Travel around the north-western edge of Australia to discover a raw, wild coastline dotted with some 2600 beautiful islands. The Kimberley, tucked away in the faraway north-west pocket of Australia, is one of the most pristine regions in the world.
Brimming with Australia’s best outback scenery and wildlife, inhabited by just over 50,000 people over 400,000km2, this region is one of the most secluded and scarcely populated in the world.
Reputed as one of Australia’s great natural wonders, discover a never-ending haven of turquoise waters, white sands, waterfalls, and sandstone gorges that will take your breath away. Witness landscapes that have been carved over millions of years, immersed in the diverse wildlife and serenity of the region. Despite the remoteness, this is also a place of great cuisine, friendly locals and one of the most romantic beach towns in the world.
WHY VISIT?
- Beautiful beaches
- History and culture
- Wildlife
- Big game fishing
- Stunning views
DAY TO DAY ITINERARY
Day One cygnet bay & buccaneer archipelago
Your Kimberley adventure starts with a cruise through the islands of King Sound. Take a tender excursion to the Buccaneer Archipelago to witness the ‘giant tides’ where you can watch spectacular whirlpools and overflows being produced. After the exciting tour, head back on board for some relaxing with a cocktail on deck to enjoy your first stunning Kimberley sunset.
Day Two king sound to silver gull creek
Depart from Cygnet Bay early and cruise across King Sound to uninhabited Hidden Island. Anchor off Silica Beach, one of a kind in The Kimberley, this beach is made from pure, white silica sand making it powder-soft. Spend time here swimming in the turquoise waters and exploring the coastline. At sunset cruise on to your overnight anchorage at the tranquil and remote Silver Gull Creek. Taking dinner on deck, look out for shooting stars in the vast open sky.
Day Three cockatoo island to the horizontal falls
In the morning cruise past Cockatoo and Koolan Island, both of which are famed for their rich, high grade iron ore, clearly marked by the mining operations that have been established here for decades. Continue to Talbot Bay and head on to the Horizontal Falls which is one of the most breath-taking natural wonders in the Kimberley. Millions of litres of ocean are sucked through a narrow sea gorge at the mouth, where tides as high as 13m push through the two rusty red craggy walls. Affectionately named “Horries”, this natural phenomenon is unlike any other waterfall, as here the water passes horizontally through the narrow gorges. This is a thrilling ride in a fast tender in the Kimberley, indeed travelling with the flow the water surges so fast it goes downhill! Make way to Talbot Bay for an even more powerful natural creation – Cyclone Creek. The rocks are twisted and buckled, displaying spectacular geology in warped horizontal layers. Despite areas of swirling water, the coral reefs are abundant and look out for the ghostly-pale Tawny Nurse Sharks who regularly visit. Back at the yacht, enjoy sunset in Talbot Bay, your anchorage for the night.
Day Four montgomery reef to raft point
Journey to Montgomery Reef, a dramatic sight, as the “invisible” reef slowly emerges from the ocean on the falling tide. There is often 10m difference on a single tide, so nearly 5m of reef is gradually exposed within about 2 hours from the ocean, with waterfalls and rivers cutting through the reef. Explore up close and watch sea turtles, sea snakes and dolphins playing in the reef and the several small islands nearby are filled with mangroves, crocodiles and bird life. Cruise to Raft Point for an overnight anchorage. This large formation of ochre sandstone is close to the mouth of Doubtful bay.
Day Five raft point
Head ashore at Raft Point to visit the cave gallery of spectacular Wandjinas – an array of amazing indigenous rock art. Created hundreds of years ago, your local Aboriginal guide will share fascinating stories with you. During the afternoon, take the tender to Scotties Creek. Head ashore for a walk through the lush rainforest and enjoy swimming in one of the beautiful lagoons there. Return to the yacht for a relaxed sunset and spend overnight at the Raft Point anchorage
Day Six raft point to boondook bay
An early departure from Raft Point means a morning cruising through spectacular coastal scenery. Make way back towards Boondook Bay where the yacht will anchor for a leisurely lunch. Take the tenders for an afternoon of exploring the islands and coastline or perhaps relax on board, soaking up the sun. Overnight anchorage in Boondook Bay.
Day Seven boondook bay to cygnet bay
Cruise across King Sound and head back to Cygnet Bay. Along the way keep your eyes open for whales and dolphins. Enjoy a final delicious lunch in the gorgeous surroundings of Cygnet Bay. Transfer ashore for ongoing transport.
Day Eight Felicite Island
The amazing resort island of Felicité is a wonderful location for another action packed day of watersports. This lush, granite isle is just a short tender ride from one of the best snorkelling spots in the world where the abundant marine life is fascinating. The luxurious Six Senses private island resort is an idyllic ecological sanctuary, where relaxation is key. From exquisite dining to spa treatments, this is a great spot to indulge in perfect relaxation on powder-white sands.
Day Nine fregate island
Cruise for three hours overnight to spend the last day experiencing the charm of Anse Victorin on the private island resort of Fregate Island. Although small, this beach is simply perfect and no wonder it has been awarded the title of most beautiful beach in the world multiple times. From here surfing with onboard instructors, a last dive or even catching that last tuna is the goal. Take a leisurely four hour cruise back to the main island of Mahé, which can be timed for departure, or enjoy a day back in Saint Anne Marine nature park before heading home.