Australia’s Top End, Indonesia & The Ghan - Cruise & Land Journey: 16 days Cairns to Adelaide

Welcome on board Scenic Eclipse II, your 6-star ultra-luxury Scenic Discovery Yacht. Settle into your spacious all-verandah suite as your journey begins in Cairns, a relaxed tropical city and gateway to northern Queensland, framed by the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient Daintree Rainforest, setting the tone for the remarkable voyage ahead.

As you step on board, you’ll be warmly greeted by the Captain and crew with a glass of Champagne before being personally escorted to your ultra-luxury suite. From the Sky Deck, raise a toast to the oceanscape as you farewell Cairns and look ahead to the unforgettable journey to come.

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

Lizard Island, nestled in Queensland's Great Barrier Reef, offers unrivalled access to vibrant inner and outer reefs teeming with marine life. Fringed by 24 pristine beaches, this tropical haven blends adventure and tranquillity. Kayak~ across tranquil turquoise waters with your Discovery Team, uncovering hidden coves, or stroll along the soft sands of Watson's Bay, a beautiful stretch steeped in history.

When night falls and skies are clear, you may witness a spectacular celestial display from your Scenic Discovery Yacht's deck above this remote sanctuary — home to diverse wildlife and over 1,000 species of fish.

Scenic Discovery:
Subject to weather conditions and local authorities’ approval, you may enjoy opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding~ and Seabobs. Snorkelling at the famed Giant Clam Garden could reveal its impressive marine life, while a guided hike to Cook’s Look offers sweeping views across the reef and surrounding islands.

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 startling 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”.

Tonight, indulge in refined French cuisine at Lumière+, where elegance meets exceptional culinary artistry. Savour exquisite dishes paired with fine wines in a sophisticated atmosphere, a perfect way to end your day.

Scenic Discovery:
Subject to weather conditions and local authorities’ approval, 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.

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.

Begin your morning at sea with a refreshing dip in the Vitality pool on Deck 10, followed by a leisurely coffee at the Observation Terrace. Alternatively, join an early guided meditation session on deck, embracing the tranquillity of the open sea.  

Every day on board Scenic Eclipse II, a true culinary journey awaits, with up to 10 extraordinary all-inclusive culinary experiences and eight bars and lounges. You may decide to return to the Yacht Club for lunch, or opt for Azure Bar & Café, where you can graze throughout the day.  

As dusk falls, the hardest decision you have to make is which direction to wander. Elements is the main dining experience, where the menu ranges from Italian to steak and seafood. Channel the spirit of Asia at Koko’s Asian Fusion, which also comes with a sushi bar and private Night Market+ experience. Journey to France at Lumiére+, complete with a champagne bar, or dine in the privacy of your suite, choosing from a comprehensive 24-hour menu.

Venture into the labyrinth of rivers and mangrove-lined channels that define Asmat Regency, one of Indonesia’s most culturally compelling and least-visited regions. Life here unfolds along tidal waterways, where villages stand on stilts above the mudflats and travel is by canoe rather than road.

The Asmat people are internationally celebrated for their powerful woodcarvings—intricate works that honour ancestors and embody stories passed down through generations. In this remarkable corner of South Papua, artistry, ritual and environment remain inseparable, offering a deeply authentic glimpse into a living cultural landscape shaped by water, forest and tradition.

This evening, step into Koko’s Asian Fusion for a vibrant dining experience inspired by the diverse flavours of Asia. From sushi to stir-fries, every dish is crafted with authentic ingredients and served in a stylish, modern setting.

Triton Bay, a remote and pristine corner of West Papua, offers a remarkable encounter with nature. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters among vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and graceful manta rays. Towering limestone karsts rise dramatically from the shoreline, while lush rainforests, alive with birds of paradise and other endemic wildlife, stretch inland. Quaint coastal villages reveal the rhythms of local life, where traditional practices continue alongside breathtaking landscapes. Triton Bay blends exploration, natural wonder, and authentic cultural experiences, offering a rare glimpse into one of Indonesia’s most unspoilt and captivating regions.

There are thousands of beaches in Indonesia, yet the ones you’ll see today might be the country’s most beautiful. The Kai Islands are part of the Maluku Province and are made entirely of white sand and coral. These talcum powder-beaches are lapped by the strikingly blue waters of the Banda Sea and fringed with lush rows of palm trees. Despite their jaw-dropping beauty, these islands remain far off the tourist trail, and you’ll be unlikely to see another visitor.

Scenic Discovery:
Subject to weather conditions and local authorities’ approval, you may enjoy opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and Seabobs.

Hidden in Indonesia’s southern Maluku province, the remote Tanimbar Islands offer a stunning mix of wild landscapes, rare wildlife, and white-sand beaches.

Beyond their natural beauty, the Tanimbar Islands invite you to discover a vibrant cultural heritage.

Later, unwind in Elements on Deck 4, where an à la carte menu of Italian favourites, premium steaks, and fresh seafood is served in a relaxed dinner setting.

Scenic Discovery:
Subject to weather conditions and local authorities’ approval, you may enjoy opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and Seabobs.

Spend the final day of your Discovery Voyage in the indulgent Senses Spa on Deck 6. Inside this luxurious retreat you can be pampered with a range of ESPA treatments# as well as alternative therapies like Tibetan bowl sound healing. After your treatment, cool off in the Vitality pool on the Senses Spa Pool Deck or warm up in the exclusive KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge. 

In the evening, up to 10 extraordinary culinary experiences await. From contemporary French fine dining at Lumière+ to the freshest Japanese at Sushi @ Koko’s, you'll experience a remarkable culinary journey.  

Your voyage concludes in Darwin, where the tropical north offers a striking contrast to the remote islands and coral seas explored along the way. After a final morning on board Scenic Eclipse II, farewell the Captain and crew, carrying with you the memories of an extraordinary journey through some of the region’s most rarely visited places.  From here, your journey continues on land. Settle into Darwin’s relaxed atmosphere, where a vibrant harbourfront and open-air lifestyle provide an easy transition before the next chapter begins. This evening, enjoy the first of your two-night stay as you prepare for your rail journey through the heart of Australia. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Today, expand your visit with your choice of a range of illuminating activities.

Jumping Crocs and Nature Adventure: Experience these reptiles in the wild on the beautiful Adelaide River, where crocs leap out of the water pursuing their prey. Your tour also includes a visit to Fogg Dam, a wetlands nature reserve teeming with wading birds and other unique wildlife. The wetlands of the Top End are of great international importance on account of their accessibility, splendour and cultural significance.

Litchfield National Park: Litchfield National Park abounds with permanent spring-fed waterfalls, remnant monsoon vine forests, unusual rock formations and interesting scenery. An hour easily becomes a day relaxing in this wonderful park, which reveals its considerable wonders the further you explore.

WWII Bombing of Darwin Tour: Learn about the history and significance of the Pacific Campaign of WWII; the largest attacks ever launched against Australia. Visit landmarks, view relics of the war and take a cruise on Darwin Harbour in this informative guided tour, which outlines the shocking extent of the damage suffered by Darwin during the war.

Darwin City Sights – Hop-on-Hop-off Tour: The perfect introduction to the Top End city of Darwin. Take in all of Darwin’s main historical and cultural attractions with an opportunity to stop and visit during the tour.

Your journey begins with a morning departure from Darwin on board the famous Ghan (Gold Service) for your Scenic Special Stay. The train, which runs between Darwin and Adelaide, provides one of the world’s greatest rail journeys as it cuts across remote desert landscapes in impeccable luxury. Settle into your private cabin before a delightful regionally-inspired lunch accompanied by a selection of all-inclusive wines and beverages. Arrive early afternoon at the Top End township of Katherine, the “Crossroads of the North”. The third-largest town in the Northern Territory, Katherine is a gateway between outback desert and the tropical climate of the Top End. Here, you’re free to choose between experiences that will enhance your visit. Take a guided cruise through Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, where you’ll marvel at the famed towering red ochre sandstone walls and hear stories of the local Jawoyn people. Or take a glimpse into the lives of those who call the outback home with a fascinating day of discovery on a huge cattle station. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant as the sun sets over the outback, then head back to your cabin to find your bed turned down. Fall asleep as the train rolls soothingly onwards across the vast outback.

After your first night on The Ghan, you’ll be greeted by a morning view of the spectacular Red Centre. A full day of excursions awaits you in the outback town of Alice Springs. Known locally as “Alice”, this vibrant outback hub is more than a country town. As a thriving community overflowing with a unique art scene, a one-of-a-kind culture and amazing outback vistas, Alice Springs is the beating heart of Australia.

An optional upgrade is a scenic flight to Uluru, a bucket list location for travellers from all over the world. Each year, hundreds of thousands of people head to Australia’s red heart to soak up the ancient wisdom and one-of-a-kind panoramas Uluru provides.(at additional cost, please book prior to departure). Should you choose this option, you’ll return in time to meet the rest of your fellow guests at a spectacular barbecue dinner under a million stars at the historic Alice Springs Telegraph Station.

From your morning stop at the outback outpost of Manguri, you’ll venture into the weird and wonderful opal mining township of Coober Pedy, where more than half of the residents live underground. Once submerged by Australia’s inland sea, Coober Pedy has become known as the “opal capital of the world”, with the multicoloured gemstone in abundance. Here, you’ll enjoy a day of discovery, and a gourmet lunch in the most unique of locations: underground. Dinner is served back on the train where you can enjoy a nightcap as your journey south continues.

From your cabin window this morning, you’ll see a dramatic change in landscape as the rich ochre tones of the outback make way for the green fields of South Australia. This gradual transition gives you a sense of just how diverse Australia’s environments are. Enjoy a leisurely brunch as you pass through the majestic Flinders Ranges, an ancient landscape over 540 million years old in places. Prepare for your mid-morning arrival into Adelaide, completing one of the world’s great travel experiences.

It’s time to say goodbye to your newfound friends as you prepare for your journey home, taking with you stories for life. 

#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.

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.