Essence of the Kimberley with Kimberley Coastal Expedition (Reverse)
Overview
Itinerary
Arrive in Broome, where you will be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day and evening is at leisure. Stay: Broome, Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa
Your day starts with a visit to the fascinating Boab Prison Tree. Believed to be more than 1,500 years old and measuring an incredible 14 metres in diameter, this remarkable tree was once used by early police patrols as a standing point for prisoners as they were walked to Derby. Today, the hollow tree is a registered Aboriginal site of great cultural significance.
Continue your journey along the iconic Gibb River Road, a remote 660-kilometre outback highway stretching between Broome and Kununurra. The "Gibb" traverses the wild heart of the Kimberley, passing spectacular landscapes of intensely coloured ranges, dramatic gorges, deep rock pools and spectacular waterfalls. Turn off the Gibb River Road to the extraordinary Tunnel Creek, a 750-metre-long natural tunnel carved through the Napier Range. With torch in hand, wade through the cool waters that fill the tunnel and emerge on the other side to the sight of a tranquil and stunning oasis.
Continue on to Windjana Gorge, where sheer cli fs tower above glistening white sands. Admire the ancient marine fossils embedded in the gorge walls and scour the banks for a glimpse of the freshwater crocodiles. Back on the Gibb River Road, travel into the Wunaamin Miliwundi Range National Park, which covers more than 900,000 acres and features seven rugged ranges.
Later, arrive at your lodge for dinner. Stay Two Nights: APT's exclusive Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge (L/D)
Back on the Gibb River Road, travel to Bell Gorge, where stunning cliffs surround a series of tiered waterholes. Sitting approximately 300 metres above sea level, Bell Gorge is an idyllic natural spot for swimming and photography. Here you can also enjoy a spot of birdwatching. If you are feeling particularly energetic, you can hike to the lower pool of the gorge and take a relaxing dip below the cascading waterfall. (B/L/D)
Travel through the heart of Kimberley cattle country to discover some of the region's most secluded gorges. At Galvans Gorge, a short walk leads to a picturesque waterhole where boab trees cling to the escarpment above. Continue to the beautiful Manning Creek, where you'll enjoy lunch in the shade of paperbark trees. Look out for the region's bird life and enjoy a refreshing swim in the pristine water.
Later ford the mighty Durack River before arriving at Emma Gorge Resort, located at El Questro, a sprawling wilderness area which covers 700,000 acres. Settle in before enjoying dinner this evening. Stay Two Nights: El Questro, Emma Gorge Resort (B/L/D)
Signature Experiences:
- Head to Zebedee Springs, a permanent natural thermal spring tucked away in a secluded pocket of rainforest. Relax as you soak in the hot springs and leave feeling revitalised.
After a hearty breakfast, travel to Kununurra, the gateway to the eastern Kimberley and home of the Ord River Scheme, and the majestic Lake Argyle, the largest constructed lake in the Southern Hemisphere. Join a spectacular wildlife cruise on the mighty Ord River. From modern shaded vessels, discover a fascinating ecological system that has developed from the damming of the Ord River at two locations to create an area rich in wildlife, flora and undeniable beauty. Enjoy a mesmerising sunset while cruising on the tranquil Lake Kununurra. Stay: Kununurra Country Club Resort (B/L/D)
Depart Kununurra and journey to Purnululu National Park, one of Australia's most stunning natural landscapes. The park is home to the famed black and orange striped domes of the Bungle Bungle Range, ascending to 578 metres above sea level. Standing over a grass-covered plain, steep cliffs form the western face. Created by the constant erosion of river movements over a staggering 20 million years, the range has both geological and Indigenous cultural significance. It is an imposing sight and one that you are sure to remember forever.
Join a hike along a palm-fringed trail into Echidna Chasm, a spectacular natural rock. Settle into the tranquil ambience of the Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge, located in the heart of this stunning national park. Enjoy a delicious dinner and share your adventures with your fellow travellers. Stay Two Nights: APT's exclusive Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge (B/L/D)
Signature Experiences:
- Enjoy drinks as you take in a sensational sunset over the striking Bungle Bungles.
Head to Halls Creek and admire the unusual China Wall. A natural quartz formation that runs six kilometres along the landscape, the wall is an echo of the Great Wall of China, after which it was named.
Continue on towards Fitzroy Crossing, a small settlement situated on the Fitzroy River. Stay: Fitzroy Crossing, Fitzroy River Lodge (B/L/D)
Signature Experiences:
- Treasure a special visit to the Yiyili community, admiring Indigenous art at the Laari Gallery before immersing yourself into Gooniyandi culture with a language class.
After a relaxed morning at leisure, be transferred to your luxurious expedition ship this afternoon. A relaxed dinner this evening sets the tone for the next 10 nights onboard. Stay 10 Nights: Le Laperouse or Le Jacques Cartier (B/D)
The Lacepede Islands are Western Australia's most important breeding habitat for Green Turtles (Chelonia mydas) and have been named by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area. Join your expedition team for a guided Zodiac tour to view the prolific wildlife.
Later, your ship charts a course into the stunning Buccaneer Archipelago. Made up of more than 800 islands, and filled with stunning scenery and an incredible array of wildlife. (B/L/D)
Signature Experiences:
- Today your ship cruises through 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.
At Freshwater Cove take a guided hike to visit an ancient Wandjina rock art site. The unique figures depicted are ritually repainted each year, but scientific estimates date the originals as far back as 5,000 years.
Later, depart with your expedition team to discover Montgomery Reef by Zodiac. The reef rises out of the ocean as tidal waters cascade into surrounding channels. Indigenous guide when available. (B/L/D)
You are transported to Prince Frederick Harbour today, which is home to towering red cliffs and tangled mangroves. With its extreme tides and pristine ecosystems, the harbour is rich in wildlife including mudskippers and saltwater crocodiles. Keen birdwatchers should keep a careful eye out for kingfishers, egrets, herons and white-bellied sea eagles.
Stepping out from the sleek comfort of your ship to your trusty Zodiac, it's hard to believe you're at Australia's final frontier, this time to explore the Hunter River and Naturalists Island. As your day of discovery draws to a close, you might choose to set out on a thrilling helicopter flight to see the Mitchell Falls in all its splendour from above (flight at own expense). (B/L/D)
Signature Experiences:
- Approximately six kilometres from the mainland, Bigge Island is ripe for discovery today. It's well known for its Indigenous rock art, created by the Wunambal people, and you'll explore a network of caves throughout the island.
Explore this maze of islands, inlets and peninsulas, believed to have been named by explorer Lieutenant Phillip Parker King after novelist Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels. Most significant here are extraordinary examples of Wandjina and Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) rock art, estimated to have been created between 5,000 and 13,000 years ago. They can be seen in caves close to the water's edge, mainly painted on rock overhangs. (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 DC3 which crash-landed near Vansittart Bay during World War II.
Later, visit Jar Island and discover the island's outstanding rock art gallery. During your exploration here, you'll see more examples of Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) paintings, dating back more than 20,000 years. (B/L/D)
Signature Experiences:
- Anticipation builds as your Zodiac approaches King George Falls, which plunge 80 metres over a soaring sandstone cliff. Edge closer to this epic cascade and learn how it turns to a raging torrent during the monsoonal wet season.
Relax and ease into a full day at sea, enjoying the endless horizon. Perhaps take a swim in the onboard pool, pamper yourself in the wellness area, or head below deck to your ship's underwater observation area for a stunning window into marine life below the ocean's surface. (B/L/D)
Arriving into Darwin this morning means it's time to say goodbye to your ship and to be transferred to the airport. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- View the incredible natural phenomenon Horizontal Falls
- Join your Expedition Team to explore Montgomery Reef by Zodiac
- Discover ancient Indigenous rock art in a number of Kimberley locations
- Experiences in 25 destinations
- The services of an APT cruise director and expert 12-member expedition team
- Price includes airport transfers, port charges and park fees
- Locally-inspired dining – a total of 55 meals and a wide range of onboard beverages
- 10 nights aboard the luxury Le Laperouse or Le Jacques Cartier ship with daily excursions on Zodiac vessels
- Stay at APT's exclusive network of Wilderness Lodges
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- High Zodiac Activity – This expedition cruise uses Zodiacs for most excursions
- Travel insurance is mandatory on all cruises
- Cruising itineraries are subject to change due to tidal conditions and may be modified on board your ship
- Weather may cause disruptions to itinerary, especially in remote locations
- Activity Level: Active; This tour includes some longer, more challenging hikes over uneven terrain
- Prices are for land/cruise only. Flights not included unless specified
Deck Plans
Cabins
Deluxe Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
Deluxe Staterooms (located on Deck 3) include one king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) and TV, bathroom with shower, private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs, glazed panoramic swing door and a rectangular window. Stateroom: 200 sq. ft. or 19 sq. m. Balcony: 43 sq. ft. or 4 sq. m.
Prestige Stateroom
Prestige Stateroom
Prestige Staterooms (located on Deck 4, 5 & 6) include one king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) and TV, one chaise longue, bathroom with shower, private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs and panoramic sliding bay window or a glazed panoramic swing door. Stateroom: 200 sq. ft. or 19 sq. m. Balcony: 43 sq. ft. or 4 sq. m.
Deluxe Suite
Deluxe Suite
The Deluxe Suite includes one king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) and TV, an armchair and a sofa (90 x 190 cm), bathroom with shower, private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs, glazed panoramic swing door and a rectangular window. Suite: 290 sq. ft. or 27 sq. m. Balcony: 54 sq. ft. or 5 sq. m.
Prestige Suite
Prestige Suite
The Prestige Suite includes priority boarding, champagne and a basket of fruit on arrival, butler service, an assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and a basket of fruit every day, a bedroom with one king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) and TV, a lounge with a sofa convertible to a king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm), armchair, TV and sliding courtesy door, two bathrooms with shower, private 8 m² balcony with four armchairs and two panoramic sliding bay windows. Suite: 410 sq. ft. or 38 sq. m. Balcony: 86 sq. ft. or 8 sq. m.
Privilege Suite
Privilege Suite
The Privilege Suite includes priority boarding, champagne and a basket of fruit on arrival, butler service, an assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and a basket of fruit every day, one king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) and TV, lounge area with chaise longue and armchair, bathroom with shower, private 8 m² balcony with two armchairs and panoramic sliding bay window. Suite: 344 sq. ft. or 32 sq. m. Balcony: 86 sq. ft. or 8 sq. m.
Grand Deluxe Suite
Grand Deluxe Suite
The Grand Deluxe Suite includes priority boarding, champagne and a basket of fruit on arrival, butler service, an assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and a basket of fruit every day, a bedroom with one king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) and TV, a lounge with sofa bed, armchair and TV, bathroom with shower, balneo bathtub and smart mirror, private 32 m² terrace with two deckchairs and a four-seater dining table and two panoramic sliding bay windows. Suite: 485 sq. ft. or 45 sq. m. Balcony: 322 sq. ft. or 30 sq. m.
Owner's Suite
Owner's Suite
The Owner's Suite includes private return transfer, priority boarding, champagne and a basket of fruit on arrival, butler service, an assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and a basket of fruit every day, a bedroom with one king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) and TV, bathroom with shower, balneo bathtub and smart mirror, a one-hour spa care for one person in the well-being space, chosen from the facial and body treatments on offer, private 40 m² terrace: 2 deckchairs, jacuzzi, outdoor lounge area with a sofa and an armchair and two panoramic sliding bay windows. Suite: 485 sq. ft. or 45 sq. m. Balcony: 430 sq. ft. or 40 sq. m.
Brochure
APT Kimberley & Outback Wilderness Adventures (2024)
Availability
Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. We guarantee the lowest price in Australia. T&C’s apply.
Cabin Upgrades Optional cabin upgrades. Upgrades priced per person
| Base Cabin (Prices Shown) | $ 0 |
| Prestige Stateroom D4 | $ 1,450 |
| Prestige Stateroom D5 | $ 1,950 |
| Prestige Stateroom D6 | $ 2,750 |
| Deluxe Suite D3 | $ 7,300 |
| Deluxe Suite D4 | $ 7,300 |
| Deluxe Suite D5 | $ 7,300 |
| Deluxe Suite D6 | $ 7,300 |
| Privilege Suite D6 | $ 13,200 |
| Privilege Suite D5 | $ 13,200 |
| Grand Deluxe Suite | $ 14,000 |
| Owners Suite | $ 18,000 |
| Base Cabin (Prices Shown) | $ 0 |
| Prestige Stateroom D4 | $ 1,450 |
| Prestige Stateroom D5 | $ 1,950 |
| Prestige Stateroom D6 | $ 2,750 |
| Deluxe Suite D4 | $ 7,300 |
| Deluxe Suite D5 | $ 7,300 |
| Deluxe Suite D6 | $ 7,300 |
| Deluxe Suite D3 | $ 7,300 |
| Privilege Suite D5 | $ 13,200 |
| Privilege Suite D6 | $ 13,200 |
| Grand Deluxe Suite | $ 14,000 |
| Owners Suite | $ 18,000 |
Upgrade prices shown are per person. Upgrade prices can vary depending on the departure date & the month of travel. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will confirm and include the upgrade price in your quote.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time 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.
