Join this 11-day Darwin to Broome expedition aboard the sophisticated and refined L’Austral. Explore Kimberley's wild lands, falls, abrupt gorges, savannah, calm waters, and desolate mountain chains. Visit the Hunter River, one of the most picturesque parts of the region, and home to wild mangrove forests where saltwater crocodiles live along with many species of birds. Discover the King George River and the majestic Twin Falls, a highlight of this cruise, and visit the Montgomery Reef, home to vast expanses of lagoons and immense coral reefs.
Highlights
Enjoy Zodiac outings and shore visits to Kimberley's iconic locations
Discover billions of years old landscapes & ancient rock art on Jar Island
Encounter the world’s largest population of migrating humpback whales
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Begin your cruise adventure in Darwin, the Capital of the Northern Territory. Darwin stands on the shores of the Timor Sea on Australia’s North Coast. Its lush urban areas exude a tropical, multicultural atmosphere. You can also soak up aboriginal culture at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory or take in colonial heritage as you walk the historical discovery trail around the harbor. Pristine nature surrounds Darwin with waterfalls and virgin forests welcoming you to Litchfield National Park. Board the L'Austral in the late afternoon and depart for Koolama Bay.
This morning be transferred ashore to Pangali Cove for a short walk through mangroves and across a shallow creek to the site of the Koolama survivors’ camp. If wind, tides, and time permit, undertake a short zodiac tour into tranquil cove.
Koolama Bay was formerly known as Rulhieres Bay prior to 1942 when the state ship Koolama was beached at the location after being attacked by Japanese bombers from Kupang. The King George River flows into the southern end of the bay. This bay has historic significance as a World War II site, indicating the impact of World War II in northwest Western Australia and the strategic significance of shipping and the northwest port of Wyndham. It is also the site of the first aerial attack by Japanese forces in the Kimberley area. The MV Koolama stranding site and survivor camp at Koolama Bay and Pangali Cove is significant to the Kwini people who helped the 180 passengers and crew reach safety.
Today enjoy a breathtaking navigation experience as you sail up the King George River. The 80m-high sides of the gorge display varying degrees of weathering of the ancient Warton sandstone. The colors and textures of the gorge change with the light as you travel further up the river. The reds, pinks, and oranges within the sandstones, together with the weathering and erosion patterns, give a continual changing wallpaper of passing scenery that is simply stunning. The journey culminates at the King George twin falls, the highest single-drop falls in the whole of the Kimberley (80m or 260ft). Fed by wet season run-off, the level of water cascading over the falls varies from year to year. For many, the trip up the King George River is the highlight of their Kimberley Coast experience.
There are multiple trips on offer to experience the King George River and falls. You have the choice of undertaking a Tender or zodiac tour to the foot of the twin falls. Tours vary in length so you may choose how long you wish to spend in the gorge. Accompanied by an expert expedition team, learn all about the stunning geological formations and wildlife that resides within the gorge. If you are looking for a bit more adventure, take a hike to the top of the falls and have the opportunity to enjoy the views and a swim. This is a very steep, difficult hike with lots of loose uneven ground and large boulders to scramble over. All participants need very high levels of fitness and mobility.
This morning visit Jar Island and take part in a short relatively easy walk to a number of overhangs and caves that display the various styles of Gwion Gwion rock art. Some of the cave entrances are narrow and require good flexibility and full movement of joints.
Captain Phillip Parker King named Vansittart Bay after the longest serving Chancellor of the Exchequer, Nicholas Vansittart, and Jar Island after Malay earthenware jar fragments he found on the beach in 1819.
Jar Island contains ancient rock art galleries depicting the Gwion Gwion style unique to the Kimberley region. Mainly neglected by, or unknown to, the early European researchers of Aboriginal culture in the Kimberley in favor of the dominant and more dramatic Wandjina art, Gwion Gwion art has in recent years gained world prominence. It was originally named “Bradshaw” style after the exploring pastoralist Joseph Bradshaw who first recorded these enigmatic human figures near the Roe River in 1891. It is generally thought that this art may extend back to over 30,000 years BP and represent the first wave of sea-going colonizers of the Australian continent. As it is, these are the oldest detailed depiction of human figures in the world and their detailed array of ornaments, weapons, and accruements provides a fascinating insight into a rich early culture whose legacy has extended to the current Aboriginal culture across Australia.
Enjoy zodiac tours to the mangrove environments in the lower reaches of the Hunter River and Porosus creek. The Expedition Team shares their knowledge as you explore the area keeping a constant lookout for wildlife. Stunning geology can be found near the opening of the Hunter River and the mangroves of Porosus Creek are home to saltwater.
Arguably one of the most scenic parts of the Kimberley coast, the Hunter River is lined with ancient rainforest pockets, pristine mangroves, and mosaic sandstone cliffs. The Kimberley Coast contains more than a quarter of the world’s mangrove species, and some of the largest stands of mangroves in Australia. They are considered to be some of the most pristine mangrove forests in the world, forming closed forests in discontinuous chains along thousands of kilometers. The mangrove forests of Prince Frederick Harbour contain up to 18 different mangrove species, supporting a rich and diverse fauna.
After a short Zodiac ride land on Naturalist Island and board the helicopter for a 20-minute flight to the stunning Mitchell Plateau. Local experienced pilots give you commentary en route. After landing next to the falls enjoy approximately 50 minutes to explore the area before the return flight. There are a number of great spots to photograph the triple drops of Mitchell Falls. Guests can also take a refreshing dip in surveyor’s pool, well above the saltwater crocodile habitats the Kimberley is renowned for. The Mitchell Plateau is one of the most scenic and biologically important areas of the state. Small patches of rainforest grow around the margins of the plateau, where they are protected from fire and receive additional moisture. Up to 50 mammal species, 220 bird species, and 86 kinds of reptiles and amphibians occur in the area.
Be transferred ashore by the ship’s zodiacs for a wet landing onto a sand beach. Take part in a traditional ochre “Welcome to Country”, and be introduced to the area and learn the cultural history of Wijingarra Bard Bard. Enjoy a guided bush walk to various significant sites in the area, including cyclone cave. On returning to the beach, enjoy some refreshments and meet with the artists and peruse their paintings. These are available for purchase from the artists. Be farewelled with a traditional smoking ceremony on the beach.
Wijingarra Bard Bard is home to a number of significant rock art galleries including cyclone cave where guests are captivated by the rock art and the fascinating story of the Eye of the Sea. It is a special place to the Worrorra people and provides a unique opportunity for visitors to hear the stories of the Lalai (creation) and gain an understanding of how country and culture intertwine in this beautiful landscape.
Take part in a zodiac expedition to the exposed Montgomery's reef system with its cascading mini-waterfalls to witness the amazing tide-induced phenomena first hand. (Landing on the reef is prohibited). Montgomery Reef is a spectacular example of the impact of the tidal movements as the entire reef appears to rise from the ocean on a falling tide. As the tide drops a raging torrent of water cascades off the top of the reef. The phenomenon is due to the tide dropping faster than the waters trapped on top of the reef can escape. At just under 400km2 in size it is Australia’s largest inshore reef, containing large areas of shallow lagoon, seagrass beds, and corals.
After a Zodiac ride ashore to a beach near Raft Point, an Expedition Team leads you on a challenging walk to visit the rock art gallery. The walk is approximately 40 minutes uphill over rocky uneven ground with several difficult sections. Sturdy footwear and good levels of fitness and mobility are required to successfully undertake this walk. This region of the Kimberley coastline is the heartland of the Worrorra people. Their intricate, traditional lifestyle and intimate knowledge of the tides allowed them to access the nearby rich hunting grounds of Montgomery Reef, after launching from Raft Point. ‘Ngumbre’, as it is known to the Worrorra, is the site of the most spectacular Wandjina gallery on the Kimberley Coast.
Zodiac cruise to view the Horizontal Falls and the surrounding geological features of Talbot Bay and cyclone creek. The zodiac expedition does not pass through the horizontal falls during strong flow. Guests may undertake an optional “fast boat” ride through the falls to experience the thrill of this exhilarating ride.
The Horizontal Waterfalls are a pair of stunning breaks in the McLarty Range approximately 300m apart. The McLarty Range itself is approximately 1.8 billion years old, comprised of sandstone, quartzite, siltstone, shale, and dolomite with abundant stromatolites. The first and more seaward of the gaps is approximately 25m wide, whilst the second gap is approximately 15m wide. With massive tidal differences of up to 10.8m on a spring tide in Talbot Bay, the Horizontal Waterfalls (technically termed “pinch rapids”) are a natural phenomenon created as seawater builds up faster on one side of the gaps than the other, creating a waterfall up to 4m high on a King tide. With each change of tide the direction of the fall reverses, creating vast tidal whirlpools on the outgoing side.
Yampi Sound is located within the King Leopold Mobile Zone. Approximately 1,800 million years ago the Kimberley basin collided with the Australian land mass. The collision caused massive heating along the boundaries of contact – effectively welding the two landmasses together. The collision caused a great deal of folding and buckling of the sedimentary rocks along the welded boundaries. Have the opportunity to undertake a zodiac expedition to view the amazing geological features of the bay. At the right time of the year it is possible to see Australian humpbacked dolphins and the elusive snubfin dolphin in the bay.
Afterwards, transfer ashore by zodiac for a wet landing onto a soft sand beach. Here you can enjoy swimming in the shallows. The beach is just as safe as cable beach for swimming. The expedition staff and ship’s crew are strategically placed to keep a watch out for crocodiles in the water. The clear water and white sands make them easy to spot. Silica Bay on Hidden Island is a favorite swimming spot for Broome and Derby residents that regularly travel the coast on fishing and adventure holidays. The white silica sand and crystal-clear shallow waters provide welcome relief from the Kimberley heat.
Zodiac cruise in and around the Lacepede Islands to view the prolific birdlife. There is also the chance to spot some of the large turtle population that resides in the lagoon contained within the Islands. The Lacpede Islands are a group of four islands lying 120km (75miles) to the northwest of Broome and separated from the mainland by the Lacepede Channel. East, West, Middle, and Sandy Islands are all small, low spits of coarse sand and coral rubble, lying on top of a platform reef and total 180.2ha. The islands are an A Class Nature Reserve administered by the Department of Environment and Conservation.
The Islands are Western Australia’s most important breeding habitat for green turtles (Chelonia mydas), and have been named by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area (IBA) because they support over 1% of the world populations of brown boobies and roseate terns.
Day 11: Broome | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Today disembark in Broome, Western Australia’s coastal gateway to the magnificent wilderness region of the Kimberley. It’s also home to the world-famous white sands of Cable Beach, making it one of the State’s most popular holiday destinations. Situated 2,240 km (1,390 mi) north of Perth with a permanent population estimated at 14,436, it grows to over 45,000 per month during the tourist season.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$8,060
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
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Superior Stateroom
8 cabins, 226 sq ft, located on Le Champollion Deck. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area and private bath.
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Deluxe Stateroom
28 cabins, 200 sq ft with private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, private bath.
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Prestige Stateroom - Deck 4
200 sq ft with 43 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, private bath.
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Prestige Stateroom - Deck 5
200 sq ft with 43 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, private bath.
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Prestige Stateroom - Deck 6
200 sq ft with 43 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, private bath.
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Deluxe Suite
3 suites, 290 sq ft with 54 sq ft private balcony, located on the Le France Deck. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, desk, minibar, private bath.
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Prestige Suite - Deck 5
398 sq ft with 86 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, communicating cabins available. Separate living area, private bath.
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Prestige Suite - Deck 6
398 sq ft with 86 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, communicating cabins available. Separate living area, private bath.
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Owners Suite
484 sq ft with 97 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, communicating cabins available. Separate living, dining areas, private bath with large tub and shower, minibar, 2 flat screen TVs, DVD, CD, and IPOD, Video on demand, Satellite phone
Notes
Please note:
Fares are based on double occupancy and are capacity controlled. Rates may increase at any time as the ship sells out and subject to change without notice.
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
10 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 10 Dinners
10 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Port Fees
Unlimited Wifi
Onboard Entertainment
Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
Gratuities to Onboard Crew
“Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands...list available upon request)
24h Room Service (special selection)
English-Speaking Lecturer
Highly experienced and bilingual (French-English) expedition staff
Park Entry Fees into Protected Areas
Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment, when permitted by local authorities and confirmed by ship Master according to safety and sea conditions onsite.
Excluded
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Visa Fees
Optional Excursions - Ponant allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately six to two months prior to the cruise* departure. Please note that this is subject to change. Please contact us for more details.
Any ground services before and/or after the cruise other than the ones mentioned
Luggage Handling
Laundry Services, Hair Salon, and à La Carte Spa Treatments
Pre or post cruise programs, overland programs or shore excursions
Beverages other than the ones mentioned in inclusions
CDP recommends that every Traveler has full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses
This was our first trip to South America and we were a little nervous. But Adventure Life made things so easy! All our questions were answered before we left, and our guide, Vidal, was amazing! He gave us enough space to explore without rushing us along. He also knew where the best picture taking opportunities were, which was great.
Lindsay Gompf
TrustScore 4.8 | 131 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 131 reviews on
21 hours ago
The staff at Adventure Life made planning my family's trip to the Galapagos Islands as easy as possible. They listened to what we were hoping to experience and made thoughtful suggestions about how to accomplish our vacation goals while meeting the needs of travelers ages 17-76! They patiently answered questions and follow up questions in the months leading up to the trip. They helped us trouble shoot and customize the trip in every way possible. The logistics involved in traveling from Boston to the Galapagos are innumerable. The Adventure Life staff helped us arrange every detail and the team they assembled in the Galapagos was tremendous. I have never done a trip this big before and after working with Adventure Life this time--would not hesitate one second in working with them again.
Jennifer Howard Schroeder
1 day ago
Kevin got right on our request and had us booked within the week
Linda Cummings
2 days ago
The info on the website was laid out very well. I did some comparisons with other tours and found Adventure Life met a lot of what I wanted in an Antarctica trip at the cheapest price. Requested a quote on Claudia contacted me right away. She answered a lot of questions the I had via email even though she offered to discuss via phone call. I’m more of an email person so appreciated how she accommodated that and answered all my questions. And when I was ready to book, she quickly got the ball rolling with getting our spots reserved on the trip my friend and I wanted. Thanks again, Claudia!
Hazel Araza
2 days ago
(1) great information on the website and throughout all the "materials." (2) Jane Packer is great: knowledgeable, responsive, takes a personal interest and tone, seems to care about the customer as a person not a sale.
Larry Bethune
2 days ago
great people doing a wonderful job to make our voyages happen.