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Learn about the history and culture of Sulawesi

Natural Treasures of Indonesia, Borneo & Taiwan

Denpasar - Taipei - Example 17 Day Cruise aboard Scenic Eclipse II
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Embark on a 17-day cruise from Denpasar to Taipei aboard the Scenic Eclipse II, exploring the vibrant diversity of Southeast Asia. This journey takes you through Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Taiwan, offering a mix of tropical paradises, historic ports, and bustling cities. Highlights include walking with Komodo dragons, encountering endangered orangutans in Borneo, snorkeling in El Nido's clear waters, and swimming with stingless jellyfish in the Derawan Islands. The cruise also features luxurious amenities such as kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and optional helicopter and submarine excursions for an elevated experience.
Komodo dragon, IndonesiaOrangutan in the wildA pair of dragons on Komodo IslandTanah Lot rock formationLearn about the history and culture of Sulawesi
Highlights
  • Explore the untouched beauty of Sumbawa Island with exceptional surf and stunning reefs
  • Discover the majestic Komodo dragons on Komodo Island and relax on the famous Pink Beach
  • Experience the wonders of Taka Bonerate Islands with diverse marine life and pristine waters
  • Immerse yourself in the ancient and intriguing culture of Tana Toraja in Sulawesi
Places Visited
  • Asia
  • Bali
  • Borneo
  • Indonesia
  • Malaysia
  • Benoa
  • Bonerate Island
  • El Nido
  • Hualien
  • Keelung
  • Komodo Island
  • Lesser Sunda Islands
  • Makassar
  • Manila
  • Oceania
  • Palopo
  • Philippines
  • Sabah
  • Sulawesi
  • Sumbawa Island
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Benoa (Denpasar), Indonesia | Embark

Bali, known as the Island of the Gods, is a popular destination for travelers worldwide. Its stunning beauty, rich culture, and luxurious offerings make it a paradise. The Scenic Eclipse II awaits off the coast of Benoa, where you can board this 6-star Discovery Yacht. With a spacious suite and a maximum of 228 guests, it promises an immersive and engaging voyage through this unique part of the world. You can look forward to starting your cruise with a glass of Champagne on your private verandah, courtesy of your butler.

Please book your flight to arrive in Denpasar before 02:00 PM.

Day 2: Sumbawa Island

Sailing overnight, Scenic Eclipse II will arrive at the port of Badas on Sumbawa Island this morning. You can order breakfast in your rooms and prepare to enjoy the island's unique sights. Despite its proximity to Bali and Lombok, Sumbawa remains relatively undiscovered by tourists, maintaining its rich cultural identity. Visitors often come for the exceptional surf, stunning reefs, and rugged landscape, providing plenty of opportunities for adventure.

To the north of Sumbawa lies the island of Sulawesi, which has greatly influenced the local culture. You can visit a village to witness traditional practices such as rice pounding and weaving, offering a glimpse into centuries-old customs still being upheld.

Day 3: Komodo Island

This is a momentous day for all aboard Scenic Eclipse II, cruising into one of the world’s great natural treasures. Today, come face to face with the eponymous species of giant lizard roaming these forests for millions of years. 

Stretching up to three meters long 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, mostly found on Komodo Island.  

Board Scenic Eclipse II again at midday to cruise around the island to the famous Pink Beach. The soft sand is colored pink by finely crushed pieces of coral and shells, just one of seven pink beaches worldwide. The turquoise water that laps the shoreline makes for a striking contrast. Beneath the surface, the wonders continue with hundreds of species of coral and an abundance of fish.

Day 4: Taka Bonerate Islands

A world of wonder awaits beneath the surface in the Taka Bonerate National Park. Stretching into the Flores Sea, south of Sulawesi, the park covers over half a million hectares and includes an atoll of 28 islands, the third-largest coral atoll in the world. In 2015, it was recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for its incredible variety of marine life, including fish, turtles, dolphins, whales, and birds. Cruise right through the heart of this abundance of natural life; grab your in-suite binoculars or head to the Observation Lounge to look through the Swarovski telescopes. 

Scenic Eclipse, the World's First Discovery Yacht, uses GPS Dynamic Positioning, which allows the ship to maintain position without an anchor, protecting this sensitive ecosystem.   

In this remote outpost, the captain will find a calm spot to stop for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports. Slip into the warm, crystal-clear waters and feel the world's cares wash away.

Day 5: Palopo, Sulawesi

Arrive this morning in the town of Palopo, on the island of Sulawesi. The third largest town on the island, Palopo, was founded around 1620 by the Muslim ruler Sultan Abdullah Muhiddin. The city’s first mosque, Masjid Jami, was built during his reign and still stands along one of its main streets. 

Palopo is the gateway to the lush highlands of Tana Toraja, home to one of Indonesia’s most exotic and mysterious ethnic groups. Tucked into a valley beneath the green peaks of the Wallacea mountain range, the villages are clustered around elaborately carved and painted houses with distinctive boat-shaped roofs. A visit to Tana Toraja will give you an insight into an ancient and intriguing culture unique to this part of the earth.

Day 6: At Sea

Today is yours to do as much or as little as you want. Perhaps you’d like to take things slowly, starting with breakfast brought to your suite by your butler, enjoyed on the verandah as the emerald-green coastline of Sulawesi slips by outside. You could also start the day with an invigorating gym workout or a Yoga and Pilates studio class.  

Take some time to explore your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, from the Sky Bar and outdoor Vitality Pool on the Sky Deck to the tranquil Senses Spa on Deck 6 with its steam rooms, saunas, plunge pool, and KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge. Stop for a coffee or a cocktail at one of the nine bars and lounges on board, or curl up with a good book in the library of the Observation Lounge. Check the daily program to see what lectures or discussions the Discovery Team is running and learn more about upcoming ports, wildlife, and activities.

Day 7: Ujung Pandang (Makassar)

After days of remote archipelagos and relaxed cruising at sea,  Scenic Eclipse II will arrive in Makassar, the largest city in eastern Indonesia. This bustling and gritty metropolis clings to the south-western tip of Sulawesi island. For centuries, Makassar was the global gateway to Indonesia, or the Dutch East Indies, as it was then known. It has remained a vital port, with vast container ships and freighters from around the globe calling here daily. Makassar has long been a diverse, multicultural city, with a population of local Makassarese, Bugis people indigenous to Sulawesi, and a large Chinese contingent. 

The city has few charms, but the surrounding countryside is the real attraction. The limestone karst mountain ranges of nearby Rammang Rammang look as though they have been pulled from the time of the dinosaurs. These ancient peaks, formed by erosion over millions of years, are covered in thick green foliage and interwoven by tranquil waterways. A handful of traditional villages are dotted throughout the area, where the people have been tending their rice paddies the same way for generations. 

Day 8: At Sea

Make the most of another sea day, indulging in the many exceptional dining experiences on board Scenic Eclipse. Start with breakfast al fresco at the Yacht Club (be sure to return later to visit the large gelato fridge). For lunch, Azure Bar & Café serves light meals, pizza, and salads available for grazing throughout the day. Elements is the ship’s main restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu ranges from Italian to steak and seafood.    

The selection of specialty restaurants on board allows you to dine worldwide each night. Channel the spirit of Asia at Koko’s Asian Fusion; choose one of the sunken Japanese-style tables for an authentic ambiance. Grab a seat at the bar at Sushi @ Koko’s to watch the chefs at work or enjoy the spectacle of teppanyaki-style dining inspired by the markets of Asia at Night Market @ Koko’s, an exclusive experience for just eight guests at a time—journey to France at Lumière, a contemporary fine-dining French restaurant replete with a luxe Champagne bar.

Day 9: Derawan Islands

Sprinkled off the east coast of the island of Borneo, the Derawan Islands are made up of 31 islands, of which only four are accessible. Added to the World Heritage List 2015, the archipelago is impossibly beautiful with turquoise seas, white sand beaches, and waving palm trees. It’s also one of the region’s most biodiverse places, home to giant manta rays, whale sharks, dolphins, endangered sea turtles, and hundreds of fish species. 

For a truly out-of-this-world experience, dip alongside rare stingless jellyfish in a natural lake on Kakaban Island. The four species found in the lake – moon jellyfish, upside-down jellyfish, spotted jellyfish, and box jellyfish – typically have stingers but have lost their ability over time because they have been isolated from predators. Kakaban Lake is one of only two places on Earth where this phenomenon has been recorded. The jellyfish are practically tame, and swimming amongst their translucent forms is something you can never forget.

Day 10: Sabah, Malaysia

Your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht will cross from Indonesia into Malaysia this morning, arriving at Sandakan. Once the capital of British North Borneo, the city is today the gateway to the island’s incredible wildlife encounters. Some of the world’s most vulnerable and endangered animals live here in Borneo, and concerted conservation efforts have worked hard to turn the tide. 

The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center began rescuing orphaned orangutans for almost 60 years. Today, around 60 to 80 orangutans live independently in the reserve, and up to 25 babies live in the nursery. These large apes, with their distinctive shaggy orange coats, can be seen from an outdoor viewing platform set in the lush jungle, where they will arrive for their twice daily feeding, or you can watch the juveniles from the nursery in their last stages of rehabilitation. Nearby, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre is committed to protecting the world’s smallest bear. Found only in Southeast Asia, these bears are threatened by forest clearing and illegal hunting. Around 40 bears currently live at the center, where you can see them living in their natural habitat.

Day 11: At Sea

After a couple of active days on shore, today would be a good time for some relaxation. The indulgent Senses Spa awaits on Deck 6. With an expansive 550m2, the spa is unlike anything you’ve experienced at sea. Inside this luxurious retreat, you can pampered with a range of ESPA treatments, including massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, and alternative therapies like Tibetan bowl sound healing. Relax in the Vitality plunge pool on the Senses Spa Pool Deck or warm up in the exclusive KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge, where the heated beds naturally purify. You can also find saunas, steam rooms, therapeutic pressure showers, and a hair and beauty salon within the spa complex. 

If you’re feeling more energetic, the state-of-the-art gym is fully equipped for cardio workouts and strength conditioning – all with a spectacular ocean view. The Yoga & Pilates Studio is the only kind at sea, offering traditional yoga and Pilates classes, aerial yoga (using silk hammocks strung from the ceiling), TRX, and mindfulness meditation. 

Day 12: El Nido, Philippines

Wake up in the middle of a magical place. El Nido sits on the northern edge of the Philippine Island of Palawan, with the breathtaking Bacuit Archipelago rolling out into the ocean beyond. With its sun-kissed islands, towering marble cliffs, blindingly white beaches, rich green jungle, and inviting tropical waters, El Nido has to be seen to be believed.

Enjoy a picturesque spot as your Discovery Yacht stops at bay. Fitted with a state-of-the-art GPS Dynamic Positioning system, Scenic Eclipse II can hold her position without dropping anchor on ecologically sensitive seabeds. Your cruise arrives here in April, the best time of year to ensure clear water for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Day 13-14: Manila

From one extreme to the other – welcome to the densely populated, high-rise city of Manila. The Philippine capital moves at a frenetic pace 24 hours a day, the streets jammed with cars and teeming with pedestrians. It’s a hub for commerce, business, shopping, dining, culture, and luxury hotels. Take a deep breath, and then decide what you want to see first. If you’re interested in history, Manila’s is enticingly rich. The city was founded as a Spanish colony in the 16th century and soon became one of the New World’s main trading ports, earning it the name Pearl of the Orient. Wander the streets of the oldest district, the Intramuros, which covers around 50 blocks and contains Spanish-era landmarks like Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, and the original walls that protected the city. Across the river, marvel at the ornate façade of the Basilica of San Sebastian, which was built entirely from prefabricated steel panels. Scenic Eclipse II will be docked here overnight, so you can experience some of Manila’s legendary nightlife after enjoying one of the up to 10 all-inclusive dining experiences on board. Alternatively, take a stroll along the Manila Baywalk to watch the sunset.

After stepping back in time, you might like to discover modern Manila today. The city has a thriving contemporary art scene. You can visit major museums, like the Metropolitan Museum of Manila and Pinto Art Museum, or hunt out the smaller galleries that have taken over abandoned warehouses and stately homes to transform them into edgy exhibition spaces. Discover works from up-and-coming Filipino artists or pieces from international artists who have come to the Philippines to be inspired.

Day 15: At Sea

This will be your last full day at sea, cruising north through the waters of the South China Sea. On board Scenic Eclipse II, there are endless ways to practice the art of total relaxation. First, take a moment to yourself in your luxuriously appointed suite—each of Scenic Eclipse’s 114 suites cocoons you with the comforts of a 6-star hotel. The design is elegant and spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows that make the most of the ever-changing views. Your butler is always on call and can bring morning coffee, afternoon tea, or cocktails to enjoy on your private verandah while marveling at coastal scenery or ocean wildlife. Then rest or watch a movie from the comfort of your signature Scenic Slumber Bed. 

When you’re ready to venture out, watch the world slip by as you relax in a cabana on Deck 10 before taking a dip in the pool with a refreshing drink. Read a book in the Observation Lounge library, take one with you, and find the hanging egg chairs on Deck 7.

Day 16: Hualien, Taiwan

Enjoy a relaxed morning on board today as Scenic Eclipse II arrives in port at midday. The city of Hualien sits on the east coast of the island of Taiwan, famed for its beautiful coastline. It’s the gateway to Taroko Gorge National Park, one of Taiwan’s most famous sites. 

The landscape of Taroko Gorge has been formed by the great forces of nature, from typhoons and earthquakes to millions of years of erosion. Today, it is a patchwork of marble gorges, bright blue rivers, and pockets of untouched forest. There are challenging trails for experienced hikers or gentler routes that take you past ancient temples, tumbling waterfalls, and hidden caves. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the most spectacular moments.

Day 17: Keelung (Taipei) | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Today, it is time to farewell Scenic Eclipse after 17 magical days on board. Be sure to fit in one last indulgent breakfast at the Yacht Club or ask your butler to bring coffee to your suite so you can take your time packing up. 

Please book your flight to depart out of Taipei after 12:00 PM.

Ship/Hotel

Scenic Eclipse II

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Deals

2-for-1 Savings 26570
Connect with a Trip Planner to discuss 2-for-1 fares on select sailings.  Valid on new bookings.
Applies to select departures and subject to availability.

Per person starting at
$36,290 2-3 travelers
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
D Verandah
344-366 sqft. Verandah Suites, located on Deck 5, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
DA Deluxe Verandah
344-366 sqft. Deluxe Verandah Suites located on Deck 5, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
DB Deluxe Verandah
344-366 sqft. Deluxe Verandah Suites located on Deck 5, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
DD Grand Deluxe Verandah
409-430 sqft. Choose a Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite, located on Deck 5, which provides additional room to relax. Amenities include a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
C Verandah
344-366 sqft. Verandah Suites, located on Deck 6, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
CA Deluxe Verandah
344-366 sqft. Deluxe Verandah Suites located on Deck 6, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
CD Grand Deluxe Verandah
409-430 sqft. Choose a Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite, located on Deck 6, which provides additional room to relax. Amenities include a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
GP Grand Panorama
344-366 sqft. Verandah Suites, located on Decks 5, 6, 7 or 8, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
B Verandah
344-366 sqft. Verandah Suites, located on Decks 5, 6, 7 or 8, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
BA Deluxe Verandah
344-366 sqft. Deluxe Verandah Suites located on Decks 6, 7 or 8 provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
BD Grand Deluxe Verandah
409-430 sqft. Choose a Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite, which provides additional room to relax. Amenities include a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
A Verandah
344-366 sqft. Verandah Suites, located on Decks 5, 6, 7 or 8, provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
AA Deluxe Verandah
344-366 sqft. Deluxe Verandah Suites located on Decks 6, 7 or 8 provide a spacious and comfortable introduction to ocean cruising with the finest appointments and amenities including a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
AD Grand Deluxe Verandah
409-430 sqft. Choose a Grand Deluxe Verandah Suite, which provides additional room to relax. Amenities include a luxury king-size bed, separate lounge area, en-suite bathroom with shower, butler service.
S Spa
495-538 sqft. Located on the higher decks, luxurious Spa Suites include a luxurious king-sized bed, spa bath, steam shower, butler service, and additional features and services that will
P Panorama
1,184sqft. Located at the front of the yacht on Deck 8 these opulent suites feature spacious curved terraces, a king-sized bed, full bath with steam shower and additional features and services.
SA Spa
495-538 sqft. Located on the higher decks, luxurious Spa Suites include a luxurious king-sized bed, spa bath, steam shower, butler service, and additional features and services
SB Spa
495-538 sqft. Located on the higher decks, luxurious Spa Suites include a luxurious king-sized bed, spa bath, steam shower, butler service, and additional features and services
OP Owner's Penthouse
2,099sqft. The oversized Owner’s Penthouse Suites are the ultimate indulgence. Located on Deck 9 and elegantly appointed with spacious curved terraces featuring a private Jacuzzi and the best views onboard, you will never want to leave.

Notes

All rates are quoted in USD and represent cost per person, based on double occupancy.
Included
  • 16 Breakfasts, 15 Lunches, 16 Dinners
  • 16 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Wifi
  • Porterage
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Complimentary beverages
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Select drinks including a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits are not included in the package and may be available at an additional charge
  • Passport or Visa fees
  • All travel invoice risks. We strongly recommend you to take out comprehensive travel insurance with a reputable insurance company to cover you against risks associated with your tour. Including cover for loss of luggage, medical expense, and cost and expenses incurred due to cancellations, delays, or other disruptions

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The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.
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