WORLD LEADERS TRAVEL
Outter circle: 100 / 45 / 0 / 37 Top circle: 100 / 44 / 0 / 0 Bottom circle: 83 / 0 / 10 / 0 Center & Type: 80% K
WORLD LEADERS TRAVEL
Outter circle: 65% K Top circle: 45% K Bottom circle: 25% K Center & Type: 80% K
WORLD LEADERS TRAVEL
100% K
WORLD LEADERS TRAVEL
100% White
Northern
Australia Expedition Experience the Kimberley with Brian and Catherine Skinner Aboard the Orion | August 6–20, 2010
australia awaits...
T
he Kimberley coast of northwestern Australia is a fantastic corner of the world. We have both sailed along it, and Brian, by hiking, has seen some of it by land.
The coast is sheer cliffs of quartzite, cut here and there by steep gorges, in some of which are a few Aborigines. Some of the world’s highest tides make accessing the coast difficult, but when it is reached by suitable landing craft, as on this program, it is magical. The wildlife, from exotic birds, strange plants, and unusual fish to giant saltwater crocodiles (no swimming in the sea) is entrancing. Added to which there is evidence of former human visitors, whom the local Aboriginals define as “not us” and who painted images in caves and overhanging cliffs that scientists date back 30,000 years, to about the same time period when people were painting in Lascaux in France and Altamura in Spain. The Mt. Borradaile corner of Arnhemland is another wonderfully natural region of Australia, if you are considering the pre-cruise extension. East of Darwin, it is partly estuarine and the climate is tropical—August is the dry season, so it is a pleasant time to visit. Mt. Borradaile is a vast treasure house of native culture, and at every turn you can expect to see some bird or animal that you haven’t seen before.
It is one of the mo world, but also on
Brian was born and raised in Australia, Cathy in the United States. We began our married life and started raising our family in Adelaide, South Australia. We continue to go back as often as we can to visit family. Do join us on this trip to a very special part of the world. Brian and Cathy Skinner Department of Geology and Geophysics Yale University SHIP AIR
INDIAN OCEAN
King George River & Falls
Darwin
Vansittart Bay Bigge Island Hunter River (Mitchell Falls) Montgomery Reef /Raft Point Talbot Bay
Broome
AU ST R A L I A King George Falls
ost remote corners of the ne of the most beautiful.
yale faculty Brian Skinner , the Eugene Higgins Professor of Geology and Geophysics at Yale, is a renowned scholar whose gifted teaching has inspired generations of Yale undergraduates. An Australian by birth, Skinner received his doctorate from Harvard and worked for the U.S. Geological Survey before joining the Yale faculty in 1966. He has published numerous articles and is the author or co-author of twenty books, among them Man and the Ocean, Resources of the Earth, The Dynamic Earth: An Introduction to Physical Geology, Environmental Geology, and The Blue Planet, a discussion of the interconnections between earth’s atmosphere, oceans, geology, and ecology. His carefully crafted lectures are accessible and enjoyable. Yale alumni who have traveled with him have praised his balanced approach and ability to make geophysical principles relevant to the journey.
Catherine Skinner holds a PhD from Adelaide University in Australia and is a former Master of Jonathan Edwards College and the Past President of the Connecticut Academy of Arts and Sciences. She currently has a joint appointment as a lecturer at the Yale School of Medicine and the Department of Geology and Geophysics. Her wide-ranging interests embrace aspects of both human health and the geological environment; these interests are brought together in her most recent book, Geology and Health: Closing the Gap.
To reserve your space contact
your professional travel advisor or call World Leaders Travel at 1-800-395-3288 www.worldleaderstravel.com
ka n g a r o o paw flower
Green sea turtle
mitche l l fa l s
e x plo re australia’ s d ramatic
your itinerary
Vansittart Bay / Jar Island
U.S. / Darwin, Australia
On Jar Island, discover ancient Aboriginal rock art, which, according to legend, was created by Gwion birds that pecked the rocks until their beaks bled, and then used tail feathers dipped in blood to paint beautiful mystical figures. Called Gwion Gwion art, these paintings are also known as Bradshaw art, after the European explorer Joseph Bradshaw, who documented their discovery in 1891. ORION (B,L,D)
Friday–Monday, August 6–9
Depart the U.S. on the recommended overnight flight itinerary, or independently, to Darwin. One day is lost crossing the International Date Line. Formerly a frontier town of crocodile hunters and pioneer cattlemen, today cosmopolitan Darwin is Australia’s northernmost tropical capital. Upon arrival, transfer to the Crowne Plaza Hotel for check-in and an evening welcome reception. On Monday, explore the highlights of Darwin, gateway to what Australians call the “Top End.” View a superb collection of Aboriginal art at the Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, and learn about the region’s infamous crocodile population at a nearby croc farm. Embark the Orion. CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL & ORION (R,B,L,D)
At Sea Tuesday, August 10
Today, keep an eye out for humpback whales as they follow their annual migration from Antarctica to Camden Sound along the Kimberley coast. Also enjoy the Orion’s many amenities and the continuation of the educational program. This evening, join the captain for a welcome reception and dinner. ORION (B,L,D)
King George River & Falls
Wednesday, August 11 Travel by Zodiac up the magnificent King George River, where
towering sandstone walls provide spectacular scenery. Your destination is the base of the King George Falls, the highest single-drop falls in the Kimberley. Those who wish may join a naturalist-led walk to the top of the falls or take a swim in the river. Later, weather permitting, venture ashore at Tranquil Bay for a beach hike and exploration. ORION (B,L,D)
Thursday, August 12
Bigge Island / Low Rocks Friday, August 13
Bigge Island is home to well-preserved cave paintings from the older Gwion Gwion style and the more recent Wandjina style. View depictions of figures with European features aboard sailing ships—visual evidence of the European influence on the Aboriginal way of life—and discover ancient rock circles, where resident warabis, or rock wallabies, skirt along rock ledges. On the tiny atoll of Low Rocks, go ashore with the Orion’s naturalists to experience the cacophony created by thousands of nesting sea birds, and to watch for resident saltwater crocodiles patrolling the waters. ORION (B,L,D)
Hunter River / Mitchell Falls Saturday, August 14
Board helicopters for a flight-seeing excursion to the Mitchell Plateau and Mitchell Falls, a series of waterfalls and pools culminating in a deep gorge carving its way through the Outback. The 20-minute flight offers a wonderful perspective on this remote and rugged natural paradise, as well as an opportunity to see wildlife and patches of rainforest on an otherwise inaccessible plateau. Land near the falls to explore on foot and swim in the freshwater pools. Later, travel by
A bo r i g i n a l A r t
saltwat e r c r o co d i l e
kimberley outbac k
amatic kimbe r ley coast. Zodiac through the wildlife-rich mangrove environment of the Hunter River. Experts share their knowledge of local flora and fauna, and birdwatchers should be rewarded with sightings of sea eagles and a variety of waders. ORION (B,L,D)
Montgomery Reef / Raft Point Sunday, August 15
The tidal movements in the Kimberley are legendary. Montgomery Reef is a spectacular example, and the Orion’s arrival here will coincide with a falling tide, when the huge reef system appears to rise slowly from the ocean. Experience this phenomenon up close by Zodiac as naturalists point out marine life at the reef edge, including whales, dolphins, dugongs (relatives of manatees), green sea turtles, manta rays, and black-tipped reef sharks. Go ashore at Raft Point and hike to a rock art site that depicts the mythical Wandjinas and the significance of the marine world to the Aborigines. ORION (B,L,D)
Talbot Bay / Horizontal Falls Monday, August 16
At Talbot Bay, journey by Zodiac to explore some of the coast’s most stunning scenery. The excursion is timed to allow you to witness the unusual phenomenon of the Horizontal Waterfalls, created by the rapid tidal fall on the ocean side of gaps in the sandstone cliffs. ORION (B,L,D)
Cape Leveque & Lacepedes Islands Tuesday, August 17
Cape Leveque is a remote oasis surrounded by white sands, red earth, and dense bush and is accessible only by ship, air, or 4-wheel-drive (in the dry season). Swim in the clear water of rock pools or walk along the beach with a member of the Lombadina community. Visit the nearby Lacepedes Islands, home to the world’s largest colony of brown boobies and to green sea turtles. ORION (B,L,D)
Broome (Disembark) / Perth / Sydney / U.S. Wednesday–Friday, August 18–20
In Broome, learn about the process of culturing pearls, visit Gantheaume Point in search of ancient dinosaur footprints, and explore the city’s bustling Chinatown. Gather Wednesday evening for a farewell reception and dinner on board. On Thursday, relax at the Cable Beach Club until the afternoon transfer to the airport for flights back to the U.S. Travelers joining the post-trip extension will fly Thursday morning to Sydney. ORION (B,L,R,D,B)
optional extensions Pre-trip Extension
Mt. Borradaile August 3–8 Experience the Australian outback at the Arnhemland Safari Camp in Mt. Borradaile. Enjoy comfortable tented accommodations, learn about Aboriginal culture and sacred rock art, and discover an amazing variety of endemic flora and fauna. Post-trip Extension
Sydney August 19–22 Wrapped around its majestic harbor, Sydney is the vibrant, cosmopolitan gateway to Australia. Discover the many cultural and aesthetic attractions of this multifaceted city, with deluxe accommodations at the Four Seasons Hotel. Pricing and details will be sent to confirmed participants.
the 106-passenger Orion, custom-designed for
orion
expedition cruising, is an elegant vessel staffed with an expert team of onboard naturalists. Launched in November 2003, the Orion boasts technology that sets new standards in sustainable marine environmental practices, such as the use of diesel fuel, economical engine performance, and onboard recycling programs. The Orion’s 53 spacious staterooms, including 31 suites, feature an ocean view, seating area, en suite marble bathroom, storage space, safe, refrigerator, flat-screen TV, DVD/CD player, choice of queen-size or twin beds, robes, 110 and 220 voltage outlets, and hairdryers. Public areas include two lounges with sweeping views, a lecture theater with armchair-style seating, and a library. A variety of spa and beauty services, as well as a gymnasium, sauna, sun deck, Jacuzzi, and a marina platform at the stern are among the ship’s amenities. Delicious meals are served at a single seating.
h u m p b ack w hale
To reserve space, contact your professional travel advisor or call World Leaders Travel at 1-800-395-3288; www.worldleaderstravel.com.
program rates,
Program rates include
per person
r ate category
Double
Single
Oc e a nvie w Stat e r o o m
$8,890
$15,115
D eluxe Stateroo m
$10,190
$16,020
junior suite
$11,950
$17,255
deluxe suite
$12,990
—
fren ch ba lcony s u i t e
$15,390
—
ow ner’s suite
$17,890
—
Educational program of lectures and discussions with study leaders Brian and Catherine Skinner • One night in deluxe hotel accommodations in Darwin and ten nights aboard the Orion • Meals as indicated in the itinerary, including wine with welcome and farewell receptions and dinners • Comprehensive program of shore excursions and special events led by experienced onboard naturalists and guides • On-tour flight excursion to Mitchell Falls • Bottled water during excursions • Transfers and baggage handling between hotels, piers, and airports for those traveling on group flights • Airport departure taxes and entrance fees / Gratuities to guides, drivers, and aboard ship / Pre-departure materials and travel information • Professional tour management throughout
Owner’s Suites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
What to Expect This is an active program. There will be a relatively fast pace, long distances and/or extensive movement, and extensive walking and hiking on rugged terrain. Please consult with your physician if you have any doubts about your ability to keep up with the group on this program.
510
508
506
502
515
512
415
417
419
414
416
418
410
408
406
404
E
402
321
323
315 314
322
311 312
319
309 310
320
307 308
318
305 306
317
316
301
303
CONSTELLATION RESTAURANT
304
3
302
Deck DECK 3
411
LEDA LOUNGE
412
409
407
401
DELPHINUS OUTDOOR CAFÉ
405
4 403
D 4ec k DECK
504
E
BRIDGE
511
509
507
505
503
501
Dec k 5 DECK 5
Airfare
Airfare from the U.S. to Darwin, with return from Broome, is not included in the program rates. Group flights will be offered from New York and Los Angeles. As of October 2009, round-trip economy-class airfare from New York is $2,085, and from Los Angeles is $1,778, per person and subject to change. World Leaders Travel is happy to assist you in making individual air travel arrangements.
Potential Fuel Surcharge
Every effort is made to keep program costs as low as possible, and rates do not include allowances to cover possible increases in fuel costs. Please be aware that the volatile nature of oil prices may make it necessary to assess a fuel surcharge. Your understanding is appreciated.
P r o g r a m R ates Do N ot I nclude U.S. domestic and international airfare • Passport or visa fees • Immunizations • Transfers to and from airports for individuals not using or meeting group flights • Excess baggage charges • Meals and beverages not specified as included • Optional excursions or deviations from the scheduled tour • Accident/baggage/cancellation insurance • Medical expenses • Laundry, room service, telephone, email, and fax calls • Other items of a purely personal nature and not stated as included • Airport security fees imposed by the government or airlines
TERMS & CONDITIONS R e s e rvat i ons and Payments A deposit of $1,000 per person (payable to World Leaders Travel) is required to confirm all reservations. Please mail the check to World Leaders Travel, 500 Third Street, Suite 455, San Francisco, CA 94107. Final payment deadline is April 8, 2010, 120 days prior to departure. C a n c e l l ations and R efunds Deposits are fully refundable if a written notice of cancellation is received by World Leaders Travel within 30 days of receipt of deposit; after that, they are 100% nonrefundable. All payments are completely nonrefundable at or within 120 days prior to departure, regardless of date of deposit. All cancellations must be made in writing. Itinerary, Program, and Cost Modifications The itinerary, as contained in this brochure, is subject to modifications and change by World Leaders Travel. Every effort will be made to carry out this program as planned, but alterations may still occur after the final itinerary is sent. Costs, although given in good faith and based on information available upon publication of the brochure, are also subject to change and revision. Due to fluctuations in oil prices, a fuel surcharge may be added to your tour fee. Details and costs will be advised prior to your departure. Insurance Trip cancellation/interruption insurance is highly recommended and should be considered for your financial protection. Another important consideration is medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation coverage. A comprehensive package will be made available to you upon receipt of your initial deposit. Early purchase will provide coverage of pre-existing medical conditions. He a lt h All participants should be in good health and capable of walking over rough terrain. By forwarding the deposit for passage, the passenger certifies that he/she does not have any physical or other condition or disability that would create a hazard for him/herself or other passengers. R e s p o n s i bility World Leaders Travel (WLT) acts only as an agent for the suppliers and contractors providing transportation and/or all other travel-related services and assume no responsibility howsoever caused for personal injury, or for personal or property loss or damage, in connection with any service. Additionally, responsibility is not accepted for losses or expenses due to sickness, weather, strikes, terrorism, wars, or other such causes. WLT reserves the right to make changes to the published itinerary whenever, in its judgment, conditions warrant, or if they deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of the tour. Occasionally, unforeseen changes in transportation schedules or other pressing matters necessitate a change in the land portion of the tour or cause a tour to be extended beyond its scheduled completion; any extra costs incurred in such cases are the responsibility of the passenger. WLT reserves the right at its discretion to alter, change, omit, and/ or feature any part of the itinerary or any reservation, conveyance, or routing at any time and without notice and for any reason whatsoever without allowance of refund. WLT also reserves the right to decline or accept any person as a member of the tour, or to require any person to withdraw from the tour at any time, when such action is determined by its representative to be in the best interests of the health, safety, and general welfare of the tour group or the individual participant. WLT reserves the right to withdraw without penalty any tour announced. Personal effects are the sole responsibility of the owners at all times. p h oto g r aphy Credits Cov e r Didgeridoos © iStockphoto.com / Zeliha Vergnes INSIDE Zodiac at King George Falls © Orion Expedition Cruises • Flower © iStockphoto.com / Gheorghe Cosoveanu • Turtle © iStockphoto.com / SecondShot • Mitchell Falls © iStockphoto.com / Georgina Steytler • Aboriginal art © iStockphoto.com / Matthew Scherf • Kimberley outback © iStockphoto. com / Linda & Colin McKie • Crocodile © iStockphoto. com / Johann Helgason • Whale © iStockphoto.com / Robert Friedman • BAC K COVER Boomerang © iStockphoto.com • Broome coast © iStockphoto.com / Matthew Scherf CST #2070901-40 | Printed on recycled paper 100806 AKO WLT
WORLD LEADERS TRAVEL
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Northern WORLD
Outter circle: 65% K Top circle: 45% K Bottom circle: 25% K Center & Type: 80% K
LEADERS Australia Expedition TRAVEL Aboard the Orion | August 6–20, 2010
Please send you completed reservation form and deposit to World Leaders Travel, 100% K 500 Third Street, Suite 455, San Francisco, CA 94107; call us at 1-800-395-3288; WORLD or contact your professional travel advisor. LEADERS
TRAVEL
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Name 1 (as it appears on passport)
Date of Birth
__________________________________________________________________ 100% White
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(Work)
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Pay m e n t
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Northern
Australia Expedition Featuring Brian and Catherine Skinner Aboard the Orion | August 6–20, 2010
WORLD LEADERS TRAVEL
Outter circle: 100 / 45 / 0 / 37 Top circle: 100 / 44 / 0 / 0 Bottom circle: 83 / 0 / 10 / 0 Center & Type: 80% K
500 3rd St., Suite 455 | San Francisco, CA 94107 www.worldleaderstravel.com
WORLD LEADERS TRAVEL
Outter circle: 65% K Top circle: 45% K Bottom circle: 25% K Center & Type: 80% K
WORLD LEADERS TRAVEL
100% K
Discover the WORLD LEADERS Kimberley— TRAVEL Australia’s 100% White
wild and wonderful northwest coast.