Australia's Top End: Cape York & Arnhem Land

Welcome to Cairns, the capital of Tropical North Queensland and the departure point for your cruise. This is the only place where two World Heritage-listed sites collide – the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. The town itself exemplifies the laid-back lifestyle that Queensland is famous for and is packed with wonderful places to eat, al fresco bars and vibrant markets. This afternoon, you will board Scenic Eclipse II, your home for the next days. Be greeted with a glass of Champagne, meet your personal butler and settle into your luxurious suite. Join your fellow guests at the Sky Bar for a cocktail with a view over the vibrant city as you depart ready for the journey of a lifetime. Please book your flight to arrive into Cairns prior to 02:00 PM.

Nestled in the Coral Sea, Willis Island is the only permanently inhabited island in this pristine region, housing a vital weather monitoring station since 1921. Four dedicated staff members tirelessly monitor weather conditions, ensuring the safety of Queensland residents. Explore the Coral Sea Marine Park, protecting 16 seafloors and 15,000 km² of reefs, teeming with diverse marine life, including green turtles and various bird species. Enjoy birdwatching from your suites verandah with complimentary binoculars.  Discovery: Explore this fascinating island on a Zodiac tour. Alternatively, at your leisure, go kayaking, stand- up paddleboarding or snorkeling in the reef’s crystal-clear waters.

This morning 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. 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 and KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge. Curl up with a good book in the library of the Observation Lounge or, 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.

The northernmost island resort on Australias Great Barrier Reef, Lizard Island is uniquely placed at the center of the inner and outer reef systems as well as fringing reefs. An amazing range of marine animal and plant life can be found within this extraordinary ecosystem. Discovery: Snorkel with the expert Discovery Team to see the Clam Gardens, home to many diverse types of clams, or stand-up paddleboard in the tranquil waters of Anchor Bay. Alternatively, follow in the footsteps of Captain Cook to Cook’s Look, the highest vantage point on the island.

This morning, we will cruise along the northernmost section of the Great Barrier Reef, near the remote Cape York Peninsula. Creech Reef and Sandy Cay, located around 60km from the mainland and accessible only by smaller vessels like Scenic Eclipse II, offer expansive coral reefs spanning up to 40km wide. We will stop at Sandy Cay, a secluded private island in the Coral Sea. This is a top snorkeling spot on the Great Barrier Reef, with abundant marine life and warm waters for extended exploration. You can easily access the water from Scenic Eclipse II or use the on-board water toys Discovery: Go kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding or snorkeling around this unforgettable reef. The expert Discovery Team will guide you through the best spots.

We will sail north overnight to Cape York, mainland Australias northernmost point, a dream destination for many. Enjoy Champagne on the Sky Bar or Observation Terrace as you cruise past the "Tip of Australia".  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 will be able to learn more about this captivating cultural mix as well as the history of British settlement and the region’s pearling industry. Freechoice: Community Visit: Torres Strait traditional dancing is a profound form of intergenerational storytelling. Join local artists, dancers, and guides for an immersive journey into Ailan Kastom (island Custom). In their Steps Tour: Explore significant WW2 sites on Horn Island with commentary blending archival info and veteran’s stories. Experience the islands vital role and the contributions of those who served here in WW2. Discovery Tour of Thursday Island: Join this one-hour Discovery Tour for a deep dive into the islands rich history and vibrant culture. Led by a respected community elder, explore its landmarks, history, and breathtaking scenery in comfort. Basket Weaving: Experience Torres Strait communities age-old art of basket weaving, a tradition still vibrant today. Join us for a one-hour hands-on session amidst stunning waterfront scenery. Taxi Tour: Meet funny and proud Torres Strait Islander personalities on this guided tour. Experience the real Torres Strait and Thursday Island, the hub’ of the Torres Strait. Known to the locals simply as ‘TI’, Thursday Island is home to some of Australia’s richest history. 

Make the most of another relaxing sea day indulging in the 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. At night, channel the spirit of Asia at Koko’s Asian Fusion. 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.

Today, visit Yirrkala. Located in the northeastern part of Arnhem Land, this small community is known for its rich Aboriginal culture and art, particularly bark paintings and ceremonial designs holding cultural and spiritual significance. Witness exceptional works of numerous esteemed Indigenous artists, including the finest didgeridoos, and learn about the Yirrkala Bark Petitions - created in 1963, which played a pivotal role in the recognition of Indigenous land rights in Australia. Enjoy an enriching experience at Yirrkala boat ramp, followed by a journey to Buku Larrnggay Mulka Art Centre. Experience traditional ceremonies and dances, delve into cultural activities like basket weaving and damper making, and even try your hand at playing the Didgeridoo. This evening, settle in at any of the nine all-inclusive bars and lounges to enjoy a premium beverage of choice. Relish Frances finest at the Lumière Champagne Bar or indulge in over 100 varieties of aged whiskey at Scenic Lounge Bar. Ask your butler to bring you a nightcap to enjoy in the privacy of your ultra-luxury suite while cherishing the memories of a remarkable day.

Prepare for a delightful morning as we sail through a mesmerizing chain of long, narrow islands nestled in the enchanting Arafura Sea. Known as the English Company Islands, exploring this hidden realm of 47 islands feels like getting access to natures best-kept secret. From there we will cruise through the Cumberland Strait onwards to the picturesque Wessel Islands. Revel in the contrasting colors and spectacular views from your private verandah, or head to the Sky bar on Deck 10 to toast to the incredible scenery unfolding as we pass by the Wessel Island and through The Hole in the Wall, a narrow channel situated north of Arnhem Land, leading to the port of Nhulunbuy (Gove).

Today is the perfect opportunity for some relaxation and rejuvenation. For the ultimate wellbeing at sea, the indulgent Senses Spa# awaits on Deck 6. Inside this luxurious 550m2 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 will also find saunas, steam rooms, therapeutic pressure showers, and a hair and beauty salon within the spa complex. If you are feeling more active, enjoy the state-of-the-art gym and the PURE: Yoga & Pilates studio, the only of its kind at sea. 

Your unforgettable voyage ends today in Darwin, the Northern Territory’s multicultural capital city. Spend a leisurely final morning in ultra-luxury on board Scenic Eclipse II, Reflect on the rare and wonderful experiences of your once-in-a-lifetime journey and the discoveries of the magical underwater world. Bid farewell to your attentive crew and new-found friends, taking with you memories that will last forever. Please book your flight to depart out of Darwin after 12:00 PM. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. #Spa treatments at additional cost.