With the exceptional presence of Rupert McCall, internationally renowned Australian poet. Allow yourself to fall under the spell of this itinerary in Australia that has been specially designed for guests looking for unspoiled islands and turquoise lagoons. You will set sail aboard Le Lapérouse for a 9-day expedition cruise with Ponant to discover the treasures of the Great Barrier Reef. Starting in Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, set sail towards Willis Islets in the Coral Sea Territories featuring more than 30 separate reefs along with the spectacular Coral Sea Marine Park. ...read more /> Willis Island also features on this cruise; its monitoring station was established in 1921 to provide early cyclone warnings services to Queensland. Lying some 50 kilometres to the north-east of the world-renowned Whitsunday Islands, you will reach Hardy Reef, which boasts unique marine biodiversity in this area. You will continue your exploration of the Australian coast with the exploration of Percy Island, whose shallow waters beckon you in for a dip, and Lady Musgrave Island, which is ideal for snorkelling.
Both are located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, a gigantic ecosystem of coral reefs that can be seen from space. Finally, Le Lapérouse will reach Fraser Island, a charming islet with sandy cliffs in striking colours. You will be captivated by these landscapes of freshwater lakes surrounded by rainforest with a splendid biodiversity, before sailing on to Brisbane, your disembarkation port.
Cruise Itinerary
Arrive
Depart
Day 1:Cairns
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18:00
Day 2:Willis Island, Coral Sea Territory
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Day 3: Cruising At Sea
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Day 4: Hardy Reef
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Day 5: Percy Island
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Day 6: Lady Musgrave Island
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Day 7: Fraser Island
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Day 8: Cruising At Sea
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Day 9:Brisbane
07:00
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Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Transfers to and/or from the ship port may be required.
Fantastic Kimberley 1Lee and David, QLD, Australia, Aug 2023
One of the best holidays we have ever done Expensive, yes but you get what you pay for in the end This was 6* cruising at its best. The daily and at times twice daily zodiac excursions were special and led by well informed guides all of whom had professional qualifications in a relevant field.
Food was of the highest standard an the open bar well ...read more stocked to meet all tastes. Don't worry too much about formal gear, a sports coat and a colourful dress are all that is required on the two gala nights. On the other nights, slacks and polo are fine.
We helicoptered to Mitchell Falls which again was expensive but well worth it. Forget about the Horizontal Falls boat ride. Those that went were very dissatisfied as the most exciting of the two Falls is now closed due to a boating accident. I've seen more challenging wave sets in Moreton Bay. Overall 11/10 from us and very highly recommended
Brochure
Ponant Kimberley Expedition Guide (2023-26)
A beguiling wilderness of rugged ancient landscapes, cavernous gorges and wildlife-filled ravines, the Kimberley is one of the world’s last true frontiers. With PONANT as your guide, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through this spellbinding region is guaranteed.
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Note 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 Ponant. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Ponant. 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.