They say that time stands still in the Kimberley and Coral Expeditions is calling your clients to experience just that onboard an iconic trip on the north-western coastline of Australia. 

For over 40 years, Coral Expedition has provided unrivalled local expertise to its cruisers onboard purpose-built ships for the rugged Kimberley coastline, and now it has the largest inventory out of any cruise operator in the region. 

On board a small, 120-person ship, guests are invited to experience the beauty and power of one of the more awe-inspiring parts of Australia with expert guides. Whether it be Montgomery Reef where turtles are often spotted alongside birds of prey feeding in exposed rock pools or the migration of the Humpback whales between July and October, Coral Expeditions Kimberley itineraries guarantee a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Kimberley Sailing Highlights    

Coral Expeditions ‘small ships’: One of the most impressive things about any trip in the Kimberley with Coral Expeditions is the ship guests actually sail on. The fleet of three ships custom-designed for the Kimberley all feature outward-facing rooms, wrap-around promenade decks and an onboard indigenous art gallery.

The Lacepede Islands: First discovered in 1801 by French explorer Nicolas Baudin, the islands are a protected ‘class-A nature reserve’ and a seabird nesting rookery for brown boobies and roseate terns. Other species often sighted at the Lacepedes include Australian pelicans, frigate birds, egrets and gulls.

Sea birds at the Lacepede Islands. (Supplied)

The four low-lying islands are also an important breeding and nesting habitat for the endangered green turtle. Humpback whales are also frequent in the area as around 40,000 migrate on the coastline each year.

The Xplorer Tender takes you closer and more remote 

Undoubtedly, one of the most memorable experiences onboard a Coral Expeditions journey is a shore excursion on one of its custom-built Xplorer tenders which are boarded directly from the ship.  

Xplorer tender infographic. (Supplied)

The Xplorer tenders are designed for comfort and convenience and are equipped with microphones and speakers to allow Expedition Guides and Guest Lecturers to provide detailed explanations about your travel destination.

To protect guests from the elements the tender’s overhead canopy provides cover from the sun and harsh weather while the boats smaller size enables them to access remote locations, at speeds of up to 20 knots.

One destination often out of reach to many is the King Cascades, which Coral Expeditions visits on its 10-day Kimberley Itinerary.  

Falling from a towering height, the King Cascades is a classic terraced waterfall and one of the most photographed sights of the Kimberley. This location offers guests one of many opportunities throughout the voyage to experience a Kimberley shower, where they can stand beneath tumbling water onto sandstone and layers of ochre-hued rock sprouts, mosses and ferns, forming a lush, hanging garden.  

The journey to the cascades is remarkable in itself as the Xplorer tender cuts through the steep valley of the Prince Regent River which lies on a fault line.  

Wining & Dining on board 

Kick off your day with a hearty continental breakfast with both buffet and a la carte options available. Coral Expeditions’ menu changes daily with chefs using fresh local ingredients and tropical fruits to prepare guests meals. 

Evenings offer a convivial atmosphere for both new and old friends to come together and reminisce about the day’s discoveries. On the first night, tradition dictates a warm welcome with a stunning seafood concept, while for the rest of the evenings, guests can indulge in a sit three-course d’hote dinner menu.

Prawns and beer, a great combination if you ask us! (Supplied)

All expeditions also feature a memorable pre-dinner event ashore where sunset drinks are served alongside canapes, often on a beach, and always in an awe-inspiring destination with a sunset view.  

Lunch and dinner are both accompanied by a curated selection of beverages including boutique Australian and New Zealand wines, beers and ciders.  

Sunset drinks onboard with Coral Expeditions. (Supplied)

To view the latest Coral Expeditions Kimberley brochure, click HERE.

For more information about Coral Expeditions Kimberley Cruises as well as all Coral Expeditions offerings, click HERE.