Australia’s Top End: Cape York & the Great Barrier Reef

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 Old Darwin has been replaced by something of an edifice complex—such buildings as Parliament House and the Supreme Court all seem very grand for such a small city, especially one that prides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.

Arrive in Darwin, the Northern Territory’s tropical capital city. After embarking, settle into your spacious ultra-luxury verandah 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 unsurpassed amenities including the 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. Toast the beginning of your Discovery Voyage with a cocktail on the Observation Terrace.

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

Today’s destination is Melville Island, part of Australia’s remote Tiwi Islands, a haven of natural splendour and Indigenous heritage. Renowned for its breathtaking coastlines and abundant wildlife, it’s home to the Tiwi people, celebrated for their vibrant art, storytelling, and warm welcome. Sail past Cape Melville’s striking rocky headlands to Pirlangimpi, a historic Aboriginal settlement with centuries-old roots. Enjoy the Munupi Arts & Culture Experience—a unique opportunity to spend time in a remote Tiwi community, meet world-renowned artists, explore the Munupi Arts gallery, and immerse in local Tiwi culture.

Today takes you to the remote and breathtaking Wessel Islands, Hole In The Wall, and English Company Islands in Australia's Northern Territory. These unspoiled destinations boast rugged coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. Navigate the legendary "Hole In The Wall," a dramatic natural passageway carved by the tides, and take in the raw beauty of this secluded paradise.

This afternoon you may visit the bridge on Deck 7 to learn about your Discovery Yacht’s technical capabilities with the open-bridge policy.

Discovery:
Join the Discovery Team today for a potential zodiac cruise through the Gugari Rip, followed by an evening presentation where the team will outline tomorrow’s activity program and preview upcoming experiences.

Start your day with an invigorating work out in the gym or a class in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio. Afterwards, indulge in the 550sqm Senses Spa# reinvigorating your mind body and soul. Enjoy lunch in the Yacht Club or Azure Bar and Cafe. Sip a custom cocktail in one of Scenic Eclipse’s all-inclusive bars and lounges, including the Whiskey Bar, featuring more than 130 premium varieties.

Discovery:
The Discovery Team will be hosting lectures in the state-of-the-art theatre, recapping the wonders you have seen so far and providing inspiration for the ports to come.

Explore a captivating blend of cultures on Thursday Island. This Torres Strait gem reveals the influences of British settlement, the pearling industry, and Indigenous heritage. Immerse yourself in history at Green Hill Fort, where cannons and tunnels house the Torres Strait Historical Museum, and discover the rich heritage through historical artifacts and contemporary Indigenous art at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre.

Freechoice:
Cultural Dance Performance: Experience the captivating Torres Strait traditional dancing, where movement is storytelling. Led by local artists, immerse yourself in ancestral rhythms for a profound cultural journey.

Taxi Tour: Explore Thursday Island's authentic charm as you traverse historical landmarks and bustling markets in a Taxi , with insightful commentary from expert local guides.

In Their Steps Tour: Horn Island Heritage and War: Delve into Horn Island's WW2 history with expert guides. Explore significant sites, hear firsthand accounts and honour the island's wartime contributions.

Basket Weaving: Enjoy a hands-on experience, delving into this tradition of Torres Strait communities and learning techniques passed down through generations.

Discover a truly unique location in Queensland and a travel wish list of many Australians as we arrive in Cape York, the northernmost point of mainland Australia. This experience is marked by the sight of the rocky headland overlooking startlingly aqua seas few people ever get to see. Toast your visit with a glass of Champagne from the Sky Bar or Observation Terrace as your ultra-luxury yacht cruises past the “Tip of Australia”.

Discovery:
Through a zodiac landing with your Discovery Team, you might have the chance to photograph yourself with the sign marking the northernmost point of the Australian continent, followed by a hike to explore the cairns and take in the scenic views.

Lizard Island, nestled in Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef, offers unrivalled access to thriving inner and outer reefs teeming with marine life. Fringed by 24 pristine beaches, this tropical haven blends adventure and tranquility. As night falls, stargaze from your Discovery Yacht’s deck, the Milky Way illuminating the sky above this remote sanctuary, home to diverse wildlife and over 1,000 species of fish.

Discovery:
Snorkel with your Discovery Team at the Clam Gardens, home to vibrant giant clams, or embark on an active hike to Cook’s Look for stunning vistas named for Captain James Cook, who scaled it in 1770 to chart the reef.

Spend another day on Lizard Island, a Great Barrier Reef gem. Kayak tranquil turquoise waters with your Discovery Team, uncovering hidden coves, or stroll the soft sands of Watson’s Bay, a pristine stretch steeped in history.

Discovery:
Today, you might join the Discovery Team on a bird walk to observe the island’s diverse resident species or explore the Research Station via zodiac. 

Wake up to a day brimming with exploration in captivating Cooktown, Australia’s closest town to the Great Barrier Reef, where the First Reconciliation between Europeans and the Guugu Yimithirr people marked a pivotal moment in history. Enjoy the Cooktown Explorer—begin your adventure with a drive up Main Street to the Cooktown Museum, housed in a striking 19th-century convent. Explore its acclaimed exhibits, including the Indigenous Gallery, or hop on shuttles to Natures Powerhouse gardens or Grassy Hill’s scenic lookout. Immerse yourself in the past and present, marvelling at architectural remnants from the opulent gold rush days of 1873.

Sail south to Port Douglas, a glamorous resort town renowned for its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. Once a humble fishing village, it transformed into a famous tourist destination in the 1980s. Explore its charming streets lined with high-end boutiques and chic restaurants. Relax on the pristine Four Mile Beach, a serene stretch of golden sand meeting calm turquoise waters. Be immersed in the allure of this coastal gem, where natural beauty and luxury intertwine.

Freechoice:
Mossman Gorge: Daintree Rainforest National Park: Immerse yourself in indigenous culture and ancient biodiversity at Mossman Gorge. Explore easy loop tracks through the rainforest canopy, encountering diverse flora and fauna.

Visit to Wildlife Habitat: Discover Australian wildlife at Wildlife Habitat's five habitats. Enjoy leisurely walks on elevated paths and boardwalks, encountering koalas, kangaroos, and colorful parrots.

The Coral Sea Islands Territory extends east and south from the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef, covering 51 islets and cays, alongside 30 separate reefs and atolls. Willis Island is the only permanently inhabited island, with four staff employed at the weather monitoring station, which was established in 1921 to provide a cyclone early warning service for Queenslanders. Coral Sea Marine Park, one of the world’s largest marine parks, protects 16 different seafloors, 15,000 km² of reef systems and an abundance of corals, fish, sea stars, clams and sea cucumbers.

Discovery:
Your Discovery Team, together with the island’s weather monitoring station staff, will aim to share the station’s history and insights into the island’s conditions.

Tourism is the lifeblood of Cairns (pronounced Caans). The city makes a good base for exploring the wild top half of Queensland, and tens of thousands of international travelers use it as a jumping-off point for activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling trips to the Barrier Reef, as well as boating, fishing, parasailing, scenic flights, and rain-forest treks.It's a tough environment, with intense heat and fierce wildlife. Along with wallabies and grey kangaroos in the savannah and tree kangaroos in the rain forest, you'll find stealthy saltwater crocodiles, venomous snakes, and jellyfish so deadly they put the region’s stunning beaches off- limits to swimmers for nearly half the year. Yet despite this formidable setting, Cairns and tropical North Queensland are far from intimidating places. The people are warm and friendly, the sights spectacular, and—at the right time of year—the beachside lounging is world-class.

You will arrive in Cairns in the afternoon, so take your time to indulge in the sophisticated spaces aboard your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse II, docked overnight. Enjoy an al fresco lunch at the Yacht Club before setting out to explore Cairns on a scenic tour through the vibrant city, then visit the renowned Cairns Aquarium. Savour a refreshing drink and discover diverse marine life with expert insights, returning to the pier with unforgettable memories. This charming city, exemplifying Queensland’s laid-back lifestyle, is the only place where two World Heritage-listed sites the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest collide.

Tourism is the lifeblood of Cairns (pronounced Caans). The city makes a good base for exploring the wild top half of Queensland, and tens of thousands of international travelers use it as a jumping-off point for activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling trips to the Barrier Reef, as well as boating, fishing, parasailing, scenic flights, and rain-forest treks.It's a tough environment, with intense heat and fierce wildlife. Along with wallabies and grey kangaroos in the savannah and tree kangaroos in the rain forest, you'll find stealthy saltwater crocodiles, venomous snakes, and jellyfish so deadly they put the region’s stunning beaches off- limits to swimmers for nearly half the year. Yet despite this formidable setting, Cairns and tropical North Queensland are far from intimidating places. The people are warm and friendly, the sights spectacular, and—at the right time of year—the beachside lounging is world-class.

Your voyage of discovery concludes today. Enjoy your final morning in the ultra-luxury of Scenic Eclipse II and take the opportunity to reflect on the incredible experiences and remarkable places you have visited. Say goodbye to your Captain and the Scenic Eclipse II crew before disembarking in Cairns.

Please book your flight to depart out of Cairns after 12:00 PM.

#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. 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 conditions. ~Water activities may not operate in all locations.

Submersible is not operational in the Northern Territory or northern Queensland.

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.