RACV Logo
Members save more on over 100,000 hotels worldwide
Unlock savings
Unlock member discounts
Unlock exclusive discounts and inclusions
Members only pricing
Bonus hand-picked inclusions
Continue as guest
Your member number is located on your membership card, membership renewal notice, club account statement or payment advice.

Northern Australia & the Indonesian Archipelago: 17 days Cairns to Denpasar

package saved
click to save
Operated by Scenic
Tripcode: NZ-51de6c02029fe3764
Overview
Destination:
Australia
Indonesia
Start:Cairns, Australia
Finish:Denpasar, Indonesia
Duration:17 days
Type:Group tour (max 228)
Travel Period
March 2025 - March 2025

Tropical Island Discovery

Explore some of the spectacular islands that are sprinkled across the pristine seas north of Australia and in South East Asia. This Discovery Voyage is the perfect blend of resort towns, tiny local villages and untouched islands, showing the diversity and unique cultures of this remarkable region.
Departing from Cairns, the capital of Tropical North Queensland, this Discovery Cruise will take you north to the tip of Australia and Thursday Island before setting out into the blue open ocean to explore remote islands of Indonesia. Encounter Indigenous cultures, ancient trading ports and elusive wildlife, including the legendary Komodo dragon on this unique voyage. Relax on deserted beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters and marvel at dramatic landscapes. Scenic’s expert Discovery Team will take you deep into each destination. Sailing on the Discovery Yacht, you’ll enjoy the all-inclusive, ultra-luxury experienced on board.
Standard inclusions
  • An intimate Discovery Yacht experience for only up to 228 guests
  • Gain deep insights from the Discovery Team of up to 10 experts
  • Included program of Zodiac and guided paddling Discovery Excursions
  • Enjoy included water activities from snorkelling, kayaking, floating hammocks, inflatable trampoline and SEABOBs.
  • Personalised Scenic Freechoice experiences
  • Spacious all-verandah ultra-luxury suites with personalised butler service for every guest
  • World-class service with a close to 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio
  • Up to 10 culinary experiences, from casual to fine dining
  • Up to eight bars and lounges
  • The finest selection of included beverages+, all day, every day, with a choice of over 130 whiskeys at the Scenic Bar
  • Indulgent 550sqm Senses Spa# facilities, gym, yoga and Pilates studio and Vitality Pools
  • Daily entertainment in the state-of-the-art theatre and Scenic Lounge
  • Engaging on board lecture and education program
  • Swarovski Telescopes in the Observation Lounge and in-suite binoculars
  • Return airport transfers upon arrival and departure in destination
  • All tipping on board and onshore, complimentary Wi-Fi and water bottle to take home
Already with RACV?
Tell us your Member details to unlock discounts.
Unlock
Itinerary
Expand all Collapse all
Day 1 - Cairns, Australia

Welcome to Cairns, the capital of Tropical North Queensland and the departure point for your cruise. The town itself exemplifies the laid-back lifestyle that Queensland is famous for and is packed with great places to eat, al fresco bars and vibrant markets.

This afternoon, you’ll board Scenic Eclipse II, your home for the next 17 days. Be greeted with a glass of Champagne, meet your butler and settle into your luxurious suite. Join your fellow guests at the Sky Bar for a cocktail with a view over the vibrant city as you depart for your journey of a lifetime.

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

Day 2 - Port Douglas

It’s just a short sail north to your first port, to the glamorous resort town of Port Douglas. Once a sleepy fishing village, the town is now a popular tourist destination thanks to its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef.

You’ll depart Port Douglas just after lunchtime and sail north alongside the Great Barrier Reef. Cruising through crystal-clear waters dotted with hundreds of islands and coral cays is a truly spectacular sailing. Relax in the Observation Lounge or ask your butler to bring afternoon tea to enjoy on your private verandah.

Freechoice:
Mossman Gorge Daintree Rainforest National Park: Explore the indigenous culture and biodiversity of Daintree National Park, home to the Kuku Yalanji people and the world's oldest rainforest. Walk the easy Mossman River Circuit (400m, 10 minutes) or the Rainforest Circuit (2.7km, 1 hour) with a suspension bridge.

Visit to Wildlife Habitat: Visit the award-winning Wildlife Habitat, featuring five distinct ecosystems over eight acres. Walk along elevated paths to see free-roaming Australian wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, parrots, crocodiles, emus, and the Lumholtz’s Tree Kangaroo.

Day 3 - Pelican Island

Pelican Island, nestled in the Claremont Isles National Park off Queensland’s coast, is a hidden paradise filled with abundant birdlife, including the Australian pelican. This serene escape offers a tranquil retreat for seabirds and an idyllic destination for nature lovers to immerse themselves in birdwatching and natural beauty.

Back on board, make the most of your Discovery Yacht. Visit the Sky Bar and outdoor Vitality Pool on Deck 10 or step into the tranquil Senses Spa# on Deck 6 with its steam rooms, saunas, ice fountain and KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge. Grab your binoculars and head to Deck 10 for an exciting birdwatching experience.

Discovery: Check the daily program on your TV for the schedule of immersive Discovery experiences including snorkelling, kayaking, and birdwatching.

Day 4 - Cape York > Thursday Island

Sail north overnight to Cape York, mainland Australia's northernmost point and a dream destination for many. Enjoy champagne on the Sky Bar or Observation Terrace as you cruise past the "Tip of Australia".

Pass along Torres Strait, an archipelago of more than 100 islands that stretches from Cape York to Papua New Guinea. These islands have a fascinating and distinct blend of cultures. Arriving at Thursday Island this afternoon, you’ll have the chance to learn more about this captivating cultural mix as well as the history of British settlement and the region’s pearling industry.

Freechoice:
Cultural Dance Performance: Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Torres Strait traditional dancing, a profound storytelling art form. Witness ancestral tales through mesmerizing dance, connect with their traditions, and gain a deep appreciation for this unique cultural exchange.

Taxi Tour: Meet funny and proud Torres Strait Islander personalities on this guided tour. Experience the real Torres Strait and Thursday Island, the hub’ of the Torres Strait.

Basket Weaving: Experience Torres Strait communities' age-old art of basket weaving, a tradition still vibrant today. Join us for a one-hour hands-on session amidst stunning waterfront scenery.

In their Steps Tour, Horn Island Heritage and War: Delve into the pages of the past as our expert guides lead you through the significant WW2 sites that dot this island, providing a comprehensive and deeply moving experience.

Discovery: Head to the marina and indulge in a range of exciting water sports, including snorkelling*, kayaking, 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 in the Scenic Neptune II submersible^. 

Day 5 - At Sea

Enjoy two relaxing days in ultra-luxury comfort at sea as Scenic Eclipse II makes her way north-west into Indonesian waters. This morning, you can do as much or as little as you want. Perhaps soak in the comforts of your 6-star suite or enjoy breakfast at the Yacht Club as the deep blue waters of the Arafura Sea slip by outside.

Make the most of your Discovery Yacht. Visit the Sky Bar and outdoor Vitality Pool on Deck 10 or step into the tranquil Senses Spa# on Deck 6 with its steam rooms, saunas, ice fountain and KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge.

Day 6 - At Sea

Today, indulge in the many exceptional dining experiences on board. Start with breakfast al fresco at the Yacht Club. For lunch, relax at the Azure Bar & Café for light meals or return to Yacht Club for your choice of the fresh buffet and dessert bar.

The selection of specialty restaurant allows you to dine around the world each night. Enjoy authentic dining at Night Market @ Koko’s, an exclusive experience for just eight guests at a time, or journey to France at Lumière, a contemporary fine dining French restaurant replete with a luxurious Champagne bar.

Day 7 - Yamdena Island >Tanimbar Islands , Indonesia

You’ll spot land early this morning, the remote Tanimbar Islands. This Indonesian archipelago of 65 islands sits just a few hundred kilometres north of Darwin. The islands range from densely forested hills to low lying swamplands and deserted beaches. As Scenic Eclipse II sails towards the largest island, Yamdena, and the capital, Saumlaki, discover a bustling city home to around 20,000 people.

Smaller villages have retained many of their unique cultural traditions, including music, dance and crafts. The Tanimbar Islands are also famous for the rare birds that inhabit the untouched forests, making it a popular destination for ornithologists.

Inclusion
Ancient Stone Boat Village Experience: Enter the Sangliat Dol Stone Boat Village via a giant stone staircase where a traditional village experience with cultural performances of the Tanimbar drummers and dancers will be a memorable event. 

Day 8 - Kai Islands

Of the many beaches of Indonesia, the ones you’ll see today might be the most beautiful. The Kai Islands are part of the Maluku Province and are made entirely of white sand and coral. 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.

Discovery: Spend today relaxing on the beach, swimming or snorkelling* in the warm water.

Day 9 - Banda Islands

Once known as the Spice Islands, this legendary cluster of exotic ports was a thriving trading hub for rare spices like nutmeg and mace. This intriguing history is woven into the fabric of the island, with grand Portuguese, Dutch and British architecture lining the streets and imposing forts looking over the harbour. Explore the town, hear its colourful stories, and get an insight into its tumultuous past. Offshore, the snorkelling* around Banda Neira is some of the best in Indonesia and can be enjoyed by Scenic’s selection of water equipment, like stand-up paddle boards or kayaks.

Inclusion
Banda Islands Community Visit: This walking tour explores the historic township of Banda Neira, featuring visits to Fort Belgica, remnants of Dutch architecture, and local markets and traders.

Day 10 - At Sea

Today is the perfect opportunity for some relaxation and rejuvenation. For the ultimate wellbeing at sea, the indulgent Senses Spa awaits. This indulgent 550sqm spa is like nothing you’ll see on any other vessel in the world. Inside this luxurious retreat you can be pampered with a range of ESPA treatments# including massages, facials, manicures and pedicures, 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 enjoy the restorative benefits of the exclusive KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge. 

Day 11 - Alor Island

After sailing across the Banda Sea, Scenic Eclipse II will arrive at Alor Island. The easternmost and largest of the 20 islands in the Alor archipelago, Alor has rugged volcanic terrain dotted with traditional villages full of striking architecture and well-preserved customs.

Tonight, order a night cap from your butler and stay up late as you’ll be sailing past an extraordinary island around 11 pm. Pulau Komba is home to Mount Batutara, an active volcano that erupts every 20 minutes. At night, you should be able to see the glowing lava as you pass by.

Inclusion
Alor Cultural Highlights: Discover the cultural highlights of Alor on this tour, featuring visits to traditional villages, vibrant markets, and historical sites. Experience local customs, traditional dances, and the rich heritage that defines this unique region.

Just after midday you’ll set sail for Sika Island, a tiny outcrop off the north coast of Alor. This beautiful island is a conservation area and best known for its population of dugongs, which float gracefully through the crystal-clear water munching on sea grass and can be spotted from the Sky Deck (Deck 10) or the Observation Lounge through the Swarovski crystal telescopes.

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.

Day 12 - Larantuka, Flores Island

Flores Island is fast becoming one of Indonesia’s most popular destinations. It was founded by the Portuguese in the 15th century and spent many years as the trade and administrative centre of the region.

Scenic Eclipse II will dock right in the centre of the city. Wander the streets at your leisure and soak in its cool maritime flavour. Witness the Portuguese connection and rich Catholic history in the buildings that surround you. Admire the famous Katedral Reinha Rosari, known as the Church of Iron and resembling an ornate Disney castle.  

Inclusion
Larantuka Traditional Village Tour: Visit a Larantuka village, known for singing local folk stories, and enjoy a traditional performance. The tour includes Ikat weaving, traditional music and dance, local refreshments, a visit to a local school, the historic Catholic Cathedral, and a bustling food market.

Day 13 - Ende, Flores Island

You’ll arrive at the port of Ende this morning. One of the largest towns on the island, it sits on a peninsula surrounded by black sand beaches.

The nearby Kelimutu National Park is home to Mount Kelimutu, a dormant volcano that has three spectacular lakes in its craters. Local legend says that the lakes are the resting place for departed souls, some evil, some innocent. If you can draw your eyes away from the lakes, look up and try to spot the park’s endemic bird species, like the Floresian eagle, Timorese tesia and Wallacea owl.

Freechoice:
Kelimutu Lakes Hike: Discover the volcanic lakes of Mt. Kelimutu, best known for its three crater lakes which periodically change colour due to a chemical reaction.

Ndona Village Tour: Explore Ndona Village for an enriching experience of ikat weaving and traditional dance, offering a profound glimpse into Flores' rich cultural heritage.

Day 14 - Komodo Island

Today, witness with the eponymous species of giant lizard that has been roaming these forests for millions of years.

Stretching up to three metres in length and weighing over 150kg, the Komodo dragon is a lizard unlike any other. It lives on just a handful of islands in the Indonesian archipelago, with the majority found on Komodo Island.

Cruise around the island to the famous Pink Beach. The soft sand is coloured pink by finely crushed pieces of coral and shells, just one of seven pink beaches found anywhere in the world.

Inclusion
Komodo Dragon Walking Tour: Join the Komodo Dragon Walking Tour and explore their natural habitat alongside a knowledgeable local guide.

Discovery: During your afternoon on Pink Beach, relax and enjoy this rare natural wonder whether you’re snorkelling*, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. 

Day 15 - Sumbawa Island

Today, Scenic Eclipse II will arrive at the port of Badas on Sumbawa Island. Though close to Bali and Lombok, Sumbawa has yet to be discovered by tourists and retains its strong cultural identity. The few who venture here come mostly for the epic surf, spectacular reefs and wild terrain, and there’s plenty to satisfy a taste for adventure.

The island of Sulawesi sits directly north of Sumbawa and its local Makassarese culture has had a strong influence on the island. You can tour a village where you’ll see centuries-old traditional cultures still in practice, like rice pounding and weaving.

Inclusion
Sumbawa Buffalo Racing Village Tour: Experience a cultural spectacle where skilled riders guide buffaloes towards a wooden statue in a flooded rice field, overcoming mystical challenges set by village shamans.

Day 16 - Lombok Island

After more than two weeks exploring natural wonders, reefs, volcanic highlands and traditional villages, it’s time for some relaxation. This morning, Scenic Eclipse II will anchor at Senggigi Beach on Lombok Island where you’ll take a Zodiac to shore. Departure is close to midnight, so you have a full day to unwind and enjoy water activities. With far-fewer tourists, you’ll be able to find a quiet stretch of sand, empty waves and more laid-back shopping streets.

Toast the final sunset of your cruise, enjoying the stunning views from the Sky Bar with your favourite cocktail in hand. 

Freechoice:
Mambalan Village and Lingsar Temple: Explore Lingsar Temple, a Hindu shrine established in 1714. Don't miss the sacred pool, where worshippers feed eels with hard-boiled eggs. Visit Traditional Mambalan Village surrounded by rice paddies and irrigation channels.

Lombok Culture Escape with Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a Kuta beach tropical resort offering the best seascape in Lombok. Discover Banyumulek town which produces much of the famous Lombok pottery. This village is unique in that the school students are trained to make pottery from a very early age.

Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls: Drive along the coastline to Malimbu Lookout, Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls at the foot of Mount Rinjani. Tiu Kelep is the largest waterfall in Lombok, offering crystal-clear waters and picturesque scenery. Lunch will be at Rinjani Lodge. After lunch, you’ll return to the pier.

Gili Meno Snorkelling: Experience the beauty of the Gili Islands with a traditional boat trip to Gili Meno, where you can enjoy clear waters, white sandy beaches, and snorkeling* opportunities. 

Inclusion 
Day Pass at Sheraton Senggigi Resort: Experience a day of leisure and relaxation with our Sheraton Senggigi Day Pass. Nestled along the pristine shores of Lombok, the resort offers a perfect blend of luxurious amenities and natural beauty.

Day 17 - Benoa, Bali (Denpasar)

Arrive at your final port this morning, Bali, the Island of the Gods. It’s just one of more than 18,000 islands that make up the country of Indonesia, but it’s long been a favoured destination for Australian travellers. Spectacularly beautiful, culturally diverse and brimming with luxury, Bali is truly a little piece of paradise.

Scenic Eclipse II will dock off the coast of Benoa, a peninsula on the southern edge of the island. Farewell your fellow guests and crew before you depart, taking home stories for life.

Please book your flight to depart out of Denpasar 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. The helicopter and submersible are not operational in Indonesia. #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.
*Please note from November to May, the waters of Tropical Queensland may contain Box Jellyfish and Irukandji Jellyfish. Our Discovery team will update guests on any known risks in regions 

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.

Departure dates

Select your preferred date or enquire

Enquire now

Travellers

Operator
Scenic

At Scenic, we create exceptional journeys to every corner of the world. You will enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences, indulgent truly all-inclusive luxury, and a world class crew who will ensure every detail is cared for to the Nth Degree. With more than three decades of experience, the loyalty of our Scenic guests reflects our dedication to always placing you at the heart of everything we do. With Scenic, you'll find this is worldwide discovery truly in a class of its own. Across our 5-star luxury river cruises on custom-built Scenic Space-Ships, and 6-star ultra-luxury voyages on board Scenic Eclipse, The World’s First Discovery Yachts™, it is more than taking our guests to exceptional destinations around the world. Our truly all-inclusive philosophy enables our guests to be immersed in their chosen destination, indulge in an unparalleled level of luxury, and relax knowing everything is taken care of.

Important Information
*Terms and conditions
Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. For more information, please see Terms of Use
Book now
Need help?
Price from
$0 $0 *
Member price from
$0*
per person
16 nights
Check departures
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Get in touch with our friendly Travel Consultants.
Speak to one of our friendly consultants, available during business hours.
Mon to Fri · 9am - 5pm AEST
Speak to an expert in-store
Prefer to plan in person? Make an appointment at our Travel Store to speak with one of our experts