Along the East Coast of Australia: Beaches & the Great Barrier Reef
Along the East Coast of Australia: Beaches & the Great Barrier Reef
Cruise overview
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About Auckland
Auckland is called the City of Sails, and visitors flying in will see why. On the East Coast is the Waitemata Harbour—a Māori word meaning sparkling waters—which is bordered by the Hauraki Gulf, an aquatic playground peppered with small islands where many Aucklanders can be found "mucking around in boats."Not surprisingly, Auckland has some 70,000 boats. About one in four households in Auckland has a seacraft of some kind, and there are 102 beaches within an hour's drive; during the week many are quite empty. Even the airport is by the water; it borders the Manukau Harbour, which also takes its name from the Māori language and means solitary bird.According to Māori tradition, the Auckland isthmus was originally peopled by a race of giants and fairy folk. When Europeans arrived in the early 19th century, however, the Ngāti-Whātua tribe was firmly in control of the region. The British began negotiations with the Ngāti-Whātua in 1840 to purchase the isthmus and establish the colony's first capital. In September of that year the British flag was hoisted to mark the township's foundation, and Auckland remained the capital until 1865, when the seat of government was moved to Wellington. Aucklanders expected to suffer from the shift; it hurt their pride but not their pockets. As the terminal for the South Sea shipping routes, Auckland was already an established commercial center. Since then the urban sprawl has made this city of approximately 1.3 million people one of the world's largest geographically.A couple of days in the city will reveal just how developed and sophisticated Auckland is—the Mercer City Survey 2012 saw it ranked as the third-highest city for quality of life—though those seeking a New York in the South Pacific will be disappointed. Auckland is more get-up and go-outside than get-dressed-up and go-out. That said, most shops are open daily, central bars and a few nightclubs buzz well into the wee hours, especially Thursday through Saturday, and a mix of Māori, Pacific people, Asians, and Europeans contributes to the cultural milieu. Auckland has the world's largest single population of Pacific Islanders living outside their home countries, though many of them live outside the central parts of the city and in Manukau to the south. The Samoan language is the second most spoken in New Zealand. Most Pacific people came to New Zealand seeking a better life. When the plentiful, low-skilled work that attracted them dried up, the dream soured, and the population has suffered with poor health and education. Luckily, policies are now addressing that, and change is slowly coming. The Pacifica Festival in March is the region's biggest cultural event, attracting thousands to Western Springs. The annual Pacific Island Secondary Schools’ Competition, also in March, sees young Pacific Islander and Asian students compete in traditional dance, drumming, and singing. This event is open to the public.At the geographical center of Auckland city is the 1,082-foot Sky Tower, a convenient landmark for those exploring on foot and some say a visible sign of the city's naked aspiration. It has earned nicknames like the Needle and the Big Penis—a counterpoint to a poem by acclaimed New Zealand poet James K. Baxter, which refers to Rangitoto Island as a clitoris in the harbor.The Waitemata Harbour has become better known since New Zealand staged its first defense of the America's Cup in 2000 and the successful Louis Vuitton Pacific Series in early 2009. The first regatta saw major redevelopment of the waterfront. The area, where many of the city's most popular bars, cafés, and restaurants are located, is now known as Viaduct Basin or, more commonly, the Viaduct. A recent expansion has created another area, Wynyard Quarter, which is slowly adding restaurants.These days, Auckland is still considered too bold and brash for its own good by many Kiwis who live "south of the Bombay Hills," the geographical divide between Auckland and the rest of New Zealand (barring Northland). "Jafa," an acronym for "just another f—ing Aucklander," has entered the local lexicon; there's even a book out called Way of the Jafa: A Guide to Surviving Auckland and Aucklanders. A common complaint is that Auckland absorbs the wealth from the hard work of the rest of the country. Most Aucklanders, on the other hand, still try to shrug and see it as the parochial envy of those who live in small towns. But these internal identity squabbles aren't your problem. You can enjoy a well-made coffee in almost any café, or take a walk on a beach—knowing that within 30 minutes' driving time you could be cruising the spectacular harbor, playing a round at a public golf course, or even walking in subtropical forest while listening to the song of a native tûî bird.
About Bay of Islands
The Tasman Sea on the west and the Pacific Ocean on the east meet at thetop of North Island at Cape Reinga. No matter what route you take, you'll passfarms and forests, marvellous beaches, and great open spaces. The East Coast,up to the Bay of Islands, is Northland's most densely populated, often withrefugees from bigger cities—looking for a more relaxed life—clustered aroundbreathtaking beaches. The first decision on the drive north comes at the footof the Brynderwyn Hills. Turning left will take you up the West Coast throughareas once covered with forests and now used for either agricultural orhorticulture. Driving over "the Brynderwyns," as they are known,takes you to Whangarei, the only city in Northland. If you're in the mood for adiversion, you can slip to the beautiful coastline and take in Waipu Cove, anarea settled by Scots, and Laings Beach, where million-dollar homes sit next tosmall Kiwi beach houses.An hour's drive farther north is the Bay of Islands, known all over theworld for its beauty. There you will find lush forests, splendid beaches, andshimmering harbors. The Treaty of Waitangi was signed here in 1840 betweenMāoriand the British Crown, establishing the basis for the modern New Zealandstate. Every year on February 6, the extremely beautiful Waitangi Treaty Ground(the name means weeping waters) is the sight of a celebration of the treaty andprotests by Māori unhappy with it. Continuing north on the East Coast, theagricultural backbone of the region is even more evident and a series ofwinding loop roads off the main highway will take you to beaches that are bothbeautiful and isolated where you can swim, dive, picnic, or just laze. .The West Coast is even less populated, and the coastline is rugged andwindswept. In the Waipoua Forest, you will find some of New Zealand's oldestand largest kauri trees; the winding road will also take you past mangroveswamps. Crowning the region is the spiritually significant Cape Reinga, theheadland at the top of the vast stretch of 90 Mile Beach, where it's believedMāori souls depart after death. Today Māori make up roughly a quarter of thearea's population (compared with the national average of about 15%). The legendaryMāori navigator Kupe was said to have landed on the shores of Hokianga Harbour,where the first arrivals made their home. Many different wi (tribes) livedthroughout Northland, including Ngapuhi (the largest), Te Roroa, Ngati Wai,Ngati Kuri, Te Aupouri, Ngaitakoto, Ngati Kahu, and Te Rarawa. Many Māoriherecan trace their ancestry to the earliest inhabitants
About Brisbane, Queensland
Founded in 1824 on the banks of the wide, meandering Brisbane River, the former penal colony of Brisbane was for many years regarded as just a big country town. Many beautiful timber Queenslander homes, built in the 1800s, still dot the riverbanks and inner suburbs, and in spring the city's numerous parks erupt in a riot of colorful jacaranda, poinciana, and bougainvillea blossoms. Today the Queensland capital is one of Australia's most up-and-coming cities: glittering high-rises mark its polished business center, slick fashion boutiques and restaurants abound, and numerous outdoor attractions beckon. In summer, temperatures here are broilingly hot and days are often humid, a reminder that this city is part of a subtropical region. Wear SPF 30-plus sunscreen and a broad-brimmed hat outdoors, even on overcast days.Brisbane's inner suburbs, a 5- to 10-minute drive or 15- to 20-minute walk from the city center, have a mix of intriguing eateries and quiet accommodations. Fortitude Valley combines Chinatown with a cosmopolitan mix of clubs, cafés, and boutiques. Spring Hill has several high-quality hotels, and Paddington, New Farm, Petrie Terrace, West End, and Woolloongabba are full of an eclectic mix of restaurants and bars. Brisbane is also a convenient base for trips to the Sunshine and Gold coasts, the mountainous hinterlands, and the Moreton Bay islands.
About Lady Elliot Islands, Queensland
About Great Keppel Island, Queensland
About Percy Isles, Queensland
About Airlie Beach
About Magnetic Island, Queensland
About Cairns, Queensland
Tourism is the lifeblood of Cairns (pronounced Caans). The city makes a good base for exploring the wild top half of Queensland, and tens of thousands of international travelers use it as a jumping-off point for activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling trips to the Barrier Reef, as well as boating, fishing, parasailing, scenic flights, and rain-forest treks.It's a tough environment, with intense heat and fierce wildlife. Along with wallabies and grey kangaroos in the savannah and tree kangaroos in the rain forest, you'll find stealthy saltwater crocodiles, venomous snakes, and jellyfish so deadly they put the region’s stunning beaches off- limits to swimmers for nearly half the year. Yet despite this formidable setting, Cairns and tropical North Queensland are far from intimidating places. The people are warm and friendly, the sights spectacular, and—at the right time of year—the beachside lounging is world-class.
Handcrafted and extraordinary in every way, our Owner’s Penthouse Suites are the ultimate indulgence. Boasting the best views on board, a private spa pool on the spacious terrace, dedicated lounge and dining area, a super-sized bathroom with dual vitality mist showers, and a personalised butler service, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Suite Features
At an enormous 195m² in size, the Owner’s Penthouse Suites are located on Deck 9.
Suite names and amenities are the same across both Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II, however, both have been thoughtfully curated to suit the cruising experience of these ships.
Spacious Terrace & Pool
Your curved terrace, complete with a personal private spa pool and sun loungers, is the perfect place to indulge in ultra-luxury relaxation.
Super-sized Bathroom
Featuring a super-sized bathroom, your relaxation and comfort are enhanced with a dual steam shower, therapeutic spa bath and guest powder room with dual vanity.
Priority Reservations & Embarkation
Guests in our Owner’s Penthouse Suite will enjoy the privilege of priority dining in the specialty restaurants as well as priority choice of Scenic Freechoice, Scenic Discovery, helicopter^ and submersible^ excursions. VIP embarkation and disembarkation are standard inclusions at the start and finish of your cruise.
Amenities & Features
- Spacious terrace with lounge area, sun loungers and private spa pool
- Spa Day Bed - transforming for in-suite private spa experience
- A separate bedroom with luxury king-size Scenic Slumber Bed and his and hers walk-in wardrobe
- Personalised butler service
- Therapeutic spa bath
- Dual vitality mist shower with colour light therapy
- Guest powder room, dual vanity, VIP amenities and Dyson hairdryer
- Walk-in robe
- In-suite dining with seating for up to eight guests
- A full complimentary mini-bar stocked with wines, Champagnes and spirits personalised to your preference, including illy coffee and specialty teas re-stocked daily
- Canapes and petite fours delivered to your suite
- Complimentary laundry service~
- Guaranteed dining reservations
- Priority choice of shore excursions
- VIP embarkation and disembarkation
- Advanced Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning system (HVAC) provides 100% fresh air
- The highest sound insulation as per the marine class society Bureau Veritas
Marvel at incredible panoramic seascapes from the front of Scenic Eclipse as you relax on your spacious terrace in our luxurious Panorama Suites.
Located on Deck 6 and 8 at the front of the Discovery Yacht and overlooking the bow, these remarkable suites feature a spacious curved terrace, perfect for marvelling at incredible wildlife and landscapes.
Suite Features
Ranging in size from 105-110m², grandeur and style are taken to a whole new level in our Panorama and Grand Panorama Suites.
Suite names and amenities are the same across both Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II, however, both have been thoughtfully curated to suit the cruising experience of these ships.
Separate Lounge & Bedroom
These grand suites include a host of special features and services. Curl up in your lounge with a kindle e-book from your in-suite library and sip your favourite aperitif, personally delivered by your butler. All before enjoying an intimate dining experience, in the plush and private surroundings of your suite. Even from the comfort of your bedroom, you’ll never miss a photo opportunity – accessing the outside world through your drop-down balcony window, with the gentle touch of a button, and with your in-suite binoculars.
Spacious Terrace
Your curved terrace is the perfect place to relax on a sun lounger and be the first to spot wildlife and incredible landscapes.
Luxurious Bathroom
The luxurious Panorama Suite bathrooms feature a vitality mist shower with colour light therapy, full bath, dual vanity, VIP amenities and Dyson hairdryer.
Priority Reservations & Embarkation
Guests in our Panorama Suites will enjoy the privilege of priority dining in the specialty restaurants as well as priority choice of Scenic Freechoice, Scenic Discovery, helicopter^ and submersible^ excursions. VIP embarkation and disembarkation are standard inclusions at the start and finish of your cruise.
Amenities & Features
- Spacious terrace with sun loungers and in-suite binoculars for optimal viewing
- Bedroom suite with luxury king size Scenic Slumber Bed, reading alcove, walk-in robe, desk, ambient lighting options and HDTV
- Spacious bathroom with vitality mist shower with colour light therapy, full bath, dual vanity, VIP amenities and Dyson hairdryer
- Personalised butler service, in-suite beverage and dining service
- Separate lounge and dining area with a four-seat dining table, cinema surround HDTV with Bose® speakers
- A full complementary mini-bar stocked with wines, Champagne and spirits personalised to your preference, including illy coffee and specialty teas re-stocked daily
- Complimentary laundry service~
- Priority dining in specialty restaurants and guaranteed dining reservations
- Priority choice of shore excursions
- VIP embarkation and disembarkation
- Advanced Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning system (HVAC) provides 100% fresh air
- The highest sound insulation as per the marine class society Bureau Veritas
Imagine returning from an exhilarating day of all-inclusive excursions to your private hideaway and relaxing in your luxurious spa bath. Our indulgent Spa Suites will provide the ultimate rejuvenation.
Suite Features
Ranging in size from 46-50m², our Spa Suites are located on Deck 8 and 9.
Suite names and amenities are the same across both Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II, however, both have been thoughtfully curated to suit the cruising experience of these ships.
Lounge and Sleeping Area
With a premier location on the higher Decks 8 and 9 and an impressive 46-50m2 in size, our opulent Spa Suites provide the most inviting of ultra-luxury retreats. Featuring a separate sleep zone with a four-poster king-size Scenic Slumber Bed, a lounge area as well as a private verandah, they are the perfect retreat after a day of discovery.
Luxurious Spa
Step into the private sanctuary of your Spa Suite and soak in a steaming bath drawn by your butler. Gaze out over your verandah to the vistas beyond and sip on a glass of Champagne – heaven.
Scenic Eclipse I features the signature double-sized Philippe Starck-designed spa bath, while Scenic Eclipse II offers a luxurious circular spa bath overlooking your verandah. Exclusive to these suites, the baths provide the perfect way to rejuvenate after your day of activities.
There are variations between the Spa Suite configurations on Scenic Eclipse I and II, and these distinctions are subject to the respective ship's specifications and design.
Private Verandah
Your private verandah is the perfect place to unwind. Be immersed in the tranquillity of the sea or be the first to catch sight of wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Amenities & Features
- Luxury king-size Scenic Slumber Bed, separate sleeping zone and lounge area with reading chair
- An expansive bathroom with a rectangular spa bath on Scenic Eclipse I and circular spa bath on Scenic Eclipse II
- A steam shower, with oversized head and soothing light therapy
- Dual vanity basins, luxurious amenities and Dyson hairdryer
- Walk-in robe
- A full complimentary mini-bar stocked with wines, Champagnes and spirits personalised to your preference, including illy coffee and specialty teas re-stoked daily.
- Personalised butler service
- Complimentary laundry service~
- Guaranteed dining reservations
- Priority choice of shore excursions
- VIP embarkation and disembarkation
- Advanced Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning system (HVAC) provides 100% fresh air
- The highest sound insulation as per the marine class society Bureau Veritas
Our generously-sized Grand Deluxe Verandah Suites are your own private hideaway, furnished with the finest ultra-luxury amenities, including a plush king-size bed, pillow menu, walk-in wardrobe and a lounge area to relax in after a day of discovery.
Suite Features
Ranging in size from 32 - 34m², located on Deck 5 to 8, each suite includes:
Lounge & Sleeping Area
Your private hideaway is furnished with the finest ultra-luxury amenities, including plush king-size bed, pillow menu and a lounge area where you can relax after a day of discovery.
Private Verandah
Admire your window to the world. These incredibly spacious and thoughtfully designed suites feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open onto sprawling vistas, spectacular seascapes and marvellous marine life. Your private verandah or terrace is the perfect place to unwind as a new world of wonder moves by.
Amenities & Features
- A private verandah with in-suite binoculars for optimal viewing
- Luxury king-size Scenic Slumber Bed
- Separate sleeping zone and lounge area
- En-suite bathroom with shower and vanity
- Luxury bathroom amenities and Dyson hairdryer
- Ambient lighting options
- Personalised butler service
- A full complimentary mini-bar stocked with wines, Champagne and spirits personalised to your preference, including illy coffee and specialty teas re-stocked daily
- In-suite beverage and dining service
- HDTV entertainment system and Bose® speakers
- Advanced Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning system (HVAC) provides 100% fresh air
- The highest sound insulation as per the marine class society Bureau Veritas
Our spacious Verandah & Deluxe Verandah Suites are thoughtfully designed with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open onto a private verandah or terrace. Enjoy unwinding in the separate lounge area with your choice of refreshment.
Suite Features
Ranging in size from 32 - 34m², located on Deck 5 to 8, each suite includes:
Lounge & Sleeping Area
Your private hideaway is furnished with the finest ultra-luxury amenities, including plush king-size bed, pillow menu and a lounge area where you can relax after a day of discovery.
Private Verandah
Admire your window to the world. These incredibly spacious and thoughtfully designed suites feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open onto sprawling vistas, spectacular seascapes and marvellous marine life. Your private verandah or terrace is the perfect place to unwind as a new world of wonder moves by.
Amenities & Features
- A private verandah with in-suite binoculars for optimal viewing
- Luxury king-size Scenic Slumber Bed
- Separate sleeping zone and lounge area
- En-suite bathroom with shower and vanity
- Luxury bathroom amenities and Dyson hairdryer
- Ambient lighting options
- Personalised butler service
- A full complimentary mini-bar stocked with wines, Champagne and spirits personalised to your preference, including illy coffee and specialty teas re-stocked daily
- In-suite beverage and dining service
- HDTV entertainment system and Bose® speakers
- Advanced Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning system (HVAC) provides 100% fresh air
- The highest sound insulation as per the marine class society Bureau Veritas
Scenic Eclipse II
Designed as a sister ship to Scenic Eclipse, our newest Discovery Yacht features enhanced wellness experiences in the Senses Spa and a new Sky Bar and Vitality pool on Deck 10. Scenic Eclipse II will sail the oceans of the Southern Hemisphere in 2024 and 2025, including the next frontier of East Antarctica, Australia, the South Pacific and Asia.
Ship Facts
| Speed | 17 | ||||||||||
| Width | 22 | ||||||||||
| Length | 168 | ||||||||||
| Capacity | 228 | ||||||||||
| Currency | USD | ||||||||||
| Language | en-US | ||||||||||
| Crew Count | 176 | ||||||||||
| Deck Count | 8 | ||||||||||
| Refit Year | |||||||||||
| Cabin Count | 114 | ||||||||||
| Launch Year | 2021 | ||||||||||
| Gross Tonnage | 17085 | ||||||||||
| Electrical Plugs |
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| Large Cabin Count | 0 | ||||||||||
| Wheelchair Cabin Count | 0 |
Deck 10
- Sky Deck Bar
- Sky Deck Pool
- Cabanas
- Elevator
Deck 9
- Owner's Penthouse Suite
- Two-bedroom Penthouse Suite
- Spa Suite
- Elevator
Deck 8
- Panorama Suite
- Spa Suite
- Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite
- Deluxe Verandah Suite
- Verandah Suite
- Helicopter Hangar
- Helipad
- Elevator
Deck 7
- Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite
- Deluxe Verandah Suite
- Verandah Suite
- Yacht Club
- Yacht Club Outdoor Dining
- Hanging Chairs
- Elevator
- Yoga & Pilates
- Gym & Fitness Area
- Wheelhouse
Deck 6
- Grand Panorama Suite
- Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite
- Deluxe Verandah Suite
- Verandah Suite
- Elevator
- Spa Vitality Pool
- Senses Spa
Deck 5
- Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite
- Deluxe Verandah Suite
- Verandah Suite
- Elevator
- Self-Service Laundry
- Lumière
- Azure Bar & Café
- Scenic Épicure
- Observation Lounge & Library
- Observation Terrace
- Marina Entrances
Deck 4
- Elevator
- Koko's
- Night Market @ Koko's
- Sushi @ Koko's
- Chef's Table @ Elements
- Elements
- Guest Services
- Scenic Lounge
- Scenic Bar
- Boutique
- Theatre
Deck 3
- Elevator
- Marina Entrances
- Medical Centre
- Self-Service Guest Laundry
- Discovery Centre
With up to 10 unique dining experiences featuring a range of flavours and cuisines, you can pick the setting to match your mood.
Dining and beverages curated to your tastes
- Culinary team of over 38 chefs from 15 countries
- More than 3,000 recipes in the menu repertoire curated to reflect the regions we sail in
- Locally sourced produce
- Delectable options to suit all dietary requirements - from gluten-free to vegetarian, vegan and more
- Premium selection of beverages available all day
- A range of over 100 premium Champagne, sparkling, red, white, rosé and dessert wines, with daily selections inspired by your destination
Koko's Asian Fusion
Night Market @ Koko's
Night Market @ Koko’s features a classic teppanyaki grill. Enjoy real interaction with the chef as he guides you on an inspired journey of the night market dishes from Asia, India and the Middle East, preparing dishes right in front of you. This experience is not the usual show you may envisage, where food is thrown and eggs cracked on the grill. Rather, it is an intimate dining experience for only eight guests and the chef. There are waiters continuously circulating with beverages and making sure the guests are well attended. Bookings are required for the Night Market @ Koko’s dining, located on Deck 4.
Elements
Chef's Table @ Elements
Lumière Restaurant & Champagne Bar
Sushi & Sake Bar @ Koko's
Azure Bar & Café
Yacht Club
Chef's Garden @ Épicure
In-Suite Dining
Scenic Eclipse II takes ocean cruising to a whole new level of luxury and elegance. Your time on board will be one of world-class indulgence and absolute discovery. From the ultimate spa experience to the spacious lounges and bars, outdoor terraces, pool and jacuzzis, not to mention the theatre and of course your own private verandah, the luxurious wonders on board Scenic Eclipse never cease.
Observation Lounge
State-of-the-Art Theatre
Sky Bar
The Sky Bar can be found on Deck 10.
Sky Deck
The Sky Deck can be found on Deck 10.