cruise kimberleys darwin to broome

Kimberley Coast Explorer Cruise with Darwin & Broome Stays

17 day cruise package.

Experience the ultimate 11 day cruise from Darwin to Broome along the full incredible Kimberley Coast aboard a Coral Expeditions luxury small-ship, plus enjoy stays in Darwin and Broome.  Discover the wonder of luxury expedition cruising to some of the most remote lands of the Kimberley Coast as well as incredible shore excursions to extraordinary Jar Island, Vansittart Bay and Horizontal Falls among others. This Kimberley coastal cruise explores the highlights of this ancient region such as waterfalls and ancient art sites, with expert interpretation of landscape, nature, wildlife and history. This is truly an experience of a lifetime. Themes include: Kimberley Cruises, Northern Territory, Western Australia, Departs from Darwin, Small Expedition Ship, Returns from Broome. + Show more

Package Includes

• Live Prices

Departure Dates

Descriptions

Day 1 fly to darwin, day 2 darwin town tour, day 3 explore darwin, day 4 depart darwin, day 5 king george river and falls, day 6 vansittart bay dc3 and jar island, day 7 wollaston bay, swift bay or the mitchell falls, day 8 bigge island and prince frederick harbour, day 9 prince regent river and king cascades, day 10 montgomery reef, day 11 doubtful bay, raft point and ruby falls, day 12 horizontal falls and buccaneer archipelago, day 13 lacepede islands, day 14 arrive in broome, day 15 broome town tour, day 16 explore broome, day 17 say goodbye to broome, coral discoverer, coral adventurer & coral geographer, flights included, darwin and broome accommodation included, airport and port transfers included, coral expeditions in detail.

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*Holiday costs per person, for 2 people sharing, travelling on indicated dates. Subject to limited availability at these prices, after which higher prices normally apply, book now. Prices are subject to change without notice. Select “Single” for solo traveller prices. Booking requests are made subject to availability. Fri departures operate reversed itineraries, with Broome to Darwin Cruise direction. Ship varies depending on the departure date. Itinerary and vehicle types subject to change without notice. Some governments and service operators have Covid vaccination requirements. Your included flights advised via email with 24 hours to select alternative flights, routing or airline (alternatives may be at a higher price). Included flights may not be the most direct routing. Arrive earlier/stay longer for specified airports only. Stop-overs are not possible. Subject to Booking Conditions, see Important Information before booking. © DISCOVER AUSTRALIA Booking Code: mp 229

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12 DAY KIMBERLEY CRUISE FROM BROOME TO DARWIN WITH KIMBERLEY EXPEDITIONS

Your Kimberley Cruise from  Broome to Darwin  awaits ! 

Discover this amazing Kimberley cruise from Broome . Come aboard our comfortable vessel, Reef Prince, to witness the unspoilt natural beauty and spectacular scenery of. Our Kimberley cruise from Broome to Darwin includes:

• Silica Beach the finest sand beach nestled within the 800 islands of the  Buccaneer Archipelago
• Crocodile Creek swim in a beautiful waterhole above a waterfall.
• Talbot Bay ancient uplifted geology, mangrove creeks and the spectacular  Horizontal Water Falls
• Montgomery Reef featuring the marine life of Turtle Gully
• Raft Point rich with indigenous history, towering rock formations and rocky islands to explore
• Red Cone Creek and the wonderful Ruby Falls & Sapphire Falls. Swim above the falls
• Sampson Inlet & Deception Bay fishing, scenic opportunities, Aboriginal rock art and whales in season.
• Kuri Bay & Camden Harbour rich pearling history and the Kimberley’s first settlement.
• Hanover Bay beaches, scenery, birds and rock art
• Rothsay Waters scenic palm valley and rock art
• Prince Regent River including the beautiful  King Cascades & Cathedral Falls. Swim above the cascades
• Careening Bay the site of the famous Mermaid Boab Tree
• Hunter River & Porosus Creek scenic overload and a wildlife haven
• York Sound sea caves, stunning beaches, incredible rock formations and Rainforest Ravine
• Prudhoe Island petrogylphs, amazing views, crystal coves, reef fishing and turtles in season
• Swift Bay 3 art sites with scores of detailed panels
• Woku Woku Island large Boab groves and rich in Macassan history
• Vansittart Bay numerous  indigenous art sites including Jar Island and Rocky Cove, WW2 DC-3 aircraft crash and fabulous fishing
• Glycosmis Bay large curtain waterfall and The Lost City rock art site
• Koolama Bay numerous bays and beaches to explore. WW2 History
• King George River and the incredible King George Falls.
• Berkeley River narrow high gorges, wildlife, fishing, walks, Aboriginal art sites and waterhole swims
• And there are also countless perfect beaches, inlets and Kimberley coastal scenery.

BOOK THIS CRUISE ONLINE

Reef Prince is a custom-built 38m-expedition vessel, which is ideal for a Kimberley Cruise from Broome . The advanced catamaran design ensures very quiet operation, spacious interior with phenomenal stability. Perfect for sneaking into secluded shallow bays she draws only 1.8 metres and is powered by two quiet Mercedes diesel engines.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME FOR A KIMBERLEY CRUISE FROM BROOME…

Most attractions are at their best during April – September, waterfalls are flowing, gorges are full, flora and fauna are at their abundant best. Ideal conditions apply for walking, exploring and experiencing one of the worlds most remote and tranquil destinations .

YOUR COMFORT AND SAFETY IS IMPORTANT TO US…

Our crew are  experienced guides  and will share with you their knowledge of the Kimberley and guide you safely on all excursions.

The dining area can seat all passengers comfortably for meals or presentations. Outside on the upper deck all guests can be seated under shade for  alfresco meals  and presentations.

Reef Prince has three other  comfortable outdoor viewing decks .

The front deck at the Bow has a shade sail covering the entire area and is a very popular place to enjoy the scenery when transiting.

On board is a laundry with full washing facilities to help make your packing lighter along with irons available and hairdryers in every ensuite.

Reef Prince allows for comfort for all guests with a choice of accommodation types to suit all budgets.

Our Kimberley cruise from Broome to Darwin  is very popular so be sure to book early!

2024/25 bookings now open!

12 day kimberley cruise, from broome to darwin expedition , from $13,595 pp.

23rd March to 3rd April 2024

19th April to 30th April 2024

15th May to 26th May 2024

12th June to 23rd June 2024

8th July to 19th July 2024

6th August to 17th August 2024

2nd September to 13th September 2024

2024 PRICING

STATE CLASS – $17,495 PP (Port Side Cabins 15 & 17) (Starboard 16 & 18)

CLASS 1 – $15,995 PP (Port Side Cabins 9 & 10) (Starboard 11 & 12)

CLASS 2 – $15,595 PP (Port Side Cabins 2 & 4) (Starboard 6 & 8)

CLASS 3 – $14,595 PP (Internal Cabins 1, 3, 5

CLASS 4 – $13,595 PP (Internal Cabins 13 & 14)

Based on Twin Share – SOLO Travellers Welcome in Classes 2, 3 & 4. (Cruise Fare + 20% SOLO Sup)

12 DAY KIMBERLEY CRUISE FROM BROOME TO DARWIN 

See the sights.

• Breathtaking Scenery
• Kimberley Cruise from Broome
• Swim in freshwater swimming holes above waterfalls
• Fast Boat ride through the Horizontal waterfalls
• Optional scenic Helicopter flights (subject to availability)
• Photograph the amazing Kimberley scenery
• Fresh fish sizzling in the galley and much more!
• Explore the rugged landscapes of northwestern Australia and the traditional cultures
• Spectacular wildlife from saltwater crocodiles, dolphins, dozens of species of birds, migrating humpback whales (in season) and many different reptiles.

Most excursions are via our three expedition tenders. The main excursion vessel is the Regent which is a purpose built 7m alloy tender designed for Kimberley Expeditions in 2019. It has twin 140hp outboard motors and seats 13 guests and two crew in forward facing padded seats with back rests. It is perfectly suited for extended sightseeing, shore transfers and speeding through the Horizontal Falls.

Additionally there are 2 x 6m alloy tenders with 140hp outboard motors that seat up to 10 guests each. These are multi-purpose tenders and can be used for sightseeing, excursions, shore transfers, fishing and crabbing.

All three tenders are used at almost every location ensuring every guest onboard can be accommodated all at once. It also allows for diversity by giving guests a choice of activities such sightseeing, hiking or fishing.

Disembarking

In Darwin disembarking is usually around 9-10am but is subject to change depending on tides and weather. Because of this, we recommend you don’t fly until the following day to avoid missing flights and avoid fatigue. Please ensure we have all your accommodation details prior to departure as hotel transfers are included.

In Broome a bus will pick you up from your accommodation. The Cruise Director will be onboard the bus to greet you and assist in departure. Hotel pick-ups usually start at 8am of the morning of departure and conclude at 9am. Departure of the vessel is usually around 10am.

Please note that boarding in Broome is via tenders at Gantheaume Point. This means you will have to wade out from the beach to the waiting tenders so please ensure you are wearing shorts and footwear that can be easily removed.

Reservations

If you require more information or wish to make a reservation please either booking online or send a quick inquiry, we also have a free call number for further information 1300 874 707

To confirm your reservation we require a 20% non refundable deposit to secure your booking, a signed booking form and final payment is due 60 days prior to your cruise .

We accept cheques; cash, Master and Visa Card or you can direct debit the deposit into our account. We look forward to welcoming you aboard Reef Prince.

ITINERARY – Broome to Darwin

Day 1: We Welcome You Aboard MV REEF PRINCE in Broome

Your  Kimberley cruise from Broome  begins today from the beautiful pearling town of  Broome . We will arrange a charter bus to pick you up between 8am & 9am and transport you to board the vessel from  Gantheaume Beach . This is the first of many beach landings and tender rides you will encounter on your 12 day expedition.

Our crew will welcome you aboard and after a crew introduction we will depart Broome. On our way north there will be a safety briefing, morning tea and a vessel induction. After lunch we may have a fishing session by trolling lures from Reef Prince’s two custom game fishing chairs located in the two rear corners. Your trip director will also have discussion with you about the trip’s itinerary.

Overnight we’ll cruise up the Dampier Peninsula and into the Kimberley.

Day 2: Welcome to the Buccaneer Archipelago

For breakfast we stop at Myridi Bay and marvel at the incredible geology of Yampi Sound .

Yampi Sound is nestled within the Buccaneer Archipelago that has over 800 Islands so the area is visually stunning. It’s then only a 45 minute steam to Croc Creek where we cruise up to a waterfall system and hike to the top of the waterfalls and swim in a crystal clear freshwater pool. Reptiles, birds and some unique fauna are also in the area.

After lunch we cruise past the iron ore mining operations on Cockatoo Island and Koolan Island before transiting through the “Gutter” and down into Talbot Bay . This area is scenic overload and most guests are outside taking in the amazing vista during the transit.

Day 3: Horizontal Waterfalls and Montgomery Reef – 2 Bucket lists!!

If we missed Cyclone Creek as a sunset tour the day before, we might even do it as a sunrise tour today!

We also experience the awesome power of the  Horizontal Falls . Your attention will be taken by the incredible geology that abounds this area. David Attenborough called it the eigth wonder of the natural world!

Your cruise director will point out the changes that have occurred in this region over the last 2000 million years to form the water ways we now enjoy. The adventurous can cling on to the rails of our tender “Regent” during the fast boat ride through the falls.

We head off to see  Montgomery Reef  ‘rise’ out of the ocean as the tide ebbs. Jump in the tenders for an extended reef cruise to study the marine life of  Turtle Gully , described by many of our guests as the most memorable moment of their Kimberley experience.

For the evening we anchor at the iconic Raft Point and marvel at the incredibly high rock formation of the area.

Other alternate options in the area include the Kingfisher Islands (during turtle nesting season), the 3-ways (for excellent fishing) and the scenic Sale River.

Day 4: Steep Island, Ruby Falls and Sampson Inlet.

After a healthy breakfast we explore the rocky islands of Bird Rock and Steep Island . These areas are bird rookeries and are culturally significant areas to the local indigenous people.

Ruby Falls lies at the end of Red Cone Creek and the area is home to a large population of saltwater crocodiles. The falls are stunning and we climb to the top to enjoy a magnificent swim in the long freshwater pools and some incredible views on the way back down. After cruising up the coast we will stop at either Deception Bay or Sampson Inlet and if time permits conduct a scenic cruise of the area.

Other alternate options in the area include, Hall Point for a swim and sightseeing, Wilson Point which is a popular calving area for humpback whales in season, Kuri Bay (the home of Australia’s first cultured pearl farm) and Camden Settlement/Sheep Island (the first European settlement in The Kimberley).

Day 5: Breathtaking Prince Regent River to Kings Cascades

Tide permitting we take a sunrise tour to view the morning rays shine onto the Valley of the Palms.

There is also an excellent rock art site further along and the area is a hotspot fishing for large Golden Snapper.

Then it’s out onto the foredeck as we cruise through the scenic St George Basin and into the mighty Prince Regent River . Whilst there is so much to do and see in this river system, the highlight is the amazing Kings Cascades waterfalls. For the adventurous, there is a walk to the top of the falls and a fabulous swimming area at the top fringed with blue gums and pandanus. On the other side of the swimming hole is a multi-layered rocky area offset with mini waterfalls and smaller splash pools to enjoy a dip. Kings Cascades is one of the cruise highlights and a favourite amongst the guests.

Other alternate options in the area include Hanover Inlet with its beautiful scenery, many beaches, brolga rock art & bower bird nests and Saint Andrews island with its incredible scenery in the St.George Basin.

Within the Prince Regent River system are scenic locations such as Camp Creek, Cathedral Falls (the highest in the region), two rock art sites and fabulous bottom fishing.

Day 6: Careening Bay, Porossis Creek and The Hunter River

In the morning we admire the work of an early European explorer Phillip Parker King. King explored and chartered the Kimberley in 1820-22. His detailed and accurate charts form the basis of our modern electronic plotters, allowing us to safely cruise these waters. Unfortunately his early exploits didn’t come without problems as we’ll discover.  Careening Bay  was named by Phillip Parker King after his ship, ‘HMC Mermaid’, was careened during his first voyage of discovery in the Kimberley.

We visit the site of a large boab tree bearing the inscription “HMC Mermaid – 1820”, still clearly visible almost 200 years later. The area is filled with other interesting flora such as a cycad grove and tamarind trees. In the afternoon we explore the famous  Porossis Creek and Hunter River systems and its wildlife. This ecosystem is a favourite for bird watchers. We have a chance to spot a Great Billed Heron, or a Chestnut Rail. On the turn of the tide fishermen can try their luck on a multitude of species that are regularly caught here. The area is visually stunning with its jagged mountain ranges and high rocky escarpments. It’s also popular with our crew as a sunset drinks cruise location.

Other alternate options in the area are numerous and include Ivy Cove (with another iconic boab tree), Dolphin island with its swim beach and Wandjina art site, Naturalist Beach and surrounding waterways, the Roe River and York Sound with its multitude of beaches, sea caves, crystal coves & Rainforest Ravine.

Optional Helicopter Flight to the Mitchell Plateau.

There may also be an option to do a 45-50 minute helicopter flight from Naturalist Beach (which is at the mouth of the Hunter River and only 15 minutes steam from Porossis Creek). This flight with Helispirit Tours takes in the Hunter River, the Mitchell River, the Mitchell Plateau and finally the Mitchell Falls before returning via another set of falls and Porossis Creek. Your Tour Director will advise of this on the first day of your tour and bookings can be made that day. There are minimum numbers required and the price depends on the number of guests flying on the day.

Day 7: York Sound, Prudhoe Island and Swifts Bay.

For day 7 we have options.

If we didn’t get to York Sound the previous day due to the tides and optional Helicopter flights, then we can explore the area in the morning.

In the afternoon we can head out away from the coast and explore Prudhoe Island . The island has a multitude of things to do with some of the highlights being a walk to the peak at Petroglyph Point and marvel at the stone engraved petroglyphs that are estimated to be up to 60 000 years old and possibly the world’s oldest form of art.

Around the corner is a beach that is full of turtle tracks and turtle nests during the laying season.

Inside the bay is a wonderful beach that is great for a walk and a shallow swim and further around into the bay is a crystal creek that is filled with large clumps of quartz crystals. This site is super popular with the ladies and was only discovered by our tour director Paul when has was exploring the area in his own vessel.

If time permits and if we visited Prudhoe Island in the morning, then we can head back into the mainland to Swifts Bay and explore the rock art sites of the area in the afternoon. There are four main sites with two of them giving a very good cross section of Kimberley rock art both in the Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) or the more recent Wandjina style .

Other alternate options in the area are the Osbourne Island Group that has a shipwreck, more rock art, a wall of hexagonal basalt columns, a natural stone arch, stunning views from the peaks and a working pearl lease.

Day 8:  Vansittart Bay

With tide permitting, we might stop for an early walk at Woku Woku Island . This area has a massive Boab Tree (also inscribed by Phillip Parker King) and a large Boab Grove on the opposite shore. The area is rich in Macassan history as it was a popular area for Macassan fisherman to harvest and process Sea Cucumbers. The remains of many hearths can be still seen today.

Vansittart Bay is a popular area and is filled with many things to do. The fishing is superb, particularly for Spanish Mackerel which cruise around the edges of the many pearl leases in the area.

We will take you on an easy walk across a salt flat to witness the site of a crashed WW2 DC-3 transport plane. Well preserved in the Kimberley bush, your guide will recall the fateful day in early 1942.

It is only a short cruise across the bay to Rocky Cove, where can go ashore to a rock art site that has some fabulous examples of mysterious Bradshaw (Gwion Gwion) Paintings and a special cave full of the more modern Wandjina rock art. The Bradshaw rock art is thought to be some of the world’s oldest indigenous art, dating back over 20,000 years.

Other alternate options in the area include Jar Island with its two art sites and rocky headlands, the Anjo Peninsula and the Drysdale River.

Day 9: Glycosmis Bay, Pangali Cove and the mighty King George River

In the morning and depending on the tide, we can visit The Lost City in Glycosmis Bay . This is the most extensive art site that we know of along the Kimberley coast. It has a mixture of Gwion Gwion and Wandjina art and is the longest walk of the tour. It’s not visited all that often but is popular for those super keen on the local rock art.

Earlier in the season Pangali Cove is the preferred morning stop with its WW2 history (the Koolama Incident), a waterfall and freshwater swimming hole.

The best of the Kimberley’s ‘big’ rivers is the mighty King George! While entering the King George River on the high tide we can enjoy the soaring cliffs and two breath-taking falls of mammoth proportions.

Feel the spray mist produced from billions of litres of water falling hundreds of feet as MV Reef Prince is steered expertly to the base of the majestic falls.

We then enter the tenders and go back into the falls and down the river in the smaller boats which enable us to get right up the falls, into the smaller side tributaries and stop to admire the wildlife both above and below the water. There is also a third waterfall in a smaller offshoot that is accessible at high tide and usually has a couple of crocs floating around.

Other alternate options in the area include the Glycosmis Bay waterfalls (early in the season) and Tranquil Bay with its picturesque backdrop and reflection pools.

This morning Reef Prince’s Captain sneaks the ship out of the King George River over the shallow sand banks guarding the mouth of the river. Then it’s on to the mighty Berkeley River for another day of exploration, including tender excursions and a final opportunity to try your hand at fishing.

After departing the Berkeley River relax while the amazing coastline disappears as we start our journey across the Bonaparte Gulf and sail into Northern Territory waters overnight.

This morning we head into Darwin Harbour . It’s a stunning view to watch the sun come up over the city skyline as we transit towards Fisherman’s Wharf .

Farewell your fellow travelers and swap details. Sadly it’s the end of your Kimberley Cruise from Broome. We disembark Darwin at around 10am and say goodbye to the crew. Guests will be transferred to their hotel of choice in the Darwin CBD.

Please note:  This itinerary is subject to change. The Captain and Tour Director will customize your cruise depending on weather, tidal conditions and your feedback from the tour itinerary talk with your Tour Director on the first day.

We promote an active cruise and to undertake some of the shore based excursions you will need to have a moderate level of fitness. You are however, quite welcome to enjoy the views from the vessel without going ashore. It’s your cruise so you can do as little or as much as you would like

PACKING LIST

When packing for your Kimberley cruise we recommend that all passengers pack lightly. Laundry facilities are available on-board free of charge. You do have room to store suitcases either under your beds or in the cupboards provided in each cabin.

The Pilbara will enjoy plenty of sunny days and pleasant  starry nights during our cruise season.

You can find a comprehensive guide of what to bring on your cruise here

Included in your cruise fare are:

• Accommodations as booked on board
• Cruise transportation to your Hotel in Broome
• Cruise transportation to  Central Business District Hotels in Darwin  only
• All meals on board
• Boat ride through the Horizontal Waterfalls,
• Facilities, port & handling charges,
• Excursions and tender transfers.
• Govt. Fees & Taxes.

Fares do not include items of a personal nature, including but not limited to:

• Travel and medical insurance
• Traditional Landowners Visitor Passes are an additional extra & will be invoiced 30-days prior to departure.
• Emergency evacuation
• Shopping on board
• Bar expenses
• Transfers from Hotels in Darwin outside of the CBD and airport
• Optional shore experiences – heli flights and adventure high speed boat rides
• Medical treatment
• Telephone and internet charges.

Are you ready for an amazing, 12 day adventure?

Kimberley Expeditions can offer you a Kimberley expedition cruise of a lifetime!

Join us aboard MV Reef Prince in our air conditioned, catamaran with a choice of en-suited cabins. Our vessel Reef Prince is  designed specifically for the Northern Australian and Kimberley coast!

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Email Address

FREE CALL : 1300 874 707

EMAIL : [email protected]

ADDRESS : 7 Farrell Street, Broome, WA

POSTAL ADDRESS : PO BOX 4006 Mataranka, NT, 0852

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New and exciting route Broome - Wyndham now available!

Our Kimberley Cruises Darwin-Broome are currently unavailable. Please get inspired by the intinery below for your next adventure!

14 Day Kimberley Cruise - Darwin to Broome

Embark at the top end in darwin and join the eco abrolhos for a fantastic cruise through the kimberley’s that you will remember the rest of your life..

Check Availability & Prices

We recommend that you arrive in Broome or Darwin the day before departure as the vessel’s departure time can vary on the day due to the tides. The hotel & airport transfer times will be confirmed a week before departure of your cruise.

See us at sea as we travel towards the Berkeley River. We will haveplenty of time to settle in and meet new friends and fellow guests. We will also have the opportunity to view some movies of the Kimberley so we can all get excited and may even crack out the darts or bingo!!

Wake up this morning to the glorious Berkley River and take in the inspiring vista from the top deck as we make our way up one of the great Kimberley gorges. Keep an eye out for the first of many crocodiles (bigones inhabit this river!!) and the chance to see a Jabiru on one of the mud banks.Once we can travel no further in our mother ship we will disembark into the tenders for a scenic cruise and maybe a chance to catch an elusive Barra for those who are keen.After lunch we will head back down to the mouth of the river and back into the tenders to view the Casuarina Falls and maybe a swim. As the sun sets enjoy a relaxing drink as we set sail for the mighty King George.

Once we have traversed the protective sand bar at the mouthof the magnificent King George, we will meander our way alongthis Kimberley icon to it’s falls. Be sure to have your camerabatteries charged as you will need all you have to captureevery photo opportunity!!

Once at the falls we will stop within metres of them and then disembark into the tenders for a closer look. Those that feel upto it can make their way to the top of the highest single drop fallsin Western Australia for one of the truly great views. In theafternoon we will set sail again for Vansittart Bay.

Vansittart Bay! One of the best places to view Bradshaw paintings. Wonder as to how these mysterious and elegant paintings came to be. 20,000 years old and looking like nothing you have ever seen before. We will also visit a downed DC3 plane from the war and learn about the secret WWII airbase that housed hundreds of B52 Bombers that the Japanese searched for in vain. At the end of the days adventures we will head for a nice refreshing dip in the sea on a tranquil beach.

Today sees us in the mighty Mitchell River, home of the big Barra. A chance for everyone to hook the fish of a lifetime. We will spend the day here catching dinner and trying our hand at mud-crabbing as well. For those who feel up to it, there is great waterhole to soothe the days adventures away, safe from the ever presentcrocodiles. For those who would like to see the Mitchell Falls there is an option to take a helicopter ride and enjoy the view.

Halfway through our Kimberley Cruise we visit Bigge Island, where we have a saltwater swim and walk on a beautiful sandy beach. We explore some beachfront caves to look at Wandjina art and a burial site of one of the Wunambal people. This afternoon we will head off to the Hunter River and try our luck at spotting some whales whilst enjoying a drink or two on the top deck.

Wake up to the magnificent sandstone cliffs of the Hunter River. These spectacular rock formations change colour as the light comes and goes and as we spend the day sightseeing and fishing. There is also an option today to take a helicopter ride to the Mitchell Falls.

The infamous Kings Cascade and the Prince Regent River, once thought to be the access to a great inland sea. Today we get up close and marvel at the Kings Cascade waterfall and learning a little of the history about the discovery of the Kimberley Region. We will enjoy a swim at the top of the falls in another great waterhole and more chances to catch the elusive Barra. In the afternoon we will cruise down the river and watch another gorgeous sunset as we make our way further south.

Waking up in Brecknock Harbour, we take an early morning run in the tenders to view the remains of the first Kimberley settlement and hear the tales of woe that beset this misinformed and tragic expedition. From here we will cruise past the famous Kuri Bay, the first Pearl Farm in the area and down to an art gallery at Freshwater Cove. You will have the chance to purchase our own little piece of history and do a bush tucker excursion with some of the local people. Just another fascinating remembrance of your Kimberly Cruise.

For those keen this morning we trek up the side of Raft Point for a look at some great Wandjina art and learn a little history of the area. Then it’s onwards to Freshwater Cove and its exquisite art gallery run by the locals. Buy a lasting memento and an ** option to go on a Country Cove Tour to really feel the spirit of “Country”.

We spend the afternoon watching the sun dip in the west, looking for whales and wondering – does life get any better than this!

Montgomery Reef, so named by Phillip Parkerking, in honour of his friend and surgeon on his exploration of the Kimberley coast. Witness the spectacle of this monolithic reef as it rises out of the water. We will sightsee up the channel and experience the many turtles, sharks, rays and egrets there are in this incredibly diverse system. In the afternoon we will steam across Doubtful Bay and enjoy another refreshing swim in a surprising waterfall and another chance at the golden Barra.

White water rafting anyone? Well not quite, there is an option here to take a ride through the Horizontal Falls in tenders and experience one of the most exciting parts of the trip which is not to be missed. In our last hurrah of our Kimberley Cruise before heading to Broome we will visit Silica Beach. Truly a standout in a sea of beaches. This beach is so named because of the amount of Silica in its snow white sand. Hear it squeak underfoot as you relax one last time on the shores of the Kimberley and start planning your return journey, for no two trips are ever the same.

Broome, the melting pot of many cultures, which makes this town unique. Sadly we say goodbye, but we leave with new friendships and the promise of more adventures, after the trip of a lifetime.

**Option – All optional tours are an additional expense. Please contact us for current pricing.

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• HERITAGE ADVENTURER NEW!
• KIMBERLEY PEARL
• KIMBERLEY QUEST II
• KIMBERLEY XPLORER
• LE JACQUES CARTIER NEW!
• LE LAPEROUSE
• NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ORION NEW!!!
• OCEAN DREAM
• PACIFIC EXPLORER
• PASPALEY PEARL COMING SOON!!!
• QUEEN ELIZABETH
• REEF PRINCE
• SEABOURN PURSUIT NEW!!!
• SCENIC ECLIPSE II NEW!!!
• SILVER CLOUD
• TRUE NORTH II
• RAIL & SAIL PACKAGES
• GHAN 2025 PRICES
• THE GHAN HOLIDAY PACKAGES NEW!
• INDIAN PACIFIC
• INDIAN PACIFIC 2025 PRICES
• INDIAN PACIFIC HOLIDAY PACKAGES NEW!
• GREAT SOUTHERN
• GREAT SOUTHERN HOLIDAY PACKAGES NEW!
• SENIOR PENSIONER DISCOUNTS
• RAIL JOURNEYS BROCHURES
• BROOME COASTAL & CULTURAL TOUR
• BUNGLE BUNGLE COMPLETE
• ESSENCE OF THE KIMBERLEY
• KIMBERLEY COMPLETE TOUR
• KIMBERLEY COMPLETE & LAKE ARGYLE
• KIMBERLEY & TOP END TOURS
• AYERS ROCK TO ALICE SPRINGS TRANSFER
• ALICE SPRINGS TO AYERS ROCK TRANSFER
• AYERS ROCK TO KINGS CANYON TRANSFER
• KINGS CANYON TO AYERS ROCK TRANSFER
• KINGS CANYON RESORT TO ALICE TRANSFER
• BEST OF ALICE SPRINGS
• KINGS CANYON & OUTBACK PANORAMAS
• ULURU SUNRISE & KATA TJUTA
• BROOME TOWN SCENIC TOUR
• APT KIMBERLEY COMPLETE TOUR
• APT KIMBERLEY AND TOP END TOUR
• APT ESSENCE OF THE KIMBERLEY CRUISE
• BROOME TO DARWIN LUXURY KIMBERLEY CRUISE
• BROOME ABORIGINAL TOUR
• BROOME TOWN TOURS
• BROOME – FOOD & DRINKS TOURS
• BROOME – 3 in 1 TOURS
• BROOME WHALE WATCHING
• CROCODILE PARK
• DAY CRUISE ex BROOME
• FLAVOURS OF BROOME
• HORIZONTAL FALLS SEAPLANE ADVENTURES
• MATSOS BREWERY
• KIMBERLEY CAMPING TOURS NEW!!!
• MITCHELL FALLS EXPLORER TOUR
• ROEBUCK BAY TOURS
• ROMANTIC HELICOPTER FLIGHT
• ROWLEY SHOALS FISHING
• SEAFOOD TOUR
• ORCAELLA BROOME SNUBFIN DOLPHIN TOUR
• BROOME SNUBFIN DOLPHIN TOUR ON CONTESSA C
• WILLIE CREEK PEARL FARM
• APT -BUNGLE BUNGLES
• AVIAIR ADVENTURER
• BROOME TO BUNGLES 4WD TOUR
• BUNGLE BUNGLE DAY TOUR
• BUNGLE BUNGLE AIR ADVENTURE
• BUNGLE BUNGLE STAYOVER
• BUNGLE BUNGLE & LAKE ARGYLE – SEAPLANE
• BLUE TEAM CAMELS
• RED SUN CAMELS
• YELLOW TEAM CAMELS
• GIANT TIDES
• GORGEOUS GORGES
• INCREDIBLE ISLANDS
• HORIZONTAL FALLS AND CYGNET BAY OVERNIGHT PACKAGE
• CYGNET BAY EXPLORER FLIGHT
• CYGNET BAY – DAY CRUISE NEW
• CYGNET BAY SAFARI
• CYGNET BAY PEARL FARM TOUR
• CYGNET BAY ADVENTURE SAFARI
• CYGNET BAY TO HORIZONTAL FALLS SEAPLANE
• CYGNET BAY OVERNIGHT HORIZONTAL FALLS CRUISE
• CYGNET BAY FLIGHT & BOAT
• DAMPIER PENINSULA & ABORIGINAL COMMUNITIES
• DARWIN TO BROOME LUXURY KIMBERLEY CRUISE
• DARWIN DINNER CRUISE
• DARWIN – FISHING
• DARWIN SHORT BREAKS
• GAZE AND GRAZE SUNSET CRUISE
• DARWIN – SHORT BREAKS
• GOURMET WALKING FOOD TOURS
• HISTORY WARTIME TOURS
• TIWI ISLAND ABORIGINAL TOUR
• DINOSAUR ADVENTURE CRUISE
• PREHISTORIC CRUISE
• GREAT ESCAPE 5 DAYS FISHING TOUR
• BROOME DAY FISHING
• BROOME HALF DAY
• DARWIN – FISHING CHARTERS
• HELIFISHING
• MUD CRABBING
• ROWLEY SHOALS
• HORIZONTAL FALLS AND CYGNET BAY OVERNIGHT PACKAGE NEW
• BUCCANEER EXPLORER
• WILDERNESS SAFARI
• DAY CRUISES – HORIZONTAL FALLS
• FLY BROOME HORIZONTAL
• HORIZONTAL DISCOVERER
• HORIZONTAL FALLS HIGHLIGHTS TOUR
• HELICOPTER SCENIC FLIGHT
• SUNDAY ISLANDS TOUR
• KAKADU TOURS
• KIMBERLEY DAY CRUISE New!
• 2 NIGHT GETAWAY
• 4 NIGHT GETAWAY
• APT BUNGLE BUNGLE EXPLORER TOUR
• APT BUNGLE BUNGLE COMPLETE TOUR
• APT KIMBERLEY EXPRESS TOUR
• GREAT ESCAPE FISHING TOUR
• KIMBERLEY QUEST SHORT KIMBERLEY CRUISE
• DIVERSITY II KIMBERLEY SHORT CRUISE
• APT – BUNGLE BUNGLES
• ORD RIVER LUNCH CRUISE (J2)
• ORD RIVER SUNSET CRUISE (J3)
• BEST OF LAKE ARGYLE – ex KUNUNURRA
• BEST OF LAKE ARGYLE – ex LAKE ARGYLE
• LAKE ARGYLE SEAPLANE SUNSET DRINKS TOUR
• LAKE ARGYLE SUNSET CRUISE – Ex KUNUNURRA
• LAKE ARGYLE SUNSET CRUISE – Ex LAKE ARGYLE
• LAKE ARGYLE MORNING CRUISE
• BUNGLE BUNGLE & LAKE ARGYLE ISLAND TOUR
• LITCHFIELD PARK WATERFALL TOUR
• CUNARD LUXURY KIMBERLEY
• HERITAGE EXPEDITIONS KIMBERLEY CRUISES
• PONANT NORTHERN KIMBERLEY
• PONANT SOLAR ECLIPSE 2023
• PONANT SOUTHERN KIMBERLEY
• PONANT BROOME TO DARWIN LUXURY KIMBERLEY CRUISE
• PONANT DARWIN TO BROOME LUXURY KIMBERLEY CRUISE
• SCENIC BROOME TO DARWIN KIMBERLEY
• SCENIC DARWIN TO BROOME KIMBERLEY
• SEABOURN KIMBERLEY BROOME TO DARWIN
• SEABOURN KIMBERLEY CRUISE DARWIN TO BROOME
• SILVERSEA DARWIN TO BROOME
• SILVERSEA BROOME TO DARWIN
• MITCHELL FALLS COASTAL ADVENTURE
• MITCHELL FALLS DISCOVERER
• MITCHELL FALLS HIKE ADVENTURE
• MITCHELL FALLS SCENIC ex BROOME
• MITCHELL FALLS ULTIMATE
• MONTGOMERY REEF & HORIZONTALFALLS
• MUD-CRABBING
• ORD RIVER WITH LUNCH (J2)
• ORD RIVER DISCOVERER – SUNSET (J3)
• ORD RIVER EXPLORER – SUNSET (J4)
• OUTBACK SPIRIT TOURS
• PASPALEY PEARL FARM TOUR
• WILLIE CREEK PARL FARM
• BROOME ECO CRUISE
• ROEBUCK BAY CRUISE
• SCENIC AND PREHISTORIC CRUISE
• WWII PLANE WRECK TOUR
• CYGNET BAY TO HORIZONTAL FALLS SEAPLANE TOUR
• HALF DAY – EX BROOME
• FULL DAY TOUR – Ex BROOME
• HALF DAY – Ex DERBY
• LUXURY 24 HOUR STAY – EX DERBY
• OVERNIGHT TOUR – EX DERBY
• 1000 ISLANDS TOUR – EX BROOME
• APT – BUNGLE BUNGLE
• BUNGLE BUNGLE AEROPLANE & HELICOPTER
• BUNGLE BUNGLE EXPLORER TOUR
• BUNGLE ADVENTURER
• BUNGLE BUNGLE ADVENTURER TOUR + HELICOPTER
• BUNGLE BUNGLE (2HR)
• BUNGLE BUNGLE & LAKE ARGYLE
• BUNGLE BUNGLE SAFARI ADVENTURE OVERNIGHT TOUR
• BUNGLE OVERNIGHT STAY
• BUNGLE BUNGLE ADVENTURER WITH HELICOPTER
• BUNGLE BUNGLE AND LAKE ARGYLE
• BUNGLE BUNGLE AND ORD RIVER
• BUNGLE BUNGLE ADVENTURE SAFARI TOUR
• MITCHELL FALLS SCENIC FLIGHT
• MITCHELL FALLS FLIGHT ex BROOME
• BUCCANEER ARCHIPELAGO
• DAY CRUISE – HORIZONTAL FALLS
• DAY BOAT TOUR – ex CYGNET BAY New!
• FLY HORIZONTAL
• INCREDIBLE ISLAND FLIGHT
• HORIZONTAL FALLS DISCOVERER
• HORIZONTAL FALLS HIGHLIGHTS
• KIMBERLEY DAY CRUISE
• SEAPLANE ADVENTURE (FULL & HALF DAY)
• SUNDAY ISLAND TOUR
• HELICOPTER HORIZONTAL FALLS HIGHLIGHTS TOUR
• HELICOPTER HORIZONTAL FALLS DISCOVERER TOUR
• HELICOPTER PEARL FARM TOUR
• MITCHELL FALLS HIKE & HELI ADVENTURE
• MONTGOMERY REEF TOURS
• ROMANTIC HELICOPTER PICNIC
• KING GEORGE FALLS ADVENTURE
• STAIRCASE TO THE MOON
• BALLENA – SUNSET SAIL CRUISE
• DINNER CRUISE – BROOME SUNSET
• ORCAELLA – SUNSET CRUISE
• PEARL LUGGER CRUISE
• WHALE WATCHING SUNSET
• TOP END TOURS
• KATA TIJUTA SUNSET
• KINGS CANYON & PANORAMAS
• ULURU SUNSET & SITES
• ULURU SUNSET BBQ TOUR
• ULURU SUNRISE & FIELD OF LIGHTS
• BALLENA SUNSET SAIL
• MORNING WHALE WATCH TOUR
• AFTERNOON WHALE WATCH TOUR
• BROOME TO BUNGLES TOUR
• KIMBERLEY FAMILY SAFARI
• SAL SALIS DELUXE CAMPING
• WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS
• CORAL EXPEDITIONS DEALS
• DIVERSITY CHARTERS DEALS
• KIMBERLEY SPECIAL OFFERS NEW!
• PONANT CRUISE DEALS
• SEABOURN CRUISE DEALS
• SCENIC KIMBERLEY CRUISES
• SOLO TRAVELLER DEALS
• 15 DAY KIMBERLEY CAMPING TOUR
• 12 DAY KIMBERLEY CAMPING TOUR
• 8 DAY KIMBERLEY CAMPING TOUR
• GIFT VOUCHERS
• PHOTO GALLERY

SCENIC BROOME TO DARWIN KIMBERLEY CRUISE

Explore one of the best cruise tours  - Scenic Broome to Darwin Kimberley Cruise ,

More than a few thousand million years ago, the Kimberley was a unique land, detached from the rest of the Australian continent. Geological forces caused it to collide with the ancient Pilbara and Yilgarn regions, laying the foundation of the great land we call home.

Duration: 11 days /10 nights

• Up to 228 guests on board for a truly exclusive Discovery Voyage
• Up to 8-member specialist Discovery Team
• Engaging lectures and education program with on board experts
• Scenic Discovery excursions and shore side expedition program
• Exclusive Scenic Enrich experiences
• Personalised Scenic Freechoice experiences

For more information on our S cenic Broome to Darwin Kimberley Cruise , call  1300 799 758   now.

Call us 7 days a week!

BLUESUN TRAVEL - BEST IN THE INDUSTRY

BlueSun Travel  is fully accredited by  AFTA  and a member of  IATA  and  CLIA .  We are the owners of  BluesSun2 Boat Charters ,  BlueSun Cruises ,  Kimberley Boat Cruises ,  Galapagos Boat Cruises , and  Best Honeymoon Packages . We are widely regarded at the number one marine and charter boat booking agency in Australia.

1300 799 758

Scenic kimberley cruise prices.

from $14,995 pp

PACKAGE DATES

May - August 2024.  * All prices are per-person based on double occupancy and reflect our current offers. Are subject to change any time.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE OUR OTHER KIMBERLEY SPECIALS

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• Australia's Iconic Kimberley Darwin - Broome

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Australia's Iconic Kimberley

Darwin - broome, dates: 2/7/2025 to  12/7/2025.

Fly, Stay & Cruise Package *

Transfer from the pier to the airport

Set sail for the  wild and grandiose landscapes of Kimberley , following an exceptional  PONANT  itinerary.  

From  Darwin  to  Broome , embark for an  11-day expedition cruise  to  one of the last unspoiled regions on the planet .

In one of the most picturesque parts of the region, the  Hunter River , you will see wild mangrove forests where  saltwater crocodiles  live along with many species of birds.

The highpoint of this cruise will undoubtedly be the discovery of the  King George River and the majestic Twin Falls , the highest falls in Western Australia.

During your cruise, the magnificent bays of Vansittart and Swift will offer you exceptional panoramas, between islands, secret inlets, caves and rocky overhangs.

At  Ashmore Reef , gaze out over the shades of blue of the Timor Sea off the mainland. The corals are home to extraordinary marine life in this incredibly beautiful paradise.

You will also visit  Collier Bay , where you will be able to admire the Montgomery Reef, home to vast expanses of lagoons and immense coral reefs.

On the  Lacepede Islands , take the time to admire the abundance of nesting birds as well as the  large population of turtles  residing in the lagoon.

Your ship will take you along the most spectacular coasts in the entire region.

With their falls, abrupt gorges, savannah, calm waters and desolate mountain chains, the wild lands of Kimberley are the promise of  an exceptional adventure .

We are privileged guests in these extreme lands where we are at the mercy of weather and tide conditions. Landings on certain sites and the observation of certain wildlife cannot be guaranteed. They vary from day to day, making each PONANT cruise a unique experience. The Captain and the Expedition Leader will make every effort to ensure that your experience is as rich as possible, whilst complying with the necessary safety rules and precautions.

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Ref : DB905 - SO020725

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Join our highly qualified local expedition team Enjoy regular zodiac outings & shore visits to get close to Kimberley nature Discover billions of years-old landscapes & ancient rock art Listen to stories of...

Your trip in detail

Your ship le soléal.

Included in your cruise

Important trip details

All destinations

1300 737 178 (or contact your travel agent)

Choose your stateroom

Superior Stateroom Deck 3  

Fully booked 20% Ponant Bonus

Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3  

From AU$14,180 per person 20% Ponant Bonus

Prestige Stateroom Deck 4  

From AU$15,720 per person 20% Ponant Bonus

Prestige Stateroom Deck 5  

From AU$16,490 per person 20% Ponant Bonus

Prestige Stateroom Deck 6  

From AU$17,410 per person 20% Ponant Bonus

Deluxe Suite Deck 6  

Prestige Suite Deck 5  

From AU$27,300 per person 20% Ponant Bonus

Prestige Suite Deck 6  

From AU$28,540 per person 20% Ponant Bonus

Owner's Suite Deck 6  

From AU$38,920 per person

Complete your trip

Included in your cruise To make sure things run smoothly, PONANT has included certain elements before and after your cruise as part of the price.

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Shore Excursions, Overlands & Pre/Post Programmes To complete your voyage, PONANT can organise a range of shore excursions, pre & post cruise activities and packages, plus transfers.

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*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.

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Services provided

• 24-hour room service
• Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
• Individually-controlled air conditioning
• Dressing room with shelves and closet
• Dressing table and hairdryer
• Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
• Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
• Electronic safe
• Direct line telephone
• Bose Bluetooth speaker
• Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
• 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
• Three ADA staterooms

Select your stateroom category

Stateroom size

• - than 25 m²
• + than 25 m²

Superior Stateroom Deck 3

20% Ponant Bonus

Fully booked

Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3

Prestige Stateroom Deck 4

Prestige Stateroom Deck 5

Prestige Stateroom Deck 6

Deluxe Suite Deck 6

Prestige Suite Deck 5

Prestige Suite Deck 6

Owner's Suite Deck 6

Boarding conditions and passenger travel abilities

We invite you to read our boarding conditions and passenger travel abilities by clicking here . 

Any new reservation implies the acceptance of these conditions.

To guarantee your entry into one or several countries, you must ensure that you comply with the formalities and health requirements specific to each destination. In just a few clicks on our online search engine, find all the formalities you must complete prior to your departure (visas, entry authorisations for each country, vaccinations, etc.).

The international situation can change rapidly, so be sure to check this information regularly prior to your departure. However, please note that we always recommend our guests contact the relevant national immigration and customs and border control authorities directly to find out what rules apply to their specific situation. PONANT is not responsible for any decisions made by guests based on the information provided by the online search engine.

The information below is current but subject to change at any time without advance notice from government authorities. Please consult your respective government agencies for visa and health information.

Passport valid for at least six (6) months beyond the completion of your trip. Passport must contain at least two completely clear, blank, unused visa pages for each visa required, not including any amendment pages. Visa pages with stains or ink from other pages in the passport are not usable. Guests who deviate from the scheduled embarkation or disembarkation port should research the foreign entry requirements for the port country. Due to government regulations, regrettably, Ponant will have to deny boarding to any guest who fails to obtain the appropriate travel documentation for this trip.

Australia : an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) must be obtained before your arrival in Australia. For more information, please visit https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-finder . Carriers should be aware that there will not be any physical evidence in your passport. A copy of your ETA must be sent to PONANT at the latest 45 days prior to your cruise date. We also ask you to keep a copy of your ETA and keep it with your passport throughout the duration of your trip.

Australian customs regulations are very strict, especially for the import of food items such as fresh food (even sealed), fruits, eggs, meat, plants, vegetables, seeds, grains. Fur and feathers are also forbidden. We highly recommend you consult this website for further details : https://www.abf.gov.au/entering-and-leaving-australia/can-you-bring-it-in.

It is recommended that you contact your health professional for any specific medical advise relating to travel through these regions, including advice on Malaria prevention and dengue fever.

List of items prohibited on board

To guarantee the safety and well-being of our guests, certain items are strictly prohibited on board. Should you have one of these products or objects in your possession, they will be confiscated immediately and will not be transported on the ship. When an item transported aboard is considered illegal, the relevant authorities will be notified systematically.

Click here  for the full list of items prohibited on board. 

Warning about the use of drones : the use of drones aboard PONANT ships, whether they are sailing at sea, at a port of call or anchored, is strictly forbidden. The use of drones on land in the Arctic and Antarctic regions is also strictly forbidden by international polar regulations. In other regions, it may be possible to use drones on land if permission has been obtained from the relevant authorities of each country and each region travelled through, as well as a pilot’s licence that should be obtained from your home country. Passengers are responsible for obtaining these permits; they should be able to present them at all times. Passengers who do not obtain these authorisations expose themselves to the risk of legal proceedings.

Expedition programmes include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landings"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.

Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.

Travelling to isolated regions is an exhilarating experience. In remote areas, please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.

Clothing tips:

• Cotton comfortable and light-weight shorts/bermuda shorts
• Light weight long trousers
• Long-sleeved breathable SPF50+ shirts
• Cotton short sleeved T-shirt
• Aquatic UV long-sleeved T-shirt for sun protection during snorkeling or swimming 
• Aquatic non-slip sandals 
• Windproof, waterproof and breathable outer layer
• Broad brimmed anti-UV hat with strap and veil to protect the neck
• Comfortable walking shoes

Accessories:

• Snorkelling equipment will be offered onboard (for adults only).
• Highly protective sunglasses.
• Sunscreen and after-sun with high SPF index & insect repellent
• Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
• Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
• Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
• Walking poles (highly recommended).

Please note:

During your visits to some local communities, all guests will be required to dress respectfully. Ladies must have their shoulders and thighs covered. Gentlemen should have their shoulders covered also.

Ideal clothes for life on board:

During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.

Informal evening:

In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.

• Simple dress
• Skirt or trousers
• Pleated trousers or chinos
• Sports jacket

Officer’s evening:

For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).

Gala evening:

During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.

• Cocktail attire
• Evening dress (if you wish to)
• Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)

A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.

A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.

TECHNICAL OUTFITS:

• Shorts / bermudas
• Wind and waterproof light “breathable” outer layer
• Sweater/pullover for the evening
• Short and long sleeved cotton shirts
• Waterproof UV long sleeved T-shirt
• Long sleeved cotton shirt for sun protection during zodiac excursions and excursions ashore
• Ankle canvas shoes (which dry quickly and protect ankles)
• Aquatic shoes for wet landings on shore

ACCESSORIES:

• Polarized sunglasses with high UV filter
• Walking poles
• Small waterproof backpack
• Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
• Gym wear (fitness)
• Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
• Mobile phone charger
• Sun portective hat/cap with strap and veil to protect the neck

HEALTH CARE:

• Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
• Mosquito and insect repellent
• Medications and prescriptions

OUTFITS ON BOARD:

• Casual outfits for the day
• Smarter outfits for dinners
• Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
• White or black and white outfit

PRECAUTIONS:

In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.

All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.

PONANT activities

• Join our highly qualified local expedition team
• Enjoy regular zodiac outings & shore visits to get close to Kimberley nature
• Discover billions of years-old landscapes & ancient rock art
• Listen to stories of the dreamtime from the oldest continuous culture on the planet
• Explore pristine mangrove environments, home to the world’s largest living reptile
• Possibility to reach the Mitchell Falls by helicopter, from Hunter River.
• Witness unique tidal phenomena such as the Horizontal Falls

Ports of Call & Excursions

2 July 2025 - Darwin

Embarkation 2/7/2025 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm Departure 2/7/2025 at 6:00 pm

Darwin is located in Australia’s Northern Territory which is also known as the “Top End”. It is the capital city and the most populated town of the Northern Territory. Darwin is a beautiful tropical city, a melting pot of people and cultures , over 50 different cultures live and work side by side that prides itself in its unique and friendly laid-back lifestyle. Come discover the town’s still recent history through its emblematic buildings such as the new Parliamant House opened in 1994, a magnificent example of tropical architecture or Admiralty House declared heritage place, a tropical-style home elevated on stilts that has survived two cyclones and numerous air raids.

3 July 2025 - King George River

Arrival 3/7/2025 Departure 3/7/2025

The journey up the King George River is nothing short of breathtaking. The 80-metre-high sides of the gorge display varying degrees of weathering of the ancient Warton sandstone. The colours and textures of the gorge change with the light as you travel further up the river creating a continual changing scenery that is simply stunning. The journey culminates at the King George twin falls ; the highest single-drop falls in the whole of the Kimberley (80 m or 260 ft). Fed by wet season run-off the level of water cascading over the falls varies from year to year. Your Expedition Team will escort you in either the zodiacs or ships tenders to the foot of the twin falls, and explain all about the stunning geological formations of the canyon.

4 July 2025 - Vansittart Bay

Arrival 4/7/2025 Departure 4/7/2025

Jar Island contains ancient rock art galleries depicting the Gwion Gwion style unique to the Kimberley region. Mainly neglected by, or unknown to, the early European researchers of Aboriginal culture in the Kimberley in favour of the dominant and more dramatic Wandjina art, Gwion Gwion art has in recent years gained world prominence. It is generally thought that this art may extend back to over 30,000 years before our time and represents the first wave of seagoing colonisers of the Australian continent. As it is, these are the oldest detailed depiction of human figures in the world . Join your Expedition Team ashore for a short walk, past some fascinating rock formations, to the site of the Gwion Gwion art galleries.

5 July 2025 - Ashmore Reef (technical stop)

Arrival 5/7/2025 Departure 5/7/2025

Located 600km North of Broome, on the edge of the continental shelf, Ashmore reef consists of 3 low-lying tropical islands surrounded by coral reef. The islands have a combined land area of approximately 54 hectares and are a designated important bird area (IBA). Visitation to Ashmore reef and Islands is strictly controlled and most of the reef is designated as a sanctuary zone where access is prohibited. Our visit to Ashmore reef is required to ensure we comply with Australian government regulations. Should weather, sea and tide conditions permit there may be an opportunity for guests to undertake a zodiac tour to the vicinity of West Island.

6 July 2025 - Careening Bay

Arrival 6/7/2025 Departure 6/7/2025

Careening Bay was named by Lieutenant Phillip Parker King after his ship, HMC Mermaid , was careened there during his third voyage of discovery in 1820. King surveyed the western coast to complete the map initiated by Flinders 20 years earlier. The Mermaid had been leaking badly and King needed to find a shallow sandy bay where he could careen his boat to undertake repairs. At a high tide, on a warm September afternoon, he ran the Mermaid onto the sands. For ten days the Mermaid crew worked hard before refloating the vessel. The ship’s carpenter carved the name of the vessel and the year into a conspicuous boab tree. The famous boab tree is now 3 metres wide and National Heritage listed. A reminder of a by gone era of exploration!

7 July 2025 - Swift Bay

Arrival 7/7/2025 Departure 7/7/2025

The Bonaparte Archipelago , is a stunningly rugged maze of islands stretching almost 150 km along Western Australia's remote Kimberley coast. Its colour and scale conspire to take ones’ breath away. Its distant location has meant it has remained an unspoilt and remarkably pristine location to explore and experience. Phillip Parker King named “ Swift's bay " after Jonathon Swift (1667-1745) the author of Gulliver’s travels. The ‘T’ shaped bay is composed of heavily fractured sandstone providing an abundance of rock shelters. On the walls of these shelters are examples of both Wandjina and Gwion Gwion style rock art. Join your expedition team ashore for a guided walk to a number of rock art galleries depicting these unique rock art styles.

8 July 2025 - Hunter River

Arrival 8/7/2025 Departure 8/7/2025

Arguably one of the most scenic parts of the Kimberley coast, Prince Frederick Harbour and the Hunter River are lined with ancient rainforest pockets, pristine mangroves and mosaic sandstone cliffs. They are considered to be some of the most pristine mangrove forests in the world, containing up to 18 different species, supporting a rich and diverse fauna. The sandstone escarpment at the river mouth, known as “Kampamantiya” rises over 200 metres high before giving way to extensive mud banks and mangrove forests home to numerous bird species and the iconic saltwater crocodile . Our expert Expedition Team will share their knowledge with you as you explore this pristine mangrove environment by zodiac keeping a constant lookout for wildlife. You will also have the opportunity to reach the Mitchell Falls by helicopter from Naturalist Island beach. 

9 July 2025   10 July 2025 - Collier Bay

Arrival 9/7/2025 Departure 10/7/2025

Lying to the east of the Buccaneer archipelago, the ancient landscapes of Collier Bay have been shaped by the massive tidal movements the region is renowned for, creating a photographer’s paradise. With a tidal range exceeding 14 metres, recorded near Yule entrance at the southern end of the bay, they are among the largest in the world. This massive daily movement of water creates unique phenomena that occur nowhere else in the world.  Nestled in the centre of the Bay is Montgomery Reef , the world’s largest inshore reef system. As the tide falls a raging torrent of water cascades off the top of the reef, creating turbulent ‘rivers’ and mini waterfalls. At the Southern end of the Bay, Talbot Bay is home to the world’s only ’Horizontal Falls’ described by Sir David Attenborough as “One of the greatest wonders of the natural world.” Hidden in the many caves and grottos of this ancient landscape are a multitude of ancient Rock Art galleries . Here you can find spectacular examples of the Wandjina and Gwion Gwion styles.   

As we are at the mercy of weather and tide conditions in this region, the activities mentioned above are only possible experiences and can’t be guaranteed.

11 July 2025 - Lacepede Islands

Arrival 11/7/2025 Departure 11/7/2025

The Lacepede Islands are Western Australia’s most important breeding habitat for Green Turtles (Chelonia mydas), and have been named by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area (IBA) . The breeding colony of Brown Boobies is possibly the largest in the world. Up to 20,000 Roseate Terns have also been recorded here. Other birds breeding on the islands include Masked Boobies, Australian Pelicans, Lesser Frigatebirds, Eastern Reef Egrets, Silver Gulls, Crested, Bridled and Lesser Crested Terns, Common Noddies, Pied and Sooty Oystercatchers. Join your expedition team for a guided zodiac tour to view the prolific wildlife. Due to the sensitive nature of the environment, landings are prohibited on the Lacepede Islands.

12 July 2025 - Broome

Arrival 12/7/2025 early morning Disembarkation 12/7/2025 at 8:00 am

Located in the northwest of the Kimberley region and in the far north of Western Australia, the town of  Broome  is reputed for its history and its glorious  pearling era . The fascinating Chinatown district, which is the historic city centre, and the famous Japanese Cemetery, dates back to 1896, and has a past marked by the immigration of numerous Chinese and Japanese workers, attracted by the prosperous pearl industry at the end of the 19th century and at the beginning of the 20th century. Broome is also famous for the “ Staircase to the Moon ”, an optical illusion created by the Moon reflecting on the sand banks at low tide, like a staircase climbing up towards the sky, a unique spectacle provided by nature…

Like Le Boréal and L’Austral , the two sister ships that preceded it, Le Soléal further reaffirms PONANT's signature approach: to take passengers to the farthest reaches of the planet onboard modern ships offering top-of-the-range services.

An elegant appearance and refined interior design combine with cutting-edge technology to offer a new type of cruising: adventure in a luxury setting.  

Find out more about Le Soléal

For your serenity, PONANT organises your transfer between the port and the airport. This package is included in your cruise fare. Disembarkation day - Broome Disembarkation. Meet and greet at the port by our local representative, and group transfer from the port to the airport or the hotel The Mangrove (or similar). For guests who have an afternoon flight, enjoy time at leisure at the hotel The Mangrove (or similar) before your group transfer to the airport. Please note:

• Local English-speaking assistance will be provided.
• To anticipate your group transfer upon disembarkation, please inform your travel agent about your departure flight details.

This programme is subject to change.

Explore the planet’s most remote tropical regions during a PONANT expedition cruise. In the heart of Oceania’s archipelagos or the Indian Ocean atolls, along the wild coastlines of Central America or Australia, our luxury amenities and services will make your expedition cruise an unforgettable experience. Our expedition leaders and their teams of naturalist guides devise exceptional itineraries and organise daily outings, shore visits in Zodiac dinghies, or snorkelling when the cruises are conducive to it, to take you as close as possible to nature. Aboard the ship, they share their knowledge during lectures on a variety of topics such as the fauna and flora, the history of the great explorations, geology and climatology. On land, using the local transport options or during hikes, discover the must-see natural sites and, for a few hours, partake in the life and ancestral customs of the local populations.

Fly, Stay & Cruise - 2025 Offer

Offer includes 1 pre-night, transfers on arrival and return flights in Economy class from major Australian and New Zealand cities, with a total value of up to $2,500 per person.

Simply mention the code PKIMB25 when making your reservation. Offer doesn't apply to the 'Kimberley & Australian West Coast' itineraries departing on 11.08.25 and 21.08.25.

More terms and conditions apply. Talk to your preferred travel agent or a PONANT consultant.

Terms & conditions: Offer valid when booking select itineraries 2025 Kimberley Luxury Expeditions in all cabin categories onboard Le Soleal and Le Jacques Cartier. Offers available on new bookings only for travellers departing from Australia and New-Zealand. Offer includes 1 pre-night package and return Economy class non-refundable airfares and taxes with a total value of up to AU$2,500 per person. Pre-night package: includes 1 night only pre-cruise accommodation at The Kimberley Sands Broome and Adina Waterside Apartments Darwin in room categories held by Ponant (Subject to change) and Airport to Hotel and Hotel to Pier group transfers in Darwin or in Broome to the embarkation meeting place. Return airfaires: offer is based on Economy class non-refundable airfares with an airline of Ponant’s choosing depending on best available routing to port of embarkation and from port of disembarkation. A deposit of 25% of total booking value is due at the time of booking. All air is ticketed upon receipt of the deposit. Flights are available from major Australian and New Zealand cities. All offers are subject to availability of airline and booking class. Once class is sold out, surcharges apply. Flights must be booked by Ponant. Should you choose to depart earlier than your scheduled tour/cruise departure, or make variations to airline routings, surcharges may apply. Airline schedules are subject to change without notice and Ponant is not liable for any additional costs incurred due to airline schedule changes. Flights must be booked as soon as they are released by the airlines. Any changes made after ticketing may incur amendment and/or cancellation fees. Air taxes vary for each departure point and routing of airline and are subject to change. Fuel surcharges are subject to change and an additional fuel surcharge may apply. Frequent flyer miles/points may not be awarded on all airfares. Cancellation fees specific to this offer apply after deposit has been paid as follows: If deposit date is more than 211 days prior to departure date, cancellation fee is 15% of booking value; If deposit date is between 210 and 91 Days prior to departure date, cancellation fee is 25% of booking value; If deposit date is 90 Days or less prior to departure date, cancellation fee is 100% of booking value. Flights cancellation fees as per airline terms and conditions advised at time of purchase. Offer is combinable with PONANT’s Free Solo Supplement, PONANT Bonus savings, PONANT roadshow discount, PONANT’s Join the Club offer, and PONANT Yacht Club benefits. Terms and conditions may apply. Offer is not combinable with any other offer. Not redeemable for cash. Your booking contract is with Compagnie Du Ponant Pty Ltd (Ponant) and incorporates all the terms and conditions shown on au.ponant.com unless specified in these conditions. Ponant recommends that you read and understand your contract and ask Ponant or your travel agent if you require any clarification. Offers are subject to availability, not combinable unless specified, available on new bookings only and may be withdrawn at any time. All pricing and saving amounts are in Australian Dollars. Information correct as of 02.08.24 but may fluctuate due to changes in surcharges, taxes or currency.

Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands

1/7/2025 - OVERNIGHT IN DARWIN (1 NIGHT)

12/7/2025 - OVERNIGHT IN BROOME (1 NIGHT)

OVERNIGHT IN DARWIN (1 NIGHT)

Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.

Day 1 - Darwin

Meet at Darwin Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off your own flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).

You will be transferred to the hotel Hilton Darwin 5*.

Official check-in time at the hotel Hilton is 3.00 pm.

Your luggage can be stored at the hotel before check-in.

The afternoon and dinner are at leisure.

Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2 - Darwin

Day is at leisure.

Check-out is at 12.00 am.

You will depart the hotel by coach for a panoramic tour of Darwin. Located in Australia's Northern Territory, also known as the "Top End", Darwin is a beautiful tropical city, where over 50 different cultures live and work side by side.

Discover Darwin's rich history and culture and learn about Darwin's role during World War II as you see its many historic wartime landmarks. You will drive past St Marys Cathedral, travel up to and along the Esplanade, the Parliament House, the Old Court House, the Anglican Cathedral. Pass Bicentennial Park, and the Old Town hall ruins.

You will then be transferred to the port of Darwin, to embark on board your ship.

Your hotel:

The Hilton Darwin offers an ideal location in the heart of the city within walking distance of shopping and entertainment. The elegant rooms are light and equipped with contemporary furniture for a warm and comfortable ambience. The hotel features a 10th-floor outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, and a stylish bar and restaurant.

Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.

Your programme includes:

• 1-night accommodation in Standard room at Hilton Darwin 5*, local standards (or similar) including breakfast.
• Transfers as mentioned in the programme.

The services of a local guide on the group transfer.

Your programme does not include:

Dinner on Day 1.

• Lunch on Day 2.

Tips for the driver and local guide.

Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.

• It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
• Early check-in is available depending on availability and at a supplement. Contact your travel agent for further detail.

Contact of your hotel:

Hilton Darwin B 32 Mitchell St Darwin City NT 0800 Australia Telephone: (+61) 8 8982 0000

Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

Total : AU$530

On arrival at Darwin Airport you will be met by our representative (Grand Touring) for your transfer to The Adina Darwin Waterfront Apartments.

Check in time is approx 1400

Afternoon and evening at leisure

The following day check out is at 1100.

Spend the day exploring Darwin until your transfer to the pier at approx  1400

Adina Darwin Waterfront Apartments

7 Kitchener Drive, Darwin City +61 8 8982 9999

Include in program:- transfers and accommodation Not included:- Any meals

Total : AU$330

OVERNIGHT IN BROOME (1 NIGHT)

Day 1 - Broome

Upon disembarkation in Broome you will be greeted by our local representative then transferred to The Kimberley Sands Resort.

The rest of the afternoon and dinner are at leisure.

Day 2 - Broome

Morning is at leisure prior to hotel check-out at 11am.

You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).

Located in a peaceful bush setting just minutes from the turquoise blue waters and white sands of iconic Cable Beach, the Kimberley Sands offers elegant rooms designed to capture light and the Indian Ocean breezes. The hotel allows guests to relax and dine at the Sands Restaurant and Bar overlooking the Maxima Pool.

1-night accommodation in Pool View King room at the Kimberley Sands.

Transfers from the pier to Kimberley Sands as mentioned in the programme.

Transfer from Kimberley Sands to Broome Airport.

An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please, contact your travel agent for further detail.

Kimberley Sands Resort

10 Murray Road, Cable Beach

Broome, Australia

Telephone: +61 8 9193 8300

To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

Total : AU$350

CALL 1800 000 130

Coral Expeditions – 10 Nights Broome to Darwin

About This Project

Kimberley Cruise Escapes invites you to discover the remarkable Kimberley Coast. Home to towering waterfalls, rugged outback landscapes, ancient Aboriginal art and abundant wildlife there is simply no place on earth quite like the Kimberley, and no better way to discover it than by small ship.

Join us to experience all of the icons of the Kimberley Coast over ten unforgettable days cruising between Broome and Darwin. In the south, discover remarkable Montgomery Reef and the amazing natural phenomenon of the Horizontal Falls of Talbot Bay. Explore the Mitchell Plateau and cruise the Kimberley’s ‘big’ rivers before discovering the majestic King George River with its towering 80-metre twin falls and the mysterious Bradshaw (Gwion Gwion) paintings of Bigge Island in the north.

This is a land steeped in ancient Aboriginal culture and the legends of Australia’s pioneering past. Travel ashore to view the world’s oldest known indigenous rock art, the mysterious Bradshaw (Gwion Gwion) paintings and soak up the history of early explorers such as Phillip Parker King who first charted this spectacular coastline almost 200 years ago. With two landings most days, with Coral Expeditions you will enjoy more opportunities to fully immerse yourself in the magic of the Kimberley. Aboard our unique ‘Xplorer’ excursion vessel and fleet of inflatable Zodiacs, and with the expert local knowledge of our experienced guides, you are assured of making the most of every minute of your expedition, and do it all in total comfort and unrivalled style.

You can choose to cruise on Coral Discoverer or Coral Expeditions I .

This itinerary is an indication of the destinations we visit and activities on offer. Throughout the expedition we may make changes to the itinerary as necessary to maximise your expeditionary experience. Allowances may be made for seasonal variations, weather, tidal conditions and any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel.

Coral Expeditions Rates

Rates below are per person standard published fares based on twin share occupancy. Fares DO NOT INCLUDE specials, discounts or reductions exclusively available through 1300 Cruise. Call 1300 278 473 for currents specials and availability.

** FLY FREE  (FF) and Partner FLY FREE (PFF) are an exclusive offer only available through bookings made with Kimberley Cruise Escapes. FF is applicable to Bridge deck staterooms and above grades and PFF is applicable on all other grades. FF relates to both guests booked and PFF relates to one of the two receiving flight credit. Flight Credit is based on economy flights ex any major capital city on preferred dates to suit and capped at $1000 per person.  FF and PFF PROMOTIONAL CLUB FARES ARE STRICTLY LIMITED – Call 1800 000 130 NOW to avoid missing out!

• Peak Season  – May, June, & July
• Shoulder Season  – March & April (Waterfalls), August & September (Whales)

Multi Room Booking Bonus Savings – Call for details ** Charter / Group Savings Rates Available – Call for details

Accommodation charges on board, services of expedition staff including lectures, briefings, slide/film presentations, and other group activities; group transfers during the cruise; all meals; 24 hour tea/coffee station; post mixed soft drink; landing fees.

Not Included

Pre and Post flights and transfers; personal items such as telephone, internet charges, laundry, bar charges, travel insurance.

Optional costs

(During Cruise); Helicopter Flights to Mitchell Falls.

*Rates and Itinerary are subject to change without notice.

We’ll help you plan the perfect Kimberley cruise at the best price guaranteed Help Me Find My Cruise

Coral Adventurer's Sacred Kimberley (Broome to Darwin)

DEPARTING FROM: Broome FINAL DESTINATION: Darwin

DURATION: 11 Days/ 10 Nights REGION: Kimberley Cruises SHIP: Coral Adventurer

Cruise the Kimberley coast between Broome and Darwin over ten nights aboard the state-of-the-art expedition ship Coral Adventurer. The Kimberley coast is a place universally acknowledged as one of the world’s last - and possibly most beautiful - wilderness areas. And, Kimberley cruises are the best way to discover it all!

This is a land steeped in ancient Aboriginal culture and adorned with the world’s oldest known indigenous art, the mysterious Bradshaw (Gwion Gwion) paintings. Experience the heartland of Australia’s northernmost unspoilt outback. Kimberley Cruising is a completely unique experience.

• Ship Details
• Room Grades

We have multiple departure dates for this cruise. Select a year and month to view itineraries for alternative departure dates.

Coral Adventurer

Operated by: Coral Expeditions

Considered the 'world's most technologically-advanced tropical expedition ship', Coral Adventurer accommodates a maximum of just 120 guests in 60 spacious staterooms and suites, more than half featuring a private balcony. Care has been taken with the design of the ship to preserve Coral Expeditions’ traditionally relaxed and intimate onboard atmosphere. She is Australian flagged and crewed and conforms to the highest standards of build quality, operational redundancy, environmental compliance, and safety. Design features include spacious communal areas, a light-filled lecture room, open seat dining room, open bridge policy and a flexible fleet of excursion tenders that allow access to even the most hard to reach locations. 

Coral Adventurer joins the Coral Expeditions fleet exploring the Kimberley region, Cape York and Arnhem Land (The Top of Australia), Papua New Guinea, the Spice Islands, Indonesia and the South Pacific.

Your cruise price includes:

• Accommodation in selected room grade aboard the new Coral Adventurer
• House beer and wine during lunch and dinner service
• 24 hour soft drinks, tea and barista-style coffee
• Captain’s welcome and farewell drinks
• Access to islands, marine and national parks
• Guided tours on Xplorer expedition vessel and zodiacs
• Touring as described in each itinerary
• Services of expedition staff and lecturers including briefings and knowledge-sharing sessions
• Port taxes and government charges imposed by government authorities
• Tipping not required on board
• Included access to standard Wi-Fi aboard the ship - premium package available for purchase.

Your cruise price does not include:

• Pre and post flights, transfers and hotels
• Optional Mitchell Falls helicopter flight (payable on board)
• Entry visas/travel permits
• Travel Insurance  (highly recommended - ask us for a quote today)
• Items of a personal nature including but not limited to phone communications and bar charges (outside of the included drinks package as highlighted), laundry charges and souvenir purchases.

Book your next cruise

Please note: This cruise is sold in AUD

Prices listed for departures between April & June 2024 are for new bookings only made after 01 March 2024.

This itinerary is an indication of the destinations visited and activities on offer. While every effort will be made to follow this itinerary the Captain and Expedition Leader do reserve the right to vary this itinerary to make allowances for weather, tidal conditions and any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel.

By completing this booking request you acknowledge that you have read and accept  Expedition Cruise Specialists'  and  Coral Expeditions'  terms and conditions.

Single travellers are accommodated in Coral and Promenade deck staterooms upon payment of a 50% single supplement. All other staterooms require a 100% single supplement.

CRUISE SELECTION

Room grade selection, additional options, booking and passenger details, additional passenger details.

< BACK TO LE LAPÉROUSE PAGE

Le Lapérouse , Luxury Kimberley Cruise

10 night broome to darwin.

Le Laperouse will guide you to some of the most picturesque parts of the region – the Hunter River, King George River and the majestic Twin Falls. Admire the Montgomery Reef, home to vast expanses of lagoons and immense coral reefs. Visit the   Buccaneer Archipelago, whose coast is one of the most spectacular in the entire region. The wild lands of Kimberley are the promise of an exceptional adventure.

Day 1. Broome, Western Australia.

Often referred to as the pearl of North West Australia, Broome is Western Australia’s coastal gateway to the magnificent wilderness region of the Kimberley. Le Lapérouse will be alongside the wharf in Broome. Guests will be transferred by coach from Pearl Luggers in Downtown Broome to the wharf between 3pm and 4pm. The ship is scheduled to depart at 6pm.

Days 2 – 9. Exploring the Kimberley Coast, Western Australia.

The Ancient landscape of the Kimberley coast is continually shaped by the second largest tidal range in the world. To take advantage of this natural phenomenon we have created a flexible itinerary. Our Kimberley voyages are true expeditions, where each day’s activities will be determined by the Expedition Leader and Captain taking into account the tide, weather and sea conditions.

The Lacepede Islands. Kimberley, Western Australia.

The Lacepede Islands are Western Australia’s most important breeding habitat for Green Turtles ( Chelonia mydas ), and have been named by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area (IBA). The breeding colony of Brown Boobies is possibly the largest in the world. Up to 20,000 Roseate Terns have also been recorded here.

Horizontal Falls, Talbot Bay. Kimberley, Western Australia.

Described by Sir David Attenborough as “One of the greatest wonders of the natural world” the “Horizontal Waterfalls” are an iconic location and one of the premier tourist attractions of the West Kimberley. With massive tidal differences of up to 10.8m on a spring tide, the “Horizontal Waterfalls” are created as seawater builds up faster on one side of the gaps than the other, creating a waterfall up to 4m high on a King tide.

Ngumbri (Raft Point). Kimberley, Western Australia.

‘Ngumbri’ is the site of the most spectacular Wandjina gallery on the Kimberley coast. The Worrorra, Wunambal, and Ngarinyin people say that the Wandjina are the creator beings of the Dreaming, and that they made their world and all that it contains.  

Montgomery Reef. Kimberley, Western Australia.

The tidal movements in the Kimberley are nothing short of massive, in fact the Kimberley has the third largest tidal range of anywhere on the planet. Montgomery Reef is a spectacular example of the impact of these tides as the entire reef appears to rise from the ocean. At just under 400km 2 in size it is Australia’s largest inshore reef, containing large areas of shallow lagoon, seagrass beds and corals.

Freshwater Cove. Kimberley, Western Australia.

Wijingarra Bard Bard (Freshwater Cove), is a special place to the Worrorra people and provides a unique opportunity for visitors to hear the stories of the Lalai (creation) and gain an understanding of how country and culture intertwine in this beautiful landscape.

Langgi. Kimberley, Western Australia.

It is very easy to sail past the rocky inlet known as Langgi without realising the beauty and significance of this special place. One side of the inlet is a maze of three metre-high naturally sculptured sandstone pillars standing alongside a narrow gorge. To the Worrorra people these sandstone pillars represent warriors killed in a great Wandjina battle during the time of Lalai (Creation).

Swift Bay. Kimberley, Western Australia.

The Bonaparte Archipelago in WA’s remote Kimberley region, is a maze of islands, inlets, peninsulas and rivers. Phillip Parker King originally named it “Swift’s bay” after Jonathon Swift (1667-1745) the author of Gulliver’s travels. Today it is known as Swift Bay.

The ‘T’ shaped bay is composed of heavily fractured sandstone providing an abundance of rock shelters. On the walls of these shelters are examples of both Wandjina and Gwion Gwion style rock art.

Prince Frederick Harbour (Hunter River). Kimberley, Western Australia.

Arguably one of the most scenic parts of the Kimberley coast, Prince Frederick Harbour and the Hunter River are lined with ancient rainforest pockets, pristine mangroves and mosaic sandstone cliffs. They are considered to be some of the most pristine mangrove forests in the world, containing up to 18 different species, supporting a rich and diverse fauna.

Mitchell Falls and Plateau. Kimberley, Western Australia.

The Mitchell Plateau is one of the most scenic & biologically important areas of Australia. The Mitchell River carves gorges and waterfalls into the underlying sandstone, particularly along the margins of the Mitchell Plateau. The most scenic of all is the four tiered Mitchell falls that flow continuously throughout the year.

Jar Island, Vansittart Bay. Kimberley, Western Australia.

Jar Island contains ancient rock art galleries depicting the Gwion Gwion style unique to the Kimberley region. It is generally thought that this art may extend back to over 30,000 years BP & represent the first wave of seagoing colonisers of the Australian continent. As it is, these are the oldest detailed depiction of human figures in the world.

Anjo Peninsula, Vansittart Bay. Kimberley, Western Australia.

Vansittart Bay is a small remote bay of about 30km 2 , synonymous with Truscott air base that was operational during the very end of the Second World War. Just behind the sand dunes on the western side of the Anjo peninsula lies the remarkably intact remains of a World War II aircraft that made a forced landing into the scrub in late February 1942.

King George River and Falls. Kimberley, Western Australia.

The journey up the King George River is nothing short of breathtaking. The 80m high sides of the gorge display varying degrees of weathering of the ancient Warton sandstone. The journey culminates at the King George twin falls; the highest single-drop falls in the whole of the Kimberley (80m or 260ft).

Day 10. At Sea.

Enjoy a leisurely day at sea to reflect on your experiences, take advantage of the luxurious on board services or enjoy a cool drink at the Pool Bar. Today your expedition team will provide informative presentations about the Kimberley region.  The Kimberley is one of the world’s last great wilderness areas, and one of Australia’s greatest natural assets.

Darwin, Northern Territory. Disembarkation

Darwin is the largest city in the sparsely populated Northern Territory, with a population of 136,245. It is the smallest and most northerly of the Australian capital cities, and acts as the Top End’s regional centre. Darwin was originally a pioneer outpost.

Le Lapérouse will be alongside the wharf at the Darwin Cruise ship terminal located at Fort Hill Wharf. and embarkation will commence shortly after breakfast.

For bookings:   1300 550 144  |    Contact Us Online

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Bedding Configuration

Decoding Art In The Kimberley, Australia’s Ancient Outdoor Gallery

A groundbreaking voyage brings travelers face-to-face with 65,000 years of living artistry, as the rugged Kimberley’s sacred galleries open their ancient doors to modern adventurers.

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The Wandjina figures, with their distinctive large, wide eyes and mouthless faces, are spirit beings central to the complex belief system of the "Dreamtime."

In Northwest Australia's Kimberley region—a wilderness twice the size of the United Kingdom—rust-red earth speckled with baobabs meets the deceptively serene, croc-infested Timor Sea. This 163,000-square-mile expanse, one of Earth's last frontiers, is poised for a uniqueral convergence: ancient art galleries alongside a surge of luxury tourism. While viewing ancient rock art might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning an Australian adventure, the Kimberley boasts one of the oldest and most prolific collections of rock art in the world. From simple hand stencils to elaborate figures adorned with headdresses and tassels, these ancient Aboriginal paintings offer a rare glimpse into daily life as it unfolded tens of thousands of years ago. The artistic journey began approximately 65,000 years ago when the earliest Aboriginal explorers reached the Kimberley and started decorating the sandstone walls with exquisite rock art. While the Lascaux caves in France were still awaiting their first ochre handprints, Indigenous artists along the Kimberley Coast were already perfecting techniques that would outlast civilizations. These paintings, found in caves and on rock walls across the region, depict plants, animals, tools, and weapons, as well as human forms engaged in hunting, dancing, and later, encounters with foreign sailors and ships.

Worrorra custodian Neil Maru of Wijingarra Tours gestures towards Wandjina rock art, explaining the living spiritual significance of these striking white-faced figures.

This unbroken artistic continuum reached a new pinnacle in 2021 when archaeologists unearthed a 17,500-year-old kangaroo painting , officially recognized as Australia's oldest intact rock art. Dated using the innovative technique of mud wasp nest analysis, this discovery not only cements the Kimberley's exaltation in the annals of prehistoric art but also teases with the promise of future revelations about early human creativity. The rock art of the Kimberley is primarily categorized into two principal styles: Wandjina and Gwion (also known as Bradshaw) art. The Wandjina figures, with their distinctive large, wide eyes and mouthless faces, are spirit beings central to the complex belief system of the "Dreamtime"—a concept broadly understood as the time when spiritual ancestors created the world and everything in it. The Gwion art, in contrast, typically depicts dynamic, stick-like figures with elaborate accouterments, offering insights into the sophisticated Paleolithic societies that once thrived in this harsh landscape.

Seabourn Pursuit, a state-of-the-art expedition vessel, brings modern explorers face-to-face with one of the world's oldest artistic traditions.

It's against this backdrop that the Seabourn Pursuit cruises these waters, a modern-day incarnation of the HMS Beagle purpose-built for remote destinations like Western Australia, Papua New Guinea, and Antarctica. Launching in the summer 2024, its 10-night Kimberley voyages from Broome to Darwin (and vice versa) promise a journey through the evolution of Aboriginal art, all while cocooned in state-of-the-art luxury. But Seabourn's ambitions extend far beyond mere sightseeing. In a groundbreaking move that sets a new standard for responsible cultural tourism, they've named the Wunambal Gaambera people collectively as garrangarru (godparents) of the Pursuit. Cultivated over a decade, this relationship, where the Wunambal Gaambera actively shape visitors' experiences, is no shallow gesture—it's a significant reimagining of Indigenous Australian engagement in tourism. Bridging the gap between cruise operations and local communities is Divina D'Anna, a Yawuru, Nimanburr, and Bardi woman from Broome. "Like other First Nations peoples," she notes, "our people along the coast have so much to offer visitors, sharing our stories, beliefs, and rituals." It's a sentiment that echoes through the ancient rock formations and into the heart of this expedition.

Dambimangari ranger Adrian Lane shares a joyful moment during an expedition to Montgomery Reef.

While the Kimberley's natural wonders like Yowjab/Montgomery Reef and Garaanngaddim/Horizontal Falls captivate visitors, the region's art remains a focal point of the journey, informed by both international expedition guides and Dambimangari rangers. At Freshwater Cove, where ochre-stained cliffs meet the sea, Worrorra custodian Neil Maru offers intimate insights into the Wandjina figures. Complementing this traditional knowledge, Greg Fitzgerald, the Pursuit's onboard art expert and a former pilot with a decade-long passion for the Kimberley, bridges the gap between ancient wisdom and modern understanding. "The creator spirits live within these paintings," Fitzgerald explains, challenging Western notions of static art. "Each is a living embodiment of its creator spirit." This perspective underscores the ongoing dialogue between artist, land, and spirit that characterizes the Kimberley's artistic tradition. Perhaps most striking is the living nature of the Wandjina art. Unlike most ancient art forms, the Wandjina tradition remains vibrant through continual renewal. Fitzgerald elaborates on this practice: "As the painting fades, so does the spirit's power. Renewal is essential for maintaining their spiritual potency, and is restricted to three specific clans: the Worrorra, Ngarinyin, and Wunambal." This act of renewal, dating back 4,000 to 5,000 years, transforms the art from mere historical artifact to a living, breathing part of contemporary Indigenous culture.

Ancient Gwion Gwion figures, dating back over 12,000 years, adorn the weathered rock face in the Kimberley. These elongated forms with elaborate headdresses offer a glimpse into the sophisticated artistic traditions of Australia's earliest inhabitants.

As the Pursuit navigates the labyrinthine coastline, passengers find themselves transported to Ngula/Jar Island, where the Gwion paintings—formerly known as Bradshaw art—offer windows into a sophisticated Paleolithic society. These elongated human figures, adorned with intricate accouterments, speak to complex social structures predating many known civilizations. "These ceremonial headdresses reveal fine artistry in every sense," Fitzgerald muses, his words hanging in the air like the ochre dust that once clung to ancient paintbrushes. Yet, the Kimberley's artistic legacy isn't confined to the weathered rock faces of the past. Contemporary artist Lily Karadada, now in her eighties, represents a crucial link in the evolving continuum of Indigenous Australian art. Born near the Prince Regent River, Karadada has become a significant figure in the Wandjina painting tradition of Kalumburu. Her work, which incorporates totemic animals from her country, merits attention for its role in bridging traditional rock art aesthetics with contemporary artistic expression.

Octogenarian artist Lily Karadada stands beside her Wandjina painting, bridging millennia of Kimberley artistic tradition.

It's fitting, then, that Ngula/Jar Island was chosen as the location for Pursuit's naming ceremony in June 2024, where guests participated in a remarkable Wunambal Gaambera welcome and smoking ceremony, "jimɨrri," bidding them safe travels ahead. The artistic journey seamlessly continues back on Seabourn Pursuit, a vessel that ingeniously doubles as a floating gallery. Housing over 700 carefully curated artworks, the ship offers a contemporary lens through which to interpret and appreciate the ancient masterpieces encountered ashore. This extensive collection, ranging from Indigenous Australian pieces to international contemporary art, creates a dialogue between past and present, inviting guests to explore the evolution of artistic expression across cultures and millennia. New York-based Tihany Design innovative interiors further blur the lines between ship and shore, like in the Expedition Lounge, where an intricately etched glass map traces the contours of the Antarctica coast, another destination served by the ship.

Double Decker's 'Magical Sky' sculpture was commissioned for Seabourn Pursuit's Main Atrium, featuring translucent spheres inspired by celestial bodies, embodying the ship's 'Expedition of Discoveries' theme.

Wunambal Gaambera elders conduct a traditional smoking ceremony on Jar Island's sun-baked shores, purifying the land and participants before Seabourn Pursuit's naming ritual.

Seabourn’s Kimberley experience prompts profound reflections: What compels humans to create? In what ways do art and cultural identity shape each other? As global citizens, what obligations do we have in preserving and honoring ancient artistic traditions? For the Traditional Owners of the Kimberley, these questions evoke responses that are simultaneously abstract, existential, and deeply personal. Wunambal Gaambera and Ngula Jar Traditional Owner Desmond Williams perhaps said it best at the naming ceremony: "Being out here is my greatest pride. It's my home. Every day I come out here, it's my home. I draw strength from the country, and in return, the country looks after me."

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