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Ponant's 'Australia's Iconic Kimberley' expedition offers an unforgettable 11-day journey aboard Le Soléal, departing and arriving in the vibrant city of Darwin. Renowned Australian poet Rupert McCall joins as a featured guest, enhancing the experience with his captivating artistry. This all-English expedition unveils the Kimberley, one of the last unspoiled frontiers on Earth, designed for adventurers seeking nature's raw beauty and cultural richness.
Explorers will marvel at the striking Hunter River's mangroves and diverse birdlife, the breathtaking King George River's high Twin Falls, and the serene beauty of Vansittart and Swift Bays. The voyage promises awe-inspiring panoramas amidst secluded inlets and imposing cliffs. Highlights include Collier Bay's remarkable Montgomery Reef, teeming with coral reefs, and the prolific fauna of the Lacepede Islands renowned for their marine turtles and bird colonies. Each phase of the journey is fluid, with the possibility of itinerary adaptation to optimise guest experience based on tides and weather, promising an authentic adventure through Kimberley’s untamed terrain.
Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia: Darwin is Australia's most colourful and exotic capital city. Enveloped by the turquoise waters of the Timor Sea, its streets brim with tropical flowers and trees. The city offers a relaxed, casual atmosphere and an intriguing mix of tropical frontier outpost and Outback resilience. Positioned close to Southeast Asia, Darwin exudes a multicultural vibe that feels more akin to Asia than the rest of Australia. It has a resilient history, weathering cyclones and bombings during World War II, yet thrives today as an administrative and commercial hub for northern Australia. It's the ideal gateway to explore the wonders of Australia's Top End, including Kakadu and the Kimberley region.
At Sea: Spend a day enjoying the onboard amenities, engaging in activities, or simply relaxing with views of the endless ocean as you sail towards Western Australia.
Vansittart Bay, Western Australia, Australia: Vansittart Bay is a beautifully sheltered expanse with islands and coves. Experience the fascinating Gwion Gwion rock art on Jar Island, unique to the Kimberley region. Join your Expedition Team ashore for a short walk to explore these intriguing galleries amidst striking rock formations.
Hunter River & Mitchell Falls, Western Australia, Australia: Located within the Kimberley region, explore the stunning waterways and majestic Mitchell Falls. Here, cascading waterfalls and lush, untouched landscapes await, providing a magnificent backdrop to this remote, rugged region.
Collier Bay, Western Australia, Australia: This remote locale on the Kimberley coast offers visitors the chance to witness some of the planet's most extraordinary tidal movements, including the 'Horizontal Waterfalls' and the stunning Montgomery Reef. Collier Bay boasts large lagoons, seagrass beds, and vibrant coral reefs. The landscape is infused with Aboriginal culture, showcasing open-air painted cave galleries. Note that activities are subject to weather and tide conditions.
Lacepede Islands, Western Australia, Australia: These four islands serve as vital breeding grounds for Green Turtles and a haven for a wealth of birdlife. Prohibited landings preserve this sensitive environment; however, guided zodiac tours offer a fascinating opportunity to observe the wildlife in its natural habitat.
Collier Bay, Western Australia, Australia: Revisit the remarkable Collier Bay, where the tidal phenomena and pristine natural beauty offer endless exploration. Experience the dynamic landscapes and Aboriginal cultural sites from a fresh perspective.
Careening Bay, Western Australia, Australia: Named by Lieutenant Phillip Parker King after careening his ship, HMC Mermaid, for repairs in 1820, Careening Bay features the iconic boab tree, inscribed with the ship's name and year. This historical heritage-listed tree serves as a testament to the past and an intriguing point of exploration.
Swift Bay, Western Australia, Australia: Nestled within the Bonaparte Archipelago’s rugged maze, Swift Bay is notable for its dramatic sandstone landscapes and rock shelters. These shelters display the unique Wandjina and Gwion Gwion rock art styles. Take a guided walk with your expedition team to admire these artistic gems.
At Sea: Relax and unwind with a final day at sea, enjoying the serenity and preparing to return to your point of origin.
Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia: Return to Darwin, where you can reflect on your expedition holiday and explore any sights you may have missed in this vibrant, resilient city.
We endeavour to ensure that the information provided on our website regarding itineraries and schedules is accurate and up-to-date. Please be aware, however, that this information is offered in good faith and may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances or events beyond our control. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility in this regard.
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