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Australian Wilderness & Outback Journeys
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Discover the best of the Kimberley Coast and Rowley Shoals in unparalleled style and comfort aboard True North on this all-inclusive, 14-day, luxury adventure cruise from Kununurra to Broome. This package is perfect for those wanting to experience the very best of two equally stunning destinations.
There is nothing quite as immersive, invigorating, profound and peaceful as a Kimberley Coast cruise. Here, in one of the oldest and largest landscapes on Earth, is a largely untouched wilderness of striking contrasts, with 1,200-kilometres (746mi) of sheer cliffs, pristine white sands and clear turquoise waters teeming with marine life. The Northern Coast will wow with broad rivers, extensive waterfalls, incredible Aboriginal rock art and fascinating World War II history while the Southern Coast is sure to impress with prolific islands, inlets and pockets ...
There is nothing quite as immersive, invigorating, profound and peaceful as a Kimberley Coast cruise. Here, in one of the oldest and largest landscapes on Earth, is a largely untouched wilderness of striking contrasts, with 1,200-kilometres (746mi) of sheer cliffs, pristine white sands and clear turquoise waters teeming with marine life. The Northern Coast will wow with broad rivers, extensive waterfalls, incredible Aboriginal rock art and fascinating World War II history while the Southern Coast is sure to impress with prolific islands, inlets and pockets of rainforest home to many species of birds and other wildlife.
The Rowley Shoals, meanwhile, is located 300-kilometres west of Broome and is home to some of the world’s most spectacular diving and snorkeling sites. Across 3 brilliant coral atolls, you will find more than 200 species of coral and 600 species of tropical fish as well as dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles and even Humpback Whales. Forget the Great Barrier Reef, Rowley Shoals is a true watery wilderness.
Departing from Wyndham, head south to a land of colour and contrast. Highlights include King George Falls, Mitchell Falls, King Cascade, Montgomery Falls and, of course, Rowley Shoals. Along the way, you will also visit Aboriginal rock art galleries and try your luck fishing for the legendary Barramundi. All these must-see sights and experiences are augmented with access to a dedicated onboard helicopter. Get a bird’s eye view of this ancient landscape and access remote, secret spots. You will feel as if you are the first person to leave a footprint!
When you’re not busy exploring, rest and relax in ultimate luxury onboard True North. Catering to a maximum of just 36 guests in 18 stylish staterooms, this 50-metre vessel is akin to one of the world’s most stylish hotels. True North is purpose-built to travel where others cannot and is equipped with 6 expedition tenders to ensure no stone is left unturned. Enjoy a range of pre-existing and tailormade itineraries to cater for every fitness level and personal interest. Indulge in delicious modern Australian cuisine, curtesy of the onboard chef. Whatever your interests and style, the dedicated and friendly onboard crew have you covered.
This all-inclusive luxury adventure cruise includes 13-nights aboard True North in a spacious stateroom on a twin share basis. All meals, activities and transfers are included. The onboard helicopter is available for use at any time at an extra cost that can be paid via credit card at the end of the trip.
Experience the best of Western Australia’s “Coral and Coast” with this once-in-a-lifetime adventure cruise. See the best coastal icons and then immerse yourself in one of the world’s most rare habitats.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.
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Your ultimate Kimberley cruise begins with a coach transfer from your Kununurra accommodation to the frontier town of Wyndham, where you will be warmly welcomed aboard by your captain and crew. Enjoy a cocktail with your fellow adventurers before departing at approximately 6:30pm. Dinner is served shortly after leaving and then it is an overnight cruise to the King George River.
As soon as the tide is high enough, cross the sand bars of the King George River for an unforgettable cruise along this cathedral-like gorge. The breathtaking scenery culminates in the mighty King George Falls, a dual waterfall that has an uninterrupted vertical drop of more than 80-metres (262ft), making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Western Australia. Cruise right up to the base of the twin falls for another Kimberley-style shower on the front deck. You will then have the opportunity to climb or take the helicopter to the top of the falls for spectacular views of the river below.
In the afternoon, visit the wreck of MV Koolama, an Australian merchant vessel that sank as a result of several attacks by Japanese aircraft in February-March 1942. It was also at the centre of the Koolama Incident, an alleged mutiny resulting from these attacks.
Meanwhile, the tenders will also be busy exploring local beaches and creeks.
Finish off your day with a stroll at Tranquil Bay.
Cruise around Cape Voltaire into the Bonaparte Archipelago, the remote northern sister of the Buccaneer Archipelago. Make your way through the incredible maze of islands, inlets, rivers and peninsulas to the Mitchell River, the source of the magnificent Mitchell Falls.
After lunch, indulge in a freshwater swim in Surveyors Creek or take to the air for a bird’s eye view of the iconic, 4-tiered Mitchell Falls. Look down and see sheer sunburnt cliffs and millions of litres of water cascading from one emerald green pool to the next.
In the evening, join the crew for cocktail hour ahead of another unique dining experience.
Wake up this morning on the magnificent Hunter River. About as far away from civilisation as you can get in Australia, this stunning river system is teeming with Barramundi, succulent mud crabs, and castaway island beaches. Spend your day fishing, mud crabbing, bird watching and croc-spotting. You will also have the opportunity to make the short hike to Jackson Falls. The reward is a waterfall-fed pool that is super-cold because it never gets to see the direct rays of the sun – the perfect place to cool off!
In the afternoon, sail into Prince Frederick Harbour and enjoy sunset drinks and hors d’oeuvres on the picturesque Crystal Beach.
Be among the first on deck for another action-packed morning. Join an early morning fishing expedition, see more stunning rock art or join the ship’s naturalist in one of the adventure boats – all before a breathtaking helicopter flight to another picnic to remember – this time at magnificent Melaleuca Falls.
Back on board, you’re invited to a special “pearl party”. Enjoy a glass of bubbly and a taste of pearl meat, while learning about and trying on exquisite pieces created by the artistes at Linneys, Jewels of the Kimberley and Kimberley Fine Diamonds.
Cruise up the Prince Regent River, marvelling at the pristine waterway that cuts through sandstone cliffs and gorges. Your destination is King Cascade, a spectacular terraced waterfall that is inaccessible to larger cruise ships. Make sure to stand on the front deck for a refreshing Kimberley-style shower beneath the falls before climbing to the top for a swim in the enticing crystal-clear pool.
Alternatively, why take the helicopter to visit to the Kimberley’s very own “Jurassic Park” (own cost)? Here, you will find more than 20 different types of dinosaur tracks (some over 1.5-metres in size)!
Star the day with some hot fishing action – this time at “Three Ways”.
Then, cruise to Raft Point and Steep Island, known for their ancient red rock walls and pebble beaches. Disembark and walk up to the caves on the hill to find some of the best preserved Wandjina art in the Kimberley. From the top of the hill, take a moment to admire the view before returning to the vessel.
After lunch, pay a visit to Montgomery Reef, the world’s largest inshore reef. Take a tender to witness an astonishing marine spectacle as the reef is transformed by some of the biggest tidal changes on Earth. When the tide falls, the coral reef appears to rise from the ocean in a torrent of cascading water and a plethora of marine life makes its escape – manta rays, octopuses, reef sharks turtles and even dugongs and dolphins. You will have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view the reef from the air thanks to the onboard helicopter (own cost).
Even more high adventure today – the opportunity to ‘ride the tide’ through stunning Charnley Gorge to where the saltwater meets fresh. Try your luck “sight-casting” a Barramundi as they wait for the tide to spill into their billabong home away from home. You might also hook Mangrove Jack, fingermark and threadfin.
In the evening, embark on an overnight cruise to the magnificent Rowley Shoals Marine Park.
Arrive early into Rowley Shoals Marine Park. Made up of three coral atolls, with untouched coral gardens and clear lagoons, Rowley Shoals is a true watery wilderness, home to some of the most spectacular diving and snorkeling sites in the world.
Your first stop is Clerke Reef. Sample the fruit platter and maybe indulge in a cooked breakfast before discovering the atoll’s huge lagoon and extensive outer reef, home to more than 200 species of coral and 600 species of fish in every imaginable colour and shape. You will have the opportunity to partake in relaxed snorkeling in tropical waist deep water as well as world-class SCUBA diving on the outer reef. You may also try your luck at some “catch and release” lagoon fishing using eco-friendly tackle.
Back on dry land, explore Bedwell Island, which has become a safe nesting haven for the rare Red and White-tailed Tropicbirds. You will also have ample time to relax on board – the alfresco bar and lounge will undoubtedly be the place to witness your first spectacular Rowley sunset.
Start your day with a visit to renowned dive site: “The Aquarium”. Forget the Great Barrier Reef – this is world-class snorkeling at its very best! The water is only waist-deep, yet teeming with brilliant coloured corals, beautiful fish and giant clams. Don’t forget your underwater camera!
After lunch, crank up the action with some high-speed snorkel drifts through the outer reef. Your friendly crew will be on hand to ensure you get to try this once-in-a-lifetime experience – as many times as you like.
Tonight’s anchorage is in the tranquil waters of Clerke Lagoon, 300-kilometres (186mi) off the coast of Australia!
It’s time to experience the thrill of snorkeling on the outer reef!
Outer reef snorkeling is a totally different experience – sheer coral walls arise from depths ranging from 300 to 700 metres (984 – 2297ft). This far from the shore, close encounters with large marine life are possible. Keep your eyes peeled for manta rays, sailfish and even Humpback Whales.
At the end of the day, treat yourself to sunset drinks on the beach and a True North island party. Then, it’s back onboard for another perfect night in Clerke Lagoon.
Make the most of your last day in paradise with more swimming, snorkeling and diving on the outer reef.
Then, all too soon, it’s time one last overnight cruise – this time to the legendary pearling town of Broome. Join the crew at the Captain’s Party and then enjoy “the best sleep of your life”.
Arrive into Broome early morning. Enjoy your last breakfast on board before saying farewell to your crew. Transfers to either your accommodation or to the airport can be arranged as you disembark.
Note: This itinerary is provided as example only – prevailing conditions, local arrangements and indeed, what we discover on the day, may cause variation. Helicopter flights can be purchased additional to the indicated tariff as a package or individually.
Please enquire about available cabin type. Please Please contact us for group bookings or private charters.
2022 Cabin & FareOCEAN CLASS $23,995pp, twin shareRIVER CLASS $30,995pp, twin shareEXPLORER CLASS $34,995pp, twin share
2023 Cabin & FareOCEAN CLASS $25,595pp, twin shareRIVER CLASS $32,595pp, twin shareEXPLORER CLASS $36,995pp, twin share
The start point of this cruise is Kununurra, Western Australia.
The finish point of this cruise is Broome, Western Australia.
This cruise also runs in reverse from Broome to Kununurra.
The Kimberley has two distinct seasons: wet season (December to March) and dry season (April to November). During ‘the Wet’ most 4WD roads and National Parks are closed. As such, this tour operates during ‘the Dry’ with daytime temperatures ranging from 28-30-degrees Celsius. Be aware, however, that the region can get surprisingly cold overnight.
Note: In September and October, as ‘the Wet’ approaches, temperatures increase accordingly, and it can be very hot during the day. It is essential you are prepared for this.
EXPLORER CLASS STATEROOMLocated on the upper deck – Explorer Class cabins feature a king size double (that can be converted to singles) and a twin basin en-suite. Cabin size is 15 square metres. Other features include large panoramic windows, amenities fridge, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone.RIVER CLASS DOUBLELocated on the middle deck – River Class cabins feature a king size double (that can be converted to singles) and en-suite. Cabin size is similar to Explorer Class. Other features include large panoramic windows, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone.OCEAN CLASS TWINLocated on the lower deck – Ocean Class cabins feature roomy singles and en-suite. Cabin size is approximately 12 square metres.Other features include 2 portholes, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.Payment DetailAll pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 60 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 60 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.Single SupplementAll accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies- Outside of 60 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee- Within 60 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurancePlease Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. The tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
LiabilityThe participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.Child PolicyPlease consult travel consultant on age limit.Changes to ItinerariesLocal conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.Changes in PricesWhile we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.Cancellation by The Tour OperatorThe walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.Force Majeure'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.EvacuationsIn rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.Travel InsuranceIn view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.