Itinerary

Darwin, Koolama Bay, Vansittart Bay, Ashmore Reef, Swift Bay, Prince Frederick Harbour, Hunter River, Doubtful Bay, Freshwater Cove, Talbot Bay

Description

Pricing based on 03 August 2025 

Itinerary Highlights

Day 1 – Arrive in Darwin, Embark Ship

Upon arrival in Darwin, you'll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your premium expedition vessel, the Heritage Adventurer—your home for the next nine nights. After settling in, meet your fellow travellers over a relaxed welcome dinner as your journey along the remote and spectacular Kimberley coast begins.

Day 2 – Koolama Bay, King George River & King George Falls

This morning, arrive at Koolama Bay and board a Zodiac for a scenic cruise along the King George River, surrounded by towering red cliffs and lush mangroves.

Insider Experience – King George Falls

Feel the power of nature as you get up close to the twin cascades of King George Falls, plunging 80 metres from rugged sandstone cliffs—an unforgettable moment on the water.

Day 3 – Vansittart Bay

Explore the historic and picturesque Vansittart Bay. Walk across salt flats to visit the wreck of a US Air Force C-53, which crash-landed during WWII in 1942—an evocative reminder of the region’s layered past.

Day 4 – Ashmore Reef Marine Park

Cruise into the pristine Ashmore Reef, a haven for marine life and seabirds. Glide across clear waters by Zodiac to witness an ecological wonder where over 100,000 seabirds breed annually. Below the surface, marvel at vibrant coral reefs and seagrass meadows teeming with tropical marine species—home to the greatest number of reef-building corals on WA’s coast.

Day 5 – Swift Bay

Navigate through the island-studded waters of Swift Bay, a wild and ancient landscape named after the author of Gulliver’s Travels.

Insider Experience – Aboriginal Rock Art

Step ashore to explore extraordinary rock art galleries, featuring both Wandjina and Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) styles—some of the oldest known artworks in the world.

Enhance Your Journey – Mitchell Falls Scenic Helicopter Flight

For a truly breathtaking perspective, opt for an aerial tour over the majestic Mitchell Falls, cascading down the rugged Kimberley Plateau (additional cost).

Day 6 – Prince Frederick Harbour & Hunter River

Immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of Prince Frederick Harbour, rich with mangroves, birdlife, and dramatic cliffs. Later, cruise the snaking Hunter River, keeping an eye out for saltwater crocodiles, mudskippers, and white-bellied sea eagles. The day ends with a visit to the serene Naturalists Island.

Day 7 – Montgomery Reef, Doubtful Bay & Freshwater Cove

The drama of the Kimberley continues with a day full of wonders.

Insider Experience – Montgomery Reef

Witness the spectacular phenomenon of Montgomery Reef ‘rising’ from the ocean, as powerful tides reveal cascading waterfalls and hidden marine life.

Later, cruise through Doubtful Bay, where seasonal whale sightings are common.

Insider Experience – Freshwater Cove Rock Art

Come ashore at Freshwater Cove, where a local Aboriginal guide will lead you to sacred Wandjina rock art sites—stories thousands of years old brought vividly to life.

Day 8 – Talbot Bay & Horizontal Falls

Conclude your adventure with one of the Kimberley’s most iconic experiences.

Insider Experience – Horizontal Falls

Board a Zodiac to view the mighty Horizontal Falls, where tides of up to 12 metres surge through narrow gorges creating a waterfall effect sideways—an awe-inspiring natural wonder. Continue exploring Talbot Bay and Cyclone Creek, rich in wildlife and breathtaking rock formations.