The legendary True North has luxury Kimberley expeditions down to an art form
Many of the Kimberley’s attractions lie along its rugged coastline, from thundering waterfalls and bronzed rivers to untouched coral reefs. Purpose-built to access shallow coastal waters and with a helicopter onboard most departures, True North can go where larger ships simply can’t, so passengers are assured an intimate experience of the region. Licensed for fishing, the vessel also carries a full complement of high-quality angling equipment, available to guests on a complimentary basis, so you can ‘land a barra’ like a local.
There are six dedicated expedition boats on board, for access to hard-to-reach locations. Multiple craft mean that groups with different interests can be accommodated and provide more opportunities for passengers to do what they want, when they want. The onboard helicopter offers guests a unique perspective of each of the areas they visit. Aside from being fully air-conditioned, the sleek chopper allows all six passengers to sit facing forward.
Facilities onboard
Lodgings on board are akin to an exclusive hotel, with just 18 roomy, contemporary cabins spread over three levels, featuring ensuite facilities, satellite phones and in-cabin entertainment. Shared spaces include two comfortable lounges, an alfresco bar and sundeck, as well as a sports deck and dining room. Accompanying naturalists provide entertaining information sessions throughout your voyage, so you’ll always receive an introduction to a destination before you arrive.
Exquisite cuisine
Your enthusiastic all-Australian crew dine with you and chaperone every experience. They also prepare the cuisine True North is renowned for, and you can accompany your chef during the day as they fish for barramundi or catch mud crabs. The galley door is always open, so you can chat with chefs as they prepare your meal. Afterwards, sit back and enjoy modern, distinctly Australian fare on the ship’s bow or with a dazzling Kimberley sunset as a backdrop.
- 18 ensuite cabins
- Sundeck
- Sports deck
- Ship’s lounge
- Observation lounge
- Alfresco bar
- Lower deck dining room
- 6 expedition boats
- 1 air-conditioned 6-seat helicopter
- An adventure cruise vessel specially designed for shallow waters
- The ability to get close to waterfalls and coral reefs
- An onboard helicopter for unique aerial perspectives
- Six purpose-built expedition boats for small group exploration
- Plenty of fishing opportunities
- Memorable modern Australian cuisine
- Visit King George Falls and Montgomery Reef
- Cruise majestic rivers such as the Prince Regent, Sale and Hunter
- Discover the wonder of Horizontal Falls
This exciting expedition cruises depart from either Kununurra or Broome.
Broome – Broome is the region’s major point of entry and is serviced by Australian airlines including Qantas and Virgin. Direct flights are available from Melbourne and Perth, whilst most other cities require a connecting flight via Perth. There are also direct flights from Darwin (3 hours) available with Air North.
Kununurra – This small town in the Kimberley’s east is accessible by air from Broome or Darwin (Air North) and Perth (Qantas).
Sample Itineray
Ultimate Kimberley
14 days/13 nights
Explore the wonders of the Kimberley coastline on this exciting 13-day cruise aboard the True North. Discover iconic sights including the sensational King George Falls, the Mitchell River, beautiful Swift Bay and the remarkable Horizontal Falls. Throughout your voyage, expect to enjoy a variety of enthralling activities, first class service and superb cuisine.
Day 1
Wyndham
On arrival in Kununurra, transfer by coach to the frontier town of Wyndham to meet the True North. The crew will welcome you onboard with a cocktail before the vessel departs at 1830. Dinner is served just after embarking as you head out of the Cambridge Gulf along the coastline towards the King George River. D
Day 2
King George Falls
Wake up this morning near the mouth of the King George River. As soon as the tide is high enough, the vessel will cross the mouth of the King George River and journey upstream towards the Kimberley’s “jewel in the crown” – the King George Falls. The vessel anchors at the base of the twin falls allowing you to enjoy plenty of time exploring this breath-taking area. In the afternoon stroll through Tranquil Bay and learn about the history of the Koolama wreck. B L D
Day 3
The Drysdale River
Today, explore the Drysdale River and, for keen anglers, try your hand at catching one of the impressive mangrove jack (red snapper). Around mid-morning enjoy an afternoon tea of scones and billy tea on the riverbank. You will also have a chance to enjoy some time beachcombing and seeing what you can find. In the afternoon, the helicopter will visit the remote community of Kalumburra. B L D
Day 4
Eagle Falls
Today is full of action, and a highlight is definitely a visit to see the “Bradshaws”, that showcase sensational examples of ancient Indigenous rock art. It’s possible the paintings are the oldest known to man. Another favourite for guests today is a superb helicopter flight and picnic lunch over Eagle Falls, enjoying sensational cuisine alongside the waterfall.
To cap off a day of adventure, explore Vansittart Bay by boat as well as on foot along the local beaches and creeks. The bay has a reputation for its large mackerel. B L D
Day 5
The Mitchell River
Anglers will again enjoy a chance to fish today – the river is renowned for producing big barramundi (as well as huge crocodiles too). Traverse upriver to Surveyors Creek in an adventure boat, a popular place to both swim and fish. There will also be an opportunity to experience the landscape from the air aboard the helicopter, including the impressive Mitchell Falls.
In the afternoon, enjoy a pearl and diamond party. Drink champagne and try on exclusive pieces of jewellery created by the artistes at Allure, Jewels of the Kimberley and Kimberley Fine Diamonds. B L D
Day 6
Swift Bay
This morning wake in beautiful Swift Bay with its turquoise waters. Search for the black-lip oyster and perhaps try one, straight from the rock with freshly squeezed lemon. Species of fish you might see include queenfish, giant trivially and mackerel.
Nearby, there are also some outstanding examples of both Wandjina and Bradshaw art. Join your guides for a walk this afternoon to explore some of these rock art galleries, before enjoying sunset drinks on picturesque Winyalkin Island. The True North’s superb chefs will also provide some tasty hors d’oeuvres to celebrate another sensational day in the Kimberley. B L D
Day 7
The Roe River
Named after Western Australia’s first Surveyor General, John Septimus Roe, who led several expeditions of the area between 1829 and 1849, the Roe River boasts one of the highest concentrations of crocodiles in the Kimberley region. It also offers keen anglers another chance to catch a barramundi. You can also witness the maze of creeks and dramatic scenery from the air.
In the afternoon the vessel continues along the coast to Prince Frederick Harbour, where you will visit another Wandjina art site at the appropriately named Art Island. The helicopter will again be busy this afternoon, transferring you to the top of one of the region’s highest peaks where you can spend the last few hours of the day watching the sunset over the harbour. B L D
Day 8
The Hunter River
Undoubtedly one of Australia’s most beautiful areas, rise this morning with views of the magical Hunter River. The beautiful river is lined with dense mangrove forests and surrounded by superb rainforest covered hills. The river system is home to plenty of birds and fish as well as crabs – with mud crabbing a unique activity. A hike to Jackson Falls is also a popular excursion today while helicopter adventures are also possible. A treat late in the day is a visit to one of the Kimberley’s most impressive historic sites, the Phillip Parker King’s boab tree. B L D
Day 9
Prince Regent National Park
The Prince Regent River flows through the heart of the Kimberley, and its namesake national park. The impressive falls of King Cascade are an undoubted highlight, and the Captain will manoeuvre the vessel right under the falls. The helicopter will again be in use today for a heli-picnic alongside a stunning billabong. The vessel will be anchored this evening just off Camp Creek. B L D
Day 10
Prince Regent National Park
Kick-start the morning with a heli-flight to the top of a mountain for a sunrise champagne. Spend the rest of the morning discovering the region by adventurer boat or lace up the boots for a hike. There will also be another opportunity to have a swim in a picturesque billabong. Alternatively, you can explorer further upriver and visit the sensational ‘Amphitheatre’ waterfall.
In the afternoon, take to the skies once more and visit several breath-taking rock art sites, only accessible by helicopter. B L D
Day 11
The Sale River
Explore the Sale River this morning with naturalists on a river expedition. Keen anglers may also have a chance to fish. After an adventurous morning, enjoy lunch onboard as the vessel heads for your next destination – Montgomery Reef – a unique 360 square kilometre coral reef that rises out of the water. As the tides fall, water cascades from the reef exposing the highest points. Montgomery reef is a fantastic place to see turtles, dugongs, crocodiles and plenty of other marine species. B L D
Day 12
“Three Ways”
Expect another action-packed day exploring “Three Ways”. Begin the day with a walk to Ruby Falls and discover the beautiful natural rock pools where you are rewarded with a refreshing swim.
Fishing is once again on the agenda, and those who are interested can take-off on a heli-fishing trip to a secret spot where freshwater meets the sea. Make your way to the bar lounge at the end of the day for cocktail hour and to watch the sunset. B L D
Day 13
Horizontal Falls
Today, explore one of the Kimberley’s biggest highlights, Horizontal Falls in the Buccaneer Archipelago’s Talbot Bay. Jump aboard a tender boat to experience the amazing power of the falls that are due to the region’s incredible tidal changes. You can also see the falls from the air by helicopter.
Later, explore the squeaky sands of Silica Beach and take a refreshing swim, or alternatively, join an adventure boat for a sightseeing expedition to Whirlpool Pass to witness once more the Kimberley’s powerful tides.
This evening is your last onboard the vessel. Enjoy a farewell dinner celebrating your voyage. B L D
Day 14
Tour Ends, Broome
Arrive into Broome early this morning. Say goodbye to the crew and your fellow passengers and transfer to either the airport or your hotel accommodation (not included) in Broome. Tour ends.
Please note: This itinerary is only a guide of what you may see and do. Weather conditions and local arrangements may mean it is necessary to alter the below to maximise your experience.
B L D = Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
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