Ultimate Western Australia, The Abrolhos Islands and 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.

Surrounded by beaches, sun-drenched Geraldton in Western Australia is a thriving city facing the Indian Ocean. Located on the Coral Coast, the city has a friendly country town feel but is infused local history and cultural heritage. Like many coastal towns, the dining and café culture is superb and the choice of which restaurant to choose is a happy dilemma for most travellers!Celebrated for its annual display of spectacular wildflowers, Geraldton’s flora attracts visitors from all regions, with guides taking tourists on as much as 300 mile/500 kilometre round trips in order to make sure that they receive the best possible experience. A haven for visitors especially during the cooler months, the views differ year-in year-out and vary greatly depending on the rainfall. Whole fields become blanketed in colour and rare plants, such as the wreath-flower, burst into splendorous bloom. The well-informed guides keep a track of what is flowering where and visitors only have to ask to be pointed in the right direction. With over 300 species of native plants, it is only expected that insects and birds are attracted to the area. Over 120 types of bird have been classified as well as 22 types of reptile and seven types of frog. Happily, the iconic kangaroo also makes the plains their home, so visitors can expect a real Aussie welcome if they happen upon one!

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 Australia's 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 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’.

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.

Rowley Shoals is regarded as one of the most incredible diving and snorkelling locations in the world. Three coral atolls; Mermaid, Clerke and Imperieuse reefs rise near vertical, from the surrounding crystal-clear waters on the edge of the continental shelf. Spot an array of rare, wonderful and vibrant marine wildlife who live within the corals and make for an exceptional diving and snorkelling exploration. To take full advantage of the location, Le Lapérouse will spend one and a half days at the Rowley Shoals, allowing you to swim and snorkel from Zodiac®.

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^.

Broome, a coastal town in Western Australia, is famous for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Located on the Indian Ocean, it boasts Cable Beach, known for its white sand, turquoise waters, and iconic camel rides at sunset. Once a pearling hub, Broome retains its multicultural heritage, reflected in its cuisine and architecture. The town is also the gateway to the Kimberley region, offering breathtaking landscapes and unique natural attractions like the Staircase to the Moon. With warm weather year-round and a laid-back atmosphere, Broome is a perfect destination for adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.

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

Roughly 800 islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago surround and shelter the impressive spread of Yampi Sound (from the aboriginal word for water, “Yampee”). The area was named in 1821 by Captain Phillip Parker King, in commemoration of William Dampier’s visit in 1688. Pearlers began visiting the area in the late 1800s, and more recently mining operators established open-cut mines on Koolan Island on the east side of the Sound. Some of the richest iron ore in the world is extracted here to this day. The coastline of Yampi shows rock layers wildly twisted and contorted into great folds. White-bellied Sea Eagles, Brahminy Kites, Ospreys, Common Sandpipers and Eastern Reef Egrets inhabit the archipelago and the area is rich in fish life, which in turn is an attraction for bottlenose dolphins that come here to feed. Yampi Sound is also occassionaly a calving ground for humpback whales and mothers and calves can sometimes be spotted in the relatively shallow turquoise waters.

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.

Careening Bay was named by Lieutenant Phillip Parker King when he careened his ship, HMC Mermaid during a voyage of discovery in 1820. After a series of leaks onboard the Mermaid, King set out for a shallow sandy bay which to careen and carry out repairs. For ten days the Mermaid crew worked hard before refloating the vessel. The ship’s carpenter carved the name of the vessel and the year into a conspicuous boab tree. The famous boab tree is now 3 metres wide and National Heritage listed.

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. 

The Bonaparte Archipelago is a rugged maze of islands that stretch almost 150km along Western Australia’s remote Kimberley coast. Remaining relatively unspoilt and remarkably pristine, Swift Bay is landscaped by heavily fractured sandstone providing an abundance of rock shelters. On the walls of these shelters are examples of both Wandjina and Gwion Gwion style rock art. Join your expedition team ashore for a guided walk to a number of rock art galleries depicting these unique rock art styles.

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.

Vansittart Bay is a beautifully protected large bay with several islands and coves. Jar Island contains ancient rock art galleries depicting the Gwion Gwion style unique to the Kimberley region. Mainly neglected by, or unknown to, the early European researchers of Aboriginal culture in the Kimberley in favour of the dominant & more dramatic Wandjina art, Gwion Gwion art has in recent years gained world prominence. Join your Expedition Team ashore for a short walk, past some fascinating rock formations, to the site of the Gwion Gwion art galleries.

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.

Darwin is Australia's most colorful, and exotic, capital city. Surrounded on three sides by the turquoise waters of the Timor Sea, the streets are lined with tropical flowers and trees. Warm and dry in winter, hot and steamy in summer, it's a relaxed and casual place, as well as a beguiling blend of tropical frontier outpost and Outback hardiness. Thanks to its close proximity to Southeast Asia and its multicultural population it also seems more like Asia than the rest of Australia. Darwin is a city that has always had to fight for its survival. The seductiveness of contemporary Darwin lifestyles belies a history of failed attempts that date from 1824 when Europeans attempted to establish an enclave in this harsh, unyielding climate. The original 1869 settlement, called Palmerston, was built on a parcel of mangrove wetlands and scrub forest that had changed little in 15 million years. It was not until 1911, after it had already weathered the disastrous cyclones of 1878, 1882, and 1897, that the town was named after the scientist who had visited Australia's shores aboard the Beagle in 1839. During World War II it was bombed more than 60 times, as the harbor full of warships was a prime target for the Japanese war planes. Then, on the night of Christmas Eve 1974, the city was almost completely destroyed by Cyclone Tracy, Australia’s greatest natural disaster. It's a tribute to those who stayed and to those who have come to live here after Tracy that the rebuilt city now thrives as an administrative and commercial center for northern Australia. Old Darwin has been replaced by something of an edifice complex—such buildings as Parliament House and the Supreme Court all seem very grand for such a small city, especially one that prides itself on its casual, outdoor-centric lifestyle. Today Darwin is the best place from which to explore Australia's Top End, with its wonders of Kakadu and the Kimberley region.

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.