A journey through ancient culture and underwater worlds, the Cape York and Arnhem Land expedition voyage takes you to some of Australia’s most remote communities on Australia’s North Coast. Commencing in Darwin, this journey takes guests to some of Northern Australia’s most incredible galleries – including Maningrida – where traditional artists create pieces that help to preserve their unique and ancient culture. Sail through the “Hole in the Wall” and cruise across the Gulf of Carpentaria. As you journey continues to Far North Queensland, explore remote Thursday Island and Forbes Island, as well as Davie Reef and the Flinders Group of Islands, before continuing to Lizard Island and Cairns.
Highlights
Experience the world’s oldest surviving culture in Arnhem Land
Explore the beautiful Cobourg Peninsula and its huge variety of wildlife
Witness the vibrant culture of the Tiwi people at Bathurst Island
Snorkel the clam gardens at Watson’s Bay, Lizard Island
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Board at Darwin’s Fort Hill Wharf at 5:00pm ahead of our 6:00pm departure. Spend time getting to know your fellow travellers and enjoy the Captain’s Welcome Drinks before the first of many delicious dinners
Visit Bathurst and Melville Islands. With traditional Tiwi people as your guides, learn of their unique cultures and visit the fascinating art centre to peruse wonderful screen-printing, art, woodcarvings and pottery. Witness a smoking ceremony, traditional basket weaving and morning tea with the locals, over freshly cooked damper and billy tea.
On Cobourg Peninsula, visit the ruins of the failed Victoria Settlement at Port Essington and explore the ruins under the guidance of the National Park Rangers. Also visit the Ranger’s Interpretation Centre at Black Point.
Anchor in the mighty Liverpool River and travel ashore to explore the Maningrida Art Centre, Museum and local ’boutique’, where hand painted clothing and fabrics are offered for sale. Join the Expedition Team on an Xplorer tour of the river before rejoining the ship.
The friendly locals of Elcho Island proudly welcome us to their community this morning. Meet some of the local artists who have their unique art exhibited in the famous art galleries of the world including the Louvre. This evening we enjoy a gourmet Aussie beach BBQ on one of the beautiful islands as you toast the sunset over the Arafura Sea.
Today sail through the ‘Hole in the Wall’ to the Wessel Islands. This evening enjoy a gourmet Aussie Beach BBQ and watch the sun spectacularly set over the Arafura Sea.
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea with presentations by your expert Guest Lecturers. Hear about the fascinating history of the Macassan traders and early explorers of the Arnhem Land coast
Embark on a short tour of Horn Island prior to your transfer by ferry to Thursday Island where you rejoin Coral Discoverer. During the tour of Thursday Island, learn of the history of European settlement and the large pearling fleets and observe the distinctly different cultures of the Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal tribes. Following a short cruise to Cape York, travel ashore and enjoy the sunset and champagne at the ‘Tip’ of Australia.
Enjoy the day exploring historic Forbes Island and take advantage of the fantastic swimming and snorkelling opportunities. Enjoy a short walk to the summit and enjoy the outlook over the surrounding reef and islands.
At Davie Reef and Cay, enjoy swimming and snorkelling and observe the large seabird rookery, go ashore at Stanley Island where your Expedition Leader and guides escorts you to view the Endaen Aboriginal rock art gallery depicting sailing ships of the last century. This is a unique art site seldom visited due to its isolated location.
Spend the day at one of the most beautiful islands on the Queensland Coast. Climb to Cook’s Look or enjoy swimming and snorkelling and a beach walk. Subject to availability, be invited as special guests to visit the Lizard Island Research Station, where you learn more about the research being undertaken to help understand and preserve the Great Barrier Reef.
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.
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Main Deck B
Averaging 195 sq. ft. Three cabins located on the Main Deck, equipped with twin portholes, desk, sofa, telephone and your choice of Junior King or twin bedding.
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Main Deck A
Averaging 195 sq. ft. Six cabins located on the Main Deck, equipped with twin porthole windows, desk, sofa, telephone and your choice of Junior King or twin bedding.
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Promenade Deck B
Averaging 160 sq. ft. Four cabins located on the Promenade Deck, equipped with picture windows, desk, telephone and Junior King bedding.
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Promenade Deck A
Averaging 195 sq. ft. Eighteen cabins located on the Promenade Deck, equipped with picture windows, sofa, desk, telephone and your choice of Junior King or twin bedding.
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Bridge Deck
Averaging 195 sq. ft. Five cabins located on the Bridge Deck, equipped with picture windows, sofa, desk, telephone and your choice of Junior King or twin bedding.
Notes
Solo Travelers:
Solo cabin occupancy is limited and based on availability in Promenade Deck B cabins only. Single supplement is an additional 50%.
Important Fare Information:
Rates are posted based off of the current exchange rates from Australian or New Zealand Dollars. Please contact us for current exchange rates.
Initial deposit is 25%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure by Bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
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