Ultimate Kimberley Coastline, Western Australia & The Abrolhos Islands

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 Old Darwin has been replaced by something of an edifice complex—such buildings as Parliament House and the Supreme Court all seem very grand for such a small city, especially one that prides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 voyage of discovery begins in Darwin. Sitting at the crossroads of Australia, Asia and the Pacific Islands, this tropical capital is rich in history, culture and natural wonders.

Welcome aboard. Settle into your spacious suite on board Scenic Eclipse II. Your butler will assist with unpacking and guide you through the pillow menu. Take some time to familiarise yourself with the ultra-luxury amenities that include eight 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 each deck of Scenic Eclipse II and visit the open bridge, where your Captain and navigational crew will welcome you in the operational centre throughout your voyage. Toast the beginning of your journey with a glass of champagne in the Scenic Lounge Bar or with a cocktail at the open-air Sky Bar on Deck 10.

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

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.

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

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. 

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. 

Your Discovery Team will inform you of your exact location and planned activities, including Zodiac cruises or landings. 

Traffic in the Broome Harbour (a very busy working harbour) is restricted, requiring special permits for all vehicles accessing the pier area. Guests are not permitted in this area on an individual basis. In order to make disembarkation as smooth as possible Silversea will be providing a group motorcoach transfer from the pier to the airport.  This transfer will depart shortly after the ship is cleared.  Exact timings will be communicated by the ship's staff.Guests who do not wish to go to the airport immediately following disembarkation will be transferred to Pearl Luggers, located 10 - 15 minutes from the airport, where taxis are available for hire. 

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

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. 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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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^. 

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.

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.

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.

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. 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.

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.

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.

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.