Kimberley calling

Aussie, Aussie, Aussie

There are so many natural wonders to be discovered on an Australian adventure cruise – like ancient Kimberley landscapes.

We are indeed a lucky country to have so many adventure destinations at our doorstep. So what’s in store for us as we look to 2022 and beyond and prepare to embark on an adventure cruise?

Australian-flagged small operator Coral Expeditions takes great pride in offering unique voyages that attract like-minded explorers to visit pristine Aussie destinations, experience authentic face-to-face encounters with nature and call at uninhabited islands and rugged inlets inaccessible to larger vessels.

From March to October 2022, three of Coral’s expedition ships – Coral Adventurer, Coral Discoverer and Coral Geographer – will explore the vast wilderness of the Kimberley coast, taking in the region’s raw and rugged beauty. Here passengers will learn about the world’s oldest living culture, as local Aboriginals explain their connection to 60,000-year-old rock art. From watching the majestic Horizontal Falls to spotting crocodiles basking on the shoreline, guests will also learn about the massive tidal movements from experienced expedition leaders.

Coral offers 10-night itineraries from Broome to Darwin or vice versa, with bookings for next year and 2023 now open. There's also a 12-night voyage combining the iconic destinations of Kimberley with visits to the spectacular Rowley Shoals Marine Park and Ashmore Reef to witness the silent, secluded gorges and abundant wildlife, as well as to indulge in some of the best snorkelling and diving experiences in the world.

Luxury French line Ponant is also offering expeditions to the Kimberley during the April to September season in 2022, with Le Lapérouse and Le Soléal departing from either Darwin or Broome offering 10-night itineraries. The 184-passenger Le Lapérouse has a

Exploring the Great Barrier Reef with Coral Expeditions. Below: Coral Discoverer in Tasmania.

10-night expedition cruise to the Kimberley departing Broome on April 18, 2022, where you will sail to the Hunter River to see magnificent mangrove forests where saltwater crocodiles thrive.

When the ship visits Collier Bay you’ll be blown away by the amazing Montgomery Reef, home to lagoons and immense coral reefs. Next year will also see the return of luxury line Silversea’s 144-passenger Silver Explorer in Australian waters, which will offer 10-day expedition cruises to the Kimberley departing from Darwin or Broome. Silver Explorer, a purpose-built luxury expedition ship designed to navigate remote destinations, has 12 Zodiacs, allowing guests to hike on off-thebeaten tracks onshore, accompanied by an experienced expedition team. There’s a 10-day itinerary to the Kimberley departing Darwin on June 4 next year.

The cruise will stop at King George Falls, one of Kimberley’s magnificent natural wonders, where you can go hiking to the top of the waterfall. The waterfall about 100 metres high – if you make it all the way you can reward yourself with a dip in the natural pool at the top.

BEST OF 2022: LUXURY EXPEDITIONS

PONANT

HIGHLIGHTS OF 2022

Set sail with PONANT on an exceptional luxury expedition to explore the coastline of our beautiful country, or voyage across the Tasman to explore all that New Zealand and the Subantarctic Islands have to offer. PONANT is taking guests further in 2022, with voyages to discover the surreal landscapes of Antarctica’s Ross Sea, ancient cultures of Papua New Guinea, and the Indonesian archipelago on a brand-new voyage from Kimberley to Bali.

OUR SHIPS

On board the world’s youngest fleet of luxury expedition small ships, you'll experience a refined and personalised atmosphere, including French-inspired cuisine, an open bar, 24-hour room service, spa facilities, outdoor pool and complimentary WiFi. Adding to the French touch on board, guests can indulge in various French luxury products throughout their voyage, such as Veuve Clicquot champagne, Ladurée macarons and Hermès bathroom amenities.

MY TOP PICKS

Mick Fogg, Expedition Manager

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NEW! The Kimberley to Bali Explore the iconic landscapes and wildlife of the rugged Kimberley Coast before sailing on to TimorLeste and the magnificent Indonesian archipelago to discover ancient traditions, spectacular coral reefs and the famous Komodo National Park.

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New Zealand’s South Island Unearth the natural gems of the South Island, including the majestically carved fiords of Milford, Dusky and Doubtful sounds. Encounter wildlife at Akaroa, Kaikoura, Ulva Island and the remarkable subantarctic Snares Islands. Antarctica’s Ross Sea from New Zealand Explore one of the most extreme and pristine regions of Antarctica on a voyage from New Zealand, with surreal landscapes and incredible wildlife.

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Papua New Guinea Be ready for a myriad of ancient cultures, breathtaking scenery, and unspoilt tropical hideaways. Here, an encounter with the local people reveals their exceptionally friendly nature.

For more information or to book, visit: au.ponant.com

HEALTH & SAFETY

Mandatory Testing Before travelling, all guests and crew members are tested and subject to a COVID-safe access protocol with medical checks and screening. Australia’s iconic Kimberley The Kimberley Coast is one of the world’s most spectacular coastlines. Home to billionyear-old landscapes, ancient rock art, spectacular tidal phenomena, and the world’s largest population of migrating humpback whales, the wild lands of the Kimberley promise an exceptional adventure!

Entering A COVIDSafe Zone Boarding for all guests and crew is controlled to comply with the COVID-safe zone protocol, using a disinfection tunnel. Onboard Monitoring Onboard spaces are regularly cleaned and disinfected. Ventilated air is continuously renewed in all public areas. And crew wear masks or visors. Monitored Excursions Excursions only take place in regions that are COVID-safe. Zodiacs are disinfected after each use, and guests must comply with health protection instructions.