Kimberley Cruise

Saturday 08 July

A morning departure from Auckland on QANTAS for our flight to Darwin via
Melbourne. On arrival we transfer to our inner-city hotel.

Sunday 09 July

Enjoy a morning sightseeing tour which includes Darwin’s history and
landscapes, the Botanical Gardens, the Northern Territory Museum and
art gallery. Afternoon free before a sunset harbour cruise including
dinner.

Monday 10 July

An early morning start for the drive to Litchfield National Park. View the termite mounds and the spectacular double waterfall of Florence Falls.
Marvel at the water cascading down into the deep waterhole at the base
of the falls.

Tuesday 11 July

After a leisurely morning we board the Heritage Adventurer in the port of
Darwin. Time to familiarise yourself with the ship. This evening join the
expedition team in the observation lounge as you set sail from Darwin.

Wednesday 12 July

Today we settle into life onboard. Relax and enjoy the facilities and prepare for the adventures ahead. Why not join an onboard lecture, take a dip in the pool or watch for sea birds from the observation deck.

Thursday 13 July

Our approach to King George River gorge is not to be missed. Towering 2,000 million-year-old Warton sandstone cliffs dwarf our vessel.  Take your first excursion by zodiac craft and marvel at the spectacle of the Kimberley’s highest single-drop falls as they plummet 80 metres over the edge of towering ancient red sandstone cliffs.

Friday 14 July

This morning we awake to pristine white beaches lapped by turquoise waters, secluded coves and stunning scenery. Here is also the final resting
place of a WWII Douglas DC-3 Aircraft and incredible ancient Aboriginal
rock art. The area is also home to some interesting flora and fauna
including the Golden-backed Tree Rat, echidnas and birdlife.

Saturday 15 July

Today we navigate the Bonaparte Archipelago where our destination is Swift Bay with its sandy beaches, ominous sea-worn caves and mangroves. A Zodiac cruise here allows a closer look at this incredible coastline where we will also likely observe salt water crocodiles.

Sunday 16 July

The Hunter River region is widely considered to be one of the highlights
of the Kimberley coast. Fed by two 90-metre waterfalls the Hunter River is home to one of the largest and most pristine mangrove systems in the world. We cruise by zodiac craft spotting diverse wildlife including White-bellied Sea Eagles, Osprey, Great-billed Heron and more.

Monday 17 July

Today we continue into this protected area which is home to the spectacular Kings Cascades and Prince Regent River. At Hanover Bay we will enjoy a Zodiac cruise of St George Basin with its spectacular scenery and on to the majestic King Cascade Falls.

Tuesday 18 July

At Talbot Bay we will experience the power of the region’s massive tidal
movements which have shaped the landscape, most famously the world’s
only Horizontal Falls. At nearby Cyclone Creek we will explore the twisted geological folds of the ancient seabed and at Montgomery Reef we watch this enormous reef ‘rise’ from the ocean as the tide falls creating torrents and
waterfalls up to 3-metres high.

Thursday 20 July

Today we explore the incredible wildlife reserve and birding paradise of the Lacepede Islands. Here we find what is thought to be the largest
breeding colony of Brown Boobies, up to 18,000 pairs, in the world. In addition the area is the most important breeding grounds for
Green Turtles. Other wildlife which call these remarkable islands home include Roseate Terns, Masked Boobies, Australian Pelicans and much more.

Friday 21 July

This morning we arrive in Broome, a former wild frontier now relaxed
tropical beach resort and gateway to the Kimberley. Farewell dinner

Optional Extension Bungle Bungle - Please ask for details

Saturday 22 July

After a leisurely morning we fly home via Melbourne to Auckland.

Optional Extension

Saturday 22 – Tuesday 25
This morning fly direct from Broome to Perth for a three-night stay. Relax and enjoy the region at your leisure. Why not explore the famous port of Fremantle, take a walk in Kings Park or enjoy the retail shops in downtown Perth.

Tuesday 25
Fly home from Perth to Auckland.

Price per person
Twin share TBC
Single TBC