Itinerary
Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
Darwin is Australia’s most colorful, and exotic, capital city. Surrounded on three sides by the turquoise waters of the Timor Sea, the streets are lined with tropical flowers and trees. Warm and dry in winter, hot and steamy in summer, it’s a relaxed and casual place, as well as a beguiling blend of tropical frontier outpost and Outback hardiness. Thanks to its close proximity to Southeast Asia and its multicultural population it also seems more like Asia than the rest of Australia. Darwin is a city that has always had to fight for its survival. The seductiveness of contemporary Darwin lifestyles belies a history of failed attempts that date from 1824 when Europeans attempted to establish an enclave in this harsh, unyielding climate. The original 1869 settlement, called Palmerston, was built on a parcel of mangrove wetlands and scrub forest that had changed little in 15 million years. It was not until 1911, after it had already weathered the disastrous cyclones of 1878, 1882, and 1897, that the town was named after the scientist who had visited Australia’s shores aboard the Beagle in 1839. During World War II it was bombed more than 60 times, as the harbor full of warships was a prime target for the Japanese war planes. Then, on the night of Christmas Eve 1974, the city was almost completely destroyed by Cyclone Tracy, Australia’s greatest natural disaster. It’s a tribute to those who stayed and to those who have come to live here after Tracy that the rebuilt city now thrives as an administrative and commercial center for northern Australia. Old Darwin has been replaced by something of an edifice complex—such buildings as Parliament House and the Supreme Court all seem very grand for such a small city, especially one that prides itself on its casual, outdoor-centric lifestyle. Today Darwin is the best place from which to explore Australia’s Top End, with its wonders of Kakadu and the Kimberley region.
Ubirr Rock, Australia
Depart Darwin and travel across the sweeping wetlands of the Marrakai Plains to Kakadu National Park. Visit the sacred site of Ubirr and explore its galleries of ancient Indigenous rock art. The magnificent rock faces have been continuously painted and repainted since 40,000BC, with most created approximately 2,000 years ago.
Cannon Hill, Queensland, Australia
With a local guide, cross the East Alligator River into spiritual Arnhem Land to experience the natural beauty of the region. Later, return to Kakadu and enjoy the art and billabongs of Cannon Hill and Hawk Dreaming.
Katherine, Northern Territory, Australia
Travel to stunning Kakadu, the Northern Territory’s best known national park. Cruise the famous Yellow Water Billabong. Here, wildlife abounds and local a guide will give you great insights into how the Bininj people use the flora and fauna to support their way of life. Later travel to Katherine and enjoy canapés and drinks at the beautiful Cicada Lodge, before indulging in an exceptional gourmet three-course meal.
Kununurra, Western Australia, Australia
Head to the beautiful Nitmiluk National Park, before boarding an unforgettable cruise through the spectacular Katherine Gorge. Discover the music, stories and ways of the local Jawoyn people as you learn about their spiritual culture.
Ord River, Western Australia, Australia
Travel to the majestic Lake Argyle, the largest man-made lake in the Southern Hemisphere. Join a spectacular wildlife cruise on the mighty Ord River. From a modern shaded vessel, discover a fascinating ecological system that has developed from the damming of the Ord River at two locations to create an area rich in wildlife, flora and undeniable beauty.
Echidna Chasm, Purnululu, Australia
Travel to the World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park, home to the Bungle Bungle Range. Hike to Echidna Chasm, a spectacular natural cleft in the rock. Your accommodation for the next two nights is at APT’s luxury Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge, boasting outstanding access to the spectacular beehive domes of the Bungle Bungle Range, Picaninny Creek, Echidna Chasm and Cathedral Gorge. The lodge features comfortable tented cabins with a private en suite with hot water and a flushing toilet, as well as a private deck to sit and admire the scenery of the surrounding bush. Who says you have to compromise on comfort out in the wilderness?
Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
Darwin is Australia’s most colorful, and exotic, capital city. Surrounded on three sides by the turquoise waters of the Timor Sea, the streets are lined with tropical flowers and trees. Warm and dry in winter, hot and steamy in summer, it’s a relaxed and casual place, as well as a beguiling blend of tropical frontier outpost and Outback hardiness. Thanks to its close proximity to Southeast Asia and its multicultural population it also seems more like Asia than the rest of Australia. Darwin is a city that has always had to fight for its survival. The seductiveness of contemporary Darwin lifestyles belies a history of failed attempts that date from 1824 when Europeans attempted to establish an enclave in this harsh, unyielding climate. The original 1869 settlement, called Palmerston, was built on a parcel of mangrove wetlands and scrub forest that had changed little in 15 million years. It was not until 1911, after it had already weathered the disastrous cyclones of 1878, 1882, and 1897, that the town was named after the scientist who had visited Australia’s shores aboard the Beagle in 1839. During World War II it was bombed more than 60 times, as the harbor full of warships was a prime target for the Japanese war planes. Then, on the night of Christmas Eve 1974, the city was almost completely destroyed by Cyclone Tracy, Australia’s greatest natural disaster. It’s a tribute to those who stayed and to those who have come to live here after Tracy that the rebuilt city now thrives as an administrative and commercial center for northern Australia. Old Darwin has been replaced by something of an edifice complex—such buildings as Parliament House and the Supreme Court all seem very grand for such a small city, especially one that prides itself on its casual, outdoor-centric lifestyle. Today Darwin is the best place from which to explore Australia’s Top End, with its wonders of Kakadu and the Kimberley region.
Ubirr Rock, Australia
Depart Darwin and travel across the sweeping wetlands of the Marrakai Plains to Kakadu National Park. Visit the sacred site of Ubirr and explore its galleries of ancient Indigenous rock art. The magnificent rock faces have been continuously painted and repainted since 40,000BC, with most created approximately 2,000 years ago.
Cannon Hill, Queensland, Australia
With a local guide, cross the East Alligator River into spiritual Arnhem Land to experience the natural beauty of the region. Later, return to Kakadu and enjoy the art and billabongs of Cannon Hill and Hawk Dreaming.
Katherine, Northern Territory, Australia
Travel to stunning Kakadu, the Northern Territory’s best known national park. Cruise the famous Yellow Water Billabong. Here, wildlife abounds and local a guide will give you great insights into how the Bininj people use the flora and fauna to support their way of life. Later travel to Katherine and enjoy canapés and drinks at the beautiful Cicada Lodge, before indulging in an exceptional gourmet three-course meal.
Kununurra, Western Australia, Australia
Head to the beautiful Nitmiluk National Park, before boarding an unforgettable cruise through the spectacular Katherine Gorge. Discover the music, stories and ways of the local Jawoyn people as you learn about their spiritual culture.
Ord River, Western Australia, Australia
Travel to the majestic Lake Argyle, the largest man-made lake in the Southern Hemisphere. Join a spectacular wildlife cruise on the mighty Ord River. From a modern shaded vessel, discover a fascinating ecological system that has developed from the damming of the Ord River at two locations to create an area rich in wildlife, flora and undeniable beauty.
Echidna Chasm, Purnululu, Australia
Travel to the World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park, home to the Bungle Bungle Range. Hike to Echidna Chasm, a spectacular natural cleft in the rock. Your accommodation for the next two nights is at APT’s luxury Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge, boasting outstanding access to the spectacular beehive domes of the Bungle Bungle Range, Picaninny Creek, Echidna Chasm and Cathedral Gorge. The lodge features comfortable tented cabins with a private en suite with hot water and a flushing toilet, as well as a private deck to sit and admire the scenery of the surrounding bush. Who says you have to compromise on comfort out in the wilderness?
Piccaninny Creek, Purnululu, Australia
Explore the magic of Purnululu for yourself and discover the depth of the Bungle Bungle Range. Created by the constant erosion of river movements over 20 million years, the range has both geological and Indigenous cultural significance. Start with a walk along Piccaninny Creek, before stopping at Cathedral Gorge.
Signature Experience – Sunset Drinks at the Bungle Bungle Range
There’s no better way to end a day of discovery than by watching the sunset over the Bungle Bungle Range. With a glass of sparkling in hand, see the massive beehive-shaped domes cast in a golden glow at this time of day.
Enrich Your Experience – Bungle Bungle Helicopter Flight
Experience breathtaking views of World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park from above on a scenic helicopter flight. (own expense)
El Questro Station, Western Australia
Farewell the Bungle Bungle Range and travel towards El Questro, a million-acre cattle station in the heart of the Kimberley. Spend two nights immersed in this breathtaking, ancient landscape.
Enrich Your Experience – Upgrade Your Stay
Upgrade your stay at El Questro with an all-inclusive two-night stay at The Homestead, a secluded oasis perched above the Chamberlain River. Be treated to a stay defined by exceptional dining, curated experiences, and access to some of El Questro’s most breathtaking landscapes.��
El Questro Station, Western Australia
This morning hike to Emma Gorge where you’ll be rewarded with a swim beneath a towering droplet waterfall. Enjoy lunch, before relaxing at Zebedee Springs. Enjoy dinner this evening back at Emma Gorge Resort.
Signature Experience – Zebedee Springs
Venture through a pre-historic forest of Livistona and pandanus palms before arriving at a true oasis, Zebedee Springs. This permanent natural thermal spring is tucked away in a secluded pocket of El Questro’s wilderness. Enjoy time to relax as you soak in the hot springs and leave feeling refreshed.
Mitchell Plateau, Western Australia, Australia
Journey along the Gibb River Road to APT’s luxury Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge. Enjoy the facilities of the lodge’s Ungolan Pavilion, where you can relax in the lounge, treat yourself to a drink or read up on the local culture.
Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge, Western Australia, Australia
Discover Mitchell Falls, a true highlight of your Kimberley adventure. Where possible, a local Indigenous guide will join you, providing a unique insight into the region. Begin with a hike to Little Mertens Falls to view rare Aboriginal art. Continue on to Big Mertens Falls before arriving at Mitchell Falls.
Signature Experience – Mitchell Falls Scenic Helicopter Flight
Set out on a thrilling helicopter flight to see Mitchell Falls in all its splendour from above. By gaining a bird’s-eye view of this remote region, you’ll not only see this iconic four-tiered Kimberley attraction, but also the surrounding gorges, emerald water pools, and soaring red cliffs. ��
King Edward River, Western Australia, Australia
Re-join the Kalumburu Road and travel to Drysdale River Station.
Signature Experience – Wandjina and Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) Rock Art
Admire ancient Wandjina and Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) rock art that dates back thousands of years at a gallery in Mitchell Plateau. This artwork stakes a claim as some of the earliest figurative art, distinguished by its depiction of stick-like human figures.
Galvans Gorge, Western Australia
Journey to the beautiful Manning Creek where you can spot local birdlife as you enjoy lunch in the shade of a gum tree. Continue to Galvans Gorge, where a short walk leads to a picturesque waterhole. Admire the rock art adorning the gorge walls or indulge in a leisurely swim.
Piccaninny Creek, Purnululu, Australia
Explore the magic of Purnululu for yourself and discover the depth of the Bungle Bungle Range. Created by the constant erosion of river movements over 20 million years, the range has both geological and Indigenous cultural significance. Start with a walk along Piccaninny Creek, before stopping at Cathedral Gorge.
Signature Experience – Sunset Drinks at the Bungle Bungle Range
There’s no better way to end a day of discovery than by watching the sunset over the Bungle Bungle Range. With a glass of sparkling in hand, see the massive beehive-shaped domes cast in a golden glow at this time of day.
Enrich Your Experience – Bungle Bungle Helicopter Flight
Experience breathtaking views of World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park from above on a scenic helicopter flight. (own expense)
El Questro Station, Western Australia
Farewell the Bungle Bungle Range and travel towards El Questro, a million-acre cattle station in the heart of the Kimberley. Spend two nights immersed in this breathtaking, ancient landscape.
Enrich Your Experience – Upgrade Your Stay
Upgrade your stay at El Questro with an all-inclusive two-night stay at The Homestead, a secluded oasis perched above the Chamberlain River. Be treated to a stay defined by exceptional dining, curated experiences, and access to some of El Questro’s most breathtaking landscapes.��
El Questro Station, Western Australia
This morning hike to Emma Gorge where you’ll be rewarded with a swim beneath a towering droplet waterfall. Enjoy lunch, before relaxing at Zebedee Springs. Enjoy dinner this evening back at Emma Gorge Resort.
Signature Experience – Zebedee Springs
Venture through a pre-historic forest of Livistona and pandanus palms before arriving at a true oasis, Zebedee Springs. This permanent natural thermal spring is tucked away in a secluded pocket of El Questro’s wilderness. Enjoy time to relax as you soak in the hot springs and leave feeling refreshed.
Mitchell Plateau, Western Australia, Australia
Journey along the Gibb River Road to APT’s luxury Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge. Enjoy the facilities of the lodge’s Ungolan Pavilion, where you can relax in the lounge, treat yourself to a drink or read up on the local culture.
Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge, Western Australia, Australia
Discover Mitchell Falls, a true highlight of your Kimberley adventure. Where possible, a local Indigenous guide will join you, providing a unique insight into the region. Begin with a hike to Little Mertens Falls to view rare Aboriginal art. Continue on to Big Mertens Falls before arriving at Mitchell Falls.
Signature Experience – Mitchell Falls Scenic Helicopter Flight
Set out on a thrilling helicopter flight to see Mitchell Falls in all its splendour from above. By gaining a bird’s-eye view of this remote region, you’ll not only see this iconic four-tiered Kimberley attraction, but also the surrounding gorges, emerald water pools, and soaring red cliffs. ��
King Edward River, Western Australia, Australia
Re-join the Kalumburu Road and travel to Drysdale River Station.
Signature Experience – Wandjina and Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) Rock Art
Admire ancient Wandjina and Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) rock art that dates back thousands of years at a gallery in Mitchell Plateau. This artwork stakes a claim as some of the earliest figurative art, distinguished by its depiction of stick-like human figures.
Galvans Gorge, Western Australia
Journey to the beautiful Manning Creek where you can spot local birdlife as you enjoy lunch in the shade of a gum tree. Continue to Galvans Gorge, where a short walk leads to a picturesque waterhole. Admire the rock art adorning the gorge walls or indulge in a leisurely swim.
Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge, Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges, Australia
Back on the Gibb River Road, travel to Bell Gorge, where stunning cliffs surround a series of tiered waterholes. Sitting approximately 300 metres above sea level, Bell Gorge is an idyllic natural spot for swimming and photography. Here you can also enjoy a spot of bird-watching. Should you be feeling particularly energetic, you may take the opportunity to hike to the lower pool of the gorge and enjoy a relaxing dip below the cascading waterfall.
Broome, Western Australia, Australia
Broome, a coastal town in Western Australia, is famous for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Located on the Indian Ocean, it boasts Cable Beach, known for its white sand, turquoise waters, and iconic camel rides at sunset. Once a pearling hub, Broome retains its multicultural heritage, reflected in its cuisine and architecture. The town is also the gateway to the Kimberley region, offering breathtaking landscapes and unique natural attractions like the Staircase to the Moon. With warm weather year-round and a laid-back atmosphere, Broome is a perfect destination for adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
Broome, Western Australia, Australia
Broome, a coastal town in Western Australia, is famous for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Located on the Indian Ocean, it boasts Cable Beach, known for its white sand, turquoise waters, and iconic camel rides at sunset. Once a pearling hub, Broome retains its multicultural heritage, reflected in its cuisine and architecture. The town is also the gateway to the Kimberley region, offering breathtaking landscapes and unique natural attractions like the Staircase to the Moon. With warm weather year-round and a laid-back atmosphere, Broome is a perfect destination for adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
Buccaneer Archipelago, Western Australia, Australia
Roughly 800 islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago surround and shelter the impressive spread of Yampi Sound (from the aboriginal word for water, “Yampee”). The area was named in 1821 by Captain Phillip Parker King, in commemoration of William Dampier’s visit in 1688. Pearlers began visiting the area in the late 1800s, and more recently mining operators established open-cut mines on Koolan Island on the east side of the Sound. Some of the richest iron ore in the world is extracted here to this day. The coastline of Yampi shows rock layers wildly twisted and contorted into great folds. White-bellied Sea Eagles, Brahminy Kites, Ospreys, Common Sandpipers and Eastern Reef Egrets inhabit the archipelago and the area is rich in fish life, which in turn is an attraction for bottlenose dolphins that come here to feed. Yampi Sound is also occassionaly a calving ground for humpback whales and mothers and calves can sometimes be spotted in the relatively shallow turquoise waters.
Horizontal Falls, Australia
Explore Talbot Bay and Cyclone Creek. Accompanied by your Expedition Team Leader, you’ll weave nimbly past the dramatic folds of rock formations, keeping a look out for local wildlife.
Signature Experience – Horizontal Falls
Today, your ship cruises to Talbot Bay, known for its massive 12-metre tides that create the unique Horizontal Falls. Subject to tidal conditions, board a Zodiac with your Expedition Team to view this natural phenomenon up close.
Montgomery Reef, Western Australia, Australia
Today, visit Freshwater Cove and Montgomery Reef, where you will enjoy two Signature Experiences.
Signature Experience – Arraluli Heritage Exploration
Experience a Welcome to Country and an immersive smoking ceremony conducted by the Arraluli people, the traditional custodians of the land. Then, embark on a guided hike led by the Expedition Team to explore a mesmerising rock art site where your Aboriginal guide will offer an interpretation of the rock art. This Signature Experience offers a profound connection to the rich cultural heritage and timeless traditions of the Arraluli people.
Signature Experience – Montgomery Reef
Following your visit to Freshwater Cove, depart with your Expedition Team to discover Montgomery Reef by Zodiac. Soak in the amazing scenes as Montgomery Reef dramatically rises out of the ocean as a result of the region’s strong tides. Cruise through narrow channels between the world’s largest inshore reef as you admire the spectacle, and the incredible wildlife exposed by the cascading water.
Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge, Western Australia, Australia
Venture to Prince Frederick Harbour today, home to the towering red cliffs and tangled mangroves of Hunter River and Porosus Creek. With its extreme tides and pristine ecosystems, the harbour and its waterways are rich in wildlife including mudskippers and saltwater crocodiles. Porosus Creek takes its name from the scientific name for the saltwater crocodile, a good indication of what we’re looking for today. Keen birdwatchers should keep a careful eye out for kingfishers, egrets, herons and white-bellied sea eagles. To enhance your day, you might choose to set out on a thrilling helicopter flight to see Mitchell Falls in all its splendour from above.
Enrich Your Experience – Mitchell Falls Scenic Helicopter Flight
Soar over the incredible and breathtaking Mitchell Falls on a scenic helicopter flight experience (additional expense).
Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge, Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges, Australia
Back on the Gibb River Road, travel to Bell Gorge, where stunning cliffs surround a series of tiered waterholes. Sitting approximately 300 metres above sea level, Bell Gorge is an idyllic natural spot for swimming and photography. Here you can also enjoy a spot of bird-watching. Should you be feeling particularly energetic, you may take the opportunity to hike to the lower pool of the gorge and enjoy a relaxing dip below the cascading waterfall.
Broome, Western Australia, Australia
Broome, a coastal town in Western Australia, is famous for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Located on the Indian Ocean, it boasts Cable Beach, known for its white sand, turquoise waters, and iconic camel rides at sunset. Once a pearling hub, Broome retains its multicultural heritage, reflected in its cuisine and architecture. The town is also the gateway to the Kimberley region, offering breathtaking landscapes and unique natural attractions like the Staircase to the Moon. With warm weather year-round and a laid-back atmosphere, Broome is a perfect destination for adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
Broome, Western Australia, Australia
Broome, a coastal town in Western Australia, is famous for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Located on the Indian Ocean, it boasts Cable Beach, known for its white sand, turquoise waters, and iconic camel rides at sunset. Once a pearling hub, Broome retains its multicultural heritage, reflected in its cuisine and architecture. The town is also the gateway to the Kimberley region, offering breathtaking landscapes and unique natural attractions like the Staircase to the Moon. With warm weather year-round and a laid-back atmosphere, Broome is a perfect destination for adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
Buccaneer Archipelago, Western Australia, Australia
Roughly 800 islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago surround and shelter the impressive spread of Yampi Sound (from the aboriginal word for water, “Yampee”). The area was named in 1821 by Captain Phillip Parker King, in commemoration of William Dampier’s visit in 1688. Pearlers began visiting the area in the late 1800s, and more recently mining operators established open-cut mines on Koolan Island on the east side of the Sound. Some of the richest iron ore in the world is extracted here to this day. The coastline of Yampi shows rock layers wildly twisted and contorted into great folds. White-bellied Sea Eagles, Brahminy Kites, Ospreys, Common Sandpipers and Eastern Reef Egrets inhabit the archipelago and the area is rich in fish life, which in turn is an attraction for bottlenose dolphins that come here to feed. Yampi Sound is also occassionaly a calving ground for humpback whales and mothers and calves can sometimes be spotted in the relatively shallow turquoise waters.
Horizontal Falls, Australia
Explore Talbot Bay and Cyclone Creek. Accompanied by your Expedition Team Leader, you’ll weave nimbly past the dramatic folds of rock formations, keeping a look out for local wildlife.
Signature Experience – Horizontal Falls
Today, your ship cruises to Talbot Bay, known for its massive 12-metre tides that create the unique Horizontal Falls. Subject to tidal conditions, board a Zodiac with your Expedition Team to view this natural phenomenon up close.
Montgomery Reef, Western Australia, Australia
Today, visit Freshwater Cove and Montgomery Reef, where you will enjoy two Signature Experiences.
Signature Experience – Arraluli Heritage Exploration
Experience a Welcome to Country and an immersive smoking ceremony conducted by the Arraluli people, the traditional custodians of the land. Then, embark on a guided hike led by the Expedition Team to explore a mesmerising rock art site where your Aboriginal guide will offer an interpretation of the rock art. This Signature Experience offers a profound connection to the rich cultural heritage and timeless traditions of the Arraluli people.
Signature Experience – Montgomery Reef
Following your visit to Freshwater Cove, depart with your Expedition Team to discover Montgomery Reef by Zodiac. Soak in the amazing scenes as Montgomery Reef dramatically rises out of the ocean as a result of the region’s strong tides. Cruise through narrow channels between the world’s largest inshore reef as you admire the spectacle, and the incredible wildlife exposed by the cascading water.
Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge, Western Australia, Australia
Venture to Prince Frederick Harbour today, home to the towering red cliffs and tangled mangroves of Hunter River and Porosus Creek. With its extreme tides and pristine ecosystems, the harbour and its waterways are rich in wildlife including mudskippers and saltwater crocodiles. Porosus Creek takes its name from the scientific name for the saltwater crocodile, a good indication of what we’re looking for today. Keen birdwatchers should keep a careful eye out for kingfishers, egrets, herons and white-bellied sea eagles. To enhance your day, you might choose to set out on a thrilling helicopter flight to see Mitchell Falls in all its splendour from above.
Enrich Your Experience – Mitchell Falls Scenic Helicopter Flight
Soar over the incredible and breathtaking Mitchell Falls on a scenic helicopter flight experience (additional expense).
Ashmore Reef
Enjoy a relaxed morning aboard your luxurious ship. This afternoon, pay a special visit to Ashmore Reef Marine Park. Located in the Timor Sea and spanning 583 square kilometres, the reef is a sanctuary for many marine species. Every year, more than 100,000 seabirds breed here, including crested terns, white-tailed tropicbirds and great frigatebirds. In addition to the prolific birdlife, beneath the clear tropical waters, the coral reefs, seagrass meadows, sandflats and lagoons of Ashmore Reef are home to a colourful array of marine life. 255 species of reef-building coral dwell here – the greatest number of any reef on the West Australian coast. Our visit to Ashmore Reef is required to ensure we comply with Australian government regulations. Pending favourable weather and sea conditions, you’ll explore this sanctuary via Zodiac with your Expedition Team.
Vansittart Bay, Western Australia, Australia
Vansittart Bay is a beautifully protected large bay with several islands and coves. 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 & more dramatic Wandjina art, Gwion Gwion art has in recent years gained world prominence. Join your Expedition Team ashore for a short walk, past some fascinating rock formations, to the site of the Gwion Gwion art galleries.
King George River – WA Australia
Today, your ship cruises into Koolama Bay. Learn about how this bay was renamed following the Japanese bombing of the MV Koolama in 1942. Afterwards, join your Expedition Team aboard a Zodiac to meander through King George River’s gorge system, passing mangrove-fringed coves and sheer red cliffs.
Signature Experience – King George Falls
Get up close and personal to the magnificent King George Falls, where the King George River tumbles 80 metres down from lofty sandstone cliffs. You’ll be able to experience its power as your Zodiac creeps close to the iconic waterfall.
At Sea
Today, enjoy a relaxed day at sea as your ship makes its way towards Darwin, arriving in the evening. Take advantage of the ultra-luxurious features of your ship: perhaps relax by the pool with a glass of champagne, indulge on delicious made-to-order sushi or 24-hour in-suite dining, or attend an informative lecture hosted by your expert Expedition team.
Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
Darwin is Australia’s most colorful, and exotic, capital city. Surrounded on three sides by the turquoise waters of the Timor Sea, the streets are lined with tropical flowers and trees. Warm and dry in winter, hot and steamy in summer, it’s a relaxed and casual place, as well as a beguiling blend of tropical frontier outpost and Outback hardiness. Thanks to its close proximity to Southeast Asia and its multicultural population it also seems more like Asia than the rest of Australia. Darwin is a city that has always had to fight for its survival. The seductiveness of contemporary Darwin lifestyles belies a history of failed attempts that date from 1824 when Europeans attempted to establish an enclave in this harsh, unyielding climate. The original 1869 settlement, called Palmerston, was built on a parcel of mangrove wetlands and scrub forest that had changed little in 15 million years. It was not until 1911, after it had already weathered the disastrous cyclones of 1878, 1882, and 1897, that the town was named after the scientist who had visited Australia’s shores aboard the Beagle in 1839. During World War II it was bombed more than 60 times, as the harbor full of warships was a prime target for the Japanese war planes. Then, on the night of Christmas Eve 1974, the city was almost completely destroyed by Cyclone Tracy, Australia’s greatest natural disaster. It’s a tribute to those who stayed and to those who have come to live here after Tracy that the rebuilt city now thrives as an administrative and commercial center for northern Australia. Old Darwin has been replaced by something of an edifice complex—such buildings as Parliament House and the Supreme Court all seem very grand for such a small city, especially one that prides itself on its casual, outdoor-centric lifestyle. Today Darwin is the best place from which to explore Australia’s Top End, with its wonders of Kakadu and the Kimberley region.
Ashmore Reef
Enjoy a relaxed morning aboard your luxurious ship. This afternoon, pay a special visit to Ashmore Reef Marine Park. Located in the Timor Sea and spanning 583 square kilometres, the reef is a sanctuary for many marine species. Every year, more than 100,000 seabirds breed here, including crested terns, white-tailed tropicbirds and great frigatebirds. In addition to the prolific birdlife, beneath the clear tropical waters, the coral reefs, seagrass meadows, sandflats and lagoons of Ashmore Reef are home to a colourful array of marine life. 255 species of reef-building coral dwell here – the greatest number of any reef on the West Australian coast. Our visit to Ashmore Reef is required to ensure we comply with Australian government regulations. Pending favourable weather and sea conditions, you’ll explore this sanctuary via Zodiac with your Expedition Team.
Vansittart Bay, Western Australia, Australia
Vansittart Bay is a beautifully protected large bay with several islands and coves. 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 & more dramatic Wandjina art, Gwion Gwion art has in recent years gained world prominence. Join your Expedition Team ashore for a short walk, past some fascinating rock formations, to the site of the Gwion Gwion art galleries.
King George River – WA Australia
Today, your ship cruises into Koolama Bay. Learn about how this bay was renamed following the Japanese bombing of the MV Koolama in 1942. Afterwards, join your Expedition Team aboard a Zodiac to meander through King George River’s gorge system, passing mangrove-fringed coves and sheer red cliffs.
Signature Experience – King George Falls
Get up close and personal to the magnificent King George Falls, where the King George River tumbles 80 metres down from lofty sandstone cliffs. You’ll be able to experience its power as your Zodiac creeps close to the iconic waterfall.
At Sea
Today, enjoy a relaxed day at sea as your ship makes its way towards Darwin, arriving in the evening. Take advantage of the ultra-luxurious features of your ship: perhaps relax by the pool with a glass of champagne, indulge on delicious made-to-order sushi or 24-hour in-suite dining, or attend an informative lecture hosted by your expert Expedition team.
Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
Darwin is Australia’s most colorful, and exotic, capital city. Surrounded on three sides by the turquoise waters of the Timor Sea, the streets are lined with tropical flowers and trees. Warm and dry in winter, hot and steamy in summer, it’s a relaxed and casual place, as well as a beguiling blend of tropical frontier outpost and Outback hardiness. Thanks to its close proximity to Southeast Asia and its multicultural population it also seems more like Asia than the rest of Australia. Darwin is a city that has always had to fight for its survival. The seductiveness of contemporary Darwin lifestyles belies a history of failed attempts that date from 1824 when Europeans attempted to establish an enclave in this harsh, unyielding climate. The original 1869 settlement, called Palmerston, was built on a parcel of mangrove wetlands and scrub forest that had changed little in 15 million years. It was not until 1911, after it had already weathered the disastrous cyclones of 1878, 1882, and 1897, that the town was named after the scientist who had visited Australia’s shores aboard the Beagle in 1839. During World War II it was bombed more than 60 times, as the harbor full of warships was a prime target for the Japanese war planes. Then, on the night of Christmas Eve 1974, the city was almost completely destroyed by Cyclone Tracy, Australia’s greatest natural disaster. It’s a tribute to those who stayed and to those who have come to live here after Tracy that the rebuilt city now thrives as an administrative and commercial center for northern Australia. Old Darwin has been replaced by something of an edifice complex—such buildings as Parliament House and the Supreme Court all seem very grand for such a small city, especially one that prides itself on its casual, outdoor-centric lifestyle. Today Darwin is the best place from which to explore Australia’s Top End, with its wonders of Kakadu and the Kimberley region.