Australia’s Kimberley Coastline

BONUS: Includes Flight Package: 
Return Airfares from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch; 
Arrival transfers; 
1 night pre-cruise hotel 

Description

Embark on an extraordinary PONANT expedition to explore the rugged and stunning landscapes of Kimberley.

Departing from Darwin, your 11-day voyage will immerse you in one of the planet's last unspoiled frontiers.

In the scenic Hunter River region, encounter untamed mangrove forests that are home to saltwater crocodiles and a variety of bird species.

The pinnacle of your journey will be the awe-inspiring King George River and its dramatic Twin Falls, the tallest waterfalls in Western Australia.

Throughout your cruise, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Vansittart and Swift Bays, featuring a blend of islands, hidden coves, caves, and dramatic cliffs.

Visit Collier Bay to marvel at Montgomery Reef, with its expansive lagoons and vast coral reefs.

At the Lacepede Islands, observe the thriving bird colonies and the significant turtle population inhabiting the lagoon.

Your ship will navigate the most breathtaking coastlines of the Kimberley region, offering a unique adventure through its waterfalls, deep gorges, savannahs, tranquil waters, and remote mountain ranges.

Pricing

Deluxe Stateroom with Balcony

From

$14,000*

*AUD Pricing per person, twin share

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Darwin 
Darwin, the capital and largest city of Australia’s Northern Territory, also known as the “Top End,” offers a blend of tropical beauty and cultural diversity. With a vibrant mix of over 50 cultures, the city is renowned for its unique and relaxed lifestyle. Explore Darwin's recent history through notable landmarks such as the Parliament House, a striking example of modern tropical architecture opened in 1994, and Admiralty House, a heritage-listed tropical residence elevated on stilts that has weathered two cyclones and several air raids.

Day 2: At Sea
While at sea, take advantage of the ship's many amenities and activities. Relax in the spa, stay active in the fitness center, or enjoy a swim and sunbathing by the pool, depending on the weather. This day at sea provides an opportunity to engage in onboard lectures and shows, shop in the boutique, or visit the PONANT photographers' space. For those who love the open sea, the upper deck offers splendid views of the waves and the chance to spot marine life. Enjoy this perfect blend of comfort, relaxation, and entertainment.

Day 3: Vansittart Bay 
Explore the ancient rock art galleries on Jar Island, where the Gwion Gwion style, unique to the Kimberley region, showcases some of the world's oldest depictions of human figures. Discovered more recently compared to the more dramatic Wandjina art, Gwion Gwion art dates back over 30,000 years and provides a fascinating glimpse into early seafaring cultures. Join your Expedition Team for a short walk past intriguing rock formations to these historic art sites.

Day 4: Hunter River 
Experience one of the Kimberley coast's most scenic areas as you navigate the pristine Hunter River and Prince Frederick Harbour. The area features ancient rainforests, immaculate mangroves, and striking sandstone cliffs. Renowned for its mangrove forests, which support a rich diversity of fauna, the region is also home to the iconic saltwater crocodile. Your Expedition Team will guide you through this pristine environment by zodiac, and you may also have the chance to visit Mitchell Falls by helicopter from Naturalist Island beach.

Day 5: Collier Bay 
Discover the remarkable landscapes of Collier Bay, east of the Buccaneer Archipelago. Known for its extreme tidal range, which exceeds 14 meters, the bay features dramatic natural phenomena such as Montgomery Reef, the world’s largest inshore reef system. As the tide recedes, water cascades over the reef, creating a spectacular display of ‘rivers’ and mini waterfalls. Talbot Bay, at the southern end of the bay, is home to the renowned ‘Horizontal Falls,’ described by Sir David Attenborough as one of the natural world's greatest wonders. The area also hides numerous ancient rock art galleries.

Day 6: Lacepede Islands 
The Lacepede Islands are a crucial breeding ground for Green Turtles and are designated an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International. These islands host a significant population of Brown Boobies and up to 20,000 Roseate Terns, along with other bird species like Masked Boobies and Lesser Frigatebirds. Join a guided zodiac tour to view the abundant wildlife, though landings are prohibited to protect the sensitive environment.

Day 7: Collier Bay 
Revisit the stunning landscapes of Collier Bay, where the interplay of enormous tidal movements creates a visual feast. With one of the world’s largest tidal ranges, the bay’s unique features include Montgomery Reef and the captivating ‘Horizontal Falls’ in Talbot Bay. The area’s rock art galleries, featuring Wandjina and Gwion Gwion styles, offer a glimpse into ancient cultures. As weather and tide conditions influence the activities, these experiences are subject to change.

Day 8: Careening Bay 
Careening Bay, named by Lieutenant Phillip Parker King during his 1820 voyage, is notable for its historical significance. King’s ship, HMC Mermaid, required repairs, and he careened it on the bay’s sandy shores. The ship’s carpenter carved the vessel's name and the year into a prominent boab tree, which is now a National Heritage listed landmark. This site stands as a reminder of early exploration.

Day 9: Swift Bay
Explore the breathtaking Bonaparte Archipelago, a rugged expanse stretching nearly 150 km along Western Australia's Kimberley coast. The dramatic landscapes have remained remarkably pristine due to their remote location. Swift Bay, named after author Jonathan Swift, features heavily fractured sandstone and abundant rock shelters adorned with both Wandjina and Gwion Gwion rock art. Join a guided walk to view these ancient galleries.

Day 10: King George River 
Navigate the King George River’s awe-inspiring gorge, where the 80-meter-high sandstone walls display a captivating array of colours and textures. The journey culminates at the King George Twin Falls, the highest single-drop waterfalls in the Kimberley. Your Expedition Team will guide you to the base of the falls, explaining the geological wonders of this stunning canyon.

Day 11: Darwin 
Return to Darwin, the vibrant capital of Australia’s Northern Territory, known for its cultural diversity and tropical charm. Rediscover the city’s unique blend of cultures and its notable landmarks, including the Parliament House and Admiralty House. Experience the friendly, laid-back atmosphere of this dynamic city, a true melting pot of cultures and history.

• Luxury Stateroom with Premium amenities 
• All onboard meals in a choice of restaurants 
• 24 hour room service 
• Open Bar and in room mini bar 
• Destination Lectures & Nightly Entertainment 
• Unlimited Wifi 

Your Ship

Like its sister ships Le Boréal and L’Austral, Le Soléal embodies PONANT’s commitment to delivering exceptional voyages to the most remote corners of the globe aboard state-of-the-art vessels that provide top-tier services.

With its sophisticated design and elegant interiors, Le Soléal combines advanced technology with a luxurious cruising experience, redefining adventure with a touch of opulence.

Terms and Conditions

Prices are Australian Dollars, per person twin/double share, correct and available at date of publication. All PONANT prices are yield managed and subject to change without notice – book early to avoid disappointment. All prices are correct and available @ 26 August 2024. See au.ponant.com for full booking conditions or your Travel Agent

Prices are in NZD (unless specified otherwise) per person, in complete twin/double share accommodation (or single occupancy or family share where specified), valid for new bookings only, subject to availability. Offers are capacity-controlled and may be reduced, changed, extended or withdrawn at any time, without notice. Unless specified, airfares (and often transfers) are additional. Pricing variations may occur due to fluctuations in currency exchange rates. Prices include savings/discounts where applicable and all taxes/charges (which are subject to change). Offers valid for travel originating in New Zealand only. Required deposit amounts and deposit/final payment dates vary. Deposits may or may not be refundable. Amendment and cancellation fees apply. All products and itineraries are subject to change at the discretion of the supplier. Prices are based on cash, Eftpos, or Direct Credit payment only. We accept all major credit cards, however, processing fees apply. World Travellers reserve the right to correct any errors or omissions at any time. To be read in conjunction with the booking terms and conditions applicable to Ponant. Travel documents & vaccination requirements are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Professional service fees may apply. Airfares & transfers are additional (unless specified otherwise). Some staterooms are based on a 'guarantee' stateroom. The exact stateroom grade, number and location on the ship will be allocated at the discretion of the cruise line. Some staterooms have obstructed views.