Current as of: April 23, 2024 - 22:55
The Kimberley: Darwin to Broome Cruise - Premium Adventure Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Premium Adventures, Small Ship Cruises
- Destination: Australia
- Programmes: Premium Adventures, Wildlife
-
Activity Level:
1 out of 7 - Leisurely
- 11 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 16+
- Trip Code: WAZ
- Carbon Footprint: 382kg CO2e
Trip Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 10-night cruise in The Kimberley from Darwin to Broome
Perfected over three decades, this Kimberley cruise takes you on an unforgettable journey from Darwin to Broome. Expert guides interpret 40,000-year-old rock art and retrace the history of Phillip Parker King who first charted this spectacular coastline 200 years ago. Later in the season, witness humpback whales on their migration.
Board a Zodiac and touch the spray from the magnificent King George River and its towering 260ft (80m) twin falls. Join an expert guide to learn about the history of the ancient Wandjina and Gwion Gwion rock paintings. Witness waterfalls cascading off Montgomery Reef as it rises out of the ocean on the ebbing tide, while discovering diverse marine life.
In 2021, the Coral Geographer was launched, giving you the opportunity to experience your Kimberley cruise aboard your choice of three premium vessels: Coral Adventurer, Coral Discoverer or Coral Geographer.
At a Glance
- 11 days/10 nights’ premium small-ship cruise
- All meals while on the ship
- Beer, house wine, spirits, juices and soft drinks during lunch and dinner
- Stay on the Coral Discoverer, Coral Adventurer or Coral Geographer, which provide premium accommodation and a more personalised service compared to larger vessels
- All excursions and sightseeing
- Daily lectures and briefings
Highlights
- Experience the thrill of riding the Horizontal Falls in inflatable Zodiac tender vessels
- Get up close to Montgomery Reef and discover diverse marine life
- Experience King George River and the King George waterfalls
- Cruise the Prince Regent River to the hanging garden King Cascades waterfall
- Visit indigenous rock art galleries and learn about ancient Wandjina and Gwion Gwion art
- Spot native wildlife and birdlife in their natural habitat
- View the Kimberley landscape on a scenic helicopter flight to Mitchell Falls (additional cost)
- Enjoy sunset canapés and drinks on the beach as dusk settles over The Kimberley
- Cruise aboard your choice of three premium vessels Coral Adventurer, Coral Discoverer or Coral Geographer
Is This Trip for You?
This trip is graded Activity Level 1 (Leisurely) with a Wildlife Rating of Three. Visit our Activity Level Guidelines page for more on our trip gradings or our Wildlife Holidays page for more on our Wildlife Ratings.
This premium adventure 10-night/11-day cruise is operated by Coral Expeditions.
The day-to-day itinerary is indicative. No two cruises with Coral Expeditions are the same, with each expedition crafted by experienced Masters and Expedition Leaders. Throughout the expedition there may be the need to 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 impact the operation of the vessel. Coral Expeditions suggests you do not arrive on the day of embarkation or depart on the day of disembarkation due to any changes that may occur in scheduling.
Please refer to the below that are applicable to this Coral Expeditions cruise:
Standard booking conditions
- A 20 percent deposit of your total booking value is required upon confirmation and is non-refundable.
- Final balance must be paid 90 days before departure.
Cancellation conditions
- Up to 90 days prior to departure: Forfeit the 20 percent non-refundable deposit
- 60 to 89 days prior to departure: Forfeit 50 percent of the relevant fare
- At 59 to 0 days prior to departure: Forfeit 100 percent of the relevant fare
- Unexpected events: Due to the Covid pandemic, several sailings were cancelled. Travel partners and their guests should be aware that such interruptions are classed as unexpected events and Coral Expeditions will issue cruise credit for future travel. Coral Expeditions do not refund in this circumstance.
Group
Throughout your cruise, you will enjoy the attentive service of the professional Australian and New Zealand Coral Expeditions residency crew. Carefully selected for their engaging personalities, attention to detail and commitment to delivering the highest standards of service, the staff will ensure you receive a warm welcome aboard.
On each voyage, Expedition Leaders bring guests the depth of experience required to put together daily programmes given prevailing weather and local conditions. They are complemented by an expert Guest Lecturer with knowledge of disciplines ranging from anthropology, geology, history and flora and fauna of the region, offering layers of insight relevant to your itinerary and to support the depth of immersion in your travel experience.
Your Expedition Leader will join all shore excursions and activities, provide daily recaps and briefings, and is always on hand to answer any questions.
Adult min age: 16
Max group size: 99
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Darwin
- End City: Broome
Land Only Itinerary
Depart Darwin
On departure day, meet Coral Expeditions at Darwin Cruise Terminal for your check-in procedure, please arrive at 7am. The crew will then transfer you and your luggage to the ship at 8am where there is time to settle into your cabin before our 9am departure. Spend a luxuriant sea day at leisure as we cruise across Joseph Bonaparte Gulf and sail into Western Australian waters.
Take time to acquaint yourself with the facilities and join our Expedition Team in the lounge for an insightful introduction to The Kimberley. As dusk falls, meet your fellow travellers, the captain and crew at the Captain’s Welcome Drinks.
Premium accommodation: Coral Discoverer, Coral Adventurer or Coral Geographer
King George River and Falls
Fed by the King George River draining across the Gardner Plateau, the 260ft (80m) tall King George Falls are the highest twin falls in Western Australia. Before reaching the misty spray rising from the base of the falls, we cruise through steep-sided gorges carved by a flooded river system that cut a swathe through the Kimberley landscape 400m years ago.
Early in the waterfall season, we may cruise around the base of the falls, while in later months we can view the honeycomb erosion patterns of sandstone cliffs up close.
Premium accommodation: Coral Discoverer, Coral Adventurer or Coral Geographer
Vansittart Bay
Vansittart Bay is home to many cultural and historically significant sites, including 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 over by Macassan fisherman harvesting sea cucumbers.
On the nearby Anjo Peninsula lays the well-preserved wreckage of a US Air Force C-53 Skytrooper aircraft, the result of a pilot losing his bearings while flying from Perth to Broome in 1942 and putting down on a saltpan near present-day Truscott Airbase.
Premium accommodation: Coral Discoverer, Coral Adventurer or Coral Geographer
Mitchell Falls, Winyalkan and Swift Bay
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 the multi-tiered falls to see emerald rock pools cascade down the escarpment and ancient rock art galleries concealed in caves behind curtains of water.
Mitchell River National Park is inhabited by significant numbers of mammals, amphibians, reptiles and birds, lured by a year-round water source. Sandstone terraces beside tiered rock pools make a terrific viewing platform from which to savour the serenity of this ancient landscape.
An alternative to Mitchell Falls is exploring the sandstone caves of Wollaston Bay or Wollaston Creek. This mass of weathered tunnels, arches and columns form a maze and was once an Aboriginal midden. Another option while anchored at Winyalkan Bay is a visit to a series of Wandjina and Gwion Gwion rock art galleries at Swift Bay.
In the evening, we enjoy watching the sun set over the Indian Ocean while indulging in a gourmet barbecue.
Premium accommodation: Coral Discoverer, Coral Adventurer or Coral Geographer
Prince Frederick Harbour
Prince Frederick Harbour, at the southern end of York Sound, is one of the most spectacular locations in The Kimberly. The harbour is dotted with islands lined with mangroves and monsoon rainforests, set against a backdrop of the ochre escarpment.
White-bellied sea eagles and other birds of prey are often seen here; at low tide, expansive mudflats reveal large populations of mudskippers and mangrove crabs. We take our Xplorer tender vessels on a cruise up Porosus Creek to view striking rock formations.
Premium accommodation: Coral Discoverer, Coral Adventurer or Coral Geographer
Prince Regent River and Careening Bay
King Cascade is a classically beautiful, terraced waterfall – one of the most photographed waterfalls in The Kimberley. Falling from a considerable height and around 165ft (50m) across, water tumbles down a staggered terrace of Kimberley sandstone. Layer upon layer of ochre 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.
Explorer Phillip Parker King named nearby Careening Bay after he beached his leaking vessel HMC Mermaid to make 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. Two hundred years later, the Mermaid Boab Tree has since split into two trunks and sports a mammoth girth of 39ft (12m). Significantly, the bulbous tree is listed on the National Register of Big Trees and the carpenter’s inscription now stands almost as tall as a person.
Premium accommodation: Coral Discoverer, Coral Adventurer or Coral Geographer
Montgomery Reef
Montgomery Reef is a biologically diverse area covering more than 115sqmi (300sqkm) and was named by Phillip Parker King. Twice daily, as the sea recedes in 36ft (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 exposed in rock pools. Turtles, dolphins, dugongs and sawfish are also attracted to feeding opportunities as the ocean recedes.
The ocean is awash in a swirl of eddies and whirlpools as the gravitational force of the moon takes hold. A few hours later, the entire water-borne drama is reversed as the tide comes in and Montgomery Reef disappears below sea level.
Premium accommodation: Coral Discoverer, Coral Adventurer or Coral Geographer
Doubtful Bay
Raft Point guards the entrance to Doubtful Bay, a vast body of sheltered water harbouring significant sites, such as the ancient Wandjina rock art galleries, which are a short walk from the beach and considered some of the finest in the Kimberley. We visit the rock art galleries when Traditional Owners are available to guide us. Doubtful Bay is the traditional country of the Worrora people who follow the Wandjina, their god, lawmaker and creator. Images of Wandjina are found throughout The Kimberley, recording their stories, knowledge and culture in stone.
Red Cone Creek flows gently downstream until it meets the small but impressive Ruby Falls, which was named by local mariner Captain Chris Trucker after his daughter. Red Cone Creek is carved through rock formations stacked atop each other like building blocks. These rock walls are great for climbing and clambering over before reaching a series of freshwater swimming holes and waterfalls. 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.
Premium accommodation: Coral Discoverer, Coral Adventurer or Coral Geographer
Horizontal Falls and Buccaneer Archipelago
The Horizontal Falls are one of the biggest attractions in The Kimberly, a result of the mammoth tides for which The Kimberley is renowned. Naturalist Sir David Attenborough described the them as ‘one of the greatest natural wonders of the world’.
They are created as the ocean thunders through a narrow gorge in the McLarty Ranges. Water builds 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 more than 2bn 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.
Premium accommodation: Coral Discoverer, Coral Adventurer or Coral Geographer
The Lacepede Islands
The Lacepede Islands are a protected nature reserve and a significant 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.
On our last evening aboard, as our incredible Kimberley adventures draw to a close, we enjoy the captain’s farewell drinks among new-found friends.
Premium accommodation: Coral Discoverer, Coral Adventurer or Coral Geographer
Arrive in Broome
Our adventure along The Kimberley coast concludes in Broome at 8am. Bid farewell to your fellow travellers, the captain and crew. A post-cruise transfer to Broome CBD or airport is included (you must advise and book with Exodus at least one month before departure if you wish to have a departure transfer).
If you’re not transferring directly to the airport, why not spend the day visiting Cable Beach or stroll the historic streets of Chinatown in central Broome?
Accommodation
Premium accommodation: Coral Adventurer/ Coral Discoverer/ Coral Geographer
During this premium adventure cruise, you will spend 10 nights on the Coral Adventurer, Coral Discoverer or Coral Geographer.
Coral Adventurer
Launched in April 2019, Coral Adventurer is a 99-passenger ship built to take you closer to unspoiled vistas in comfort, style and safety. When Coral Expeditions set out to build the Adventurer, they wanted a ship that would last decades. Their search to build for quality and technology took them to shipbuilders in Norway who have a long history of constructing durable ships for the harsh North Sea. Coral Expeditions also looked deep inside to capture the requirements of their guests, crew and the areas they sail. The result is a happy marriage of modern shipbuilding technology and cruising Australian style.
Bridge Deck Balcony Suite
- The two Cairns and Darwin suites are spacious and elegant retreats after a busy day ashore
- Suites are equipped with a lounge area, minibar and personal coffee machine
- They have a spacious super king-size bed
- The 86sqft (8sqm) private balcony has an outdoor daybed and lounge chair for two
- A unique outside-facing bathroom with picture windows, bath and separate shower complete the suite experience
- The complimentary minibar is replenished daily
- Bridge Deck Balcony Suites are 601sqft (55.8sqm)
Bridge Deck Balcony Stateroom
- The two Bridge Deck staterooms are comfortably furnished with a junior king-size bed which can be separated into two singles
- A wardrobe, desk and armchair are included
- The compact ensuite has a toilet, shower and ample storage
- French windows opening to a balcony with seating for two give you a private perch to watch the panorama outside
- These staterooms are on the bridge deck with superb views and adjacent to the Cairns and Darwin suites
- Bridge Deck Balcony Staterooms are 230sqft (21.4sqm)
Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom
- Explorer Deck staterooms are below the Bridge Deck and are comfortably furnished with a junior king-size bed, which can be separated into two singles
- A wardrobe, desk and armchair are included
- The compact en suite has a toilet, shower and ample storage
- Your private balcony has seating for two from which to view the passing coastal vistas
- Explorer Deck Balcony Staterooms are 230sqft (21.4sqm)
Promenade Deck Stateroom
- Promenade Deck Staterooms are below the Explorer Deck and are identically furnished with a junior king-size bed, which can be separated into two singles
- A wardrobe, desk and armchair are included
- The compact en suite has a toilet, shower and ample storage
- A large picture window gives you wide views of the world outside
- Promenade Deck Staterooms are 183sqft (17sqm)
Coral Deck Stateroom
- Coral Deck Staterooms are below the Promenade Deck and furnished with a junior king-size bed which can be separated into two singles
- A wardrobe, desk and armchair are included
- The compact ensuite has a toilet, shower and ample storage
- A porthole window gives you views of the world outside
- Coral Deck Staterooms are 183sqft (17sqm)
Coral Discoverer
Launched in 2005, the Coral Discoverer set a new benchmark of sophistication in expedition cruising. It is a 72-passenger ship built to take you closer to unspoiled vistas in comfort, style and safety. A shallow draught and manoeuvrability allow it to reach some of the most remote and rarely visited coastlines and islands in Australia. Her tender vessel, Xplorer, features a hydraulic lowering system and can seat all 72 passengers for excursions to beaches and rivers. Coral Discoverer is equipped with the latest technology active stabilisers to ensure comfortable cruising in open waters and is fitted with modern safety and navigation equipment and wireless internet facilities.
Built to international SOLAS standards and with one aim in mind: to create the ultimate small-ship cruising experience. It’s also Australian flagged and staffed entirely by an Australian and New Zealand crew.
In 2016, a significant upgrade and refresh of the facilities has brought the amenities to an even higher level. The Sun Deck, home to the circular Explorer Bar, has become a new social space and the hub of on-board community living. Guest accommodation also received a substantial upgrade with the addition of six Bridge Deck Balcony Staterooms providing coveted inside-outside living quarters. All other Stateroom grades also received a full upgrade with updated bathroom fixtures, soft furnishings and artwork providing an even more comfortable stay.
Bridge Deck Balcony Stateroom
- Located on the exclusive Bridge Deck close to the Lounge and Bridge
- The six spacious Bridge Deck staterooms are 20sqm (215sqft)
- Staterooms open onto private balconies for expansive ocean views
- Furnished with a sofa, desk, telephone and your choice of junior king or twin bedding
Promenade Deck (Category A) Stateroom
- Encircled by a full-ship promenade
- The 19 spacious Promenade Deck (Category A) staterooms are 18sqm (195sqft)
- Featuring picture windows for expansive ocean views
- Furnished with a sofa, desk, telephone and your choice of junior king or twin bedding
Promenade Deck (Category B) Stateroom – sole-use only
- In the bow of the ship and encircled by a full-ship promenade
- The two Promenade Deck (Category B) staterooms are 15sqm (160sqft)
- Featuring picture windows for expansive ocean views
- Furnished with a desk, telephone and junior king bedding
- These rooms are allocated for sole-use only
Main deck (Category A) Stateroom
- Located close to the Dining Room
- The six spacious Main Deck (Category A) staterooms are 18sqm (195sqft)
- Featuring large, twin porthole windows for expansive ocean views
- Furnished with a desk, sofa, telephone and your choice of junior king or twin bedding
Main Deck (Category B) staterooms
- Located close to the Dining Room
- The three spacious Main Deck (Category B) staterooms are 18sqm (195sqft)
- Featuring twin portholes for expansive ocean views
- Furnished with a desk, sofa, telephone and your choice of junior king or twin bedding
Coral Geographer
Launched in March 2021, Coral Expeditions are proud to introduce their newest ship – Coral Geographer. A sister ship to Coral Adventurer, the Coral Geographer remains true to the nature of authentic expeditions. When designing their next generation of ships, Coral Expeditions stubbornly resisted the idea of large and glitzy so they can remain small enough to go to untouched places, focusing on bringing small numbers of like-minded guests closer to nature and cultures with personal attention and professional Australian service. The shallow draught and manoeuvrability of the ship allow it to go where larger vessels cannot. The 99-passenger ship features the same state-of-the-art specifications and expedition features as Coral Adventurer; however, due to popular demand, it has an increased number of six Bridge Deck Suites with horizon bathtubs.
Bridge Deck Balcony Suite
- There are six spacious and elegant suites on the Coral Geographer
- They are equipped with a lounge area, minibar and personal coffee machine
- They have special junior king-size beds
- A 38sqft (3.5sqm) private balcony has an outdoor daybed and lounge chair for two
- The unique outside-facing bathroom with floor-to-ceiling windows is the feature of the suites, with an infinity bathtub with sky views
- The complimentary minibar is replenished daily
- Bridge Deck Balcony Suites are 404sqft (37.5sqm)
Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom
- Explorer Deck staterooms are comfortably furnished with a junior king-size bed, which can be separated into two singles
- A wardrobe, desk and armchair are included
- The compact ensuite has a toilet, shower and ample storage
- Your private balcony has seating for two from which to view the passing coastal vistas
- These staterooms are on the Explorer deck
- Explorer Deck Balcony Staterooms are 230sqft (21.4sqm)
Promenade Deck Stateroom
- Promenade Deck Staterooms are below the Explorer deck and furnished with a junior king-size bed, which can be separated into two singles
- A wardrobe, desk and armchair are included
- The compact en suite has a toilet, shower and ample storage
- A large picture window gives you wide views of the world outside
- Promenade Deck Staterooms are 183sqft (17sqm)
Coral Deck Stateroom
- Coral Deck Staterooms are below the Promenade Deck and are identically furnished with a junior king-size bed, which can be separated into two singles
- A wardrobe, desk and armchair are included
- The compact en suite has a toilet, shower and ample storage
- A porthole window gives you views of the world outside
- Coral Deck Staterooms are 183sqft (17sqm)
Specific cabin types can be booked for sole use (subject to availability). Passengers who are paying for sole use will have a choice of a twin or junior king bed. Please enquire with your sales representative for further details.
Share policy
Accommodation on the ship is based on twin-share occupancy. If guests are travelling alone and wish to share accommodation, a roommate will be assigned to your cabin whenever possible. When pairing roommates, we always pair participants of the same sex. Please note, in the event of a share partner not being found, you will be charged the full room rate (double the twin-share fare).
Food & Drink
All inclusive
- Meals: All meals are fresh and chef-prepared onboard
- Tea and coffee: 24-hour barista-style coffee and tea station
- Beverages: Selected wines, beers, juices, soft drinks and selected spirits are served complimentary with lunch and dinner. Drinks are available for purchase at other times.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Start your day with a tempting choice from a fresh continental or hot à la carte menu with options changing daily.
Lunches showcase a selection of hot and cold dishes, from salads and cold cuts to soups, fresh local seafood and seasonal tropical fruits both individual plated and small sharing plates.
Evenings are a convivial time to dine with new friends and reflect on an exciting day of discovery over dinner. We welcome you onboard with a seafood-sharing concept dinner on the first night. Other evening meals are served over a three-course table d’hote dinner menu, when selections are offered as you enjoy table service from the friendly dining room staff.
All Coral Expeditions feature a memorable pre-dinner event ashore where sunset drinks and canapés are served, often on a beach, and always in a beautiful location with a sunset view. Casual sundowners are hosted by the captain and are the perfect time to kick off your shoes and enjoy a beer, wine or cocktail while mingling with fellow guests in a relaxed atmosphere.
Lunch and dinner are accompanied by a curated beverage list featuring boutique Australian and New Zealand wines, beers and ciders.
Each voyage, the captain hosts a Captain’s Table for invited guests and officers will endeavour to host dinner guests on an evening when operational matters allow.
Beverages onboard
Lunch and dinner are accompanied by a curated beverage list; each evening, sunset drinks are held on the Vista Deck (weather permitting) where guests relax or socialise before dinner. Each voyage, the captain hosts a welcome and farewell event with complimentary canapés and beverages.
Drinks are complimentary during the official captain’s welcome and farewell events and the offshore sunset drinks. We invite guests to join the pre-dinner drinks at other times, but alcoholic beverages during these times will be at your own expense.
Sustainability in Food and Beverage
Across the Coral Expedition fleet, they are continually looking for ways to improve sustainability and reduce waste, partner with more organic and Fairtrade suppliers, and deliver a food and beverage experience in line with expedition roots and beliefs. They have successfully implemented measures to remove PC plastics and reduce packaging waste in their food and beverage supply chain. Since 2020, Coral Expeditions offer a selection of ecofriendly, Fairtrade and organic beverage products including:
- Pukka Tea Range: 100 percent certified organic herbs, ethically sourced.
- Veneziano Coffee: 100 percent fairtrade and Australian certified organic by the Biological Farming Association.
- Tablelands Coffee Black Mountain: Grown locally in Mareeba, Cairns Tablelands of Far North Queensland.
- JUST Water: Packaged in reusable, recycled paper-based containers with a lid made from sugar cane in Far North Queensland. Made in Australia with water from Victoria.
Snacks and pre-dinner canapés
In between shore adventures, the chefs will welcome you back on board with freshly baked treats or delicious canapés to accompany pre-dinner or sunset drinks. When local regulations allow, there may be the chance for impromptu stops to enjoy sunset drinks and canapés in scenic locations.
Special meal requirements
Vegetarian, vegans, gluten- and dairy-free items are included in all menus. The chefs will happily cater to other special dietary requirements with advance notice. Please advise at time of booking.
Transport
During the cruise, excursions include transport on the Xplorer tender vessel or on Zodiac inflatable tenders.
Weather & Seasonality
The climate in The Kimberley (and across northern Australia) is a tropical monsoon climate, defined by distinct wet and dry seasons.
The dry season (May to October) is characterised by blue skies, easterly winds and balmy days with some chilly nights. The weather is generally stable and rain is unlikely.
During the wet season (November to April), The Kimberley becomes hot and humid, wet and can be unpredictable.
Joining Instructions
Day 1: Embark: On the day of your departure, arrive at Darwin Cruise Terminal at 7am to meet with the Coral Expeditions team and check in for your expedition cruise. Boarding will begin from 8.30am for a 9am departure.
Day 11: Disembark: Arrive and disembark at Broome Wharf at 8am.
A departure transfer on day 11 is included to Broome CBD or Broome Airport (passengers must advise and book with Exodus at least one month before departure).
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Darwin
Location end: Broome
What To Take
Essential Equipment
We recommend that you pack simply and lightly. Clothing that you can layer will prepare you for all kinds of weather. More specific information regarding clothing and the weather conditions in your destination are included in your Cruise Documentation which you will receive prior to your cruise.
Practical Information
Passport
Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.
Visa
Australia
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally need a visa or Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter Australia. Please note, entry requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas or ETAs for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
- Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/australia
- United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/australia/entry-requirements
- USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Australia.html
Vaccinations and Health
Australia
There are no required vaccinations. However, recommended vaccinations include tetanus, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, and rabies (bat lyssavirus). You will also need a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you’re arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission or transiting for more than 12 hours through a country with risk of yellow fever transmission (with the exception of the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador). Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Local Time
Australia's time zone: Australia/Brisbane (UTC +10:00)
Electricity
Australia's electricity: Plug type I (three flat pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Australia's currency: Australian dollar (AUD)
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
All purchases made on board that are not included (drinks outside of meals, laundry, cruise ship shop, wifi etc) will be added to your room account (charged to your cabin) and will settled the night prior to disembarkation.
Coral Expeditions accept all credit cards (including American Express and Diners); no merchant fee/surcharge is applied if paying by credit card.
Tipping
All tips and gratuities are included.
People, Places & Planet
We work hard to create trips which improve life for the people and places we visit, and look after the planet we explore. Find out more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here, and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.
Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:
People
How this trip helps improve life for local communities.
- The use of local guides and Australian crew, means customers will be well informed about local traditions, and cultural and social sensitivities.
- Coral Expeditions acknowledges the First Nations people of Australia as traditional custodians of the lands on which they work and travel, and pay respects to elders past and present.
Places
How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.
- Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here, including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels.
- Our trips adhere to ABTA’s industry-leading animal welfare guidelines to ensure the best possible practices with regard to working animals and wildlife viewing. Our animal welfare policy can be found here.
- Marine Friendly SPF50+ Sunscreen available onboard all vessels for all guests to use, and to avoid harming the unique marine environment.
- By travelling on a smaller vessel with fewer than 100 passengers, and by using local guides & Australian crew, they ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
- Coral Expeditions donates to the Bare Sands Turtle Sanctuary, a valuable research project, and offers logistical support to transport staff, equipment, and turtles.
- Coral Expeditions is proudly accredited as an ecotourism cruise operator with world-leading EcoTourism Australia. Some of the initiatives they have been a part of include parting ways with plastic straws in 2018, bringing water and supplies to drought stricken small island communities, providing on board education to all guests and they have also been involved in coral species collection for the world’s largest Coral Biobank.
- Across the Coral Expedition fleet, they are continually looking for ways to improve their sustainability to reduce waste, partner with more Organic and Fairtrade suppliers, and deliver a food and beverage experience in line with their expedition roots and beliefs.
- Coral Expeditions have successfully implemented measures to remove P.C plastics and reduce packaging waste in their food and beverage supply chain. For example, water provided on board is packaged in reusable recycled paper-based containers with a lid made from sugar cane in Far North Queensland.
Planet
How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.
- Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.
- Coral Expeditions rely on a community of local providores, farmers and growers and use locally-sourced food (as much as possible) which has not been transported long distances. This ensures each regional menu champions seasonality, whilst creating delicious dishes sustainably wherever possible.
- Vegetarian and vegan options are available and included on all cruise menus, meaning passengers can opt for meals with a lower carbon footprint.
Tips for sustainable travel on this trip
- Leave no trace: We do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish behind in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, we’d ask you to consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
- Plastic waste reduction: Please bring your own re-usable water bottle on this trip; filtered water will be provided where tap water is not drinkable.
Please refer to the below that are applicable to this cruise, operated by Coral Expeditions:
Standard Booking Conditions
- A 20% deposit of your total booking value is required upon confirmation and is non refundable.
- Final balance must be paid 90 days before departure.
Cancellation conditions
- Up to 90 days prior to departure- forfeit the 20% non-refundable deposit
- 60 – 89 days prior to departure – forfeit 50% of the relevant fare
- At 59 to 0 days prior to departure – forfeit 100% if the relevant fare
Coral Expeditions Trip Cancellation and Disruption Insurance:
We strongly recommend that all passengers purchase cruise cancellation and interruption insurance as protection against any circumstance which may force you to cancel or leave a cruise while in progress. Given the remote nature of the regions we travel, we recommend that you include Remote Area Evacuation coverage within your policy. If passengers do not present evidence of remote area evacuation coverage, they will be required to complete a credit card authorisation for any emergency services required prior to their departure. Cancellation fees will not be waived for any reason.
We strongly recommend that all passengers purchase cruise cancellation and interruption insurance as protection against any circumstance which may force you to cancel or leave a cruise while in progress. Given the remote nature of the regions we travel, we recommend that you include Remote Area Evacuation coverage within your policy. If passengers do not present evidence of remote area evacuation coverage, they will be required to complete a credit card authorisation for any emergency services required prior to their departure. Cancellation fees will not be waived for any reason.
Coral Expeditions Deposit Protection Plan:
Deposit protection gives passengers peace of mind by allowing them to transfer their deposit to another Coral Expeditions cruise of their choice departing within 12 months of the original booking. The deposit protection plan can be purchased [AU$110 per person] at the time of booking and is completely optional.
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.