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Essence of the Kimberley with Kimberley Coastal Expedition

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Fully Guided Locally Guided Adventure Small Group Cruise 4WD Scenic
Balcony
$15,295
Suite
$17,695
* Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
20 Days
 Cruise Starts
Broome
 Cruise Finishes
Darwin
20 Day Essence of the Kimberley with Kimberley Coastal Expedition Itinerary (APT)
Countries Explored: Australia
Trip Operator
Trip Style
Small Ship Cruise
Departures
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star
Max. Group Size
23
Guide Level
Fully Guided, Locally Guided
Trip Code
GKKCB20
Cruise Line
Seabourn
Ship
Passengers
264
Crew
120
Launched
2023

Overview

From the vast wilderness of El Questro to the fiery red landscapes of Purnululu National Park, you'll be left captivated. On this journey, you'll also cruise the spectacular Kimberley Coast for nine nights.

Itinerary

Arrive in Broome and be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. Stay: Broome, Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa

Set off early this morning toward Derby, and visit the Boab Prison Tree before traversing the Gibb River Road to Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek, where water has carved a large tunnel from the limestone. Later, continue to Fitzroy Crossing. Stay: Fitzroy Crossing, Fitzroy River Lodge (B/L/D)

Travel to Halls Creek, before arriving at Purnululu National Park. Upon arrival, check-in to your accommodation at APT's luxury Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge, your home for the next two nights. The lodge boasts unrivalled access to the spectacular domes of the Bungle Bungle Range, Picaninny Creek, Echidna Chasm and Cathedral Gorge.

Award-Winning Ecotourism APT is proud to be the sole major tour operator in the Kimberley to have achieved Advanced Ecotourism Certification. Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge has been awarded the inaugural New Product Development. Stay Two Nights: APT's luxury Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge (B/L/D)

Signature Experience - Nyanyjili Footprint Tour Be joined by an Indigenous Australian Traditional Owner guide on your Nyanyjili Footprint Tour. Become immersed in the stories, history and culture of Bunuba country and its people. Take the opportunity to ask questions and connect with your guide on this intimate tour.

Explore the magic of Purnululu for yourself and discover the depth of the Bungle Bungle Range. Walk along Piccaninny Creek, a winding gorge within the Bungle Bungle domes. Your next stop is the natural amphitheatre of Cathedral Gorge, a spacious cavern where the acoustics are astounding. Marvel at the majestic beehive domes as your guide brings the natural history of the range to life. You may like to experience an optional scenic helicopter flight over the domes. (B/L/D)

Signature Experience - Sunset Drinks at the Bungle Bungle Range There's no better way to end a day of discovery than by watching the sunset over the Bungle Bungle Range. With a glass of sparkling in hand, see the massive beehive-shaped domes cast in a golden glow at this time of day.

Enrich Your Experience - Bungle Bungle Helicopter Flight Experience breathtaking views of World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park from above on a scenic helicopter flight (own expense).

Today, enjoy a hike through Echidna Chasm, where you'll walk between towering gorge walls that reach up to 200 metres in height. Afterwards, continue your journey to Kununurra. Stay: Kununurra Country Club Resort (B/L/D)

Travel to Lake Argyle and join a wildlife cruise on the mighty Ord River. From a modern shaded vessel, discover the area's ecological system that has developed from the damming of the Ord River at two locations. Stay Two Nights: El Questro - Emma Gorge (B/L/D)

This morning, hike to Emma Gorge where you'll be rewarded with a swim beneath a towering droplet waterfall. Enjoy lunch at El Questro Station, before relaxing at Zebedee Springs. Enjoy dinner this evening back at Emma Gorge Resort. (B/L/D)

Signature Experience - Zebedee Springs Venture through a pre-historic forest of Livistona and pandanus palms before arriving at a true oasis, Zebedee Springs. This permanent natural thermal spring is tucked away in a secluded pocket of El Questro's wilderness. Enjoy time to relax as you soak in the hot springs and leave feeling refreshed.

Head to Galvans Gorge, where a short walk leads to a picturesque waterhole, the ideal spot for a refreshing swim, before heading to APT's luxury Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge. Stay Two Nights: APT's luxury Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge (B/L/D)

Back on the Gibb River Road, travel to Bell Gorge, where spectacular cliffs surround a series of tiered waterholes. Should you be feeling particularly energetic, you may take the opportunity to hike to the lower pool of the gorge and enjoy a relaxing dip below the cascading waterfall. (B/L/D)

Venture into the Wunaamin Range Conservation Park, then travel along the Gibb River Road to Derby, stopping at a local art gallery. Stop by the Boab Prison Tree before arriving back in Broome later this afternoon. Stay: Broome, Cable Beach Club Resort and Spa (B/L)

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and enjoy free time before transferring to your expedition ship. A relaxed dinner this evening sets the tone for the next nine nights on board. Stay Nine Nights: Seabourn Pursuit (B/D)

Cruise to Adele Island and join your Expedition Team member for an exploration of this remote coastal area by Zodiac. The island is surrounded by Adele Reef, teeming with an array of coral and marine life, including reef sharks and stingrays. There's further promise of turquoise waters this afternoon as your ship arrives in the Buccaneer Archipelago, home to more than 800 islands. This evening, enjoy a captain's welcome dinner. (B/L/D)

Explore Talbot Bay and Cyclone Creek. Accompanied by your Expedition Team Leader, you'll weave nimbly past the dramatic folds of rock formations, keeping a look out for local wildlife. (B/L/D)

Signature Experience - Horizontal Falls Today, your ship cruises to Talbot Bay, known for its massive 12-metre tides that create the unique Horizontal Falls. Subject to tidal conditions, board a Zodiac with your Expedition Team to view this natural phenomenon up close.

Today, visit Freshwater Cove and Montgomery Reef, where you will enjoy two Signature Experiences. (B/L/D)

Signature Experience - Arraluli Heritage Exploration Experience a Welcome to Country and an immersive smoking ceremony conducted by the Arraluli people, the traditional custodians of the land. Then, embark on a guided hike led by the Expedition Team to explore a mesmerising rock art site where your Aboriginal guide will offer an interpretation of the rock art. This Signature Experience offers a profound connection to the rich cultural heritage and timeless traditions of the Arraluli people.

Signature Experience - Montgomery Reef Following your visit to Freshwater Cove, depart with your Expedition Team to discover Montgomery Reef by Zodiac. Soak in the amazing scenes as Montgomery Reef dramatically rises out of the ocean as a result of the region's strong tides. Cruise through narrow channels between the world's largest inshore reef as you admire the spectacle, and the incredible wildlife exposed by the cascading water.

Venture to Prince Frederick Harbour today, home to the towering red cliffs and tangled mangroves of Hunter River and Porosus Creek. With its extreme tides and pristine ecosystems, the harbour and its waterways are rich in wildlife including mudskippers and saltwater crocodiles. Porosus Creek takes its name from the scientific name for the saltwater crocodile, a good indication of what we're looking for today.

Keen birdwatchers should keep a careful eye out for kingfishers, egrets, herons and white-bellied sea eagles. To enhance your day, you might choose to set out on a thrilling helicopter flight to see Mitchell Falls in all its splendour from above.

Enrich Your Experience - Mitchell Falls Scenic Helicopter Flight Soar over the incredible and breathtaking Mitchell Falls on a scenic helicopter flight experience (additional expense). (B/L/D)

Enjoy a relaxed morning aboard your luxurious ship. This afternoon, pay a special visit to Ashmore Reef Marine Park. Located in the Timor Sea and spanning 583 square kilometres, the reef is a sanctuary for many marine species. Every year, more than 100,000 seabirds breed here, including crested terns, white-tailed tropicbirds and great frigatebirds. In addition to the prolific birdlife, beneath the clear tropical waters, the coral reefs, seagrass meadows, sandflats and lagoons of Ashmore Reef are home to a colourful array of marine life. 255 species of reef-building coral dwell here - the greatest number of any reef on the West Australian coast.

Our visit to Ashmore Reef is required to ensure we comply with Australian government regulations. Pending favourable weather and sea conditions, you'll explore this sanctuary via Zodiac with your Expedition Team. (B/L/D)

This morning, join your Expedition Team on an intriguing discovery. Walk across salt flats to view the wreckage of a US Air Force DC-3, which crash-landed near Vansittart Bay during World War II. Later, we reposition in the bay to visit Jar Island and discover the island's outstanding rock art gallery. During your exploration here, you'll see fascinating examples of Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) paintings, dating back more than 20,000 years. (B/L/D)

Today, your ship cruises into Koolama Bay. Learn about how this bay was renamed following the Japanese bombing of the MV Koolama in 1942. Afterwards, join your Expedition Team aboard a Zodiac to meander through King George River's gorge system, passing mangrove-fringed coves and sheer red cliffs. (B/L/D)

Signature Experience - King George Falls Get up close and personal to the magnificent King George Falls, where the King George River tumbles 80 metres down from lofty sandstone cliffs. You'll be able to experience its power as your Zodiac creeps close to the iconic waterfall.

Today, enjoy a relaxed day at sea as your ship makes its way towards Darwin, arriving in the evening. Take advantage of the ultra-luxurious features of your ship: perhaps relax by the pool with a glass of champagne, indulge on delicious made-to-order sushi or 24-hour in-suite dining, or attend an informative lecture hosted by your expert Expedition team. (B/L/D)

Arrive into Darwin this morning, bid farewell to your ship and to be transferred to the airport. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Sunset Drinks at the Bungle Bungle Range: There's no better way to end a day of discovery than by watching the sunset over the Bungle Bungle Range. With a glass of sparkling in hand, see the massive beehive-shaped domes cast in a golden glow at this time of day.
  • Zebedee Springs: Venture through a pre-historic forest of Livistona and pandanus palms before arriving at a true oasis, Zebedee Springs. This permanent natural thermal spring is tucked away in a secluded pocket of El Questro's wilderness. Enjoy time to relax as you soak in the hot springs and leave feeling refreshed.
  • Horizontal Falls: Enjoy viewing the incredible Horizontal Falls aboard a Zodiac in Talbot Bay, subject to tidal conditions. Forged by the bay's impressive 12-metre tides, the powerful currents are a sight to behold.
  • King George River and Falls: Get up close and personal to the magnificent King George Falls, where the King George River tumbles 80 metres down from lofty sandstone cliffs. You'll be able to experience its power as your Zodiac creeps close to the iconic waterfall.
  • Nyanyjili Footprint Tours: Be joined by an Indigenous Australian Traditional Owner guide on your Nyanyjili Footprint Tour and be immersed in the stories, history and culture of Bunuba country and its people. Take the opportunity to ask questions and connect with your guide on this intimate tour.

  • Experiences in 24 destinations
  • The services of an expert APT Driver-Guide, Cruise Director and expert Expedition Team
  • Price includes airport transfers, port charges and park fees

  • Locally inspired dining – a total of 53 meals and a wide range of onboard beverages

  • Stay at APT's exclusive network of luxury wilderness lodges
  • Nine nights aboard the Seabourn Pursuit with daily excursions on Zodiac vessels

  • Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
  • Prices are for cruise only, flights not included
  • High Zodiac Activity – This expedition cruise uses Zodiacs for most excursions
  • Valid passports are mandatory on all Kimberley coast cruises.
Discover The Kimberley
Discover The Kimberley

APT's expertly guided Australia tours take you beyond the typical tourist paths, offering a deeper connection to the places you visit. Read more

Wilderness Lodges
Wilderness Lodges

APT's exclusive network of Wilderness Lodges offers a stellar opportunity to experience the remote Kimberley region in style and comfort. Read more

Explore with the Experts
Explore with the Experts

With APT your adventure through the Kimberley will be an unforgettable exploration of Australia’s most rugged and beautiful region. Read more

Life Onboard Seabourn Pursuit

Seabourn Pursuit
Seabourn Pursuit

Ultra luxury expedition cruising with all veranda suites and Seabourn's signature service. Read more

Get Ready For Adventure
Get Ready For Adventure

Be one of the privileged few by becoming a member of an exclusive circle who enjoy the highest standards of onboard service. Read more

All Inclusive Dining and Beverages
All Inclusive Dining and Beverages

Take your pick from eight complimentary dining venues along with complimentary fine wines and premium spirits. Read more

Exceptional Suites
Exceptional Suites

Five-star luxury resort at sea is exactly what you can expect in the Pursuit's guest suites. Read more

Equipped to Explore
Equipped to Explore

Discover what's under the sea by submarine, on top of the water by zodiac or kayak or on land by mountain bike. Read more

The Constellation Bar
The Constellation Bar

Enjoy a relaxing drink with a view from the highest indoor viewing point on the ship and catch up with likeminded travellers. Read more

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Eventful Kimberley land and sea tour   1 , QLD, Australia, Jun 2023
Our 20 day Essence of the Kimberley with Grand Kimberley Coast tour was fabulous. However, we also had several events that happened to make it a little unsettling. First of all, our luggage did not arrive when we reached Broome on a Saturday, and there was no flight from Brisbane-Sydney to Broome until Tuesday - another 3 days! No one at the Broome ...read more airport to help either. Eventually we got a form to fill out and was told to wait until Qantas contacted us. We went to our hotel (Oaks Cable Beach - not the hotel that the tour was leaving from), spent the night there, then checked out and went to Cable Beach Club Resort where the tour would be leaving from the next morning.

Spoke to Mas from APT on Sunday, who tried her best to see where our luggage might be or when it might arrive. Our tour was leaving 7.00am on Monday morning! We had one change of clothes and minimal toiletries. APT suggested we purchase extra clothing and essentials and that they would get our luggage out to us as soon as possible. But they wanted us to join the tour. On a Sunday afternoon around 4.00pm, we managed to find a store open, KMart, bought a large bag and about $300 worth of basic essentials to start the trip. It is June and weather is cold at night and warm in the day. After returning to our hotel, later that evening, our luggage arrived! Thank goodness! But it was after we'd purchased extra goods.

So we were ready to start our 20 day Kimberley Tour. We're thankful that APT were as helpful as possible under the circumstances. It was disappointing that there wasn't a welcome dinner on the first night so we could've met the driver and other passengers. 7.00am Monday morning we start off on our tour. A full bus of 22 passengers. (We thought the maximum number of passengers was 20!) The air-conditioning wasn't working well, so Richard the Driver, Tour Leader, dropped all of us off in Broome town for an hour while he got the bus looked at at the depot. We got a new bus with better air-conditioning. So off we set. All going really well and enjoying the trip. Day 7, on drive to Manning Creek, we got punctures - 2 flat tyres! Fortunately we were near a rest stop with toilets, so we had morning tea while the 2 tyres were being changed. Off we go! Further down the road, we got another puncture and flat tyre! No spare tyres now!! Richard phoned for help with his satellite phone, but we were stuck in the middle of nowhere, in the middle of the day, with little shade. We waited over 2 hours for help to arrive so we could continue on. But the air compression brakes weren't working properly, so it was a slow trip to Bell Gorge, and no activities that day.

Fortunately, Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge is fantastic and so was the food. Excellent, after a difficult day. All praise goes to Richard, the driver, and one of our passengers who helped with the tyres and getting us on the road again. It was good to get back to Broome and Cable Beach Resort Club and be able to do some washing before starting on our cruise. It was disappointing that there wasn't a final dinner or gathering when we arrived in Broome. We'd been through a lot together and it would've been nice to have one last meal or drink together once we'd arrived in Broome. The things we saw and experienced on the land tour through the Kimberleys was fantastic and despite our flat tyres, it was a great trip. We highly commend Richard, our driver, for getting us through some difficult times.

6 couples from the land tour also went on the cruise. The entire cruise was great and enjoyed everything...food, service, guides, experiences. Amazing to see some of the natural wonders of the area. It was great to see the Kimberleys from both sides...land and sea. It was truly amazing. We'd highly recommend doing this trip and seeing the Kimberleys from both sides. Many people only do the cruise, or just the land tours, but they're missing out of half of the beauty it offers. APT were helpful with our luggage delay and we're thankful for that. Whether the bus could've been in better condition, I can't say. We found that just having one person to be driver, tour leader, and everything else is probably too big a job. All of us on our tour felt that there should be a driver and a tour leader. The roads are so bad in some areas, that to navigate the roads was difficult enough, without having to give information about the countryside, what bird it that, what vegetation is that, how old are these ranges, etc, etc, and then also set up our roadside lunches, make sure everyone has enough water and is safe on the walks, and some of the walks were difficult. Overall...it was a thoroughly enjoyable trip and well worth it. I booked through Global Journeys and are happy with their service. Thank you.

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Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by APT. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from APT. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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