Colours of the Coral Coast

On arrival in Perth, we'll meet you and transfer you to your expedition ship. Your first night on board starts as it should, with a relaxed dinner. Stay 14 Nights: MS Caledonian Sky (D)

Today will be spent exploring Kalbarri and its surrounding areas, starting with the mighty Murchison River – Western Australia's second longest river. The views are incredible as the river winds its way through sandstone cliffs and out to the Indian Ocean. Next, at Kalbarri National Park, walk over the newly built Kalbarri Skywalk and take in the soaring views of the gorge. Completed in 2019, the two world-class skywalks reach over 100 metres in height. Snap a picture at Nature's Window, a natural arch opening in layered sandstone, before returning to the ship. (B/L/D)

Arrive in the Abrolhos Islands, a group of 120 islands off Western Australia's north coast. Today we visit the Wallabi Group, exploring North Island, West Wallabi Island, East Wallabi Island and Beacon Island. This area is rich in maritime history, and the famous Batavia wreck lies on the ocean floor on Morning Reef just off Beacon Island. The Batavia came to grief in 1629 on her maiden voyage from Holland, the first Dutch ship lost off the west coast of Australia. (B/L/D)

Arrive at the Easter Group, where calm channels create ideal conditions for snorkelling adventures in vibrant coral reefs. Little Sandy Island is home to the largest sea lion colony in the region, and some have even been known to join snorkellers for a swim. Birdwatchers will love exploring Wooded Island, home to the endemic Lesser Noddy. Also look for Pacific Gulls, ospreys and eagles. Find a labyrinth of rocky islands and narrow reefs at Leo's Island. (B/L/D)

With clear turquoise lagoons on one side and deep blue ocean on the other, the Pelsaert Group is truly spectacular. Throughout the region there are also large breeding colonies of sea birds. And be sure to keep watch for sea lions, dolphins and migratory whales as your expedition team member navigates your Zodiac through the turquoise waters. (B/L/D)

Stretching more than 1,500 kilometres from Kalbarri to Carnarvon, Shark Bay became Western Australia's first World Heritage-listed area in 1991. Step ashore for a Signature Experience here today. (B/L/D)

Signature Experiences:

• Head to Ocean Park Aquarium, an award-winning, eco-friendly aquarium located on the shores of the Shark Bay Marine Park. Watch a shark feeding and learn about the conservation efforts of the aquarium, whose mission is to protect and conserve the marine environment while inspiring visitors to further appreciate the incredible oceans.

Arrive at Monkey Mia and spend the morning on a Signature Experience. You have the rest of the day to soak up all that this beautiful area has on offer, including the spectacular beaches. Or, you may prefer to relax on deck. (B/L/D)

Signature Experiences:

• See the famous wild dolphins of Monkey Mia. Watch as local rangers feed dolphins, subject to their appearance.

Enjoy a Signature Experience before heading to Surf Point on Dirk Hartog Island. This area is a sanctuary zone within the Shark Bay Marine Park, and a vast array of marine life can be found here. As the westernmost point of Western Australia, Steep Point provides a perfect vantage point to see the spectacular Zuytdorp Cliffs, rising 170 metres above sea level. The cliffs extend along the coast all the way to Kalbarri and are a great place to look for whales. (B/L/D)

Signature Experiences:

• As your ship cruises to Dirk Hartog Island, enjoy a delicious homemade morning tea and set out on a guided exploration of the historic Homestead before cruising back to Denham.

Today is sure to be a memorable one as you enjoy a special Signature Experience here in Coral Bay. (B/L/D)

Signature Experiences:

• Cruise outer Ningaloo Reef in search of humpback whales. These incredible creatures migrate through the coast near Ningaloo in pods from July right through to November. If you're lucky enough, perhaps catch a glimpse of them slapping their tails and fins as they play in the water.

Sit back and relax on board a glass-bottom boat as you gaze out to the crystal-clear waters of beautiful Ningaloo Marine Park. You'll also have the opportunity to snorkel the World Heritage-listed reef, which is home to numerous marine species, including sea turtles. (B/L/D)

Cruise to the Muiron Islands, consisting of North Muiron and South Muiron islands, which are separated by a deep-water channel. Vibrantly coloured soft corals can be found in abundance here and the waters are perfect for snorkelling – which is what you'll be doing today. Turtles love the soft corals here, so be sure to keep an eye out for them as you discover life under the water. (B/L/D)

Arrive at the Montebello Islands Marine Park and set out on a Zodiac exploration to discover its rich maritime heritage. The islands gained international attention when three British atomic weapons tests were carried out here in 1952 and 1956. To this day, concrete bunkers, monitoring stations, roads and scrap metal can still be found on some of the islands. The atomic weapons were exploded on Alpha and Trimouille islands, and on the warship HMS Plym, which was anchored on the west side of Trimouille Island. You'll see the wreckage of the HMS Plym on an expedition to Trimouille Island. (B/L/D)

Dock in Karratha to explore the unique Burrup Peninsula. The region is rich in Indigenous cultural heritage, with up to a million ancient rock petroglyph carvings, some of which you'll view with an Indigenous guide. Visit Woodside's industrial complex at the North West Shelf Visitor Centre. The tour provides an insight into the scale of these massive mining operations and their importance to Western Australia's economy. As an option at your own expense, you can swap the water for the open skies on a scenic helicopter flight over the spectacular Dampier Archipelago, made up of 42 islands and islets. (B/L/D)

Prepare for a full day of adventure as your ship cruises into the Rowley Shoals Marine Park. You'll find some of the world's best diving and snorkelling sites here amid clear lagoons and untouched coral gardens. Join your expedition team, hop aboard a Zodiac and head to pristine Mermaid Reef, home to more than 200 species of hard coral. Then continue to Cunningham Island, where more snorkelling awaits. (B/L/D)

Your journey comes to an end in Broome today. Disembark your ship and transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)