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

Kia Ora and welcome to New Zealand. You’ll begin your journey in the nation’s largest city, Auckland. Home to around a third of the entire New Zealand population, Auckland is a stylish, cosmopolitan city set around two grand harbours. Today, step aboard your 6-star, ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht and be warmly welcomed by the crew. Your butler will show you to your spacious suite and you can meet your fellow guests over a glass of chilled champagne in the Scenic Bar & Lounge. Please book your flight to arrive into Auckland prior to 02:00 PM.

The Bay of Islands is one of the world’s most spectacular sailing destinations, so make sure you’re on your verandah or the Observation Terrace as you arrive mid-morning. With its unique sub-tropical climate, around 140 islands and thousands of postcard-perfect coves, this is a little slice of paradise on the North Island. Scenic Eclipse II will anchor off the coast of Paihia, famous for its watersports, offering kayaking, fishing, scuba diving, and more. Nearby is the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where the foundation document of New Zealand was signed in 1840. Freechoice: Northland Maori Waka Encounter: A thrilling Maori War Canoe tour. Explore historic sites, paddle over Waitangi River estuaries and visit Haruru Falls, while a guide shares legends and customs. Glowworms and Kauri Forest: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Puketi Kauri Forest and journey through the Kawiti Caves, illuminated by shimmering glowworms. Bay of Islands Lunch Cruise: Sail through the waterways of Opua and Okiato and learn about the  people and events that shaped this country before a delicious lunch. Historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds: Join a local guide for an engaging tour of the Treaty Grounds, including a stirring Maori Cultural Performance and time to explore the museums. Discovery: Admire the picturesque view from above on an optional flightseeing excursion on one of the two on board helicoptersˆ.

After a restorative night of rest in your ultra-luxury suite, choose to enjoy breakfast in bed or, if the day is particularly glorious, a quiet morning spent on your verandah taking in the view. Join a morning yoga session, harmonising body and mind amidst tranquil seascapes. Engage in the enlightening seminar Wisdom for Wellness or partake in Pilates group sessions. Then take some time to explore your Discovery Yacht. Visit the Sky Bar and outdoor Vitality Pool on Deck 10, where you can watch the world slip by from the comfort of a private cabana. Curl up with a good book in the library of the Observation Lounge or, for something more interactive, check the daily program to see what lecture or discussions the Discovery Team are running and learn more about upcoming ports and activities on offer.

Start your day with a freshly squeezed juice, gourmet coffee or tea delivered to your room. Pamper yourself with detoxifying body mask treatments#, experience the invigorating benefits of ice baths alongside sauna sessions and participate in a meditation session for holistic wellness. After a relaxing morning, spend some time in the Observation Lounge before visiting the gym for a Pilates class or aerial yoga. Attend a lecture in the state-of-the-art theatre or join a cooking masterclass at Chefs Garden @ Epicure. Slide into the Vitality Pool on Deck 10 or join your fellow guests for a glass of your favourite beverage at the Sky Bar. Later, dine in one of up to 10 dining experiences.

Make the most of another relaxing sea day indulging in the wellness activities including a morning Sunrise Yoga session, partake in calisthenics followed by a mentally stimulating round of trivia. Visit the open bridge on Deck 7 to meet the Captain and team to learn about Scenic Eclipse’s technical capabilities. Throughout the day enjoy exceptional dining experiences starting with breakfast al fresco at the Yacht Club (be sure to return later to visit the large gelato fridge). Lunch, at the Azure Bar & Café serving light meals, pizza and salads that are available for grazing throughout the day. For dinner choose from Koko’s Asian Fusion, 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. Or journey to France at Lumière, a contemporary fine dining French restaurant replete with a luxurious Champagne bar.

Experience the magic of Queenslands capital as you arrive in Brisbane. The Brisbane River gracefully winds through the citys heart, showcasing the stunning contrast between elegant Georgian sandstone buildings and modern glass towers. This semi-tropical paradise is lushly landscaped with vibrant jacarandas, flame trees, and bougainvillea. Freechoice: Brisbane Explorer: Explore Queensland’s capital on a panoramic tour. Enjoy a photo stop on Mt Coot-tha for unrivalled views of the city. Australia Zoo: Visit Australia Zoo, made famous by ‘The Crocodile Hunter’ Steve Irwin. Be amazed by crocodile feeding and snake handling shows.. A Visit to Sirromet: Take a tour of Mount Cotton winery. Discover their award-winning wine before a three-course meal at the alfresco Tuscan Terrace. On Your Own Brisbane: Explore Brisbane at your leisure. Visit the Brisbane Museum, go shopping in Queen Street Mall or discover South Bank with Australia’s only inner-city artificial beach.

Lady Elliot Island is your first stop at the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef. This lush island paradise is known for its giant manta rays and turtles as well as its commitment to sustainability through the use of 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 unspoilt coral reef. Walk around the island and take in the lush rainforest surroundings, the centre of the island’s life force. Freechoice: Glass Bottom Boat with snorkelling: Spend an hour exploring the vibrant coral reefs and experiencing the underwater world, where you can encounter a variety of marine species, including turtles and manta rays. Behind the Scenes and Island Revegetation Tour: Discover how Lady Elliot Island’s resort generates its own power and water and disposes of waste. Learn about the island’s mining history and current revegetation efforts, including a visit to the island’s nursery. Discovery: Head to the marina and indulge in a range of exciting water sports, including snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or exploring the underwater realm with a SEABOB. Alternatively, admire the pristine eco-paradise from above on an optional flightseeing excursion on one of the two on board helicoptersˆ, or explore the marine life with Scenic Neptune II submersible^. 

Great Keppel Island is the quintessential tropical island playground. Paddle in crystal-clear waters where you may spot turtles, dugongs and playful dolphins. Swim and snorkel from the yacht or one of Great Keppel’s white sand beaches. Discover islands rich Aboriginal heritage and abundant wildlife, including more than 90 species of birds. Climbers can enjoy a rigorous 3.5km 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 own suite’s verandah or from the Sky Bar, Sky Deck outdoor seating or private cabanas. Discovery: Head to the marina and indulge in a range of exciting water sports, including snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or exploring the underwater realm with SEABOB. Alternatively, admire the pristine eco-paradise from above on an optional flightseeing excursion on one of the two on board helicoptersˆ, or explore the marine life in the submersible^.

Its sleek design and environmental credentials make Scenic Eclipse II one of the few ships able to access this rarely visited island. Middle Percy is a dense 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. Take a walking trail to see magnificent views, 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. Beach day Join the Middle Island caretakers for a memorable day filled with exploration and relaxation. Enjoy a fascinating talk about the islands history and conservation efforts before heading to the beach for water sports and refreshments. Guests can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the island while enjoying a variety of activities. Discover the diverse wildlife that calls Middle Island home and explore the islands rich flora. Witness the blue butterflies, which may be particularly prolific in April as they breed on the island. Discovery: Head to the marina and indulge in a range of exciting water sports, including snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or exploring the underwater realm with a SEABOB. Alternatively, admire the pristine eco-paradise from above on an optional flightseeing excursion on one of the two on board helicoptersˆ, or explore the marine life with Scenic Neptune II submersible^.  

The gateway to the stunning Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef, Airlie Beach is a coastal town with palm-fringed beaches, eternal summer and a laid-back vibe. It is an essential stop on any East Coast voyage, and from there you’ll depart for one of the most remarkable experiences of your voyage. Freechoice: Airlie Beach Highlights: Take a bus tour of Airlie Beach. Explore Cannonvale Beach, Shute Harbour and the centre of Airlie Beach township itself. Along the way, enjoy photo stops, shopping and the chance to take a dip in the lagoon or the ocean. Airlie Beach Sights, Surrounds and History: Board a coach to Proserpine, the Whitsunday’s agricultural heart. Visit a local museum to learn about the town’s famous folk and military achievements before returning to Shute Harbour for a scenic stroll. Discovery: Soar above the stunning lagoon on an optional flightseeing tour with one of the two onboard helicopters^. Alternatively, explore marine life from the submersible^. 

Two-thirds national park and surrounded by 23 secluded bays and golden beaches, Magnetic Island is renowned for its natural beauty and serenity. Explore an untouched haven of eucalypt trees with sleeping koalas, hiking trails and open roads. Enjoy panoramic views from the lounge on Deck 10 or relax on your suite’s verandah for views of the dramatic coastline. Look for native wildlife including rock wallabies, possums and over 100 different bird species. Visit Horseshoe Bay, on the sheltered north side of the island, and discovery a thriving local community sprinkled with eclectic art galleries. Freechoice: Magnetic Island Overview: Experience the highlights of Magnetic Island on a guided bus tour. Visit Horseshow Bay, look for rock wallabies and take a stroll along the iconic Picnic Bay Jetty. Magnetic Island Sailing Adventure: The sailing yacht journey starts in Horseshoe Bay, explores Magnetic Island, offers local produce, Australian organic wine, beers, wildlife sightings, swims, brunch, and returns to Horseshoe Bay. Discovery: Head to the marina and indulge in a range of exciting water sports, including snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or exploring the underwater realm with SEABOB. Alternatively, admire the pristine eco-paradise from above on an optional flightseeing excursion on one of the two on board helicoptersˆ, or explore the marine life with Scenic Neptune II submersible^.

Today you’ll arrive in Cairns, 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 own 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 knowing you’ve created a collection of memories which 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. ^Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather, ice and tidal conditions. Submersible is not in operation in New Zealand. #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. 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.