Renowned for its massive gorges and river systems, extensive waterfalls, World War II relics and incredible Bradshaw rock art sites, the northern Kimberley is an experience not to be missed.
Exploring between Wyndham and the Mitchell River, this cruise will visit Kimberley icons such as the King George Falls, Berkeley River and the Drysdale River and many more. Enjoy refreshing swims in fresh water holes, explore historical Aboriginal art sites, fish for the elusive Barramundi plus many other fish species and view majestic gorges. This 8 day northern Kimberley cruise operates just after the wet season when the waterfalls are spectacular!
Marvel at the Amphitheatre falls and cool off in the refreshing natural pools
Visit the WWII survivors camp at Pangali cover
Keep an eye out for crocodiles, flying foxes and wonderful bird life
Try your luck at mud-crabbing
Itinerary in Brief
Day 1: Kununurra, Wyndham Port
Day 2: Berkeley River
Day 3: King George River
Day 4: Koolama Bay, Pangali Cover, Glycosmis Falls
Day 5: Drysdale River
Day 6: Napier Broome Bay
Day 7: Vansittart Bay, WWII DC3 Crash Site
Day 8: Mitchell River, Broome
Day 1: Kununurra, Wyndam Port
Your Northern Quest begins when a courtesy vehicle picks you up from Kununurra at approximately 3.30pm and transfers you to the Kimberley Quest II in Wyndham port; here you will be welcomed on board by your captain and crew. Begin your cruise with a relaxing drink as you cruise out of the Cambridge Gulf with the sun setting over the horizon.
Day 2: Berkeley River
Early morning we cruise up the Berkeley River, taking in the numerous waterfalls and ancient sandstone escarpments. Experience your first taste of fishing for Barramundi or take a tender excursion with our knowledgeable guides to go crocodile-spotting and bird watching. Marvel at the Amphitheatre Falls and then cool off in beautiful freshwater pools. Late afternoon we take a tender excursion up to the back of the Berkeley River, where the salt water meets the fresh water. Fish off the flat rocks for Barra which are lurking in the rapids, or alternatively walk to a freshwater pool to enjoy a relaxing dip. Tonight we savour the surroundings, anchoring nearby a secluded waterfall.
Day 3: King George River
At high tide, we cross the sandbars of the King George River for a breathtaking cruise along this majestic cathedral-like gorge. This incredible scenery unfolds as we approach the King George Falls, a dual waterfall that has an uninterrupted vertical drop of over 80m, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Western Australia. The Kimberley Quest II is able to cruise to the base of the twin falls for a refreshing ‘shower,’ Kimberley style! For those intrepid adventurers, you may climb to the top for a breathtaking vista of the river below a truly humbling experience as you appreciate the immensity of this untamed landscape, followed by a refreshing dip. Overnight we anchor just metres away from the falls, with tranquil sounds and an extraordinary view from the bow.
Day 4: Koolama Bay, Pangali Cover, Glycosmis Falls
Visit Koolama Bay, where the vessel Koolama was beached in February 1942, following an attack by the Japanese in World War II. The passengers were taken ashore by order of the ship’s master and many had to walk overland on an epic cross-country trek. After visiting the survivors’ camp at Pangali Cove, enjoy a freshwater dip beneath a waterfall. In the afternoon we visit Glycosmis Falls to view another unbelievable Kimberley waterfall and then cruise around Cape Londonderry, the most northerly point of Western Australia.
Day 5: Drysdale River
Today we encounter one of the longest rivers in the Kimberley (432km), the Drysdale. Spend the day exploring the spectacular palm-studded landscape and the rapids of the Drysdale area. Join our guides on a scenic tender excursion to witness crocodiles, flying foxes and many species of bird life, which thrive in these delta islands. Then enjoy a swim in secluded rock pools. Late afternoon walk on a deserted beach or try to catch a Barramundi, with many great ‘snags’ to fish around.
Day 6: Napier Broome Bay
Relax on board as we cruise across Napier Broome Bay. Midmorning there is an opportunity for a beach walk to a historic Indonesian Trepang site for an insight into the lives of the early Macassan fishermen. This site stems back to the first early contact between Aboriginal tribes and the Indonesian fishermen. Late afternoon we fish the inlets and estuaries for Barra and Mangrove Jack and we try our luck at mud crabbing.
Day 7: Vansittart Bay, WWII DC3 Crash Site
Today we explore various coves within Vansittart Bay, visiting sites rich in the fascinating Bradshaw or Gwion Gwion art, named after Joseph Bradshaw, who in 1891 became the first European to record these amazing paintings. Some Bradshaw art, which is unique to the Kimberley, has been dated at over 17,000 years old. There is also the opportunity to walk to the crash site of the DC3 aircraft – which crashed during World War II – located on the eastern side of Vansittart Bay. Later we cruise around the coastline of the Bougainville Peninsula, where dramatic black basalt cliffs contrast with lush green rainforests.
Day 8: Mitchell River, Broome
This morning explore the estuary and gorge of the lower Mitchell River. Marvel at crocodiles, bird life, rock art and take in the flora and fauna for the last time. Depart the Kimberley Quest II by helicopter where you will enjoy a scenic flight over the Mitchell Falls. At the Mitchell Plateau airstrip you will board a light aircraft and discover the immensity of the Kimberley. Return to Broome by sunset, where our team will transfer you to your accommodation.
Private ensuite Individual air-conditioning Viewing windows Mini-refrigerator Serviced daily by your hostess Located on the lower deck Double size bed with an additional single bed above
Superior Cabin
Private ensuite Individual air-conditioning Viewing windows Mini-refrigerator Serviced daily by your hostess Located on the main deck
Flybridge Cabin
Private ensuite with hair dryer Individual air-conditioning Viewing windows Mini-refrigerator Serviced daily by your hostess Only guest cabin on the top deck Closet with hanging facilities, cupboard and space underneath your bed
Kimberley Quest II Deckplan
Specifications
Fully air-conditioned
Helipad
Spa
En-suited cabins
Indoor and outdoor alfresco areas
Library
Passengers: 18
Crew: 7
Cabins: 9
Whats included?
Transfers between your accommodation and the Kimberley Quest II
On-board accommodation
Daily excursions led by an experienced guide
30 minute helicopter flight over Mitchell Falls
All meals on board
Non-alcoholic drinks
Bed linen and excursion towels
What’s not included?
International and domestic airfares
Visa fees (if applicable)
Travel Insurance
Alcoholic beverages
Use of satellite telephone, facsimile and internet
Additional scenic helicopter flights
Traditional Owner Visitor Pass fees*
Gratuities
Any other items not listed as included
*During your cruise you will visit many places of cultural significance. Regional Aboriginal Corporations and family groups are introducing visitor permits to access these sites.
Notes
This is only a suggested itinerary. The remote Kimberley region experiences large tidal movements which can affect the itinerary. It may need to be varied from from time to time, however, no matter the tides, the itinerary always visit the spectacular icons of this region. There will be plenty of land and sightseeing excursions to many untouched places, and opportunities to catch fresh fish for the table. Please note scenic helicopter flights are available on request.
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