Australia's Kimberley By Land, Sea & Air

Orion Expedition Cruises is offering an extended season of 15 ten-night Kimberley voyages from late April to early September, travelling between Darwin and Broome and visiting King George River and Falls, Vansittart Bay, Hunter River (for Mitchell Falls), Montgomery Reef and Raft Point, Talbot Bay/Horizontal Waterfalls, Crocodile Creek and Nares Point. Orion's expedition team understands exploring this region of Australia is best undertaken in a variety of ways, and has selected options to enhance experiences by providing appropriate exploration by land, sea and air.

By land, enjoy plenty of time ashore to see Kimberley coastal highlights, including outstanding examples of pre-history at Gwion and mythical Wandjina indigenous rock art. Land on remote islands and beaches, explore vast gorges and climb to the plateau next to the highest waterfall in the Kimberley, King George Falls. At Raft Point meet Donny Woolagoodja, the appointed owner/guardian of the Wandjina rock art in the area, and other traditional land owners, welcomed ashore with a traditional purification smoking ceremony and authentic interpretation of the rock artworks that abound in the area.

By sea, explore magnificent Montgomery Reef, Horizontal Waterfalls and the mighty rivers of the Kimberley. From the safety and comfort of Orion's 10 Zodiac expedition craft, venture into waterways in search of saltwater crocodiles, turtles and sharks. Then return to the comfort of your five-star floating base camp for expedition cruising among a thousand islands in a region subject to some of the world's greatest tidal movements.

By air, exclusive to Orion, is an inclusive two-hour Bungle Bungle Ranges flight at no additional charge. Brought to the world’s attention only 25 years ago, their remote location ensures the Bungle Bungles remain an elusive destination seen first-hand by just a fortunate few. Optional helicopter sight-seeing provides the opportunity to trace the Hunter River at low altitude, skimming the plateau before touching down to explore the beautiful, triple-drop Mitchell Falls. From an aerial perspective, see the remnants of massive geological structural pressures that have folded and shaped the Kimberley landscape. 

With thousands of kilometres of undeveloped shoreline, the Kimberley - so ancient, much of it pre-dates the existence of fossils - ranks as one of the world’s great environmental wonders, a rare wilderness area worthy of the highest levels of conservation and protection. 

Prices in 2013 start from £5,665 per person, twin share, for an oceanview Category A Stateroom including all meals, lectures, inclusive shore expeditions, gratuities and port fees aboard the deluxe Orion. 

For bookings, follow this link to our sponsors The Cruise Line, the UK's adventure cruising specialists.

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