| | | | | Arrive | Depart |
| 7th07 | SepSep | 202424 | Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia, embark on the Scenic Eclipse II | | |
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 Old Darwin has been replaced by something of an edifice complex—such buildings as Parliament House and the Supreme Court all seem very grand for such a small city, especially one that prides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. Embark in the Northern Territory’s multicultural capital of the ‘Top End’ of Australia. Despite surviving two cyclones and several air raids, Darwin is distinguished by its relaxed lifestyle. Your journey of wonder begins on board Scenic Eclipse II.Please book your flight to arrive into Darwin prior to 02:00 PM. |
| 8th08 | SepSep | 202424 | At Sea | | |
| 9th09 | SepSep | 202424 | Ambon Island, Indonesia | | |
Arrive in the capital of the Maluku Islands, Ambon. The most populous island of the group, Ambon is lush and mountainous, surrounded by sparkling turquoise seas. Come ashore at the busy town of Kota Ambon, also known as ‘Ambon Manise’, meaning beautiful Ambon. Immerse yourself in Ambon with a tour celebrating the history and culture of the region, from a traditional welcome to the dynamic city market full of sensory delights. Time to reflect on how WWII also touched the Pacific regions with a visit to the WWII War Graves Cemetery. Away from the city, the beaches of Ambon are some of the most magnificent in Indonesia. Powdery white sand that feels like flour is flanked by crystal clear water and vivid green jungle. |
| 10th10 | SepSep | 202424 | Banda Islands, Indonesia | | |
The heart of the Old World global spice trade, Banda Neira has retained a unique historic mix of culture, nature and wildlife. At the focal point of Indonesia’s Spice Islands, Banda was prized by European, Arab and Chinese traders until the late 1800s. Experience a flashback to these times as you watch traditional war canoes guide us into Banda Harbour. Explore well preserved Fort Belgica on your walking tour, providing a fascinating insight into Dutch colonisation and enjoy a traditional dance and music performance. |
| 11th11 | SepSep | 202424 | Arguni, Indonesia | | |
This small isolated island is a hidden gem located off the north coast of the Bomberai Peninsula. Known for its limestone formations, Papuan rock art and burial caves, the area has around 24 endemic species of rainbow fish.Discovery: Join your discovery team and travel by Zodiac to explore the 20,000-year-old rock art between Arguni and Andamata villages. Enjoy watching village life as you pass the shores of this beautiful island. |
| 12th12 | SepSep | 202424 | Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia | | |
Today sail into the other-worldly splendour of the Raja Ampat Islands. With more than 1,500 sparsely populated islands peppered across the ocean north of West Papua, this isolated archipelago is often called ‘the last paradise on earth’. Because of its remote location, Raja Ampat is largely untouched by mass tourism. Today, you can explore Gam Island. Just a few villages sit on the coast and there are no roads or paths across the island. It’s known for its incredible bird life, including the red birds of paradise, western crowned pigeons, palm cockatoos and the ground-dwelling maleo. Kri island is home to some of Raja Ampat's lushest forests, long white beaches, magnificent coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life.Discovery: Visit the local village to be welcomed with traditional performances and experience their way of life before you immerse yourself in the beauty of the region snorkeling or kayaking in the beautiful turquoise waters. |
| 13th13 | SepSep | 202424 | Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia | | |
Scenic Eclipse will sail north overnight, bound for one of the northernmost islands in Raja Ampat. Uninhabited and breathtakingly beautiful, Wayag is one of Indonesia’s most recognisable sights, the star of many television commercials and billboards. Crystal clear waters are fringed by white sand beaches and dramatic karst islands sprout straight up from the sea. Even seasoned travellers will be dazzled by its natural beauty. Take this idyllic time to explore on excursions for swimming, snorkeling and wildlife spotting, cruising through the sapphire seas on a Zodiac. You’ll spend a full day here, giving you time to explore everything Wayag has to offer and soak in the splendour of this pristine paradise. |
| 14th14 | SepSep | 202424 | Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia | | |
One of the four largest islands of the group, known collectively as the Four Kings, it has a permanent population of around 5,000 scattered around a few villages. In a region of spectacular biodiversity, Misool manages to stand above the rest of Raja Ampat. It is surrounded by one of the most pristine reef systems left on earth and is one of the few places where biodiversity is improving, rather than declining. Today, enjoy more swimming, snorkeling and watersports in an unforgettable location. Misool also adds the intrigue of ancient rock art and limestone caves to your complete island experience. |
| 15th15 | SepSep | 202424 | Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia | | |
We spend another day at magnificant Misool Island. After enjoying another morning of exploring, swimming or just taking in the views of this picturesque location, unwind on board in one of the cabanas with your drink of choice. |
| 16th16 | SepSep | 202424 | Kai Islands, Indonesia | | |
The Kei islands are home to some of the most beautiful, pristine and untouched beaches in the world. They are the most accessible islands of southern Maluku and offer visitors a tranquil escape from the bustling nature of Darwin. Referred to as the hidden gems of Indonesia, Kei Islands are relatively unknown and therefore make for the perfect place to enjoy a day of swimming and snorkelling on an idyllic uninhabited picture postcard tropical island. Made entirely of white sand and coral, the Kei Islands are completely flat, except for the coconut trees - a true relaxing paradise framed by the pristine waters of the Banda Sea. Discovery: Take the time to swim and snorkel in this tropical island known for its spectacular limestone scenery - the definition of a holiday dream. |
| 17th17 | SepSep | 202424 | Sangliat Dol Village, Yamdena Island, Indonesia | | |
Located in the Maluku Province of Indonesia are the Tanimbar Islands, of which Yamdena is the largest. On the east coast of Yamdena, is the village of Sangliat Dol, which holds some of the best megalithic remains known in the area. A monumental stone staircase extends from the beach to the village and overlooks the sea. This and a large stone ship are some of the megalithic remains to be found here. White sand and turquoise waters surround this tropical-island village. As the hub of Maluku’s boat culture, Sangliat Dol is famous for its megalithic sites and an ancient stone boat built as a tribute to the original inhabitants who arrived by sea. The local chief and singing villagers will welcome you on the beach before a fascinating ritual ceremony. Be amazed by the cultural dances performed by the locals adorned in colourful bird-of-paradise head-dresses, enjoy demonstrations of local handicrafts and traditional ways of cooking. See the old Dutch colonial Catholic Church that overlooks the stone boat. |
| 18th18 | SepSep | 202424 | At Sea | | |
| 19th19 | SepSep | 202424 | Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia, disembark the Scenic Eclipse II | | |
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 cruise ends in Darwin. Sitting at the crossroads of Australia, Asia and the Pacific Islands, this tropical capital is closer to Bali than Bondi. After an unforgettable voyage, it’s time to farewell your fellow guests and Scenic Eclipse II crew. Take with you your fond memories of the incredible places you have seen, once-in-a-lifetime moments and the unrivalled ultra-luxury experience on board your Scenic Eclipse II Discovery Yacht.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 tour will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. |