.

Discovery: Take a roundtrip on a Zodiac for a breathtaking close-up of the falls, weaving past spectacular 80-metre-high sandstone cliffs and mangroves where you might spot a sunning crocodile or birdlife such as ospreys, falcons, egrets, and kingfishers. April and May are when the falls are at their most thunderous and, weather and tides permitting, our Discovery Team could take you close enough for a natural shower. With two helicopters^ available, you may have the option for a scenic flight^ for an aerial appreciation of one of Western Australia’s most astounding spectacles.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After an overnight journey on board your luxurious Discovery Yacht, you’ll stop at the sheltered and secluded Vansittart Bay, a place of significant indigenous cultural history. Fitted with state-of-the-art GPS Dynamic Positioning system, Scenic Eclipse II will be held in position close to Jar Island in the bay’s southwest pocket, negating the need to drop anchor on ecologically sensitive seabeds. Board a Zodiac for a transfer to a small sandy beach to explore the area with the expert Discovery Team.

Discovery: The Discovery Team will accompany you on a hike to see what’s regarded as the oldest art gallery on earth, dating back more than 20,000 years to the last ice age. The ancient and mysterious Gwion is the oldest rock art known to man and one of two primary art forms found in the Kimberley. ‘Tattooed’ into the rock rather than painted, the art depicts detailed, symmetrical, and mystical figures adorned with tassels, delicate jewellery, and elaborate headdresses.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The morning is yours. Book a Senses Spa treatment, a Yoga or Pilates session, plunge into the vitality pools, or simply relax and enjoy 6-star ultra-luxury on board Scenic Eclipse II. The afternoon is for exploring one of Australia’s most remote marine parks, Ashmore Reef. The three islands of the reef are uninhabited yet home to an abundance of bird and sea life. Internationally recognised, each year around 100,000 seabirds from 40 different species flock to the reef to breed. Underwater, find hard and soft corals, giant clams, sea sponges, green turtles, dugongs, crabs and about 500 species of fish in the reef. After the day’s exploration, settle in at one of the nine bars and lounges to enjoy a beverage of choice. Relish France’s finest at Lumière Champagne Bar or indulge in over 100 varieties of aged whiskey at the Scenic Lounge Bar. Scenic’s truly all- inclusive philosophy means you can leave your wallet in your suite’s safe and simply relax and indulge.

Discovery: The wealth of sea life coupled with underwater visibility make for wonderful snorkelling and swimming. Take a Zodiac cruise with the Discovery Team around the reef or talk to the expert team about a possible scenic helicopter^ flight for a bird’s eye view of the astonishing colours of land, sea, and reef.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, Scenic Eclipse II glides through York Sound to the mouth of the Hunter River, the staging point for an unforgettable helicopter excursion^ to Mitchell Falls. The thrilling flight^ is a true wilderness ride with jaw-dropping panoramas of wild escarpments, tropical rainforests and the thundering four-tiered Mitchell Falls carved out over millennia. Look out for ospreys and saltwater crocodiles as you soar over the prehistoric landscape akin to Jurassic Park. You have time to explore the area on foot, and, if you wish, take a refreshing swim in one of the freshwater pools formed by the falls. Back onboard, watch Mother Nature’s magnificent show as the sun sets, cocktail in hand. The sky awash with pastel colours blending shades of apricot, pink and dusty blue until finally dark, then linger longer underneath a blanket of a trillion sparkling stars.

Discovery: Tides permitting, the Zodiacs can take you past towering sandstone cliffs, pristine mangrove forests and iconic landscapes such as Prince Frederick Sound, Porosus Creek and Hunter and Row Rivers.

While Scenic Eclipse II sails to Montgomery Reef, you may spot humpback whales and other wildlife in Camden Sound from your private verandah or on deck.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a leisurely overnight cruise, wake-up slowly. While Scenic Eclipse II sails toward Bigge Island, perhaps stretch in the expansive wellness facilities with a mindful Yoga or Pilates session or step it up with an invigorating session at the fully equipped POWER:Gym. Bigge Island, the second largest island in the Bonaparte Archipelago, is just 6km from the mainland. Being devoid of feral animals, it has allowed native wildlife to flourish. You may see a Monjon rock wallaby, the smallest of the kangaroo group, the northern quoll, sea turtles and crocodiles.

Discovery: Take a hike along rocky and scenic paths and visit caves to see well-preserved rock art by the Wunambal people depicting first contact with Europeans.

Tides and timings permitting, a stop at Careening Bay in the Prince Regent National Park is where you may view the famous Mermaid Tree, an enormous boab on which the ship’s crew of the HMC Mermaid carved the words of the ship and year, 1820.

There are saltwater and freshwater crocodiles in the Kimberley area, so please exercise caution and heed all advice and warning signs from the expert Discovery Team and local guides.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake to completely new vista at Montgomery Reef, the world’s largest inshore reef that boasts some of the earth’s biggest tidal changes reaching up to 14 metres (46 feet). As the tides rise or fall, both soft and hard coral are exposed, falling below sea level to create a remarkable spectacle you’ll explore by Zodiac. If the timing is perfect, discover thousands of small waterfalls cascading down the reef and see incredible marine life including sea turtles, octopi, sharks, rays, dolphins and more. In the evening, share stories of croc-spotting with new friends over an aperitif or meal in one of Scenic Eclipse II’s 10 truly all-inclusive dining experiences.

Discovery: Join the Discovery Team on a Zodiac cruise to Montgomery Reef. Conditions permitting, the Zodiac will transfer you to a sand bank for a swim just off the reef.

Scenic Eclipse II then sails into the calm waters of Doubtful Sound for mangrove forest exploration in search of saltwater crocodiles. An alternate stop is the scenic Raft Point where you’ll see two majestic bluffs, boab trees, and after a 45-minute uphill hike, some of the Wandjina Aboriginal rock art gallery.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Talbot Bay’s spectacular Horizontal Waterfalls is a natural wonder to tick off your Australian bucket list. This phenomenon is caused by a unique combination of geology and massive tidal surges.

Discovery: If time and tides permit, you may have the opportunity to go through these fascinating falls and around the narrow waterways of Talbot Bay in a Zodiac. Later, choose to embark on a challenging 9.5 kilometre walk into the Kimberley’s remote wilderness.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Cruise overnight to the mouth of King Sound and into the spectacular maze of the Buccaneer Archipelago. About 1,000 tiny islands make up this jaw-dropping paradise that’s a kaleidoscope of vivid colours from iron-rich red rock to verdant pockets of lush rainforest, bright turquoise tropical sea, and alabaster beaches. One highlight during this full day is the exploration of Whirlpool Passage; 8-metre tides (26-feet) swirl as they are pushed through a narrow channel between two islands, adding a thrill to your transit. Rest assured, the state-of-the-art Scenic Eclipse II is fitted with custom-built oversized zero speed stabilisers that are50% larger than those of other ships, providing greater stability as it navigates through the roughest waters.

Discovery: Surrounding creeks and inlets offer additional opportunities for Zodiac expeditions, including a possible visit to Koolan Island, the site of an open pit mine that produces some of the highest-grade iron ore in Australia, best viewed overhead on a potential helicopter^ flight. Within Yampi Sound, past the multi-coloured sandstone folding, beautiful beaches beckon for a refreshing dip. The entire region is teeming with marine and bird life.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A special visit awaits you today on this chain of four flat coral islands, home to tens of thousands of seabirds with over 50 bird species including red-chested frigate birds, crested terns, pelicans, and speckled ruddy turnstones. Having eradicated the rats in 1986, these treeless islands are once again a wildlife haven. It’s a significant nesting site for an estimated 18,000 pairs of brown footed boobies, possibly the largest colony in the world, and 20,000 roseate terns have been recorded on the A-class Nature Reserve. Further, it’s Western Australia’s most important breeding habitat for green turtles and where thousands of humpback whales come to calve. Frequent sightings are possible between July and September when an estimated 40,000 humpback whales migrate between Antarctica and Western Australia. As this is your last evening on board, gather with new friends in one of the nine bars and lounges, or make a reservation for an intimate dinner with only up to 8 guests at the Night Market @ Koko’s.

Discovery: The Discovery Team will transfer you on Zodiac ashore for a snorkel, swim or a beach walk following the trail of local crabs.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Welcome to Broome, a charming outback town where red desert collides with the turquoise Indian Ocean lapping onto pristine white sands.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Nestled in the crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean, the little-known Rowley Shoals is an unforgettable aquatic experience. Explore the Rowley Shoals and Mermaid Reef Marine Parks, a chain of three protected coral atolls with over 200 species of stunning coral formations in every imaginable colour. Regarded as the best example in Australian waters of atolls on the edge of a continental shelf, it covers 540 square kilometres, with depths from less than 15 metres to 500 metres.

Scenic Eclipse will stop here, using her advanced state-of-the-art GPS Dynamic Positioning that allows her to station without dropping anchor onto the sensitive coral seabeds. From the Scenic Eclipse II Marine Deck, explore with a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, or snorkel and swim in the shallow lagoons atop the softly swaying coral gardens. Tropical fish, sea turtles and dolphins are just some of the abundant marine life to adorn the area. With its remote location and protected status, Rowley Shoals provide a tranquil respite and a chance to be fully immersed in the serene majesty of the underwater world. You may also be able to soar above for a bird’s eye view of the atolls in one of the two on board helicopters^. A journey to Rowley Shoals promises to be a transformative experience, one that will remain indelibly etched in your memory.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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 comforts of a 6-star hotel. Ask your butler to bring breakfast to your suite, where you can enjoy it on the verandah as the clear blue waters slip by outside.

Or take some time to explore your Discovery Yacht. Visit the Sky Bar and outdoor Vitality Pool on Deck 10, where you can bask in the tropical sun as the world slip by from the comfort of a private cabana. Step into the tranquil Senses Spa on Deck 6 equipped with 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 active, 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.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The Dampier Archipelago, located in the Pilbara, is a breathtaking haven of coral reefs, sponge gardens and more than 650 species of fish. In the cluster of 42 islands set amid crystal-clear waters, find colourful coral reefs and unique marine wildlife including dugongs, whales, dolphins as well as three turtle species that nest on nearby beaches. With the Discovery Team, visit rock art sites and learn about the rich indigenous culture of the area’s five Aboriginal language groups. The rugged landscapes and ancient rock formations make for great hiking and exploration.

Replenish after a day of swimming, snorkelling, paddling and hiking with a sumptuous meal in one of the up to 10 ultra-luxury dining experiences on board Scenic Eclipse II. The panoramic sunset views from the Vitality Pool on the Sky Deck may just be your perfect way to unwind as you take in the stunning surroundings.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The 265 low-lying islands and islets of the Montebello Islands form a conservation park and the waters surrounding the islands are a protected marine park. The only access to the islands is by small ship, making Scenic Eclipse II the perfect vessel for this a truly unrivalled experience. There are fringing reefs, sandy beaches, sheltered coves, isolated mangrove stands and abundance of marine life including turtles, dolphins, and dugongs, 450 species of fish and over 1000 species of invertebrates. Choose from the many interesting snorkelling locations that include coral reefs and underwater gardens teeming with marine life of all sizes, colours and patterns. Swim or snorkel to see what lies beneath or take a kayak or stand-up paddleboard for exploration above water.

With the Discovery Team, Scenic Eclipse II’s team of experts, learn about the explosive history of the area. The islands rose to notoriety when the British military carried out atomic weapons tests in 1952 and 1956, something that may be difficult to comprehend given the serene surrounds. During the day, take the feelings of bliss to a new level after an indulgent pampering treatment* in the expansive 550m2 Senses Spa and emerge feeling renewed.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy the luxury of time. This is the first of two days stationed in Exmouth, the northern gateway to wonderous Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area. Ningaloo Reef is Australia’s longest fringing barrier reef and one of the world’s most important biodiversity hotspots.

Between Exmouth and Coral Bay, two Ningaloo Marine Parks run in parallel along the coast, protecting this natural treasure. These marine parks are home to more than 250 species of coral, both soft and hard, that are native to the area. On a snorkelling trip see cabbage corals, brain corals and lavender corals as well as delicate colourful branching corals which form gardens in the shallow lagoons. Ningaloo Marine Park boasts an endless list of molluscs, crustaceans, algae and over 500 species of the most decorated and revered tropical fish in the world, including giant potato cod, sweetlip, spangled emperor and lionfish.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After an overnight stay in Exmouth, wake slowly and enjoy the morning views on the verandah of your spacious suite over a barista-made coffee brought by your butler. Exmouth is the perfect base to explore the grandiose landscapes of the Cape Range National Park. The spectacular contrasting scenery is a sight to behold. The rugged limestone gorges and arid coastal plain of Cape Range adjoin the pristine turquoise waters of Ningaloo Marine Park. Located within the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage-listed Area, Cape Range is rich and diverse in wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, echidnas, birds and black-flanked rock wallabies. The name ‘Ningaloo’ means ‘land jutting out to sea’ from the local Yinigudura people.

In the evening, join fellow travellers in one of nine bars and lounges for a sundowner over a glass of French champagne, a craft beer, or a perfectly balanced aperitif as you swap stories about the wildlife you’ve spotted and otherworldly landscapes encountered.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Named Coral Bay in tribute to the beautiful coral gardens which lie mere metres from the pristine sandy beach, this is a picturesque hub for rich marine life experiences. The pristine snorkelling conditions offer colourful coral gardens and over 500 species of fish including the dazzling butterflyfish, angelfish, and clownfish. There may be a unique opportunity to encounter rare dugongs, also known as ‘sea cows’, which can be seen grazing on seagrass in the shallow waters. On land, follow walking trails that weave through national parks and pristine beaches, past tidal pools and turtle-nesting spots. For an accelerated adventure, you may be able to soar above the clifftops with an exhilarating flight in one of the two on board helicopters^.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Once a romantic pearl fishing town, Denham has slowly transformed, attracting visitors with its unique aquatic and coastal experiences and stunning scenery. Shark Bay, a World Heritage-listed area, is renowned for its exotic flora and fauna, and is home to 10 per cent of the world’s elusive dugong population. It is also a significant historical site, where the first Europeans landed on the Western Australian mainland. You may see emus strolling, kangaroos grazing, and dolphins jumping. Shell Beach is a natural marvel, an ethereal expanse of tiny white shells in place of sand on its beach. The Hamelin Pool Stromatolites, situated in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, are one of the oldest living organisms on earth, with a history dating back over 3,000 years. At nearby Monkey Mia, playful and inquisitive dolphins frequent the shallows close to shore.

Back on board, cocktail in hand, sit back and watch Mother Nature’s free nightly show, another magnificent West Coast sunset. As the sky transitions to pastel hues before finally dark, enjoy stargazing under the sparkling stars. Take a closer look with the on board Swarovski Telescopes available in the Observation Lounge.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Inscription Point on Dirk Hartog Island is the site of the first evidenced European landing on Australian soil that took place in 1616. Dirk Hartog Island is Western Australia’s largest island, and one of the world’s most important islands for mammal conservation. It is Australia’s most successful restoration projects. Since the early 2000’s it has removed sheep, goats and feral cats from the island and is slowly reintroducing the native mammal species that once occupied the area. You may spot the western grey kangaroos, wallabies and bandicoots. It also has several endemic plant species found nowhere else in the world including the Dirk Hartog Island wattles. Beneath the waterline, see vibrant corals and marine life while swimming and snorkelling. The island's seagrass meadows are some of the largest and most diverse in the world, essential to the survival of dugongs, affectionately known as ‘sea cows’.

Pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters and rugged cliffs can be viewed from one of the many vantage points on Scenic Eclipse II. Indulge in 6-star ultra-luxury with up to 10 dining experiences and nine bars & lounges on board Scenic Eclipse II, all part of our truly all-inclusive philosophy.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The Wallabi Group is the northern-most group of islands in the Houtman Abrolhos, more commonly referred to as the Abrolhos Islands. The Islands are best known for one of the most famous ‘Age of Discovery’ wreck and rescue stories in global maritime history, the shipwreck of the Batavia in 1629. Often described as the Galapagos Islands of the Indian Ocean, there are few places in Australia with more biodiversity than these islands. It’s one of the world's most important seabird breeding sites and it’s the centre of Western Australia's largest single-species fishery, the western rock lobster fishery. This is a truly special destination that few can visit.

Soar above in one of two on board helicopters^ for an aerial perspective of the islands and the incredible waters that surround them. It’s a mesmerising place that includes diverse wildlife and marine experiences. Keep your eyes open for the mischievous Australian sea lions, the star inhabitants of the area. At day’s end, continue the typically West Australian ‘sundowner’ tradition with fellow guests ahead of a delectable meal in one of 10 dining experiences on board.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Home to the Yamatji and Wajarri people, Geraldton has a long history that dates back thousands of years. In 1629, a shipwreck, subsequent mutiny and rescue become a legendary part of Australian folklore. The Batavian coastline, that draws its name from the shipwreck, is widely regarded as one of the most scenic coastlines in Western Australia. Geraldton is a cosmopolitan and diverse seaside town and has a plethora of waterfront shops, cafes and museums to explore.

As you relax on Deck 10, marvel at the rust-coloured rugged coastal cliffs that meet the deep blue ocean. Welcome the contrast of the remote and untouched habitat and coastal town with the elegant furnishings and attentive service on board Scenic Eclipse II. There’s a guest-to-staff ratio 1:1 and state-of-the-art technology fitted on the vessel. The only detail for you to consider is choosing from over 100 varieties of aged whiskey at the Scenic Lounge Bar in which to indulge in.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wildflower meadows ablaze with colour, ancient and enchanting rock formations and sweeping stretches of powder-white sand are just a few of Jurien Bay’s attractions. Jurien Bay is a laid-back coastal town known for its excellent fishing and playful sea lions. Australian sea lion colonies can only be found on islands off the coast of Western Australia and South Australia, which makes them one of Jurien Bay’s main drawcards. Sea lions love fish, which is another other drawcard to the region. South of Jurien Bay discover the Pinnacles were formed over millions of years, thousands of soaring limestone spires, reach skywards from the yellow desert sands. The unique lunar-like landscape is at its best at sunrise or sunset when the many spire shadows are long, which feels like you’re standing in a twilight universe on another planet. Photographers fill many memory cards here.. With the salty coastal air filling your lungs, fish and chips or a seafood feast may be on the menu in one of ten dining experiences on board ranging from casual to fine dining. Enjoy an aperitif before the Scenic Eclipse II world-class culinary team prepares another remarkable dining experience.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Busselton is a vibrant city on the beach that’s been a timeless holiday destination for generations of West Australian families. The gateway to the world-famous Margaret River wine region, Geographe Bay has some of the most beautiful calm bays of azure waters, perfect for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, and there’s an underwater experience where you can be eye to eye with marine life without getting wet. At the end of the heritage-listed 1.8km-long wooden jetty, the longest in the southern hemisphere, is an underwater observatory that spirals beneath the ocean to the sea floor. Its large windows look out to colourful coral and barnacles attached to the jetty pylons with marine life weaving between. From May to December, spot the spouts of water out in the ocean as tens of thousands of whales pass by on their annual migration. Busselton’s foreshore is abuzz with locals walking and jogging, families playing in the pirate park, tourists marvelling at the jetty and out Geographe Bay and beer lovers enjoying a locally brewed craft beer. Enjoy your final drink with fellow guests on your last evening together.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The historic port town of Fremantle is filled with magnificent colonial Australian architecture. A delightful mix of old-world charm and modern creative flair, the city is vibrant morning, noon and night. This is where your unforgettable voyage concludes. Spend an easy final morning in ultra-luxury on board Scenic Eclipse II, perhaps with coffee on your private verandah. Reflect on the rare and wonderous experiences of this once-in-a-lifetime journey and the discoveries of the Western Australian coastline, on land and below the magical underwater world. Take comfort knowing you’ve created a collection of memories and stories for life. Bid farewell to your friendly crew and new friends as you disembark in Fremantle.

Please book your flight to depart out of Perth 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.

Inclusions: Breakfast