cruise in kimberleys

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KIMBERLEY EXPEDITION CRUISES

Welcome to the otherworldly Kimberley. Tucked along the northwestern corner of Australia, the Kimberley is one of the world’s last wild frontiers, from rugged sandstone peaks and gushing waterfalls, to desert expanses, sunken mangrove forests, and everything in between. Cruise through Montgomery Reef as the tides rush out, leaving sea turtles dotting their heads in its midst. Search for a lustrous, masterfully cultivated pearl on a local pearl farm. Splash through the spray of King George Falls, or take to the skies in an amphibious Mallard aircraft to watch tawny sharks swim below. Better yet, engage with the original land-owning communities and their cultural rites, including guided showings of the unique Gwion Gwion artwork they have curated for centuries.

Crystal-clear waters and gleaming pearls aside, our Kimberely expeditions stand out to guests who want to travel Australia, but also desire to expedition off the beaten path. Whether you are a well-seasoned traveler, wildlife enthusiast, natural history buff, or are simply seeking a new adventure in one of the most pristine places on Earth, experience this unique corner of the world with Seabourn.

Seabourn announce Traditional Owners, Wunambal Gaambera, as Godparents of Seabourn Pursuit

We are thrilled to announce the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners as godparents of Seabourn Pursuit, our newest ultra-luxury purpose-built expedition ship. The naming of Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners serves as a symbolic gesture of stewardship and responsibility toward the environment and the communities that we visit, as well as our commitment to sustainable tourism. 

The Kimberley Expedition Port Highlights

Included Expedition Experience

King George Falls

Prepare for the highlight of your trip, cruising with our Expedition Team on a Zodiac® to explore the highest twin waterfalls in Western Australia. They will skillfully maneuver the canyon that the river carved nearly 2 billion years ago, flanked by mesmerizing sandstone cliffs, to the thundering 250-foot falls that will plunge into the waters in front of you. 

This stop is full of beautiful, secluded beaches and tiny islands to explore. The real draw, though, is seeing the Gwion Gwion or Bradshaw rock art galleries that cover walls and caves in the area. Take a Zodiac® ride to Jar Island to see some of the oldest art in the world. Your Expedition Team will give you an interpretation of the drawings and a look at the fascinating history that accompanies them.

Montgomery Reef

Contemplate the raw transformation of the world’s largest inshore reef as you witness it appear and dip beneath the surface in some of the biggest tidal changes on Earth. As you explore one of the ‘greatest natural wonders of the world’, you’ll search for incredible marine wildlife in their natural habitat from your Zodiac® – dolphins, octopuses, fish, reef sharks, turtles, sea snakes and more. 

Talbot Bay Horizontal Waterfalls

Expect the unexpected amongst the spectacular rock formations and lush mangroves. Most waterfalls cascade vertically, but here tides push intense currents between narrow gorges to create a horizontal effect.

Featured Included Shore Excursions

Kuri bay pearl farm, traditional face painting ceremony, el questro park.

The Ultra-Luxury Kimberley Cruise Guide

Planning a trip to the Kimberley? Here is our guide to the top luxury cruise lines in the Kimberley, a bucket list destination.

Where is the Kimberley?

The Kimberley is located in the far north-western region of Western Australia. It is one of the largest wilderness landscapes in the world. Thousands of visitors are drawn to this fascinating region for its incredible natural wonders. Hot, arid landscapes bask in glorious sunsets where thundering waterfalls contrast the brilliant red cliffs and soaring plains.

Natural phenomena like Horizontal Falls and rivers brimming with crocodiles, pristine beaches and spectacular reefs lie within this remote and indigenous landscape.

Due to its remote location and extreme climate, one of the best ways to appreciate the Kimberley is by cruising.

When to travel to the Kimberley?

The best time to visit the Kimberley is mid-May to August, where the daytime temperature sits at around 28-30°C and evenings are a balmy 19°C. This is just outside the wet season. However, some cruise operators run waterfall cruises from mid-March to mid-April where visitors can appreciate nature in all its glory with thundering waterfalls and spectacular light storms in a more humid climate.  

Choosing the right ship for your Kimberley Cruise

Expedition /smaller cruise vessels can get into areas where larger vessels cannot access allowing for a more intimate and close-up experience. These vessels come with multiple smaller zodiac / adventure boats to propel you right into the heart of these untouched gems of the area. Some of these vessels have helicopters on board too, providing an even more exhilarating adventure and birds eye view.

It’s important to consider the type of Kimberley adventure you are looking for. Some of the larger vessels offer pools and day spas with multiple restaurant choices whereas the smaller vessels like True North, whilst still very luxurious, have limited onboard facilities and focus mainly on experiences in the region off the main cruise vessel.

Iconic highlights of the Kimberley region

• King George Falls – one of the most photographed icons of the region. These 260-foot all twin cascades are phenomenal against the burnt red cliffs. Vessels like True North can get right up close to the foot of the falls.
• Horizontal Falls and Talbot Bay – The Horizontal Falls are fast moving tidal currents that flow through two narrow gorges in Talbot Bay, located in the Buccaneer Archipelago. Most of the cruises will take guests on fast jet boat rides through the currents.
• Mitchell Falls – a breathtaking waterfall at its height at the end of the wet season. Fly over the falls via helicopter or take the hike in – that is well-worth the journey.
• Baccaneer Archipelago – the Kimberley is home to one of the highest concentrations of islands in the world. Some harbour ancient rock art dating back to Aboriginal times like Bigge Island.
• The red rocks of Cape Leveque contrast the turquoise sea, the northernmost point of Dampier Peninsula.
• Montgomery Reef – Australia’s largest inshore reef that rises from the ocean with an incredible sound as the tides wash over it.
• Kuri Bay – Nestled within the untamed Kimberley wilderness in Western Australia, Kuri Bay is a remote coastal haven which boasts pristine beaches, secluded coves, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life.
• Vansittart Bay – Vansittart Bay beckons adventurers seeking rugged beauty. Marvel at cascading waterfalls and discover the haunting wreckage of WWII aircraft.
• Some activities available such as barramundi fishing trips, crocodile spotting cruises, whales off the coast of Broome, and camel rides on Cable Beach in Broome

Comparing Cruise Operators

The Silversea Silver Cloud is an elegant luxury cruise ship offering an intimate and sophisticated travel experience. With world-class amenities, exquisite dining, and spacious accommodations, the Silver Cloud provides guests with unparalleled comfort and adventure.

• Capacity : Accommodates up to 254 passengers and 212 crew members, ensuring personalized service and attention.
• Dining : Four gourmet restaurants offering diverse cuisines, including Italian, French, and regional specialties.
• Bars and Lounges : Multiple bars and lounges serve premium drinks, including a piano and poolside bars.
• Entertainment : Evening shows, live music performances, and a full-service casino.
• Spa and Fitness : A state-of-the-art fitness centre, luxurious spa, and wellness programs.
• Pool and Sun Deck : Outdoor heated pool, whirlpools, and a sun deck with comfortable loungers.
• Library and Internet Cafe : A well-stocked library and internet cafe for guests to stay connected.
• Observation Lounge : A quiet space with panoramic views, perfect for relaxing and wildlife spotting.
• Excursions : Curated shore excursions, adventure tours and Zodiac excursions, cultural experiences, and wildlife expeditions.
• Enrichment Programs : Expert-led lectures, workshops, and activities to enhance the cruising experience.

2 Itinerary Offered:

• 10-night – Broome to Darwin (or reverse Darwin to Broome) — Featuring all the iconic Kimberley sites including Montgomery Reef. (Darwin to Darwin can be an alternative for guests not wanting to enter international waters to return home).
• 17-night – Cairns to Broome — Discover stunning natural wonders, and cultural experiences.

Ponant is a luxury, French cruise line with a fleet of vessels and French crew on board.

• Ponant offer 3 vessels in the Kimberley Region Le Lapérouse or Le Soléal and the Le Jacques Cartier .
• Le Soléal—264 passengers, 11 zodiacs, 2 restaurants, 24-hr room service, exterior bar, pool, wellness area, 2 lounges, theatre and spa
• Le Lapérouse—one of the Ponant Explorers fleet has 92 staterooms. 184 passengers, 118 crew, 2 restaurants, the Blue Eye – a unique underwater lounge unlike any other in the world. Day spa, gym, 2 lounges, theatre, pool, hydraulic platform making for easy embark & disembarkation, inflatable zodiacs, kayaks & paddleboards.
• Le Jacque s Cartier—boasts a modern, eco-friendly design, its décor, reflects PONANT’s ethos, features light tones and open spaces, evoking a serene ambience inspired by visited destinations. The Blue Eye lounge offers mesmerizing undersea views and sounds.
• All-inclusive meals, open bar and activities offered during expedition cruises.
• Ponant’s iconic sailing yacht, Le Ponant , will debut its Kimberley voyages from April to October 2023, with cruises from the northern and southern Kimberley regions.

1 Itinerary Offered:

• 10-night – Broome to Darwin (or reverse Darwin to Broome) — Featuring all the iconic Kimberley sites.

Scenic Eclipse II

Scenic, An Australian owned company, offers Scenic Eclipse a 5-star luxury experience, with all-inclusive dining, shore excursions and onboard amenities, while exploring the stunning rugged landscapes of Australia’s northwest region.

• 228 passengers with 176 crew
• Scenic has one luxury 6-star ship the Scenic Eclipse – with a second vessel due for completion in 2024.
• Australian founded company
• Scenic are the only company with 2x Helicopters and Submarine onboard the Scenic Eclipse (bookable 3 months in advance of departure- not included in price)
• Every suite has a veranda and all have ocean views
• Butler service for all guests
• All inclusive – food, select premium beverages, shore excursions (except Helicopter and submarine), tips and gratuities.
• 12 inflatable zodiac boats + kayaks & stand-up paddle boards
• Up to 10 dining experiences including 24hr in-suite and 9 restaurants & bars on board from casual to fine dining
• Senses Spa, theatre, Gym, Pilates studio, 3 outdoor vitality pools
• 13-Day – Broome to Darwin (or reverse Darwin to Broome) — Featuring all the iconic Kimberley sites.

Seabourn Pursuit is the epitome of luxury travel on the high seas, offering a world-class journey filled with opulence and unforgettable moments. The latest addition to the ultra-luxurious Seabourn fleet—purpose built to explore remote destinations where larger vessels are unable.

With a maximum 264 guest capacity and with a passenger-to-crew ratio that ensures personalised attention throughout your voyage. Guests enjoy luxurious accommodation and in-suite service with a choice of Veranda, Panorama Veranda, and Penthouse Suites.

Onboard Amenities

• World-Class Cuisine : Two fine dining restaurants, an american grill, buffet and sushi bar.
• Discovery Centre : Insightful lectures, briefings and enrichment programmes
• Observation Bar : Enjoy a beverage with uninterrupted panoramic views.
• Pool: Spend a day unwinding.
• Fitness Centre : Treadmills, elliptical trainers, stationary bikes and weight machines.
• Dancing : Let your hair down and spend an evening dancing  under the stars.
• Salon and Spa : Reward yourself with a new hairstyle, manicure or pedicure.
• Card Room : Enjoy lot’s of onboard activities including a game of bridge
• Bars : Enjoy a refreshing tropical beverage day or evening.
• Shopping : Stay in the moment, shop for fashion, cosmetics, jewellery souvenirs.
• Activities : 24 Zodiacs, Kayaks and two custom-built submarines, plus land excursions and expert expedition team.

2 Itineraries Offered:

An adventure of a lifetime, visiting all iconic stops, exploring pristine wilderness, witnessing stunning landscapes and immersing yourself in rich indigenous culture.

• 10-Day Darwin to Broome (or reverse): Waterfalls & Wandjinas with five sail dates in 2024 commencing June through to August.
• 10-Day Broome to Darwin: Discovering the Kimberley Inaugural Voyage, commencing June, 2024.

The TRUE NORTH has been safely navigating the Kimberley Coast’s many shallow river systems for over 35 years. Their purpose small ship cruises provide guests with a luxury experience and intimate access to the region’s iconic natural features.

• 36 passengers to 22 crew
• One of the only luxury vessels to cruise right into King George Twin Falls
• Australian owned, been in business 35 years and all Australian crew
• All-inclusive meals, destination-inspired dining and non-alcoholic refreshments throughout the day. Complimentary café style coffees and tea are also available all day.
• All adventure boat excursions & activities, All fishing & snorkeling equipment and cylinders & weight belts (on dive trips).
• 6 Adventure boats  – made of aluminum. These adventure boats provide guests with greater opportunity to do “what they want, when they want". These boats are spacious with comfortable seating and guests to walk around. They sit high out of the water unlike the inflatable boats, and passengers have commented they felt incredibly safe when out spotting crocodiles.
• Helicopter  – gaining a whole new perspective on the region. Most guests find they purchase multiple helicopter opportunities at each of the iconic sites – so keep this in mind when planning your budget. The 13-night cruise offers approximately 20 different helicopter flight opportunities and 17 on the 7 & 10-night cruises. Helicopter flights are not included in the price.
• 1 spectacular restaurant with large panoramic windows ensures that guests never miss any of the action, even when they are enjoying the finest in fine dining.
• TRUE NORTH also features a sun deck, observation lounge, ship’s lounge, alfresco bar, sports deck
• No balcony suites

5 Itineraries Offered:

• 7-night – Snapshot Cruise  — for those pressed for time. Featuring all the iconic Kimberley landmarks.
• 10-night – Waterfalls Cruise  — starting at the end of the wet season, showcasing thundering waterfalls, fantastic light storms & swollen billabongs. (Mid-March to mid-April).
• 13-night Ultimate Cruise  — all the icons of the Kimberley and more, at its very best done at a leisurely pace.
• 13-night Coast & Coral  — combines the very best of two equally stunning destinations – the Kimberley coast and the Rowley Shoals, world-class snorkelling at its very best. Brilliantly coloured corals, giant clams and more than 600 of the world’s most beautiful fish species to be explored.

Comparison chart of luxury cruise lines and their points of difference.

How to get to the kimberley.

Most of the cruises we featured start and finish in Broome or Wyndham (via Kununurra), however Darwin is also another port for some itineraries.

What to pack when visiting the Kimberley

A diverse landscape that is dry and arid with lush rainforest and stunning waterfalls requires careful packing to ensure you have the right clothing and gear for different activities and weather conditions. Light-weight cotton clothing ideally with long sleeves for sun protection. Pack layers to accommodate the dry heat and slightly cooler evenings.

Good walking shoes as well as wet shoes for shore excursions and reef landings are a must. A hat, sunglasses, swimmers and sunscreen are also essentials for the suitcase. A spray jacket, water bottle and lip balm with SPF is also a good idea. Depending on where you are planning to visit, gaiters will protect your ankles and legs if you are planning to do the Kunmunya Hike. Many cruise vessels have a smart casual dress code for evening dinners on board, so pop in a few outfits for dinner.

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15 Kimberley cruises to experience for the adventure of a lifetime

Leah McLennan

Travel Journalist

18 October 2023

Are you ready for the trip of a lifetime? Cruising in the Kimberley serves up eye-popping beauty at every turn.

A rarely visited, ancient and pristine coastline, this slice of Western Australia is often referred to as one of the world’s last great wilderness areas. It’s a wonderland of secret waterfalls, rare birds and confetti-like islands.

Accessible by boat from Broome, Wyndham (via Kununurra) Darwin and Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm on the Dampier Peninsula, the epic journey is worth the effort . Whether you’re seeking a sophisticated atmosphere with butler service or an action-packed activity focused itinerary , there are a bunch of excellent Kimberley cruises out there.

1. The Great Escape Charter Company

Family-owned and run,  The Great Escape Charter Company  has a custom-built 26-metre luxury catamaran, MV Great Escape , which caters to just 14 lucky guests across seven stylish staterooms.

Sail by the majestic falls of the Kimberley with The Great Escape Charter Company.

Each suite has a queen bed, real-time TV, personal fridges and private bathroom. Importantly, a helicopter sits on the deck, providing access to those hard-to-reach places. On board you’ll find fine dining, a spa on the front deck, wi-fi and seven friendly crew members.

Settle into one of the cosy cabins.

2. True North

Highly regarded True North crafts itineraries with the goal of being “life changing” for guests. The family-owned company has two vessels that are purpose-built for the Kimberley and can journey to the upper reaches of shallow river systems.

Cruise the Kimberley with the highly regarded True North.

True North hosts 36 guests, while True North II whisks away 22 folks. Multiple adventure boats take guests in small groups to experience wilderness up close, and a helicopter helps explorers investigate hard-to-reach corners.

Get whisked off to the remote coastal wonders of the Kimberley like King George Falls. (Image: True North/ Tourism Australia)

Rooms feature king-sized, queen or twin single beds, original artwork, small fridges, private bathrooms with twin basins and TVs. Choose from shorter, seven-day cruises, longer 13-day events or specialist expeditions focusing on coast and coral.

True North Cabins can fit solo, duo or group cruisers.

3. Silversea Cruises

Embarking from either Broome or Darwin, Silversea Cruises’ Silver Cloud delivers the ultimate big boat luxury experience over 10 days. For the 200 passengers on board, all suites have butler service and ocean views. Twenty zodiac boats ferry guests to fishing spots and narrow waterways. Helicopter excursions to the four-tiered Mitchell Falls can be arranged, and historians, naturalists and geologists travel on board.

Make yourself at home in the luxurious cabins.

In between adventures, dine at one of the four restaurants or head to the fitness centre, beauty spa, photo studio or the lounge dedicated to cognac and cigars.

Scenic’s luxurious Scenic Eclipse II hosts 228 guests and offers 10 dining experiences, a beauty spa, state-of-the-art theatre, a large oval-shaped pool (swim jets allow you to swim “laps”) and butler service (relax, they’ll guide you through the pillow menu). Choose from eight cabin types, including the opulent spa suites with four-poster king beds, jacuzzi overlooking the private verandah, and oversized steam shower. If you need more space, snap up the 247-square metre two-bedroom penthouse suite.

Take advantage of the vitality pool onboard Scenic Eclipse II.

Helicopters and zodiac rides are at your fingertips, as is French champagne, on this 11-day itinerary from Darwin to Broome (or vice versa) that includes stops at the remote Buccaneer Archipelago and the Lacepede Islands.

5. Kimberley Expeditions

Step on board the 36-guest Reef Prince and find yourself cruising through towering gorges, zipping ‘down river’ in the excursion tenders and sneaking into secluded bays.

With a focus on affordability for guests, Kimberley Expeditions offers action-packed 11-day cruises from Broome to Darwin (and vice versa). All cabins have ensuites and either queen-sized, double, or twin single beds. With plenty of fishing equipment on board, guests often are treated to fresh Spanish mackerel, golden snapper and mudcrab for dinner.

6. Coral Expeditions

From humble beginnings on the Great Barrier Reef 40 years ago, Coral Expeditions has taken its unique style of Australian expedition cruising to the far-flung lands of the Kimberley, Tasmania , Papua New Guinea and more.

Venture across the majestic Hunter River onboard Coral Expeditions.

Join a 10-night cruise from Darwin or Broome and jump on board either the 72-guest Coral Discoverer  or the larger vessels, Coral Adventurer and  Coral Geographer , which both welcome 120 guests.

Take in incredible sunset views en route to the Kimberley.

Discover the reefs, coastline and remote gorges by zodiac or glass-bottom boat, plus step ashore to explore remote locations. For down time, enjoy the spacious suites, restaurants, bars, library and daily lecture program.

Montgomery Reef is a popular cruise destination in the Kimberley.

Indulge your Gallic side in the Kimberley with French cruise operator Ponant , which has over 35 years of experience in luxury small ship cruising. Set sail aboard Le Lapérouse or Le Jacques Cartier, each with 92 chic staterooms and suites, a pool, several bar areas, plus The Blue Eye, a lounge located below the waterline offering undersea views.

Luxurious Hermes bath products, Veuve Clicquot Champagne and macaroons are some of the unique offerings provided to guests on board Ponant. Spend your days exploring ancient walking trails and watching the region’s most incredible wildlife before returning to the ship for massage treatments, lectures by naturalists and to relax in the library. Cruises can be booked via Aptouring.

Set sail aboard Le Lapérouse. (Image: Studio Ponant Laure Patricot)

8. Seabourn

Those looking for a cruise line that sails to all seven continents will find that with Seabourn . The suites aboard Seabourn ships feature queen-size beds, an extra-large walk-in closet, an ocean view, and a dining area.   

Seabourn offers 10-day sailings between Broome and Darwin on the luxe Seabourn Pursuit . You’ll be joined by a team of world-renowned scientists, historians and naturalists and the expedition team will whisk you away on zodiac trips to wonders like the Horizontal Falls and Turtle Reef, home to dugongs, crocs and other sea creatures.

9. Heritage Expeditions

Join New Zealand’s family-owned and operated cruise company, Heritage Expeditions , for a Kimberley cruise aboard the luxury 140-guest Heritage Adventurer . Purpose-built for adventure, the ship is perfect for navigating the Kimberley’s intricate coast, islands and harbours and has a full fleet of zodiacs for excursions to secluded white sand beaches and remote bays.

Indulge in an awe-inducing Observation Lounge with a library and bar, or relax in the saltwater pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room. Savour gourmet cuisine from talented chefs across two lavish restaurants and settle into your spacious suite each night.

10. Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures

If you don’t have a week or two to spare, Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures  may be your best bet for an overnight adventure. Depart from Broome or Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm on the Dampier Peninsula on a seaplane and take a thrilling low-level flight over the heart of Horizontal Falls, before landing on the water where you’ll then transfer to a power boat.

Have barramundi for dinner, snorkel in the marine viewing platform, and stay overnight on the 10-room Jetwave Pearl . Each room has its own private bathroom, air-con and a comfortable bed.

Go sailing across the spectacular Horizontal Falls. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

11. Kimberley Quest

Offering intimate small ship cruises, Kimberley Quest operates four-day all the way up to 21-day extended wilderness expeditions along the Kimberley coast, cruising between Broome and Wyndham.

Sail across Montgomery Reef with Kimberley Quest.

Their 25-metre Kimberley Quest II features indoor and outdoor alfresco areas, a spa and gourmet cuisine prepared by an on-board chef. Cruising with just 18 guests translates into a high level of personalised service and attention.

Pass through the wondrous Horizontal Falls.

12. Yotspace

For something even more exclusive, cruise the Kimberley onboard one of Yotspace’s superyacht charters. The 34-metre Akiko hosts just 10 guests across five luxury staterooms each with private ensuites, while the 35-metre Paradise also accommodates 10 lucky adventurers.

Week-long itineraries can be customized, allowing guests to immerse themselves in this remarkable region in peace. In between exploring, you can enjoy the yacht’s outdoor spa, sunset cocktails and the onboard chef’s gourmet creations.

Embark on a luxury Kimberley sailing experience with Yotspace.

13. Discovery One

Discovery One will take you on 10-to-14-night adventures along the pristine Kimberley coast. With just 22 passengers and a crew of six onboard Discovery One , there’s plenty of room for everyone on the 25-metre, four-level steel catamaran.

As for the off-board experiences the activity list is endless, with two tenders taking guests on excursions two to three times a day.

Go rock scrambling to level up your adventure in the Kimberley.

14. Kimberley Pearl Charters

Kimberley Pearl Charters offers seven, 10 and 13-night itineraries that are the perfect mix of adventure, exploration and indulgence.

Immerse yourself in Australia’s last frontier onboard Kimberley Pearl.

The newly renovated Kimberley Pearl boasts six cabins, one on the upper deck, two on the main and three below, all with private bathrooms.

Get ready for the ultimate cruise of a lifetime with Kimberley Pearl Charters.

15. Cygnet Bay

Take a Kimberley one-day cruise from Cygnet Bay , 200 kilometres north of Broome on the Dampier Peninsula. Cruise to Talbot Bay and get up close to the Horizontal Falls aboard the luxury purpose-built vessel Ohana.

Enjoy a cooked breakfast and seven-course degustation lunch and of course, a cocktail or two. If you want to stay longer, opt for the “soar, cruise and overnight stay” package.

Take a dreamy day trip cruise from Cygnet Bay. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

For more ways to explore the Kimberley, read our guide to El Questro , choose between these unforgettable Horizontal Falls tours , and tick off these incredible wonders in Purnululu National Park.

Leah McLennan is a freelance writer based in Darwin. She was a journalist in Sydney for over a decade and counts her time as travel editor for Australian Associated Press as one of the highlights of her career. From exploring remote campsites in the Top End with her family, to seeking out new art galleries in faraway cities, she’ll grab an adventurous or arty travel experience within her reach.

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The Kimberley Ocean Cruises

See the country’s oldest and most pristine landscapes in the Kimberley with magnificent waterfalls, spectacular reefs, deep canyons, and ample wildlife. 

• Destinations
• The Kimberley by Helicopter
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Delve into the remarkable landscapes in ultra-luxury.

Windjana rock art,  The Kimberley, Australia 

Grand Panorama Suite,  The Kimberley, Australia 

Buccaneer Archipelago,  The Kimberley, Australia 

Discover the Kimberley

• Unrivalled Discovery
• Helicopter Excursions
• Themed Voyages

Helicopter Excursion Locations

Why choose Scenic Eclipse?  

Scenic Eclipse II has been designed to be the ultimate 6-star ultra-luxury cruise experience of a lifetime for only up to 228 guests. From natural to cultural, ancient monuments to sparkling cities, a Scenic Eclipse Discovery Voyage will inspire and excite you. 

Unrivalled Viewing & Relaxation

Scenic Eclipse II has an abundance of space, providing a relaxing vantage point to spot incredible landmarks and wildlife, ensuring you make the most of every moment. Indulge in the expansive 550sqm Senses Spa#, rejuvenate in the yoga and Pilates studio, and visit the Sky Deck & Bar which includes a vitality pool, cabanas, and relaxed seating. 

Personalised Experiences & Expert Guides 

Scenic Eclipse II voyages are truly all-inclusive with curated Scenic Freechoice and Discovery excursions which are designed to cater to all interests and fitness levels. A Discovery Team of up to 15 experts, along with local guides, will provide deep insights and safely guide you throughout your journey. In the Kimberley, the team will be led by Mike Cusack, an award-winning wilderness expert with a passion for Australia’s Northwest who has been guiding for more than three decades and has extensive experience in the region.  

Two Helicopters

Take to the skies in one of our two on board helicopters^ for the ultimate vantage point.  Choose to add the ultimate excursion onto your ultra-luxury Scenic Eclipse experience with flightseeing or remote landings in the Airbus H130-T2 helicopters^. The quietest aircraft in the skies, you’ll enjoy air-conditioned interiors, Bose® noise cancelling headsets equipped with voice activation, and expansive visibility from every seat with large windows and wrap-around windscreen.

Find out more

World-Class Design & Technology

Designed with an unwavering commitment to safety and excellence, ensuring the highest international safety standards. Scenic Eclipse II features include a GPS Dynamic Positioning System which enables the ship to main location without dropping anchor on sensitive seabeds. Whilst its extended stabilisers, forward bow thrusters and an electronic Azipod propulsion system enable safe and comfortable navigation.

6-Star Ultra-Luxury

Watch the world go by from your private verandah suite in 6-star ultra-luxury. Personalised butler service is included with every suite, along with a close to 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio. Take a culinary journey at up to 10 included dining experiences and the eight bars and lounges.  

To learn more about the Discovery Yacht experience as well as the many dining venues, health and wellbeing spacious and entertainment options. 

Jason Flesher – the Director of Discovery Operation, Scenic Eclipse

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This is a territory that is two-thirds the size of France and has 38,000 people living in it. Half are aborigines descended from Australia's first inhabitants. These distant ancestors have bestowed a culture and cave art with an ongoing sense of mystery. This is a region that you fly over or approach by sea because it is unspoilt and wild . Red soil, ochre cliffs, feisty inlets, roaring waterfalls, saltwater crocodiles... Welcome to the Kimberley . 

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Australia's Iconic Kimberley

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Must-Sees - Kimberley

What should you see in the Kimberley? Visit the north-west of Australia to enjoy the extraordinary landscapes of this isolated region from the water or air and discover its wild fauna .

The Essentials - Kimberley

Travel to the Kimberley region and you will experience an unusual adventure in the heart of an unspoilt land. Wild animals, aborigine culture, breathtaking landscapes... Below is our useful guide to read before you visit the Kimberley .

Explore Kimberley

Take a closer look at… the Kimberley, the untamed Australian treasure

Fly over the Bungle Bungle Range

Wyndham , the northernmost town in the Kimberley region, is a special gateway. This area with fewer than 800 inhabitants makes the ideal starting point for exploring Purnululu National Park . Having been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003, it is famous for the Bungle Bungle Range and its ochre and grey striped sandstone domes. There is nothing better than a panoramic flight to admire the beauty of this landscape created by erosion over a period of 20 million years.

Fly over the Buccaneer Archipelago

In the west of the Kimberley, the land seems to break into pieces and slide into the sea. The result is a jagged coastline and no fewer than 800 islands forming the Buccaneer Archipelago , leading to finely cut panoramas. The best way to take in this unique geography is to take to the air. Soaring in a period Grumman Mallard amphibious aircraft , the views over this two-billion-year-old terrain are truly amazing. The undulating desert coast gives way to dots of land with red cliffs plunging into sapphire waters. Being so hard to access, this area has found itself protected... The nearest town is half an hour away by plane.

Sail along the King George River

One of the Kimberley's marvels, the King George River is particularly stunning. Travellers turn into real explorers here. Guided by naturalists who are experts in the region, Zodiac® boats sail along the ochre, red, purple, pink and orange rock faces in the heart of 80-metre gorges. In the distance, the twin King George Falls rumble away. They are so vertical it gives you vertigo. The water hurtles down the cliffs. Watching is a hypnotic experience. Time seems to stand still, giving everyone the chance to enjoy the moment.

Discover cave art

With 10% of the Kimberley having been systematically explored by archaeologists, hundreds of thousands of painted motifs in tunnels and on rocky walls have been found and listed. It is believed that some were done 20,000 years ago and are examples of Gwion Gwion cave art . This is characterised by its fine brushstrokes and rare aesthetics which tell us more about how these old civilisations lived. Clothes, food, arms, tools, ceremonies, trade... These precise paintings are a mine of information for researchers. One of the highlights of a trip to the Kimberley is enjoying this art, which is some of the world's oldest.

Enjoy seeing unique tidal phenomena

Water is king at Collier Bay . Gigantic tidal surges have created these unique landscapes, to photographers' delight. These surges can reach over 14 metres in width and are some of the world's biggest. They cause special phenomena, like at Montgomery Reef : the biggest coastal reef on the planet. When the water pulls back, this creates strong currents and little waterfalls. In Talbot Bay , when the tide comes in or goes out, the waves rush into a bottleneck. This water then flows away, creating "horizontal waterfalls" .

Unique features

The saltwater crocodile or estuarine crocodile is the world's biggest reptile. Males can grow to over five metres long and weigh several hundred kilos. These animals mainly live in Oceania, northern Australia and South East Asia.

Essential phrases

Good morning / Good evening Good Bye Welcome Excuse me / please Thank you Yes / No How are you? Fine, thank you, and you? My name is...

Australia's aborigine cuisine revolves around bush tucker . This means all the animals and plants in the Australian bush that allow humans to survive in this difficult environment. Kangaroos, emus, seafood, honey, berries, worms, lizards and snakes are foods sought by hunter-gatherers.

Myths and legends

North-west Kimberley is home to magnificent decorated caves representing Wandjina, the powerful rain spirit . Poignantly moving ochre figures and silhouettes enhanced with touches of black, red, yellow and white leap out from the walls, alone or in groups, standing or lying. No need for mouths on their round, large-eyed and fine-nosed faces, encircled with headdress-evoking halos, for the extraordinary power of these supernatural entities to express itself. Both Aboriginal people and visitors are required to observe a strict protocol in order to approach them, and only the initiated are allowed to maintain these frescoes and create new representations of the spirit in order to continue the tradition of this ancestral sacred art , which is considered to be the most ancient in the world.

On en parle

Book. Leafing through Australie aborigène (Aborigine Australia) will make you want to visit the country. This stunning photo book's subtitle, Walkabout , is a reference to the rite-of-passage journey taken by aborigines across Australia, following in the footsteps of their mythological ancestors. The Kimberley and other areas are beautifully represented in the book in photos taken by Sandrine and Frédéric Mouchet, who spent two years immersed in these isolated lands.

Music. The first rock group, in the 1980s, to combine aboriginal sounds with contemporary music, Yothu Yindi (which means “mother and child” in Yongli), define themselves as artisans of cultural reconciliation. Prior to becoming a pop star, the group's singer, Yunupingu, was the first Aboriginal person ever to be a head teacher. He developed innovative teaching methods designed to suit the distinctive characteristics of Aboriginal people.

Film. In Undermined, Tales from the Kimberley , director Nicholas D. Wrathall examines what will become of the Kimberley and the 200 aborigine tribes who live there. A range of farming and industrial projects in the region are challenging their traditional lifestyles.

Facts and figures

Some experts estimate that early aborigine cave art dates back 20,000 or 30,000 years . The term "aborigine art" includes these primitive cave works as well as creations by contemporary artists influenced by this age-old culture. It is therefore the oldest ongoing artistic tradition in the world.

• Ashmore Reef (technical stop) (Australia)
• Banda Neira, Maluku Islands (Indonesia)
• Broome (Australia)
• Careening Bay (Australia)
• Collier Bay (Australia)
• Darwin (Australia)
• Hunter River (Australia)
• Kei Islands, Maluku Islands (Indonesia)
• King George River (Australia)
• Kitikiti Waterfall, Mommon (Indonesia)
• Lacepede Islands (Australia)
• Raja Ampat Islands, West Papua (Indonesia)
• Swift Bay (Australia)
• Vansittart Bay (Australia)

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Kimberley 2025

New voyages collection gems and icons.

• 29 destinations

One of the world’s last wilderness frontiers , the Kimberley is an explorer’s dream come true with dramatic gorges, intriguing horizontal falls, majestic canyons, limestones cliffs and Aboriginal culture. Silversea has been exploring this unique coastline for 10 years which has given us an extensive understanding of the region and the ability to enable authentic experiences . Experience a deep immersion in the unspoiled territories with iconic 10 -day Kimberley Coast expeditions or 16 to 17 days expeditions which combine the Kimberley with an off the beaten path exploration of Indonesia .

Watch Silversea’s travel experience in the Kimberley

Exploring King George River and waterfalls

HIGHLIGHTS OF YOUR VOYAGE

Our Kimberley voyages are filled with enriching experiences and rare opportunities to immerse yourself in each destination right from onboard our intimate, ultra-luxury expedition ship Silver Cloud. Our wealth of experience in the region enables us to offer the most personalised and authentic expedition experience. Immersive shore experiences will connect you more closely with stunning landscapes, unique flora and fauna , indigenous rock art, mystic rituals and the storied history of this precious part of the planet. Travel straight to the heart of the Kimberley .

Expedition ultra-luxury ship

Silver Cloud has 20 Zodiacs ®, 10 kayaks, and possibilities are almost limitless with ship-wide simultaneous explorations, combining expedition and luxury.

Incredible wildlife

The Kimberley has the most astounding wildlife, look out for wallabies and the Saltwater Crocodile, one of Western Australia’s most fearsome inhabitants.

Authentic expedition experience

Our Expedition teams are mainly composed of Australian-born experts, with years of experience in the Kimberley, and our expeditions include activities guided by local aboriginal guides. They know the region intimately so that you can too.

Travel deeper

Experience the most beautiful landscapes such as Montgomery Reef and the Buccaneer Archipelago, which consists of over 800 islands created millions of years ago.

FEATURED SUMMER 2025 CRUISES

With 6 voyages and 29 destinations, immerse yourself in the Kimberley with Silversea and experience a once in a lifetime adventure.

THE SILVERSEA DIFFERENCE

Enjoy our personalised service featuring more crew per guest than anyone else in the region.

Door-to-Door All-Inclusive

No matter how far the destination, every aspect of your journey adheres to the highest standards of luxury, allowing you to arrive in your destination rested and ready to explore.

Personalised service

With the highest expert-to-guest ratio in the industry, we offer personalised enrichment experiences onboard and ashore to make the most of every moment.

Gourmet dining

Wherever you dine, delicious influences from each of our destinations will be mouth-wateringly apparent in the diversity and freshness of every dish.

Magnificent oceanview suites

Connect deeply with your destination in our elegant suites which offer a private balcony for a spectacular panoramic view.

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Kimberley Ultimate

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Kimberley Ultimate 2024 & 2025

One of australia’s most exclusive holiday experiences.

For 30 years the TRUE NORTH’s flagship adventure has been the Kimberley Ultimate!

The Ultimate is simply two weeks of lavish indulgence.

All of the Kimberley coast’s iconic attractions are included plus much, much, more and, all is enjoyed at a leisurely pace that ends with guests frequently remarking “that’s the best holiday I have ever had!” If you want not one heli-picnic but two – if you want more time for exploring, more time for fishing and, twice as many mouth-watering dining experiences – then the Kimberley Ultimate is the right TRUE NORTH adventure for you!

Please refer to the sailing schedule to determine if this itinerary is available on the TRUE NORTH or TRUE NORTH II.

This itinerary is provided as example only – prevailing conditions, local arrangements and indeed, what we discover on the day, may cause variation. Helicopter flights can be purchased additional to the indicated tariff as a package or individually.

Welcome Aboard

Join our coach transfer in Kununurra – your “welcome aboard” the magnificent TRUE NORTH will be in the frontier town of Wyndham. Embarkation is at 1700 – time for a cocktail with your fellow adventurers before departing at approximately 1830. Dinner is served shortly after leaving port and then it’s an overnight cruise to the King George River.

The King George Falls

As soon as the tide is high enough, we’ll cross the sand bar at the mouth of the mighty King George to reveal a breathtaking river vista. Our journey upstream will take us to the very ‘jewel in the crown’ – The King George Falls. Here we anchor at the base of the Twin Falls and you will find endless places to explore. Take the helicopter to the top of the falls for a Kimberley highlight. In the afternoon learn about the history of the wreck of the Koolama and take a stroll at Tranquil Bay

The Drysdale

Explore the Drysdale and catch one of our favourite fish, the impressive mangrove jack! The adventure boats will then head “up-river” for scones and billy tea – a signature TRUE NORTH experience! There will also be an opportunity to indulge in some beachcombing and, in the afternoon the ship’s helicopter will visit the remote community of Kalumburu.

Eagle Falls

Today you will see the “Bradshaws” - ancient rock art that pre-dates other examples of Aboriginal culture. In fact, they are possibly the oldest ‘paintings’ known to man. The heli-picnic at Eagle Falls is always a ‘big hit’ – a breathtaking helicopter flight and, the TRUE NORTH’s mouth-watering fare alongside a picture-perfect waterfall! Vansittart Bay also has a reputation for producing monster mackerel and the adventure boats will also be busy exploring the local beaches and creeks.

The Mitchell River

The Mitchell River is renowned for big barra and even bigger crocs! The adventure boats will head up river to scenic Surveyors Creek - a great place for a swim (no crocs here!) The fishermen will again join the hunt for the elusive barramundi and there will be more opportunities for helicopter flights over ancient land including the spectacular Mitchell Falls!

Then join us for our pearl and diamond party! Enjoy a glass of bubbly whilst trying on exquisite pieces created by the artistes at Allure, Jewels of the Kimberley and Kimberley Fine Diamonds.

Wake up in the stunning turquoise waters of Swift Bay. No time to dally – after an early morning breakfast it’s time to join the ‘hunt for the black-lip oyster’. In fact – their much-talked about proportions render them not hard to find at all! Savour their unique taste direct from the rock – aside from some freshly squeezed lemon, you can’t get much more a la naturale than that! There are also some excellent examples of both Wandjina and Bradshaw art nearby and the waters are alive with light game species such as queenfish, giant trevally and mackerel. Join the crew for a walk through a rock art gallery, followed by sunset drinks on the picturesque Winyalkin Island. Enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres from our chefs and watch the sun descend on another action packed day in the Kimberley!

The Roe River

The Roe River - another great opportunity to catch a barra as we explore a river that boasts one of the highest crocodile counts in the Kimberley! The Roe was named after the first Surveyor-General of Western Australia - John Septimus Roe conducted numerous expeditions along the Kimberley coast between 1829 and 1849 and the ship’s helicopter will dramatically demonstrate the maze of creeks and endless coast that the early explorers encountered! In the afternoon we will sail into Prince Frederick Harbour to visit a Wandjina art site on the aptly named Art Island! And the heli will be available to perch on one of the Kimberley’s highest peaks – sunset over Prince Frederick Harbour (accompanied by cheese and bubbles no doubt!)

The Hunter River

Wake this morning in the magnificent Hunter River. The Hunter is about as far away as you can get in Australia – a stunning river system that is lined with dense mangrove forests and surrounded by rainforest encrusted mountains.

And, the Hunter has it all - fishing , mud crabbing, bird-watching and simply exploring “where few have been before!” Join one of our adventure boats for a closer look, enjoy a challenging hike to Jackson Falls and, there’s even more splendour from the helicopter! In the afternoon, visit one of the Kimberley’s most historic sites – Phillip Parker King’s boab tree.

The Prince Regent

In the heart of the Kimberley lies the mighty Prince Regent! The scenery will astound and there will be some ‘not to be missed’ fishing action as the TRUE NORTH graces this majestic river!

At King Cascade we will manoeuvre the TRUE NORTH right under the falls before another breathtaking helicopter flight to a picnic that you’ll never forget – our chefs will prepare more of their destination-inspired dishes alongside a crystal clear billabong – in one of the most remote places on earth! The helicopter will also be popular when the first group of intrepid explorers returns from Jurassic Park! Then we’ll re-join the TRUE NORTH for an overnight anchorage off Camp Creek.

Champagne Sunrise

The early-risers will be treated to a heli-flight with a difference – a champagne sunrise on the top of a mountain! The sightseeing tenders will explore Camp Creek before another breathtaking helicopter flight to a picnic that you’ll never forget – our chefs will prepare more of their destination-inspired dishes alongside a crystal-clear billabong – in one of the most remote places on earth! The helicopter will take to the skies once again, this time to land at several remote rock art sites. Accessible only by helicopter, these ancient art galleries will simply leave you in awe.

Montgomery Reef

Start the day with some more hot fishing action – this time at “Three Ways”. Join crew and guests alike for a moderate walk to Ruby Falls and be rewarded with a refreshing swim in the large natural rock pool. Enjoy lunch as we weigh anchor and set sail for another Kimberley icon – Montgomery Reef! Montgomery is a unique ecosystem that must be seen to be believed – and see it you will – as 140 square miles of coral reef rises out of the ocean right before your very eyes! Water cascades from the reef as the tide falls exposing a privileged glimpse of another world! Turtles, dugong, crocodiles and every imaginable sea creature abound and the helicopter puts all in perspective!

Kingfisher Islands

The adventure boats will be away early for another ‘crack at the fish!’ Trolling around the Kingfisher Islands reliably produces hefty pelagics such as armwrenching trevally and lure smashing mackerel. A couple of good-sized ‘goldies’ and some leaping queenfish will add to the sashimi menu! The keen anglers will take-off on a heli fishing adventure to a secret-spot where the fresh meets the salt and as the day comes to an end, make your way to the bar lounge for cocktail hour before another unique dining experience.

The Horizontal Falls

It’s time to ‘personally’ introduce you to another Kimberley icon – The Horizontal Falls. Experience the awesome power of the region’s huge tidal range in an exhilarating tender ride and then climb aboard your air conditioned helicopter for a view of the falls that very few experience!

Take a refreshing swim and then walk on the squeaky white sands of Silica Beach. Or join one of the adventure boats on a sightseeing expedition to Whirlpool Pass, another demonstration of the Kimberley’s powerful tides.

All too soon your adventure on the TRUE NORTH is coming to an end – enjoy a farewell dinner to remember as the TRUE NORTH glides past Cockatoo and Koolan Islands, Cape Leveque and down the Dampier Peninsula to Broome!

Transfer to Broome

Our arrival in Broome is in time for an early morning coach transfer to your accommodation or connecting flights and the crew will already be looking forward to their next opportunity to welcome you aboard the TRUE NORTH!

True North II

Discover More Kimberley Wilderness Adventures

Kimberley waterfalls (10 nights), kimberley snapshot (7 nights), coast and coral (extended) (13 nights), kimberley explorer (10 nights), adventure starts here.

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What’s on True North

TRUE NORTH unveils major makeover ahead of 2024 season

Multi-awarded TRUE NORTH has completed a major makeover for both their small ships, True North and True North II.

A deep dive into the unique Kimberley climate

Dive into Australia’s Kimberley climate. Your ultimate guide to navigating this untouched wilderness, from majestic waterfalls to vibrant wildlife.

When is the best time to visit Rowley Shoals?

Discover the best time to visit Rowley Shoals for pristine snorkelling and diving. Explore untouched coral atolls with True North's luxury cruises.

Returning to International

True North’s founding director Craig Howson and managing director Chad Avenell, recently met with local representatives ahead of recommencing Indonesian itineraries in 2023. Watch the video above to discover how True North ensures smooth operation well in advance of departure.

Time to Book Ahead

Hear from someone who truly knows about the value of booking ahead. “Cheggers” has travelled on the TRUE NORTH more than anyone else!

True North Sails into 30 Years

True North Adventure Cruises - has sailed into 30 years of continuous operations. The now revered adventure-cruise operator first cruised Western Australia’s remote Kimberley coast during 1987 when founding director Craig Howson commenced fishing type charters along a coastline that was and still is largely inaccessible from land.

The Helicopter

Adding another dimension to the adventure, most cruise options on the TRUE NORTH feature an on-board helicopter! Carrying guests in air conditioned comfort, the ship’s helicopter provides unique opportunity to witness grandeur; unique opportunity to fish billabongs that have never been fished; unique opportunity to discover your very own wilderness!

Myles Pollard's Fishing Adventure

There is nothing better than a day out on the water, especially when the fish are biting! Fishing on-board the TRUE NORTH is a much-favoured activity both with guests who have never picked up a rod before and, with those who have "caught them all!” Our guides encourage everybody on-board to “give it a go” and the TRUE NORTH’s multiple adventure boats never fail to bring back a swag of ‘fishing tales’! Stories about the ladies who out-fish the boys are pretty common, humorous equipment failures also come to note on a regular basis, then there are the ‘birthday fish’, the ‘monster fish’ and of course, the ones that got away! Our guides have seen and heard it all! Watch the video to find out more about actor Myles Pollard's fishing adventure!

TRUE NORTH Impresses Again

The TRUE NORTH has once again impressed on the world stage coming second in the 2020 Traveller Made Brand Storytelling competition. Traveller Made is Europe’s largest travel consortium and its members represent the very best in luxury travel providers and suppliers. The group’s inaugural Brand Storytelling competition was an opportunity for leading travel brand’s to showcase “the story behind their brand” and, the competition attracted entries from some of the world’s most respected travel brands. In such esteemed company, True North’s marketing team was especially pleased to receive this additional acknowledgement.

Adventure En Plein Air

West Australian artist Jacob 'Shakey' Butler joined the TRUE NORTH earlier this season and discovered the Kimberley's raw beauty. As the artist in residence, Jacob set up his canvas on remote beaches, beside freshwater billabongs and on-deck surrounded by pindan-coloured gorges. Watch the video above to hear Jacob describing how the Kimberley inspires the art of adventure.

Catriona Rowntree Talks With Craig Howson

A commonly asked question is “When is the best time to see the Kimberley?” And the answer is “The Kimberley is always at its best!” However certain times of the year can make it easier to satisfy particular interest. For example, if you would like to see plenty of whale action then departures in August and September are definitely for you! From late July humpback and southern right whales reach the Kimberley after swimming-up the west coast to reach breeding grounds in the north and it’s very common for guests to get great views of whales breaching and basking on the surface.

The True North Experience

We curate activity-based itineraries that are designed to satisfy the world’s most discerning travellers. We specifically exclude sea-days and feature unparalleled access to stunning coastal environments and, unequalled opportunity to truly experience the destination.

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Forged by nature and spanning more than 400,000 square kilometres, Australia's world-famous Kimberley Coast features a treasure trove of towering, fractured iron-tinged red cliffs, torrential waterfalls, azure waters, hidden coves and caves, secluded white sand beaches perfect for expedition cruising. Explore magnificent reefs and encounter rare and endangered wildlife; experience indigenous customs, rock art and connections to ancient lands; and discover the area's rich history on a Kimberley cruise with Heritage Expeditions.

Best explored by expedition vessel, Kimberley cruises aboard the luxurious Heritage Adventurer allow an up close and intimate exploration and immersion of this rugged wilderness where guests are dwarfed by nature on an unfathomable scale.

Led by a team of on board experts and local guides, our authentic expedition cruises along the Kimberley coast have been carefully curated to showcase the Kimberley's finest including ancient Aboriginal rock art; natural wonders Horizontal Falls, Montgomery and Ashmore Reef and King George Falls; World War II history at Vansittart Bay; early explorer history at Colonial Bay; the Lacepede and Bigge Islands and more. Travel is aboard our luxurious 140-guest expedition ship Heritage Adventurer which gives guests the option to experience this incredible landscape ship cruising poolside, on one of the many outdoor decks and in the Observation Lounge, by fleet of 14 Zodiacs ensuring no guest is left on board, and by foot on special landings. We hope you will join us aboard Heritage Adventurer on an in-depth expedition cruise of Australia's Kimberley coastline and islands as we discover its unspoiled nature, primeval wilderness and cultural treasures.

Discover an ancient landscape like no other on a bucket list, intimate expedition cruise of the untouched beauty of Australia's iconic Kimberley coast.

Plan your Kimberley tour today. Questions or ready to book your Kimberley voyage? Please contact us today or call toll free and speak with a Kimberley Travel Specialist.

Further reading

Australia expeditions, kimberley explorer: expedition cruising australia's iconic kimberley coast 20% off selected departures.

Join pioneering small ship expedition cruise company Heritage Expeditions on a thrilling in-depth exploration of Australia's world-famous Kimberley Coast, one of the world's most pristine and untouched wildernesses, aboard our luxurious, 140-guest expedition ship Heritage Adventurer.

11 Aug 2024, 21 Aug 2024 27 Jun 2025, 12 Aug 2025, 22 Aug 2025

Seabirds & Cetaceans of Australasia: An Epic East Coast Pelagic

Sail remote, uncharted Australian waters in the search for rare and elusive pelagic seabirds and cetaceans on this 9-day birding cruise passing Chesterfield Reefs, through the deep waters of the Coral Sea south to the edge of the Southern Ocean, all locations of an astounding diversity of seabirds.

15 Nov 2024

Our ship: Heritage Adventurer

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EXCLUSIVE BONUSES valued up to $1,190 (inc. 3 Free Nights PLUS a Tour AND a Dinner Voucher) with EVERY booking! See our Specials & Bonuses for details…

Explore australia's kimberley region aboard a luxury kimberley cruise, discover our luxury kimberley cruises preferred vessels & cruise itineraries.

Embark on an unforgettable journey with a Kimberley cruise in 2024 or 2025, guaranteed to be a highlight of your travel adventures!

For over 13 years, Luxury Kimberley Cruises and The Kimberley Collection have been dedicated to curating exceptional experiences by booking luxury Kimberley cruises. Our team’s deep passion for the Kimberley region stems from our own firsthand encounters with its awe-inspiring coastline. We are driven to share this magnificent land with others.

Partnering with the finest and most reputable Kimberley cruise companies, we take pride in our role as specialists. Our priority is to provide our clients with the perfect Kimberley cruise that aligns with their interests, adventure level, and budget. Trust us to deliver an experience tailored to your preferences.

Indulge your spirit of exploration by cruising through the captivating Kimberley, one of the last untamed wilderness areas on our planet. Prepare to be mesmerized by the extraordinary natural wonders that await—majestic waterfalls, meandering rivers, ancient Indigenous rock art, and towering escarpments.

At Luxury Kimberley Cruises, we offer an extensive selection of Kimberley cruise vessels , ensuring there’s a perfect match for your preferences. Our inclusive accommodation and tour packages with specials offers come with special offers tailored to individual vessels. Welcome to the Luxury Kimberley Cruises website, where we eagerly await the opportunity to assist you in booking your unforgettable Kimberley holiday.

Embark on an extraordinary adventure as you set sail along the Kimberley coastline—an unparalleled cruising destination that promises unique and awe-inspiring experiences. Your next grand voyage awaits!

From Our Team...

Welcome to our website! As emphasized in our brief introductory video, we invite you to delve into the various options available here to uncover everything you need to know about embarking on a luxurious cruise in Australia’s awe-inspiring Kimberley region.

If you haven’t decided on a specific departure date or cruising style just yet—or if you’re uncertain whether a luxury Kimberley cruise is the right choice for you—don’t worry! We are thrilled at the opportunity to connect with you and provide inspiration. Allow our expertise to assist you in selecting the perfect cruise that caters to your preferences.

Our team is genuinely passionate about the Kimberley, and we can’t wait to share that enthusiasm with you. Let us transform your cruise dream into a remarkable reality!

Exclusive Bonuses

Valued at up to $1,350.

Indulge in the ultimate luxury Kimberley cruise experience by booking with us, and enjoy an incredible offer! With every luxury cruise booking (twin share or sole use), you’ll receive an exceptional package that includes 3 complimentary nights in your choice of Broome, Darwin, or Kununurra. We’ll also treat you to a captivating sightseeing tour in Broome or Darwin, along with a $50 restaurant dining voucher to enhance your culinary journey. Prepare for an extraordinary adventure where every aspect of your trip is meticulously catered to, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime. Book now to unlock these exclusive bonuses and make your luxury Kimberley cruise even more exceptional.

More To Discover...

12 things to know before taking your first kimberley cruise.

Explore Australia's beautiful Kimberley Coast destinations

Latest Luxury Kimberley Cruising Special Offers*

Coral Expeditions - Chasing Waterfalls Special Offer

Up to 30% off selected departures.

With spectacular waterfalls and late season availability, now it’s your chance to receive up to 30% off selected departures on board Coral Adventurer or Coral Geographer.

Coral Adventurer : 5 April, 16 April, 26 April, 7 May, 17 May, 28 May, 7 June, 18 June, 28 June

Coral Geographer : 8 May, 18 May, 29 May, 8 June, 19 June, 29 June

From $9,000 per person twin share (WAS $12,800!)

See our pages for Coral Adventurer and Coral Geographer fo r more information:

Le Laperouse Prestige Deck 4 Balcony Cabin on 3 June at $12,420*

Massive savings.

L e Laperouse 3 to 13 June 2024, Darwin to Broome.

Prestige Deck 4 Balcony Stateroom at $12,420 per person, PLUS our Exclusive Bonuses valued at $1,350!

See our page for Le Lapérouse for more information.

Le Jacques-Cartier sailing on 21 July at $13,810*

Free cabin upgrade.

Le Jacques-Cartier 21 to 31 July 2024, Darwin to Broome.

Prestige Deck 4 Balcony Stateroom at $13,810 per person, PLUS our Exclusive Bonuses valued at $1,350!

See our page for Le Jacques-Cartier for more information.

For all travellers these are offers not to be missed!

* Please note: Subject to strictly limited availability. Terms & conditions apply.

Read our Luxury Kimberley Cruises blog

Early season luxury Kimberley cruise aboard Kimberley Quest II

Exploring the Kimberley coastline aboard Coral Discoverer

Cruising the Kimberley aboard Kimberley Pearl

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Or visit our BLOG page for more entries.

About Luxury Kimberley Cruises

Above (L-R): Brenda, Amanda and Luxury Kimberley Cruises founder Matthew. The team has been specialising in booking luxury Kimberley cruises for the past 12 years and are very passionate about Australia’s magnificent Kimberley region and incredible coastline.

Luxury Kimberley Cruises staff have incredible passion, knowledge and experience in selling Kimberley cruises. A combined experience of over 40 years of Kimberley knowledge is at your fingertips to assist you with your Kimberley cruise of a lifetime.

General Manager and founder of Luxury Kimberley Cruises, Matthew has been visiting the Kimberley since his days at Ansett in the 1990s. His first visit fired his love for the region which continues today.

Reservations Manager, Brenda draws from her own first-hand Kimberley Cruise experience, offering stories of her new-found love of fishing for that elusive barramundi.

We have first-hand cruising experience of the Kimberley as well as personal knowledge of Broome, the Gibb River Road and the East Kimberley. We welcome you to speak to us so we can share our passion for the region so, you too may experience the Kimberley and its spectacular coast.

What clients say about cruising Australia's Kimberley Coast

See more about what clients say on our Testimonials page

For bookings:   1300 550 144  |    Click to email

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Lady M Kimberley Cruises

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"...seen amazing aboriginal art, caught fish, smelt the mangroves, listened to the silence, swum in creeks, beautiful beaches, seen wildlife as it should be seen in its natural environment .... The huge tides are awesome and yet due to all your detailed planning and organization they did not impede on a wonderful experience. "

"Exceeded my expectations, wonderful attentive staff, loved every moment."

"One of the best ever holiday experiences. Thankyou for your highly professional guidance and assistance throughout this unforgettable journey."

"No better way to experience and enjoy this magical land, the Kimberley's. Great experience, fantastic staff, wonderful day trips and one we'll sure to recommend to all. Thanks to the Lady M Staff."

"We thank you all so very much for all your wonderful care, passion and knowledge of the history of our awesome Kimberley's. What a wonderful trip we have has with yummy meals daily. You have given us the trip John has only dreamed about."

the Kimberley experience...

Accommodating only 12 guests in en-suite air-conditioned cabins, your Kimberley adventure promises to be an intimate and personal journey.  Our itineraries are adapted daily to suit tides/weather and to avoid the larger passenger vessels arriving at destinations at the same time.  Our guests' comfort and the experience of the "remoteness" of the Kimberley is our priority. The Lady M, a family owned and operated vessel, was designed specifically for the Kimberley to ensure your cruise is as comfortable as possible. The Lady M is one of the larger vessels cruising the Kimberley for the number of guests it accommodates.

We have a cruise to suit your schedule. Choose from the :  

12 night Kimberley Extensive is the ultimate Kimberley experience, incorporating most of the highlights of the 7 day cruise plus the magnificent King George River & Falls and the Berkeley River. This cruise travels at a leisurely pace between Broome and Darwin and enables guests to truly unwind and appreciate the Kimberley coast and rivers.

8 night Kimberley Highlights & fly is designed to maximise your Kimberley Highlights in less time so your return to Broome is via a scenic flight from the Mitchell Plateau. This cruise will satisfy your appetite for the Kimberley and includes a helicopter flight over Mitchell Falls on the way to meet the Lady M awaiting your arrival.

7 night Fishing Adventure explores the southern Kimberley region and give guests the chance to test their skills against the mighty Barramundi as well as other species of fish including Trevally, Mackerel, Fingermark Bream, Mangrove Jack and Sailfish.

5 night Rowley Shoals Snorkeling Cruise will allow you to discover the pristine reefs and waters of the beautiful marine park. Be one of very few to enjoy the un spoilt beauty of the Rowley Shoals as there are less than 200 people that visit it each year making it so remote.

Music: http://www.purple-planet.com .

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Seabourn Pursuit Arrives in Australia for Maiden Season in Kimberley

• June 11, 2024

The Seabourn Pursuit entered Australian waters for the first time, sailing into Darwin, in the Northern Territory, on the morning of June 11, 2024.

According to a press release, the arrival of the Seabourn Pursuit marks the start of Seabourn’s inaugural season in the Kimberley Region.

The program officially begins on June 12, with the expedition ship setting sail on the first of six ten-day voyages between Darwin and Broome.

According to Seabourn, the Kimberley Region is “one of the world’s most remote destinations, renowned for its otherworldly landscapes, abundant wildlife and Aboriginal culture.”

Sailing with the Seabourn Pursuit, guests will have access to remote locations such as Ngula Jar Island while enjoying picturesque views throughout the journey, the company added.

The expedition cruises feature complimentary experiences including zodiac cruises through rivers and sandstone gorges, nature walks, hikes and more.

Passengers will also be able to enjoy immersive experiences that focus on the rich cultural significance of the Kimberley.

In related news, Seabourn recently announced the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners as godparents of the Seabourn Pursuit.

According to the company, the appointment makes history turning Seabourn into the first brand ever to choose Aboriginal Traditional Owners as godparents of a cruise ship.

As part of the appointment, Seabourn will make a donation to assist Wunambal Gaambera in developing a self-sustaining industry, producing authentic works of art and craft by Wunambal Gaambera artists to sell.

In addition, the company will also supply the Wunambal Gaambera Aboriginal Corporation with pearl shells and various art supplies and polishing materials to foster sustainable, commercial arts and craft initiatives year-round for their artists and craft producers.

A sister ship to the 2022-built Seabourn Venture, the Seabourn Pursuit entered service in August 2023 .

With a set of dedicated features and specs, the 264-guest vessel debuted as Seabourn’s second purpose-built expedition vessel.

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The best new cruises in the world: 2024 Hot List

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: every spring when we pull together the Hot List, our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants, and cruise ships, a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of travelling the globe – to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage – it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali . We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List cruise winners for 2024.

Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity is a premium big-ship cruise brand, focusing on exquisite dining, cutting-edge amenities, Instagram-worthy public spaces chock-full of bespoke art pieces, and avant-garde onboard entertainment. The ship makes passengers feel, in a word, glamorous. Celebrity Ascent’s sumptuously designed interiors are flooded with natural light and evoke an air of playful sophistication that makes a week on board an escape worth cherishing. Passengers may find themselves longing to return for just one more succulent crab claw at Raw on 5, one more martini poured by bottle-spinning bartenders in the Martini Bar, or one more dazzling, acrobatic stage show, in the days following their farewells to this beautiful ship. From around £574 per person for a seven-night sailing. Scott Laird

Emerald Sakara, Emerald Cruises

Now with two oceangoing vessels joining Emerald’s more established fleet of nine river-dedicated “Star-Ships,” the decade-old cruise line is extending a brand built on unpretentious luxury to more corners of the world. Christened last August , the 100-guest superyacht, Sakara, is a near twin to Azzurra, which in 2022 ushered in a new era for Emerald by taking to the high seas. Sakara, like its sister, delightfully blurs the line between the luxury and ultra-luxury cruise categories, offering attentive service, gourmet cuisine, tasteful decor, and an eclectic slate of activities at a price point friendly to more budgets. The cherry on top with both superyachts is a slew of perks atypical of small-ship sailing, ranging from an impressively comprehensive spa to a marina platform well equipped for more fun in the sun. Despite having so much good stuff, each vessel is remarkably spacious. Getting a sense of being on a private yacht is easy like Sunday morning. Sakara is homeported in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean through at least March 2026; Azzurra, too, in addition to the Middle East, Kenya, and the Seychelles . Emerald’s river operations are based in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that a third ship, the Kaia, has just been announced by the cruise line; it debuts in April 2026, and, for all the early birds, it is now open for bookings.) From around £3,112. David Dickstein

Explora I, Explora Journeys

With a showpiece lobby bar, upscale restaurants, and a sultry infinity pool, Explora Journeys' relaxed luxury-resort-at-sea vibe strikes the perfect balance on Explora I. Launched in August 2023, the all-inclusive ship is disarmingly beautiful. A sleek navy blue exterior cocoons 461 suites, all with deep balconies, walk-in closets, and marble bathrooms. There is free-flowing Champagne, 7,500 square feet of wellness space, and 18 drinking and dining venues. From Emporium Marketplace, with its decadent raw bar, to pan-Asian restaurant Sakura, the dining on Explora I is sensational. Marble & Co. Grill is an intimate steakhouse where ageing meats hang in temperature-controlled cabinets. At Anthology, the ship's only supplementary restaurant, guest chefs – such as Claude Le Tohic of San Francisco's O' by Claude Le Tohic – curate sublime tasting menus. There's more: The only Rolex boutique at sea, huge hot tubs, and a shore program that sees some land experiences developed in partnership with revered explorer Mike Horn. From around £564 per person per night. Kerry Spencer

Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International

Aboard the Icon, you can really get lost. The behemoth is just plain big, with a capacity for nearly 8,000 when combining passengers and crew across 20 decks and 250,800 gross tons. Two and a half laps around the ship’s jogging track, a particular highlight onboard, and you’ve run a mile. So one can find themselves in need of a map – forgetting your sunscreen , for example, in your cabin is a bit of a chore depending on how far you’ve made it. But the abundance of things to do is also narcotic, and you feel a bit like a lotus-eater attempting to navigate it all while keeping your head. Amid the relentless entertainment, not to be missed are the top-notch performers present everywhere, from the Olympic-level aquatics show that you can watch from the windows of the speciality seafood restaurant should seating be elusive (it often is) to the cafeteria, where crewmembers dressed as food items sing songs reminding (commanding, actually, which is fabulous) passengers to wash their hands at sinks near the entrance. If you wish to enjoy the largest waterpark at sea, by the way, do what I did not and pack a swimsuit without zippers. From around £1,818 . Charlie Hobbs

By Teddy Wolstenholme

By Trish Lorenz

By Marti Buckley

MSC Euribia, MSC Cruises

Looking at a row of cruise ships in port, you'll spot MSC Euribia right away. She's covered bow to stern by an ocean-themed mural by German artist Alex Flämig that bears the hashtag #SaveTheSeas nodding to the MSC's dedication to sustainable cruising: the Italian cruise line aims to be net-zero by 2050. MSC Euribia brings it one step closer to that goal, as it's the fleet's greenest ship yet, operating on liquified natural gas (LNG) and running advanced water and waste treatment systems onboard. But enough with the technical details – this mega-ship is packed with activities and entertainment, with 10 restaurants, 21 bars, five pools, two performance venues, and a bevvy of family-friendly amenities, like an F1 simulator, a waterpark, and a bowling alley. More adult-oriented highlights include the MSC Aurea Spa, with a thermal suite outfitted with thalassotherapy pools, a salt cave, and a snow room, as well as the Helios Wine Maker bar for wine tastings. Itineraries from around £420. Stefanie Waldek

Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Cruise Line

The second entry in Norwegian Cruise Line’s new Prima Class, Viva is like an Irish twin of older sister Prima. There’s the same stateroom count at 1,586, done in pristine and pleasing neutrals, as well as familiarly tricked-out amenities like the zippy 1,400-foot go-kart racing track that undulates over-the-top decks. Importantly, the Ocean Walk, which my colleague Mercedes Bleth adored aboard the Prima, remains. But round two afforded the premier name in large-ship cruising a chance to tweak and perfect, with an influx of seating options both in the ship’s complimentary dining hall as well as on its myriad decks. Across from the signature “zero-waste” Metropolitan Bar, where yummy drinks are whipped up from the ship’s food waste (I particularly enjoy a buttery Croissant Mai-Tai, for which hardening pastries are boiled down into sweetening syrup; the same is done with banana peels) is an interactive piece of digital art 52 feet wide that sees butterflies flit beside passersby. Breezy class all around. From around £791. Charlie Hobbs

Oceania Vista, Oceania Cruises

Vista, Oceania’s first new ship in more than a decade and the first of its Allura Class, debuted with small but mighty upgrades to its previous ships: better stabilisers for a smoother sailing experience; stronger Wi-Fi; lighting and architecture designed to make the ship’s common spaces look and feel roomier; a resort-like pool deck; and balconies in every cabin. The real star of the show, though, is the food and beverage experience – Vista’s culinary program delivers on its promise of top-quality venues you’ll want to make the rounds at. New to the lineup are Ember, a steakhouse with decor straight out of Napa Valley , and Aquamar Kitchen, serving up lighter fare that doesn’t skimp on taste. Celebrate a birthday, an anniversary, or a just-because occasion with the Cellar Masters Wine Luncheon, a five-course meal and wine pairing. And don’t miss the elaborate sea day brunch, where towers of lobster, crab, and caviar await. Of course, the ship is just one destination. This year, Vista is splitting time between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean; next year, it will venture farther into Europe with ports of call like Istanbul , Stockholm, and Klaipeda, Lithuania. Its sister ship, Allura, sets sail in 2025. From around £2,182. Madison Flager

Scenic Eclipse II, Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

The eagerly awaited Scenic Eclipse II is the new and improved version of Scenic's first expedition vessel, Scenic Eclipse. Dubbed "discovery yachts" for their sleek look and top-tier service, the sisters are nearly identical, with most changes so subtle that most guests might not even notice them, such as the slight enlargement of the steam room in the spa. But a big difference can be found on deck 10, where a plunge pool with jets for simulated lap swimming has taken the place of two hot tubs – and there's a new Sky Bar up here. Otherwise, Scenic Eclipse II has the same beloved amenities of its sister, most notably 10 exceptional dining experiences, from a sushi bar to a French restaurant with an attached Champagne bar; a 5,920-square-foot spa; two helicopters; and a submersible. Capable of sailing all over the world, including the polar regions, Scenic Eclipse II has itineraries for every type of traveller. From around £6,025. Stefanie Waldek

Seabourn Pursuit, Seabourn Cruise Line

Pursuit is a small, “yacht-like” expedition ship with a distinct green exterior whose destinations range from Antarctica to warmer climes like the Kimberley in Australia. The decadent cabins, bigger than some standard hotel rooms, feel spacious and relaxing, complete with all the subtle touches that make you feel immediately at home. You can hang your evening attire in the walk-in closet and dry your wet swimwear – or damp Arctic expedition gear – in the built-in warming compartment; have sunrise breakfasts or sunset cocktails mixed at the in-room wet bar on your private balcony; and sleep in a plush, queen-sized bed. But what truly sets this cruise apart is the attentive and personable staff who quickly learn your name and personal preferences, providing VIP treatment throughout the journey. From around £8,729. Taylor Eisenhauer

Seven Seas Grandeur, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ports in the Caribbean, the Greek islands , and the Riviera might be the draw, but the all-inclusive luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises produces ships that have travellers looking forward to those days at sea, as its sixth offering, Grandeur, further proves. All of the 372 suites, which start at a roomy 307 square feet, are decorated in calming neutral blues and beige, and feature furnished balconies; most have L'Occitane bubbles for the marble tub. Quiet comfort can also be had in the Serene Spa & Wellness outdoor lounge area, following a massage on a quartz crystal bed that mimics the feel of warm sand. Cravings for a porterhouse or a vegetarian Salisbury steak can be sated by Prime 7, with other venues serving speciality pan-Asian cuisine, French fare, ample buffets, and Italian offerings. Mainstay Compass Rose has been reimagined as a light, airy space where diners breakfast under playfully elegant pillars that resemble crystal trees. Grandeur's whimsy extends to its reception area, where guests can check out Journey in Jewels, the Fabergé egg made specifically for the vessel, where it will remain for the rest of its jewelled ovoid days. The maximum number of 744 guests ensures unhurried service and uncrowded environs as you recover from a sunny day of swimming with Caribbean pigs. From around £3798. Alexandra Sanidad

Silver Nova, Silversea Cruises

A voyage on Silversea’s latest ship, Silver Nova, is one of taste and style. With expansive glass features throughout each of the 11 decks, and an ocean-facing saltwater swimming pool , the ship’s unique asymmetrical design leaves room for adults to run and play (with swank, of course). The Nova’s reimagined culinary experience, SALT (Sea and Land Taste), is the first large-scale, regional restaurant at sea, and acts as an invitation to guests to experience more than an excursion. While initially introduced on Silver Moon, the Nova’s SALT program includes SALT Lab by day: an intimate cooking class with highly acclaimed chefs and regional cuisine recipes inspired by the next destination. With one nightly seating, SALT Chef's Table offers an exclusive and creatively interactive dining experience. It’s all very intimate – as chefs showcase the art of their crafts firsthand, guests peek into a new culture and place before even disembarking. From around £2465. Jessica Chapel

Viking Aton, Viking River Cruises

In the style of all Viking ships, the Rottet Studio – designed Aton is intended for comfortable and thought-provoking exploration – just look to the book-filled shelves in the cabins, curated by London’s Heywood Hill library, and the revolving door of on-board lecturers (on my trip, an English curator spoke about the evolving depictions of Egypt in 1900s popular art). It should be no surprise that in a destination as rich and storied as Egypt ’s Nile, where the Aton is permanently based, the guides set apart what may read as a quintessential itinerary. On the Pharaohs & Pyramids journey, which takes travellers from the Valley of the Kings, where King Tut lies, to the Great Pyramid of Giza and well beyond over 12 days, esteemed Egyptologists oscillate from translating hieroglyphics on temple walls in real-time to shepherding travellers through modern night markets with endless fervour. On this ship it isn’t just what you see but how much you listen – and the team here, predominantly Egyptian, has much to say. These days, travellers crave perspective-altering experiences more than ever; get on the Aton, and you’ll get once-in-a-lifetime access (until that is, your next Aton sailing). From around £4849. Megan Spurrell

Resilient Lady, Virgin Voyages

Stepping onto Resilient Lady feels a bit like heading to summer camp. The massive vessel is like a giant playground for adults, which is why it draws a fun-loving crowd. Theme night parties, a nostalgic arcade room, plenty of board games, and basketball courts are just a few of the seemingly limitless onboard activities. Compared with its sister ships, the newest Virgin Voyages addition includes upgraded onboard entertainment and exciting new ports of call like the Greek Islands, Bali, and Mumbai . Most of the shows on this specific ship are new to the line, such as Persephone, an interactive performance developed in collaboration with famed Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes, and Another Rose, an immersive dinner experience. Dining options are abundant on the ship – 20-plus to be exact – and all of them are included with every passenger ticket. Plus, you can’t miss out on a visit to the several different sauna experiences in the Thermal Suite inside the Redemption Spa. From around £1616 . Rachel Dube

World Voyager, Atlas Ocean Voyages

There are superbly comfortable spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows aplenty on World Voyager, the latest vessel from Atlas Ocean Voyages. On an Antarctica expedition, you might watch turquoise icebergs float by from the sauna or the spa’s relaxation room, with its heated loungers perfectly positioned in front of a wall of glass. Back in your cosy stateroom, Champagne and strawberries await, as do the views from a Juliet or walkout balcony. The look throughout the 100 cabins and public spaces is Scandinavian modern, thanks to blond woods, marble floors, plush carpets in geometric patterns, and curvaceous furniture draped in velvety fabrics. In the elegant dining room, the focus is on international cuisine with a farm-to-table slant – think mushroom risotto and smoked duck with chargrilled vegetables. Meanwhile, the multipage cocktail menu beckons guests to a pair of spacious lounges. Blending yacht-style elegance and boutique-resort intimacy, this is a ship where you can make new friends easily but also retreat to a favourite spot to enjoy high tea in peaceful solitude while awaiting details from the crew on the adventures that lie ahead. From around £1495. Celeste Moure

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Your top options for a Galapagos cruise are about to change

Two of the best-known names in Galapagos Islands cruising , Lindblad Expeditions and Celebrity Cruises , are about to shake up their offerings in the destination in the wake of a deal.

Lindblad Expeditions on Wednesday announced that two of Celebrity's three vessels in the Galapagos will shift to the Lindblad fleet in January.

The two vessels — 48-passenger Celebrity Xpedition and 16-passenger Celebrity Xploration — will be extensively refurbished after the transfer before beginning operations under the Lindblad banner, the company said.

For more cruise news, guides and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Lindblad also said the vessels would be renamed.

The addition of the two new vessels, which Lindblad is purchasing for an undisclosed sum, will double the size of the Lindblad fleet in the Galapagos from two to four vessels, making it one of the largest players in Galapagos cruises.

For years, Lindblad has operated two ships in the region: 96-passenger National Geographic Endeavour II and 48-passenger National Geographic Islander II.

The brand offers six different itineraries around the Galapagos, with more than 100 departures a year.

"We recognize and appreciate the immense privilege our company has to operate and grow our expedition cruise offerings in the Galápagos Islands," said Sven-Olof Lindblad, founder and CEO of Lindblad Expeditions. "By sourcing well-appointed vessels and onboarding the most experienced crew and staff who meet our exacting standards of responsible exploration, we're able to transport guests from around the world to the iconic archipelago and help them understand the importance of protecting and preserving its wonders and wildlife, as a consequence of their personal experience."

Related: Is this the ultimate Antarctica cruise ship? Our take on one of Lindblad's newest vessels

Lindblad was one of the pioneers of expedition cruising in the Galapagos more than half a century ago. Notably, it operated the first nonscientific international civilian expedition to the destination in 1967.

The company has also long been a leader in expedition cruising in other parts of the world, sailing to some of the most remote and hard-to-reach destinations, including the Arctic, Antarctica and Australia's Kimberley region.

With the addition of the two Celebrity vessels, Lindblad's worldwide fleet of owned, leased and chartered ships will grow to 19 vessels.

Related: Expedition cruises: The ultimate guide to cruising to remote, hard-to-reach places

Lindblad said on Wednesday that customers would be able to make bookings for the two new vessels starting later this month. Lindblad didn't say when the first sailings for the ships under the Lindblad banner would be.

With the transfer of two of its three Galapagos ships to the Lindblad fleet, Celebrity's footprint in the Galapagos will decline significantly. The line's sole remaining ship in the region will be 100-passenger Celebrity Flora.

Unveiled in 2019, Celebrity Flora is one of the newest, biggest and most elegant vessels in the Galapagos.

Celebrity's expedition-style Galapagos sailings, which have taken place on very small vessels, have been a bit of an outlier for the brand. Celebrity is better known for more traditional cruises operated by much larger vessels.

Celebrity and its sister brand, Silversea Cruises , have been leaders in Galapagos voyages for many years. Silversea currently operates one large ship, the 100-passenger Silver Origin, in the Galapagos. It is considered the most upscale vessel in the destination.

Built on a similar platform, Celebrity Flora and Silver Origin are two of the biggest ships in the Galapagos. The destination limits the number of people who can sail on a Galapagos cruise to 100 per voyage.

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Cruise review: The Seabourn Pursuit expedition experience

Megan Catterall, LUXE by itravel shares insight on Seabourn's expedition offering

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When the opportunity arose for luxury cruise expert  Megan Catterall to join an expedition voyage with Seabourn through lesser-travelled regions of the Pacific, she was quick to jump at it. And with the voyage aboard the newest purpose-built luxury expedition ship on the market, Seabourn Pursuit , who could blame the LUXE by itravel advisor.

Catterall was one of a small contingent of Australian advisors hand-picked to experience Seabourn’s expedition product on a, relatively, close-to-home sailing from Guam in May 2024. The 14-day Isles of Papua New Guinea expedition encompassed some of the most remote islands in the North Pacific waters of Micronesia (one of which was uninhabited aside from thousands of birds), an equator crossing, and frequent zodiac excursions directly from Seabourn Pursuit to other isolated islands and villages in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, meeting locals and watching their colourful performances of song and dance.

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LATTE , also onboard Pursuit for the expedition which concluded in Honiara, chatted with Catterall in order to share her view on Seabourn’s expedition product and program.

What was a highlight for you aboard Seabourn Pursuit ?

I loved Seabourn Square as I love a good coffee. Seabourn’s baristas sure do have it perfected when it comes to a fresh brew, and they also have pastries available (all day!) and can you keep a secret? The almond croissants are freshly backed each morning, hot out of the oven, so yes that was a joy to see and of course on holidays you can indulge! But they go fast so you have to be quick! But Seabourn Square is so much more than a coffee spot. It’s a space to relax. There are puzzles and lots seating, tranquil indoor and outdoor, and there’s also a library.

The Starlink internet onboard is so fast and just great even in this remote part of the world. I was able to work whilst on this fam, and so I would often find myself in Seabourn Square clearing emails and responding to clients.

What was a highlight of your Seabourn Pursuit suite?

I loved the bed, so dreamy, and the sheets just the best thread count, and the pillows, wow! But for an expedition ship the bathroom was the best and largest I have ever seen. So spacious with its twin sinks, full marble and bath and separate shower. Beautiful Moulton Brown products in large bottles for easy use, but also good for the environment as refillable. This is standard, so even lead-in has the same size bathrooms. The choice of soaps offered too was impressive. Our cabin attendants Maureen and Wandi were just amazing and our suite and that extra care was just superb feeling very spoilt that comes with ultra-luxury cruising.

A dining highlight?

I loved the Restaurant. Each night the menu would change but always had the Classic selection as an alternative. The desserts were just stunning. For me this type of dinning and the choice and wine pairing was magnificent. One of my favourites from the Classic range was grilled fillet of double tenderloin cooked to order and always perfect medium rare for me, served with spinach, green beans, potato gratin and béarnaise sauce. Followed by the mouth-watering soufflé  which changed nightly, perfectly cooked and the waiters executed delivery superbly.

Your favourite dish, snack, or meal that stands out for you that you’ll be raving about?

Caviar anywhere and anytime is a Seabourn tradition and even on expedition. It was a standout. Onboard any Seabourn cruise the caviar service is a highlight. We would have it pre-dinner by the pool or in one of the many lounges with a glass of French champagne.

And yes we have a found another secret, Chefs Tony’s Childhood Banana split! It’s only available via In-Suite Dining – thank you to the guests that told us about it on Day 6 (Kevin and Nicole!) , but it sure was a highlight. One is enough to share, just ask for two spoons.

The food and the choice of dining is what blew me away. From Sushi in The Club, Modern cuisine in The Colonnade (and open for breakfast, lunch and dinner), with a changing theme every evening, and with table service. In-Suite Dining 24-hour service, the Square, The Restaurant…. Also Ocean and Earth was showcased three nights on our sailing , where The Colonnade turns into O & E , different table settings used to go with the theme. Another highlight for us was being in the Tropics meant dinning alfresco on the back deck with new friends, under the stars.

And I can’t forget afternoon tea served in The Constellation Lounge high tea-style, served so elegantly.

Seabourn Pursuit was just perfect and had something for everyone. Also no reservation was needed anywhere on this ship for dining, anywhere! How good is that?

Your favourite itinerary experience?

There were so many highlights. All the islands truly welcomed us and you could feel there love and energy. But Ifalik Island truly stole my heart. Being welcomed by traditional dance and smiles, we explored its beauty in the morning and then by kayak in the afternoon around the island with its crystal clear waters, while spotting turtles and vibrant coral from our kayak made this afternoon just priceless. The local children, swimming and riding handmade canoes beside us, jumping off our Zodiacs when we were back onboard. What a day. Seabourn Expedition’s optional sea-kayaking is a must do!

The snorkelling was also fantastic through the coral coves, and at every opportunity we would be on our Zodiac. The onboard gear provided by Seabourn was first class, even anti fog for the masks. There are even pool noodles  for floating aids which was just perfect. Snorkelling is complimentary for everyone on Seabourn. Once you are fitted on Day 1 with flippers and a mask, and a wet bag to store and they are yours for the duration and stored in you’re personal cubby in the mud room. They use the best equipment , I also learned that currently Scuba Diving is also included with limited spaces. Well done Seabourn. You are Bourn to be in the Sea!

Your thoughts on the expedition element of the itinerary and the team?

Absolutely exceptional. The Expedition Crew are amazing. Hearing from them about nature and the wildlife, the daily briefings, how passionate they are about their chosen field.

Seabourn Pursuit is designed to have great flow, and at no time was there queues. It’s so orderly and we had a full ship, and everyone got to see and do everything.

The itinerary and what we saw was more than I expected. The places and the remoteness of where we visited was just phenomenal. It was curated perfectly, and I look back now and can’t believe what we have seen really and its in our own back yard.

These islands and the cultures are real. The dances and greetings were real. It’s the families and children and seeing how important education is and them showing us their schools and what they are learning.

How Seabourn navigated us around was perfect. We felt safe. At times we had escorts to the mountains in convoys to see the Baining fire dance and again around Honiara, but that is how travel is in these remote islands.

They may not have streetlights, so they need to make sure we were all ok too, whilst experiencing unique culture.

I loved boarding our daily Zodiacs and the whole organisation down in the mud rooms – it really is run to perfection.

The announcement over the PA in English informing us what to wear on our feet (if it’s a wet landing or dry) and hats, and how Seabourn provide sunscreen and insect repellent if need be. What to bring , the refillable water bottles on the ship that all staterooms have. Towels and walking sticks provided too for the walks on unstable ground… Seabourn really have thought of everything.

My clients were onboard, most 80 years young, and they were so happy and able to do and see it all each, snorkelling also off the zodiacs , the care and attention that each crew member gave was truly wonderful.

Something that you feel could use improvement or some fine-tuning?

Seabourn Pursuit was visiting this region for the very first time, so no criticism as they did a stellar job in my opinion. Some waters were uncharted and we navigated through just super. I loved hearing all from our Captain and the open bridge allows us a glimpse of what they do up there.

One suggestion though is handling foreign currency. When we are visiting these remote islands, I brought along US dollars and small denominations, which I always travel with, but the greenback is not king in these places. They need their local currency. Knowing this now, I wish I had bought more of their actual currency. We need to educate guests to bring the right dollars for exchange. Perhaps Seabourn could have more opportunities onboard for guests to exchange currencies. We did have an opportunity on the first day in Papua New Guinea when a bank was briefly set up on the ship, but it wasn’t repeated. Other than that bugbear, Seabourn are exceptional. The care and detail is in everything.

And the type of client will you be recommending Seabourn Expedition to?

Seabourn Expedition is open to all ages. People who want to experience these remote places, you need the best team behind you and the opportunities that expedition can take you to and Seabourn has it all.

It’s also perfect for generational travel so yes bring the grand teens, create those lasting memories.

I personally can’t wait to sell more of this and spread the word how good traveling like this is to all my clients. This is extraordinary and the team onboard, and let’s be honest, when you are miles from anywhere you need a full team and the right medical equipment so you can feel safe.

It’s ultra- luxury but so enjoyable and at no time do you need a black tie! She is perfect for anyone that is interested in culture and nature and seeing the world’s most remote places. So yes, Seabourn Pursuit is made for you!

This ship even had nightly entertainment with shows, singers and a band. We danced on the back deck. I enjoyed reading the daily Herald with the times and run down, trivia times and fun bago game with Dave our wonderful Cruise Director.

So for people that think expedition is boring and its only about lectures, its most definitely NOT. There is so much to do. Fourteen days onboard and I still didn’t get to do everything. We were busy and active but also had an immersive cultural experience.

Summing up, I was a guest on this fabulous famil and I was so impressed with the itinerary. When I was asked in January I invited clients to join me, and they did, so it was enjoyable working and travelling.

I sure love what I do!

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Why You Should Consider Living On A Residential Cruise Ship

T ravel is another way to add excitement and flair to your life. For some people, they fit traveling in when and if they can. However, for others, traveling is a lifestyle that goes beyond a temporary vacation. In fact, some travelers are dedicating their lives to living on the sea. 

Residential cruise ships are becoming more popular. Initially, the luxury sea complex The World was the only option for those looking to live on the ocean full-time. However, in 2024, a new company called Storylines will launch its own vessel with 547 residential units for those who want to call a cruise ship home for extended periods.

“What a typical cruise line might do in one month or three weeks, we will take three to four months to do,” Storylines founder and CEO Alister Punton told CNN. 

Living aboard a residential cruise ship has a plethora of perks that avid travelers love. In addition to the all-inclusive lifestyle that comes with cruising, access to a close-knit community, more reasonable pricing, and daily exploration are making some consider residential cruise ship living as a viable option.

Everyday Is An Exploration 

Like a traditional cruise, residential cruise ships still dock at ports across the globe. This makes adventure and exploration a regular occurrence for those living on the ships. The World has a variety of expeditions for residents to choose from. From exploring Antarctica to cruising the Kimberley in Australia, there’s a destination for every lifestyle. 

Traditionally, travelers would have to book a vacation to experience an out-of-town adventure. Residential cruise ships provide nonstop thrills both on and off the ship. In addition to scheduled stops, Storyline will also offer “residence choice” stops where those abroad can pick where the ship goes next.

Some Cost Less Than Buying A House  

The World has been operating residential cruise ships for 20 years. However, the luxury complex comes at a steep ticket. According to Insider, it’s difficult to secure a unit aboard vessels and travelers should expect to pay at least $2 million for the extended cruise. With Storylines setting sail in 2024, travelers will have a cheaper option for residential cruise ship living. 

“With a full outright purchase, the resident owners get a perpetuity clause, which means they are able to roll over into a new residence on a future ship without an additional purchase, making this a long-term investment,” Punton said.

The new company will offer units starting at $400,000 for outright purchases. There will also be a limited number of units available for lease according to CNN. Other companies like Villa Vie Residences will offer residential cruise ship units for as low as $100,00 which is cheaper than buying a house in some American cities.

Another Option For Retiring Travelers 

Millennials are getting older. Retirement age seems closer with each passing birthday. Whether millennials like to admit it or not, it’s time to start making plans for retirement and residential cruise ship living could be an option for some. 

Extended cruise ship living is a viable option for millennial travelers who still want to see the world once they retire. Everything is all in one place and travelers could spend the rest of their lives exploring different destinations and cruising the sea. This eliminates the hassle of planning trips in your senior years and consolidates everything you need into one location out on the ocean.

Statue of Lenin

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Statue of Lenin - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)