Discover the Kimberley Coastline: An Ancient Wilderness

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 Old Darwin has been replaced by something of an edifice complex—such buildings as Parliament House and the Supreme Court all seem very grand for such a small city, especially one that prides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 Expedition Voyage begins in Darwin. At the tropical Top End, this northern capital sits at the meeting point of Australia, Asia and the Pacific, its harbour, wartime history and diverse communities giving the city a distinctive character.

Welcome on board Scenic Eclipse II, your ultra-luxury home for the days ahead. Settle into your spacious suite, with butler service on hand and thoughtful touches that range from a curated pillow menu to intuitive in-suite technology. Take time to explore the decks and find your favourite indoor and outdoor spaces, before toasting the start of your voyage with a glass of champagne in the Scenic Lounge Bar or 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.

Vansittart Bay, a sheltered inlet along the Kimberley coast, is known for its quiet beaches, red headlands and deep cultural significance for Traditional Owners. Here, traces of more recent history appear alongside ancient stories, including the remarkably well-preserved skeleton of a World War II Douglas C-53 aircraft resting in the landscape.

Scenic Discovery:
A guided visit ashore may begin with a short Zodiac transfer to a secluded sandy beach, where the expert Discovery Team can introduce the bay’s geology, history and cultural context as you explore this remote corner of the Kimberley at an unhurried pace.

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.

Swift Bay offers a rare concentration of Kimberley rock art styles in one area, with Gwion Gwion and Wandjina galleries located within reach of your Scenic Discovery Yacht by a short Zodiac transfer. Towering sandstone escarpments and sheltered rock overhangs frame a landscape where culture and country are closely intertwined.

Scenic Discovery:
Accompanied by the Discovery Team, visit ancient Gwion Gwion galleries (formerly known as ‘Bradshaw’ paintings), where fine, elongated human figures appear in flowing headdresses and dynamic postures. Nearby, Wandjina rock art depicts powerful creation beings and rain-bringers that remain central to the living culture of the region’s Indigenous peoples.

Subject to conditions and scheduling, there may also be an option to join a scenic helicopter^ flight over the Mitchell Plateau to view the tiered cascades of Mitchell Falls from the air.

Today, Scenic Eclipse II will cruise through York Sound 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.

Subject to conditions and scheduling, for a fresh perspective embark on an optional 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.

Later, treat yourself to an indulgent time in the Senses Spa. Be pampered with a range of signature ESPA treatments# and relaxation lounges. Then watch the world slip by as you relax in a cabana on Deck 10, before taking a dip in the Vitality pool. Alternatively, ask your butler to deliver afternoon tea to your suite to enjoy on your private verandah while marvelling at the endless ocean.

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.

Careening Bay, within Port Nelson, is closely linked to early coastal exploration. In 1820, British surveyor Phillip Parker King careened his vessel HMC Mermaid here for repairs, commemorating the event by having its name carved into the trunk of a vast boab tree that still bears the inscription today.

Scenic Discovery:
Guided by the Discovery Team, time ashore may include a visit to the historic “Mermaid Tree” and the surrounding shoreline, with opportunities to appreciate the bay’s quiet beaches, distinctive boabs and coastal vegetation. Later, cruising by small craft around nearby islands and inlets can reveal mangroves, sheltered coves and marine life such as sea turtles. As Port Nelson’s sandstone and basalt cliffs come into view, the interplay of light on rock and water provides a striking natural backdrop for photography and quiet contemplation.

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 and gaze out across the breathtaking panoramic views.

Scenic Discovery:
Explore some of the planet’s most unique waterways by Zodiac. 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, or the 18 different species of birdlife including Australian Ibis, Brahminy Kite and Brown Honeyeater.

±Please note, guests will have the opportunity to view this natural phenomena however will not cruise through the Horizontal Falls.

The Lacepedes are a group of four islands, perfectly nestled off the Kimberley coast. The islands are imperative to Australia’s rich wildlife as they are key breeding habitats for Green Turtles and are home to a wealth of birds such as Masked Boobies, Australian Pelicans, Lesser Frigatebirds and the largest colony of Brown Bobbies in the world. Join your expedition team for a guided zodiac tour to view the prolific wildlife. Due to the sensitive nature of the environment, landings are prohibited on the Lacepede Islands.

Today 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.

In the afternoon, stop for a coffee or a cocktail at one of the eight bars and lounges on board or curl up with a book in the library of the Observation Lounge. Then join the Discovery Team in the state-of-the-art theatre for a recap of the extraordinary places you’ve visited.

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.

Your Expedition Voyage concludes today in Broome. Enjoy your final morning 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. Bid farewell to your friendly crew and new friends as you disembark Scenic Eclipse II.

Please book your flight to depart out of Broome after 10:00 AM.

*Please be advised that the use of drones is strictly prohibited in this area.
#Spa treatments and services at additional cost. Daily activities may be subject to change; please consult your Daily Wonder for updates.
+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.
^Experiences on board our two helicopters and submersible are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather conditions.
~Kayak and stand-up paddleboard not available in all locations

Submersible not in operation in the Kimberley.

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.