Beyond the mesmerising beauty of Australia’s magnificent Kimberley, the exotic Spice Islands and New Zealand’s stunning coastline, there are fascinating stories to uncover. Allow your expert Discovery Team to guide you through incredibly rich history and heritage in unrivalled 6-star luxury, when the World’s First Discovery Yachts™ set sail in the region for the first time in 2024.
Australia’s Kimberley: Be immersed in ancient history
Almost twice the size of the United Kingdom with a population of only around 40,000 people, Australia’s Kimberley is one of the world’s last wilderness frontiers, where you can sail on turquoise waters beneath towering red cliffs.
The ancient landscapes are around 1.8 billion years old, and the land is home to the world’s longest continuous indigenous culture for more than 60,000 years. Join an expert Discovery Team of geologists, archaeologists, and biologists in Scenic Eclipse II’s state-of-the-art theatre and on excursions ashore, where you can see ancient rock art and natural wonders in areas only accessible by the ocean, inlets and rivers.
An ancient art gallery
The Discovery Team will accompany you on a hike to see what's regarded as one of the oldest art galleries in Australia. Unveil the mysteries of the Gwion Gwion, a mesmerising rock art tradition dating back 12,000 years. Admire the intriguing figures that are 'tattooed' into the rock, rather than painted. The art depicts detailed, symmetrical, and mythical figures adorned with tassels, delicate jewellery, and elaborate headdresses.
Explore with the Kimberley expert
Award-winning expedition guide Mike Cusack joins the Scenic Discovery Team for the inaugural Kimberley season. In 1987, Mike and his wife Susan were chosen as Australian Geographic’s “Wilderness Couple”, spending a year living in complete isolation in Kunmunya, in remote Northwest Western Australia. Over the following 35 years, Mike has shared his insights and deep connection to the Kimberley with thousands of people.
Cultural immersion by helicopter
Sail through around 1,000 tiny islands with red rocks, white beaches and green forests in the Buccaneer Archipelago. Here, you can elevate your cultural immersion by adding a helicopter^ experience - fly directly from your Discover Yacht and take in island views from above before visiting the remote Ardyaloon community on the Dampier Peninsula. Learn about Bardi-Jawi culture from local Aboriginal guides as you feed barramundi and meet the resident green turtle.
Experience this on the Ultimate Western Australia, The Abrolhos Islands and Kimberley Coastline and Discover the Kimberley Coastline: An Ancient Wilderness voyages.
Did you know?
In its inaugural season in 2024, Scenic Eclipse II will be the only ship sailing in the Kimberley with two onboard Airbus aircraft, offering the most expansive program in the region.
That means multiple opportunities for guests to take off directly from the ship on flightseeing tours, remote island landings and exclusive curated experiences for unrivalled access to the wonders of this ancient land.
Read on to learn more about all the helicopter experiences available on the Kimberley.
LEFT: Scenic helicopter, Kimberley
Idyllic islands and cultural immersion along the Pacific spice trade route
Enjoy sailaway drinks on the Sky Bar and then wake up the next day in the Pacific paradise of the Spice Islands. Named after their native nutmeg, cloves and mace, the Maluku province islands led the global spice trade in the 16th and 17th centuries. Learn about the history and biodiversity of the islands with your Discovery Team, and be introduced to traditional music, dance and crafts, including weaving demonstrations on visits to local villages.
In 2024 and 2025, Scenic Eclipse II will explore islands along the Pacific spice trade route in the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and Fiji. See sky-high volcanoes and colourful coral reefs, including snorkelling and diving in Raja Ampat, one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.
Kayak or swim across the equator, hike in the jungle, and take a Zodiac to find ancient blood paintings, believed to be up to 7,000 years old, on limestone rocks. It's the ultimate combination of a tropical holiday and cultural immersion.
The mesmerising firewalk art
Discover Beqa Island, home to Fiji's celebrated firewalkers. These remarkable individuals possess the ancient skill of walking unharmed on searing-hot stones—a tradition rooted in history for over 500 years. In Rukua Village, our knowledgeable guides will immerse you in this fascinating practice, offering insights into its rituals and allowing you to witness this extraordinary feat firsthand.
Volcano magic
Your experience in Tanna Island begins with a welcome ceremony at Waisisi Bay, engaging with the region's villagers. Taste a traditional Pacific Island dish and join your expert local guide walking up a trail to Mount Yasur volcano's crater. Hear the rumbling of the volcanic activity and be mesmerised by this experience. Back on Scenic Eclipse II, watch as the sky turns dark and the lava glows in red and orange like a breathtaking firework.
Village cultural immersion
Experience the vibrant living culture of Nembo and Pala Villages on Ndende Island. Be welcomed with a traditional dance, flower garlands, and coconut refreshments and witness captivating cultural demonstrations. Explore the lush surroundings with bush walks, village tours, and refreshing swims. Your expert local guide will enhance your experience, ensuring a memorable day filled with cultural discoveries.
Experience this on the Secrets of Indonesia: Spice Islands & Raja Ampat, Passage through Melanesia: Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands & Vanuatu and Mysteries of Melanesia - Scenic voyages.
The land of the Long White Cloud
Beyond being spectacular to sail along, New Zealand’s wild and rugged coastline is also full of spiritual significance. Learn about Māori culture and traditions, including manaaki manuhiri, the care and respect for all people from all places, and feel the power of the ceremonial war dance or challenge, the haka.
Learn from your expert Discovery Team during on board lectures and visit significant sites on immersive Scenic Freechoice excursions. See historic photographs and art, among other treasures, at the Tairawhiti Museum, which shares the story of the East Coast Māori.
Arts, culinary, and archaeology
Begin your day with a visit to the gallery of local artist Kevin McCardle, where his creations reveal the region's creative spirit. Explore local farms and orchards, savouring organic milk, homegrown fruits, and fresh produce, connecting with the land and its bounty.
The highlight of your day awaits as you delve into New Zealand's largest archaeological complex. This captivating historical journey unveils the secrets and stories of this remarkable region, leaving you with a deep appreciation for its cultural heritage.
Māori Waka discovery
Enjoy an exciting journey aboard a traditional 50-foot Māori war canoe, the Waka Taua. Your immersive tour begins with a warm and traditional Māori welcome. Venture over the tidal estuaries of the Waitangi River to the breathtaking Haruru Falls.
Along the way, a knowledgeable guide will share legendary tales and offer unique insights into the customs, rituals, and traditions of the Ngapuhi people, creating a truly immersive and enlightening cultural experience.
Experience this on the Pure New Zealand: North & South Islands and New Zealand In Depth voyages.
^Flights on board our two helicopters are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather conditions.
Vitality Pool, Sky Deck, Scenic Eclipse II
Start planning today
Now is the time to experience this for yourself and benefit from our exclusive and limited offers. Contact your local travel agent or call 1-866-252-7852 to learn more.
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