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11 Days$8995USD

Activities
  • 10 days expedition cruising with hiking
Accommodation
  • 10 nights aboard Coral Geographer
Meals
  • 10 Dinners
  • 10 Lunches
  • 11 Breakfasts
 

Trip highlights


  • Experience the thrill of riding the Horizontal Falls in zodiacs
  • Visit Montgomery Reef and discover the tidal reef’s diverse marine life
  • Witness King George River and 80m tall twin King George waterfalls
  • Cruise the Prince Regent River to the ‘hanging garden’ King Cascade waterfall
  • Encounter Indigenous rock art galleries and learn about ancient Wandjina and Gwion Gwion art
  • Spot native wildlife and birdlife in their natural habitat
  • Enjoy sunset canapés and drinks on the beach as dusk settles over the Kimberley

Step aboard for an unforgettable adventure through one of Australia’s most remote and awe-inspiring landscapes. On this 10-night Kimberley expedition, you’ll witness the untamed beauty of the Kimberley coast – where ancient culture, powerful natural forces, and breathtaking wilderness come together in spectacular fashion. From thundering waterfalls to sacred rock art, every Kimberley voyage is a journey of discovery – and no two expeditions are ever the same. Highlights of the voyage include a thrilling zodiac ride through the Horizontal Falls, up-close encounters with the cascading tidal waters and marine life of Montgomery Reef, and a visit to the dramatic 80-metre twin King George Falls. Cruise along the Prince Regent River to the lush King Cascade waterfall, explore ancient Indigenous rock art galleries with expert guides, and spot native wildlife in their natural habitats. Optional scenic helicopter flights over Mitchell Falls offer a breathtaking perspective, while sunset canapés on a remote beach provide the perfect ending to each unforgettable day.

Trip Code: CGE

Arrive at the Mangrove Hotel at 3:30pm before our transfer to Broome Deep Water Port for boarding at 4:00pm. Settle into your stateroom before our 5:00pm departure. Take the time to become acquainted with the facilities onboard before joining the expedition team in the Bridge Deck Lounge for an introduction to the Kimberley. As dusk falls, mingle with fellow travellers, the Captain and crew at Captain’s Welcome Drinks.

Meals:  B,L,D

The Lacepede Islands are a protected class-A nature reserve and are significant as a seabird nesting rookery for brown boobies and roseate terns. Other species often sighted at the Lacepedes include Australian Pelicans, frigate birds, egrets and gulls. The four low-lying islands are also an important breeding and nesting habitat for green turtles. If weather and tide conditions are suitable, we will explore the lagoons by Xplorer and zodiac tender vessels. As our incredible Kimberley adventures draw to a close, on our last evening aboard we enjoy the Captain’s farewell drinks amongst new-found friends.

Meals:  B,L,D

The Horizontal Falls are one of the Kimberley’s biggest attractions and are a result of the mammoth 11m tides the Kimberley is renowned for. Naturalist David Attenborough described the Horizontal Falls as ‘one of the greatest natural wonders of the world.’ This natural phenomenon has been created as the ocean thunders through a narrow gorge in the McLarty Ranges. Water builds up on one side and is forcibly pushed through the bottleneck, creating a rushing horizontal waterfall of swiftly flowing seawater. Riding the rapids on our Zodiac inflatable tenders is one of the highlights of our Kimberley expedition cruises. Talbot Bay is at the heart of the Buccaneer Archipelago, where rocks on the 800 or so islands are estimated at over 2 billion years old. At Cyclone Creek, you will see evidence of massive geological forces in the impressive rock formations and cruise through the Iron Islands, past Koolan Island, before enjoying sunset drinks at Nares Point.

Meals:  B,L,D

Montgomery Reef is a biologically diverse area covering over 300 sq km and was named by Phillip Parker King. Twice daily, as the sea recedes in mammoth 11m tides, Montgomery Reef rises from the Indian Ocean in a cascade of rushing water revealing a flat-topped reef pockmarked with rock pools and rivulets. As the reef emerges, we get up close in our Xplorer and Zodiac inflatable tenders to witness the spectacle as our expedition team share their knowledge on the formation of the reef and the myriad wildlife. Opportunistic birds take advantage of the emerging reef, feeding on marine life left exposed in rock pools. Turtles, dolphins, dugongs and sawfish too are also attracted to feeding opportunities as the ocean recedes. The ocean is awash in a swirl of eddies and whirlpools as the moon’s gravitational force takes hold. Then, a few hours later the entire water-borne drama is reversed as the tide comes in and Montgomery Reef disappears below sea level. Red Cone Creek flows gently downstream until it meets the small but impressive Ruby Falls. Named by local mariner Capt. Chris Trucker after his daughter, Red Cone Creek is carved through rock formations stacked atop each other like building blocks. Navigate a natural rock ascent to uncover a secluded freshwater pool. This experience combines a physical challenge with the reward of a swimming opportunity. The falls may be a gurgling torrent or a gentle trickle, depending on the time of the year. Other sites we aim to visit in Doubtful Bay include the mighty Steep Island and Ruby Falls at Red Cone Creek.

Meals:  B,L,D

King Cascade is a classically beautiful terraced waterfall and is one of the most photographed waterfalls in the Kimberley. Falling from a considerable height and around 50m across, water tumbles down a staggered terrace of Kimberley sandstone. Layer upon layer of ochre-hued and blackened rock sprouts grasses, mosses and ferns in a sort of lushly vegetated hanging garden. We reach King Cascade after cruising in our Xplorer tender vessels down the steep-sided Prince Regent River which is a remarkable anomaly as the river runs dead straight along a fault line.

Meals:  B,L,D

Lt. Phillip Parker King named nearby Careening Bay after he beached his leaking vessel HMC Mermaid to effect repairs. While stranded on this remote coastline for 17 days the ship’s carpenter carved HMC Mermaid 1820 into the bottle-shaped trunk of a boab tree near the beach. 200 years later, the Mermaid Boab Tree has since split into two trunks and sports a mammoth girth of 12m. Significantly, the bulbous tree is listed on the National Register of Big Trees and the carpenter’s careful inscription now stands almost as tall as a person.

Meals:  B,L,D

Prince Frederick Harbour is one of the Kimberley’s most spectacular locations at the southern end of York Sound. The harbour is dotted with islands lined with mangroves and monsoon rainforests, set against a backdrop of ochre-hued escarpment. White-bellied sea eagles and other birds of prey are often seen here, and at low tide, expansive mudflats reveal large populations of mudskippers and mangrove crabs. We will take our Xplorer tender vessels on a cruise up Porosus Creek to view some striking rock formations. Bigge Island’s Indigenous name is Wuuyuru, and the Indigenous Group of the area is the Wunambal people.

Meals:  B,L,D

Tumbling down the Mitchell Plateau in a series of tiered waterfalls and emerald green rock pools, the Mitchell Falls are the photogenic poster child for the Mitchell River National Park. Take a scenic helicopter flight (additional cost) to multi-tiered Mitchell Falls where emerald-hued rock pools cascade down the escarpment and ancient rock art galleries are concealed in caves behind curtains of water. Mitchell River National Park is inhabited by significant numbers of mammals, amphibians, reptiles and bird species which are lured by a year-round water source. Sandstone terraces beside tiered rock pools make a terrific viewing platform from which to savor the serenity of this ancient landscape. An alternative option to Mitchell Falls is exploring the sandstone caves of Wollaston Bay or Wollaston Creek. This mass of weathered tunnels, arches and columns form a labyrinth-like maze and was once an Aboriginal midden. Another option while anchored at Winyalkan Bay is a visit to a series Wandjina and Gwion Gwion rock art galleries at Swift Bay. In the evening we will enjoy watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean while indulging in a gourmet BBQ.

Meals:  B,L,D

Vansittart Bay is home to many cultural and historically significant sites like the remarkable Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) Aboriginal rock art galleries estimated to be up to 20,000 years old. Jar Island is so-named after the pot shards found here, brought to the island by Makassan fishermen harvesting sea cucumbers (also known as trepang). Nearby, on the Anjo Peninsula lays the well-preserved wreckage of a US Airforce C-53 Skytrooper aircraft, the result of a pilot losing his bearings flying from Perth to Broome in 1942 and putting down on a salt pan near present-day Truscott Airbase.

Meals:  B,L,D

Fed by the King George River draining across the Gardner Plateau, 80m tall King George Falls are the most impressive Kimberley waterfalls and the highest twin falls in Western Australia. Before reaching the mist-like spray rising from the base of King George Falls, we cruise through steep-sided gorges carved by a flooded river system that carved a swathe through the Kimberley landscape 400 million years ago. Early in the waterfall season, we may cruise around the base of impressive King George Falls while in later months we take the opportunity to view the honeycomb erosion patterns of sandstone cliffs up close.

Meals:  B,L,D

Arrive in Darwin at 9:00am and disembark Darwin’s Fort Hill Wharf at 9:30am. Post cruise transfers to CBD hotels or the airport are included. If you’re not transferring directly to the airport why not spend the day enjoying the tropical city of Darwin with its landscaped waterfront and harbourside Wave Pool. NB* This itinerary is an indication of the destinations we visit and activities on offer. Throughout the expedition we may make changes to the itinerary as necessary to maximise your expeditionary experience. Allowances may be made for seasonal variations, weather, tidal conditions, and any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel.

Meals:  B


Map


Inclusions

  • All excursions with our Expedition Team
  • Use of Xplorer, Zodiacs and Kayaks
  • Daily lectures and briefings with Guest Lecturers
  • All meals, chef-prepared on board
  • Captain’s welcome and farewell events, and open bridge access
  • Selected wines, selected beers and house spirits, juices, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner
  • 24-hour barista-style coffee and tea station
  • Basic toiletries including shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, and hand soap will be provided in your cabin. Shaving kits and dental kits are available on request. Hairdryers and separate towels for swimming and bathroom use are provided.
  • All entrance fees to National Parks, ports, traditional owner fees and charges imposed by governing authorities
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Use of all onboard facilities, incl. a reference library
  • Expedition diary, along with a photo and video gallery documenting the highlights of your voyage
  • Post-cruise transfers
  • Wifi Access – Standard speed connectivity enabling email, social image sharing, web browsing and messaging

  • Pre-cruise transfers
  • Pre and post cruise flights/charter flights
  • Pre and post cruise accommodation
  • Travel Insurance
  • Entry visas & travel permits for the country you are travelling to/from
  • Alcoholic & non alcoholic specialty beverages outside of lunch and dinner service
  • Laundry service (available at a cost)
  • Items of a personal nature such souvenir purchases
  • Optional Extras (in some destinations)

What to Know Before You Join Us

Our voyages are designed for curious travellers — not just passengers. While our itineraries offer a range of activities, from gentle zodiac cruises to more challenging hikes and paddles, it’s important to understand the nature of this experience before you join us. These expeditions are suitable for most travellers with an adventurous spirit, good health, and the ability to move confidently around a vessel — especially in variable weather and sea conditions. Some shore landings and excursions may involve uneven terrain, wet landings, or light scrambling. Boarding zodiacs and navigating the boat may require balance and agility, though our experienced team is always on hand to assist. Each trip may include a variety of optional activities, most of which require no prior experience. Of course, all activities are optional — you’re always welcome to stay aboard and enjoy the ship at your own pace. Not sure if this trip is right for you?

Get in touch with our team — we’re here to help you choose the experience that best suits your interests, comfort, and curiosity.


Vessel


Cabins


Departure dates


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Priceper person from

$8995USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Promenade Deck StateroomUSD$10945
  • Explorer Deck Balcony StateroomUSD$14545
  • Bridge Deck SuitesUSD$19395
*Prices listed are per person

Essential Information

Ready to book? Make sure you download and read the detailed Kimberley Classic: Broome to Darwin aboard Coral Geographer trip notes which contains all the essential information you need to know before booking. Once you’ve booked, we will supply you with a Pre-Departure document which contains a detailed gear list and other important information to help you prepare for your adventure ahead.


Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The vessel is air-conditioned throughout and passengers are able to modify room temperature in their cabin. Please note, for safety reasons the windows and portholes do not open.

Voltage onboard Coral Geographer is 220/250v, 50Hz AC (standard Australian 3 pin plug). A slanted 2-pin adapter plug will work while onboard, however, with the 3rd pin missing, the item will not be grounded. For our international guests, a limited number of adapters are available onboard but we recommend you bring your own if required. Please check your equipment to be sure you bring what is necessary for your personal needs. Bathrooms onboard Coral Geographer are equipped with both 110V and 200/240V outlets for electric shavers only.

While travelling through remote areas, you may not have access to Internet/mobile reception through your own provider for extended periods of time. Our fleet is equipped with advanced satellite and 4G broadband connectivity providing reliable and high-speed service when exploring remote areas. Complimentary access to standard WiFi will be available to all guests as part of their fare inclusion, enabling email, social image sharing, web browsing and messaging. There is also the option to purchase a package upgrade enabling access to higher bandwidth. In addition, to help you keep in touch with news from home, we subscribe to a daily news service, and copies of this publication are made available to guests each day. Note: Internet access on the ship is contracted to an external industry service provider and is a satellite connection. While every effort is made to ensure uninterrupted service, from time to time there may be disrupted service due to lack of satellite coverage or other technical issues that are beyond our control. Internet access is best in public areas but not guaranteed in staterooms due to the steel structure of the ship.

Upon embarkation, we automatically open your personal onboard account. For your security, we ask that you sign for your orders from our bar, shop, or make any other onboard purchases. At the end of the voyage your account may be settled in AU$ cash; by Visa, MasterCard or American Express (we regret no Travellers Cheques).

Prevention is key – you should discuss appropriate measures with your doctor or pharmacist prior to travel. If you do become seasick, please advise the Purser so they can attend to your needs promptly and appropriately. A variety of seasickness preventions and treatments are available onboard.

Basic toiletries including shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, and hand soap will be provided in your cabin. Shaving kits and dental kits are available on request. Hairdryers and separate towels for swimming and bathroom use are provided.

We recommend that you arrive to the embarkation port on the day prior to departure incase of any flight delays or issues. Ask our staff for flight and accommodation options.

Coral Geographer is equipped with an elevator on all accommodation levels, however all guests must be able to make their own way up and down stairs in case of an emergency.

The atmosphere onboard is casual and relaxed. There is no formal dress code, and ‘smart casual’ attire is suggested for dinner. A suggested packing list is included in your documents.

Limited laundering services are available onboard. Laundry bags and forms are stored in your wardrobe for collection by Cruise Attendants. Charges for this service will be posted to your onboard account. As the service is for laundering only, ironing services are not provided. Mini ironing boards and irons are available from the Reception desk.

Yes. There is a resource library onboard with an excellent selection of books covering natural history, geology, local cultures, and flora & fauna, as well as fictional novels and games to enjoy.

No. There are no luggage restrictions on Coral Discoverer, and there is ample room to store luggage in your cabin under your bed or in the wardrobe. Please note any airline restrictions when packing if travelling by air to or from your cruise.

No. The laws governing our liquor license prohibit alcohol being brought onboard by guests.


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Small ships, big experiences

Explore places the big ships can’t with the widest selection of genuine small-ship, activity-first cruising. On Water Expeditions offers exceptional value, quality services, no hidden costs, and plenty of inclusions.

More time ashore

Don't watch the action sail past your window, dive into it! Designed for active travellers, these itineraries give you more time to adventure off the boat.

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Activity is built into every journey. From paddling to hiking, enjoy a basecamp-style experience that injects fun, meaningful connections and thrilling adventure into it.

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Each voyage is thoughtfully selected for low-impact exploration, supporting genuine conservation and sustainability while respecting local communities and environments.

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