Treasures of Komodo, Sulawesi & The Ghan - Cruise & Land Journey: 17 days Denpasar to Adelaide

Welcome to Bali, the Island of the Gods. One of 18,000 islands that make up the country of Indonesia, Bali is spectacularly beautiful, culturally diverse and brimming with luxury. Scenic Eclipse II will be waiting for you in Benoa, a peninsula on the southern edge of the island. 

Board your Scenic Discovery Yacht this afternoon and be warmly greeted by the crew, shown to your spacious ultra-luxury suite and meet your butler. Join fellow guests on the Sky Deck for a glass of Champagne to toast the start of an incredible journey.   

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

Remote, authentic, and wonderfully raw, Moyo Island remains one of Indonesia’s best-kept secrets. Largely untouched by tourism, its lush flora and diverse wildlife reveal a world of untamed beauty, whilst tranquil waters and vibrant coral gardens near the shore offer exceptional snorkelling among colourful reef fish.

Set off in the afternoon for the nearby Satonda Island, a small ring-shaped island with a lake in the centre. The island is believed to be an ancient volcano that rose from the depths of the ocean and even today Satonda is shrouded in local myth and mystery. The water here is clear and calm, making for exceptional swimming, snorkelling and diving.

Check the Daily Wonder for Discovery Team lectures in the state-of-the-art theatre, where leading experts share rich insights into the wildlife, landscapes and culture of the region.

Set against a strikingly rugged landscape, Komodo National Park offers an extraordinary backdrop for exploration, with some of Indonesia’s most remarkable sites for diving and snorkelling. Your morning is dedicated to Komodo Island itself, where the chance to encounter the iconic Komodo dragon – the world’s largest living lizard – brings a powerful sense of raw wilderness found nowhere else on Earth.

In the afternoon, your Scenic Discovery Yacht repositions to Pink Beach, where rose-tinted sands, vivid waters and thriving coral gardens create an idyllic setting for time in and on the water. Here, you can swim, snorkel or simply relax on the shore, framed by dramatic headlands and the park’s sweeping volcanic contours.

Selayar Island, the gateway to Taka Bonerate National Park, is a paradise of coral reefs, calm waters, pale sand beaches, and lush coconut groves. The island offers excellent opportunities for water sports, including snorkelling and kayaking. Its interior features rolling hills, forests, and traditional villages where local customs and crafts are preserved.

With up to 10 culinary experiences on board, this evening you might savour contemporary French cuisine and Champagne at Lumière+, enjoy Italian classics, steak and seafood at Elements, or embrace Asian-inspired flavours at Koko’s Asian Fusion, home to the Sushi & Saké Bar and intimate Night Market+ experience. Alternatively, dine in the privacy of your suite with the comprehensive 24-hour in-suite dining menu.

Stretching into the Flores Sea, south of Sulawesi, the Taka Bonerate National Park covers more than half a million hectares and includes an atoll of 28 islands, the third largest coral atoll in the world. In 2015 it was recognised as a World Heritage-listed Biosphere Reserve for its incredible variety of marine life including fish, turtles, dolphins, whales and birds. Be sure to bring your in-suite binoculars or head to the Observation Terrace to view it through the Swarovski telescopes. 

In this remote outpost, the Captain will find a calm spot to stop for swimming, snorkelling and other water sports including diving below the surface with a Seabob. 

Back on board, this evening enjoy entertainment in the state-of-the-art theatre, then unwind with a nightcap at the Scenic Lounge Bar, home to an extensive collection of over 130 whiskey varieties.

Wakatobi National Park, in Southeast Sulawesi, is a true marine paradise, composed of four islands surrounded by vibrant coral reefs. Part of the Coral Triangle, the park is home to over 750 species of coral and 900 species of fish, making it one of the world’s most biodiverse underwater environments. Above the water, traditional stilt villages offer a glimpse into island life, where local customs and daily rhythms remain largely unchanged. As a protected area, Wakatobi’s impressive waters and colourful reefs make it a haven for nature lovers and marine explorers alike.

Unwind in the Vitality pool, relax in a shaded oceanfront cabana, or enjoy quiet time in your suite. This evening, choose to dine privately with butler service, revisit a favourite restaurant with newfound friends.

After crossing the Banda Sea, Scenic Eclipse II will arrive at Alor Island, the easternmost and largest of the 20 islands in the Alor archipelago. With its rugged volcanic landscape, Alor is dotted with traditional villages that boast distinctive architecture and vibrant, well-preserved customs.

Home to several unique Indigenous tribes, Alor remains a place where people continue to live much as they have for thousands of years. This morning, take a step back in time as you visit a local village, where you can admire the remarkable architecture and experience the enduring traditions that have shaped the island’s culture.

Upon returning on board, maintain your wellness routine with a complimentary class in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio, a session in the gym, or a rejuvenating visit to the Senses Spa#.

Scenic Discovery:
Weather and local approvals permitting, there may be an opportunity today to head to the marina and enjoy a range of water-based activities, including snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding or exploring beneath the surface with a Seabob.

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.  

Your Scenic Discovery Yacht will be docked 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.

Enjoy the flexibility of 24-hour in-suite dining, with your butler arranging everything from a relaxed breakfast to a refined dinner served in the privacy of your spacious suite, complemented by a restocked mini-bar.

Arrive this morning in Ende, one of Flores Island’s largest towns, set on a peninsula edged with distinctive black-sand beaches and backed by steep hills. From here, the nearby Kelimutu National Park beckons, with Mount Kelimutu’s three striking crater lakes and surrounding forested slopes that are home to endemic birdlife, including the Floresian eagle, Timorese tesia, and Wallacea owl.

Tablolong Bay, at the southern tip of Timor Island, is a peaceful and largely undiscovered destination. Fringed by sandy shores and gentle coastal slopes, the bay is edged by colourful coral gardens teeming with tropical fish. The waters here are home to vibrant reefs and a variety of marine life, giving the impression of swimming in a massive, colourful aquarium. Its serene atmosphere and scenic surroundings make it a truly captivating stop on this journey.

Later, curl up in a cabana on Deck 10 with a drink whilst you admire the ever-changing scenery or soak it up from the Observation Lounge.

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.    

Later in the day, unwind in the serene surroundings of the Senses Spa, where you can enjoy complimentary thermal loungers and infrared saunas, or join a class in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio. Before your Discovery Voyage ends, consider reserving a treatment#, perhaps an ESPA facial, massage or an alternative therapy such as an Ayurvedic-inspired treatment for deeper renewal.

You may also choose to visit the open bridge on Deck 7 to meet the Captain and navigational team, gaining first-hand insight into a Scenic Discovery Yacht’s state-of-the-art technology from one of the most inspiring vantage points on board.

Your voyage concludes in Darwin, the tropical capital at the crossroads of Australia and Asia. A vibrant city of culture, history and relaxed coastal living, Darwin offers a rich blend of museums, galleries and diverse culinary influences. 

After bidding farewell to Scenic Eclipse II, spend time in Australia’s tropical northern capital before continuing south aboard the legendary Ghan. With its harbourside setting, relaxed atmosphere and gateway position to the vast landscapes beyond, Darwin offers a natural transition from island exploration to one of the world’s great rail journeys.

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.

Helicopter and submersible not in operation in Indonesia. 

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.