Ultimate Western Australia, The Abrolhos Islands & Kimberley Coastline

Welcome on board Scenic Eclipse II, where your unforgettable voyage begins. Embark in Fremantle with time to settle into your spacious verandah suite before joining fellow guests in one of the eight bars and lounges for a ‘sundowner’. Enjoy a beverage of choice, from Champagne to an aged whiskey, a cleansing ale or an aperitif as the sun sinks below the horizon. Your butler will walk you through your suite’s facilities, like the pillow menu, to ensure every detail is in place for a sound night’s sleep, ready for your onward journey of discovery. Please book your flight to arrive into Perth prior to 02:00 PM.

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. From May to December, you may witness the breathtaking sight of migrating whales as they pass offshore, their spouts rising above the water’s surface. As the day winds down, raise a glass with fellow guests and enjoy a final drink together, celebrating the memories of an unforgettable journey. Freechoice: Cape to Cape: Head to the famous Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse and marvel at sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. After your time at the lighthouse, continue down the coast to reach the fabled Canal Rocks. Caves and Lighthouse: Take a scenic drive to Ngligi Cave, located near Yallingup, and the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, where you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. Margaret River Wines: Venture into the fertile Margaret River Wine Region and enjoy a relaxing time learning and tasting some of Australia’s best wines. Discovery: Enjoy immersive Discovery watersports experiences from the marina, weather permitting and subject to harbour master approval.

Jurien Bay is a charming coastal town renowned for its excellent fishing and playful Australian sea lions. As one of the few places where these rare marine mammals can be found, Jurien Bay offers a unique opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat. The region’s rich marine life, especially its abundance of fish, further enhances its appeal. Just south of Jurien Bay, discover the Pinnacles, an awe-inspiring landscape where thousands of towering limestone spires rise from golden desert sands, sculpted by nature over millions of years. This otherworldly sight is a must-visit, adding to the region’s remarkable natural wonders.  Inclusion Pinnacle Desert Nambung National Park: Journey through Australia’s rugged landscapes to the stunning Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park. Marvel at towering limestone formations and watch for wildlife like emus and kangaroos. Discovery: Enjoy immersive Discovery watersports experiences from the marina, weather permitting and subject to harbour master approval.

Home to the Yamatji and Wajarri people, Geraldton has a long history that dates back thousands of years. 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. Freechoice: Greenough Historic Settlement and Wildlife: Enjoy an outing to experience a combination of native Australian wildlife and historical buildings in Greenough, a historical town renowned for its unique leaning trees and its intriguing history. Geraldton City Explorer: Explore the beautiful historical landmarks of Geraldton, a coastal city nestled on Western Australias Batavia coast. Kalbarri National Park: A full day journey exploring the breathtakingly beautiful Kalbarri National Park, known for its spectacular scenery and dramatic red rock gorges. Stand on the Skywalk with the vastness of the National Park spread out before you.

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. 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. Discovery: Discovery Team activities may include Zodiac cruising, wildlife spotting, snorkelling and kayaking.

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. You may spot the western grey kangaroos, wallabies and bandicoots. The islands seagrass meadows are some of the largest and most diverse in the world, essential to the survival of dugongs, affectionately known as ‘sea cows’. Discovery: Today’s Discovery Team activities may include an exciting Zodiac cruise.

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’s also a significant historical site; this is where the first Europeans landed on the Western Australian mainland. You may see emus strolling, kangaroos grazing, and dolphins playing. Back on board, cocktail in hand, sit back and watch Mother Nature’s free nightly show, another magnificent West Coast sunset. Discovery: Discovery Team activities may include snorkelling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

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. You may be able to soar above the clifftops with an exhilarating flight in one of the two on board helicopters^.  Discovery: Dive into adventure with the Discovery Team and enjoy exciting watersports experiences right off the beach.

This is the first of two days stationed in Exmouth, the northern gateway to the 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. Freechoice: Exmouth Explorer: Explore Exmouth by bus. Visit the Jurabi Turtle Centre, stop at Bundegi Beach and be immersed with expert commentary on a brief panoramic drive. Tantabiddi Reef Viewing: Step aboard an open aired Glass Bottom Boat which provides an unobstructed view of the spectacular marine life of Tantabiddi Reef below. Ningaloo Reef Snorkel: Put on your mask and snorkel and discover the wonders of Ningaloo Reef for yourself. You’ll witness the abundance of more than 200 beautiful coral species and 500 tropical fish species that call this place home.

Exmouth is the perfect base to explore grandiose landscapes. The spectacular contrasting scenery is a sight to behold. Explore the pristine turquoise waters of Ningaloo Marine Park. The name ‘Ningaloo’ means ‘land jutting out to sea’ from the local Yinigudura people. In the evening, join fellow travellers in one of eight 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. Freechoice: Exmouth Explorer: Explore Exmouth by bus. Visit the Jurabi Turtle Centre, stop at Bundegi Beach and be immersed with expert commentary on a brief panoramic drive. Tantabiddi Reef Viewing: Step aboard an open aired Glass Bottom Boat which provides an unobstructed view of the spectacular marine life of Tantabiddi Reef below. Ningaloo Reef Snorkel: Put on your mask and snorkel and discover the wonders of Ningaloo Reef for yourself. You’ll witness the abundance of more than 200 beautiful coral species and 500 tropical fish species that call this place home.

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, a truly unrivalled experience Scenic Eclipse II provides. Choose from the many interesting snorkelling locations that include coral reefs and underwater gardens teeming with marine life of all sizes, colours and patterns. With the Discovery Team, 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. Discovery: Join the Discovery Team for thrilling Zodiac cruises or head to the marina for a range of exciting water sports.

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. Replenish after a day of swimming, snorkelling or paddling with a sumptuous meal in one of the up to 10 ultra-luxury dining experiences on board your Discovery Yacht.

This morning, you can do as much or as little as you want. Perhaps enjoy the comforts of your luxuriously appointed suite 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 slips by from the comfort of a private cabana. Step into the tranquil Senses Spa# on Deck 6 equipped with steam rooms, saunas, and KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge. Stop for a coffee or a cocktail at one of the eight bars and lounges on board.

Nestled in the crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean, the little-known Rowley Shoals is an unforgettable aquatic experience. From the Marina 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. 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^.

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

This morning, you’ll sail along the Kimberley Coast, renowned for its dramatic landscapes, steep cliffs, hidden bays and pristine beaches, to the remote Buccaneer Archipelago. A cluster of more than 1,000 islands, the archipelago is shaped by some of the world’s highest tidal ranges, creating natural phenomena such as whirlpools and the arresting Horizontal Falls.  Discover the untouched beauty of the Lacepede Islands, just 120 km north of Broome. As an A-class reserve, these islands are a haven for nature lovers, famed for their abundant wildlife and vibrant seabird colonies. It’s also Western Australia’s top breeding ground for green turtles and a prime spot to witness majestic humpback whales during their seasonal migration.   Discovery: Your Discovery Team will inform you of your exact location and planned activities, including Zodiac cruises or landings. 

Sir David Attenborough named the Horizontal Falls at Talbot Bay “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world.” Created by a unique combination of geology and massive tidal surges squeezed through two narrow cliff passages, this is the only place in the world where horizontal falls exist.  After a full day exploring this fascinating region, relax in the Vitality Pool located on the Sky Deck, and gaze out across the breathtaking panoramic views.   Discovery: Explore by Zodiac some of the planet’s most unique waterways. Conditions permitting, journey through the narrow Talbot Creek, locally known as Cyclone Creek, to reveal gorgeous sandstone folding where you may spot rock wallabies on outcrops and the 18 different species of birdlife including Australian Ibis, Brahminy Kite and Brown Honeyeater.

Wake to a 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 10 metres (33 feet). As the tides rise or fall, both soft and hard coral are exposed, falling below sea level to create a remarkable spectacle.    Enrich Smoking ceremony, welcome and guided walk to rock art   Go ashore at Freshwater Cove located on Worrora country and meet with traditional Dambimangari guides of the Arraluli clan and be immersed into the importance of their culture. Hear about the Traditional Owners and the story of how the Wijingarra, or native spotted Quoll, came into being and how the area’s freshwater was created.  Discovery: Join the Discovery Team to explore Montgomery Reef by Zodiac and if the timing is perfect, discover thousands of small waterfalls cascading down the reef and see incredible marine life including sea turtles, octopus, sharks, rays, dolphins and more.

Discover Careening Bay’s captivating history, where in 1820 Phillip Parker King was finally able to repair his vessel - HMC Mermaid. This event was marked by King having the ship’s carpenter carving its name in an enormous Boab.  Discovery: Join our Discovery Team as they take a Zodiac to a nearby isolated beach. Ease into the day with an early morning yoga class` on the sand or relax at the beach bar set up by the Scenic Eclipse II crew.   Later in the day, cruise by Zodiac around Glauert Island, where you’ll discover mangroves, pristine beaches, and if you’re lucky, one of the resident green turtles.  As you cruise around Port Nelson, prepare your cameras to capture the awe-inspiring beauty of the pristine waterways, meandering through sandstone and basalt cliffs. 

Today, Scenic Eclipse II glides through Prince Frederick Harbour to the mouth of the Hunter River. A true wilderness with jaw-dropping panoramas of wild escarpments, monsoon rainforests and the four-tiered Mitchell Falls, carved out over millennia. With cocktail in hand, watch nature’s magnificent show as the sun sets.  Discovery: Tides permitting, the Zodiacs can take you past towering sandstone cliffs, pristine mangrove forests and iconic landscapes such as Prince Frederick Harbour, Porosus Creek and Hunter River. Look out for ospreys and saltwater crocodiles within this prehistoric landscape.  For a fresh perspective, embark on a scenic helicopter flight^ for magnificent aerial views of the Hunter River or Mitchell Falls. Also known as Punamii-uunpuu, it’s an iconic Kimberley landmark and a place of cultural and spiritual significance for the Wunambal people. 

Today Swift Bay offers the opportunity to see both styles of Kimberley rock painting near each other. Gwion-gwion and Wandjina paintings are within a short Zodiac ride of the Discovery Yacht.   Discovery: Join the Discovery Team on a scenic helicopter flight^ to observe Mitchell Falls or stay grounded and take in the ancient rock art galleries Gwion-gwion (formerly known as ‘Bradshaw’ paintings) that depict enigmatic human figures in dynamic stances. Wandjina are spiritual creators and rain-providers which continue to feature strongly in the Kimberley’s Indigenous culture.

Ashmore Reef, Australias most remote marine park, consists of three tropical islands surrounded by a coral reef, covering 583 square kilometres. Its an Important Bird Area (IBA) and access is regulated, with most of the reef classified as a sanctuary zone. Scenic Eclipse II will be stopping at Ashmore Reef for technical clearance. There will be no opportunity for guests to go ashore. The morning is yours to enjoy as you wish. Book a Back of House tour, a Senses Spa treatment#, a Yoga or Pilates session, plunge into the Vitality Pool, or simply relax and indulge in 6-star ultra-luxury on board Scenic Eclipse II.   While your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht sails around Ashmore Reef, be ready to capture its breathtaking beauty with your cameras. Alternatively, you can join our experienced Discovery Team experts on the open decks for an informative birdwatching expedition~. Learn about the diverse seabirds and marine mammals inhabiting the area while taking in the stunning surroundings.  In the evening, settle in at one of the eight bars and lounges to enjoy a beverage of choice.  Indulge in over 130 varieties of aged whiskey at the Scenic Lounge Bar or book a wine tasting session to pair your day with the right drop. 

After enjoying the morning on board your luxurious Discovery Yacht, you’ll stop at the sheltered and secluded Vansittart Bay, a place of significant indigenous cultural history. The remarkably preserved skeleton of a WWII Douglas C-53 awaits discovery. 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.  Discovery: Board a Zodiac for a transfer to a small sandy beach to explore the area with the expert Discovery Team.  Join a hike to see what’s regarded as some of the oldest rock paintings in Australia, dating back approx. 17,300 years. The ancient and mysterious Gwion-gwion is one of two primary art forms found in the Kimberley.

The King George River flows through the pristine Kimberley region of Western Australia, showcasing the breathtaking King George Falls, which plunge over 80 metres in a mesmerizing display.  The highest twin waterfalls in Western Australia, it is accessible only by water or air. With her sleek, yacht-shaped design, Scenic Eclipse II was custom-built to access remote locations. Make your way along the river’s tranquil waters, through towering gorges – home to Brahminy kites, egrets and kingfishers.    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. Weather and tides permitting, our Discovery Team may take you close enough for a natural shower.

Your unforgettable voyage concludes today. Enjoy your final morning in the ultra-luxury of Scenic Eclipse II and take the chance to reflect on the rare and incredible experiences and the remarkable places you’ve visited, some of which very few have been before. Take comfort knowing you’ve created a bank of memories which will last a lifetime. Bid farewell to your friendly crew and new friends as you disembark in Darwin.  Please book your flight to depart out of Darwin after 12:00 PM. *Please be advised that the use of drones is strictly prohibited in this area.  ^^Subject to weather and operational conditions. Sightings cannot be guaranteed.  ^Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board.    ^Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather, ice and tidal conditions.  #Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits.    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.