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Whitsunday Islands, Australia

Along the East Coast of Australia: Beaches & the Great Barrier Reef

Auckland - Cairns - Example 12 Day Cruise aboard Scenic Eclipse II
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Embark on a 12-day cruise from Auckland to Cairns aboard the Scenic Eclipse II. The journey promises paradise along New Zealand's North Island and Australia's East Coast. Explore the beautiful Bay of Islands from Auckland, sail to Norfolk Island, and then reach Queensland's serene islands. See the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, with its stunning beaches, clear waters, and colorful marine life. The Scenic Eclipse II takes you to peaceful bays, perfect for snorkeling, where you can see vibrant coral, tropical fish, green turtles, and friendly reef sharks. This unforgettable cruise showcases one of the world's most stunning natural wonders.
Norfolk IslandExplore the wonder of coral reefsVisit AucklandClownfish spotted on snorkeling tripSnorkel off of Australia's beautiful coastWhitsunday Islands, Australia
Highlights
  • Explore Auckland, New Zealand's largest city with modern sophistication and stunning harbors
  • Discover the Bay of Islands' paradise with sailing, historic streets, and deserted beaches
  • Marvel at the marine wonders of Lady Elliot Island and Lady Musgrave Island on the Great Barrier Reef
  • Experience Norfolk Island's remote beauty, unique culture, and turbulent history
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Auckland, New Zealand | Embark

Welcome to New Zealand! Commence your adventure in Auckland, the country's largest city. Home to approximately a third of New Zealand's population, Auckland is a modern and sophisticated city around two magnificent harbors.

Upon boarding the 6-star ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, the crew will warmly welcome you, and your butler will escort you to your spacious suite, where you can mingle with other guests over a glass of chilled champagne in the Observation Lounge.

Please book your flight to arrive in Auckland before 02:00 PM.

Day 2: Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is known for its stunning sailing opportunities and unique sub-tropical climate. With around 150 islands and numerous picturesque coves, it's a little slice of paradise on New Zealand's North Island. Scenic Eclipse will anchor off the coast of Russell, the country's first seaport, where you can explore historic streets, whitewashed houses, and the oldest church in New Zealand, Christ Church, dating back to 1835. The town also boasts New Zealand's oldest licensed establishment, the Duke of Marlborough, along the waterfront. You can enjoy deserted beaches, charming villages, remote walking tracks, and historic sites in the area.

Day 3: At Sea

Today is yours to do as much or as little as you want as Scenic Eclipse II sails north towards Norfolk Island. Perhaps you’d like to take things slowly, starting with breakfast brought to your suite by your butler, enjoying the verandah, and looking out over the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean. You could also start the day with an invigorating workout in the gym or a class in the Yoga & Pilates studio. 

Take some time to explore the ship, from the Sky Bar and outdoor Vitality Pool on Deck 10 to the tranquil Senses Spa on Deck 6 with its steam rooms, saunas, plunge pool, and KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge. Stop for a coffee or a cocktail at one of the nine bars and lounges on board, or curl up with a good book in the library of the Observation Lounge. Check the daily program to see what lectures or discussions the Discovery Team is running and learn more about upcoming ports, wildlife, or activities. 

Day 4: Norfolk Island, Australia

Stand on your verandah or the Sky Deck early this morning and feel like one of the early seafaring explorers arriving at a remote island after days at sea. This tiny dot in the middle of the South Pacific is Norfolk Island, more than 800km northwest of the New Zealand coast and almost 1,500km east of Australia. The first thing you see will be the tall Norfolk pines dotted along the clifftops, looking out over windswept coastline, deserted beaches, and surging seas. 

Though the island is technically part of Australia, it has its distinct personality and a fascinating past. Settled just weeks after the First Fleet arrived in Sydney in 1788, the island was first used for agriculture before becoming a convict prison famed for its harsh treatment of prisoners. In the 1850s, the island was given to the Pitcairn Islanders, descendants of the Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian wives. This turbulent history has created a unique culture and language blending 18th-century English and Polynesian. 

Day 5-6: At Sea

Make the most of two days at sea by indulging in the many exceptional dining experiences at Scenic Eclipse. Start with breakfast al fresco at the Yacht Club (be sure to return later to visit the large gelato fridge). For lunch, Azure Bar & Café serves light meals, pizza, and salads available for grazing throughout the day. Elements is the ship’s main restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu ranges from Italian to steak and seafood.  

The selection of specialty restaurants on board allows you to dine worldwide each night. Channel the spirit of Asia at Koko’s Asian Fusion; choose one of the sunken Japanese-style tables for an authentic ambiance. Grab a seat at the bar at Sushi @ Koko’s to watch the chefs at work or enjoy the spectacle of teppanyaki-style dining inspired by the markets of Asia at Night Market @ Koko’s, an exclusive experience for just eight guests at a time—journey to France at Lumière, a contemporary fine dining French restaurant replete with a luxe Champagne bar.

Enjoy another luxurious day at sea as Scenic Eclipse II sails to mainland Australia. Today could be the perfect time to relax and recharge in the indulgent Senses Spa on Deck 6. Inside this luxurious retreat, you can enjoy a range of ESPA treatments, including massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, and alternative therapies like Tibetan bowl sound healing. After your treatment, cool off in the Vitality plunge pool on the Senses Spa Pool Deck or warm up in the exclusive KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge, where heated beds have unique healing properties. You can also find saunas, steam rooms, therapeutic pressure showers, and a hair and beauty salon within the spa complex. 

Once you’re ready to venture out, watch the world slip by as you relax in a cabana on Deck 10 before taking a dip in the Vitality Pool with a refreshing drink. Read a book in the Observation Lounge library, or take one with you and find the hanging egg chairs on Deck 7. Alternatively, ask your butler to bring afternoon tea or cocktails to your suite for you to enjoy on the private verandah while marveling at the endless ocean. 

Day 7: Lady Elliot Island | Lady Musgrave Island

Lady Elliot Island is your first World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef stop. Adorned with lush rainforest, the island paradise is known for its large population of giant manta rays and turtles. It’s also known for its commitment to sustainability through renewable energy, invasive species eradication, and other notable environmental initiatives. Here, the glittering white beaches are made entirely of crushed coral. The highly protected ‘Green Zone’ is a sanctuary for over 1,200 species of marine life and an extraordinary unspoiled coral reef. Walk around the island and take in the lush rainforest surroundings, the center of the island’s life force.  

Then, Scenic Eclipse II will continue to Lady Musgrave Island. Lady Musgrave Island sits in a lagoon formed by a huge, circular protective coral wall, creating calm, crystal-clear waters. Perfect for first-time snorkellers, the sheltered lagoon is home to the complete cast of the marine “Great 8”: clown fish, giant clams, manta rays, Maori wrasse, potato cod, reef sharks, and turtles. Almost completely untouched, the island’s only full-time inhabitants are 22 breeding seabird species.  

After a day dipping in and out of the ocean, swimming, snorkeling, and marveling at the colorful natural aquarium, it’s time to relax in ultra-luxury surroundings. Perhaps with a toast of Champagne in one of the nine bars and lounges to congratulate yourself for the unforgettable experiences and the magical marine memories you’re making.

Day 8: Great Keppel (Wop-pa) Island

Great Keppel Island is the quintessential tropical island playground. Paddle serenely along crystal-clear calm waters along the coastline, where you may spot turtles, dugongs, and playful dolphins. Swim and snorkel from the yacht or one of the 17 white-sand beaches along Great Keppel's shore. Discover the island's rich Aboriginal heritage and abundant native wildlife, including more than 90 species of birds. Those who like to climb can go on the 3.5km rigorous hike up Mount Wyndham, the island's highest point.  

Back onboard, with a cocktail in hand, watch a magnificent island sunset from the comfort of your suite's verandah, the Sky Bar, Sky Deck outdoor seating, or private cabanas. Enjoy the tropical evening under a trillion sparkling stars as the sky transitions from bright blue to pastel hues until finally dark.

Day 9: Percy Islands

Due to its size and environmental credentials, Scenic Eclipse II is one of the few ships able to access this rarely-visited island. Middle Percy is sometimes described as Robinson Crusoe Island, a densely wooded hilltop that rises above the depths of the Coral Sea. Explore West Beach and find an eclectic collection of memorabilia of bygone days donated by visiting sailors who’ve stopped beneath the coconut palms at the rustic A-frame hut. Take a walking trail to see magnificent views, secluded bays, and sandy beaches. Swim or snorkel in tropical waters or take a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to a secluded beach. Alternatively, relax in the temperature-controlled Vitality Pool on Deck 10, soaking in the panoramic views.

Day 10: Airlie Beach

Imagine wide stretches of white sandy beaches, palm trees with fronds gently rustling, and hammocks slowly swinging. The easy access from Airlie Beach has made it a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the 74 islands of the Whitsundays. The best way to explore the islands is by cruise, and with Scenic Eclipse II, it’s 6-star ultra-luxury discovery at its finest.  

Dive below the crystal-clear water, perfect for snorkeling and visibility of coral and marine life with all rainbow colors. Soar above in one of two optional onboard helicopters for a birds-eye view of the iconic love heart-shaped reef. End your perfect day with a glass of France’s finest at the Lumière Champagne Bar or indulge in over 100 varieties of aged whiskey at the Scenic Lounge Bar. Scenic Eclipse II’s truly all-inclusive philosophy ensures you can enjoy premium beverages* every day.

Day 11: Magnetic Island

Another day, another incredible tropical paradise. Magnetic Island is a two-thirds national park with 23 secluded bays and golden beaches. Renowned for its natural beauty and serenity, discover an untouched haven of open roads, Eucalypt trees with sleeping koalas, and hiking trails. Lay back and enjoy the panoramic views from a lounge on Deck 10, or relax on your suite’s verandah and take in the dramatic coastline of giant boulders and majestic hoop pines. The island is a sanctuary for native wildlife, including rock wallabies, koalas, possums, and over 100 bird species. At Horseshoe Bay on the sheltered north side of the island, there’s a thriving local community sprinkled with eclectic art galleries. Enjoy a sumptuous meal for your final evening in one of up to 10 dining 6-star dining experiences on board Scenic Eclipse II.

Day 12: Cairns | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Cairns is the only place on Earth where two World Heritage-listed sites collide –the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. This is where your unforgettable voyage concludes. Spend an easy final morning in ultra-luxury onboard Scenic Eclipse II, perhaps with coffee on your verandah served by your butler.

Reflect on the rare and wonderous experiences of your once-in-a-lifetime journey and the discoveries of the magical underwater world. Take comfort in knowing you’ve created a collection of memories that will last forever. Bid farewell to your friendly crew and new friends as you disembark in Cairns. 

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

Ship/Hotel

Scenic Eclipse II

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$23,590 2-3 travelers
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
D Verandah
344-366 sqft. Verandah Suites, located on Deck 5, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
DA Deluxe Verandah
344-366 sqft. Deluxe Verandah Suites located on Deck 5, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
DB Deluxe Verandah
344-366 sqft. Deluxe Verandah Suites located on Deck 5, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
DD Grand Deluxe Verandah
409-430 sqft. Choose a Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite, located on Deck 5, which provides additional room to relax. Amenities include a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
C Verandah
344-366 sqft. Verandah Suites, located on Deck 6, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
CA Deluxe Verandah
344-366 sqft. Deluxe Verandah Suites located on Deck 6, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
CD Grand Deluxe Verandah
409-430 sqft. Choose a Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite, located on Deck 6, which provides additional room to relax. Amenities include a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
GP Grand Panorama
344-366 sqft. Verandah Suites, located on Decks 5, 6, 7 or 8, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
B Verandah
344-366 sqft. Verandah Suites, located on Decks 5, 6, 7 or 8, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
BA Deluxe Verandah
344-366 sqft. Deluxe Verandah Suites located on Decks 6, 7 or 8 provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
BD Grand Deluxe Verandah
409-430 sqft. Choose a Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite, which provides additional room to relax. Amenities include a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
A Verandah
344-366 sqft. Verandah Suites, located on Decks 5, 6, 7 or 8, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
AA Deluxe Verandah
344-366 sqft. Deluxe Verandah Suites located on Decks 6, 7 or 8 provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
AD Grand Deluxe Verandah
409-430 sqft. Choose a Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite, which provides additional room to relax. Amenities include a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
S Spa
495-538 sqft. Located on the higher decks, luxurious Spa Suites include a luxurious king-sized bed, spa bath, steam shower, butler service, and additional features and services that will
P Panorama
1,184sqft. Located at the front of the yacht on Deck 8 these opulent suites feature spacious curved terraces, a king-sized bed, full bath with steam shower and additional features and services.
SA Spa
495-538 sqft. Located on the higher decks, luxurious Spa Suites include a luxurious king-sized bed, spa bath, steam shower, butler service, and additional features and services
SB Spa
495-538 sqft. Located on the higher decks, luxurious Spa Suites include a luxurious king-sized bed, spa bath, steam shower, butler service, and additional features and services
OP Owner's Penthouse
2,099sqft. The oversized Owner’s Penthouse Suites are the ultimate indulgence. Located on Deck 9 and elegantly appointed with spacious curved terraces featuring a private Jacuzzi and the best views onboard, you will never want to leave.

Notes

All rates are quoted in USD and represent cost per person, based on double occupancy.
Included
  • 11 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, 11 Dinners
  • 11 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Wifi
  • Porterage
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Complimentary beverages
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Select drinks including a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits are not included in the package and may be available at an additional charge
  • Passport or Visa fees
  • All travel invoice risks. We strongly recommend you to take out comprehensive travel insurance with a reputable insurance company to cover you against risks associated with your tour. Including cover for loss of luggage, medical expense, and cost and expenses incurred due to cancellations, delays, or other disruptions

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