Northern Quest - 8 Day Northern Kimberley Cruise

Your Northern Quest begins when a courtesy vehicle picks you up from Kununurra at approximately 3.30pm and transfers you to the Kimberley Quest II in Wyndham port; here you will be welcomed on board by your captain and crew. Begin your cruise with a relaxing drink as you cruise out of the Cambridge Gulf with the sun setting over the horizon.

Early morning we cruise up the Berkeley River, taking in the numerous waterfalls and ancient sandstone escarpments. Experience your first taste of fishing for Barramundi or take a tender excursion with our knowledgeable guides to go crocodile-spotting and bird watching. Marvel at the Amphitheatre Falls and then cool off in beautiful freshwater pools. Late afternoon we take a tender excursion up to the back of the Berkeley River, where the salt water meets the fresh water. Fish off the flat rocks for Barra which are lurking in the rapids, or alternatively walk to a freshwater pool to enjoy a relaxing dip. Tonight we savour the surroundings, anchoring nearby a secluded waterfall.

At high tide, we cross the sandbars of the King George River for a breathtaking cruise along this majestic cathedral-like gorge. This incredible scenery unfolds as we approach the King George Falls, a dual waterfall that has an uninterrupted vertical drop of over 80m, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Western Australia. The Kimberley Quest II is able to cruise to the base of the twin falls for a refreshing ‘shower,’ Kimberley style! For those intrepid adventurers, you may climb to the top for a breathtaking vista of the river below a truly humbling experience as you appreciate the immensity of this untamed landscape, followed by a refreshing dip. Overnight we anchor just metres away from the falls, with tranquil sounds and an extraordinary view from the bow.

Visit Koolama Bay, where the vessel Koolama was beached in February 1942, following an attack by the Japanese in World War II. The passengers were taken ashore by order of the ship’s master and many had to walk overland on an epic cross-country trek. After visiting the survivors’ camp at Pangali Cove, enjoy a freshwater dip beneath a waterfall. In the afternoon we visit Glycosmis Falls to view another unbelievable Kimberley waterfall and then cruise around Cape Londonderry, the most northerly point of Western Australia.

Today we encounter one of the longest rivers in the Kimberley (432km), the Drysdale. Spend the day exploring the spectacular palm-studded landscape and the rapids of the Drysdale area. Join our guides on a scenic tender excursion to witness crocodiles, flying foxes and many species of bird life, which thrive in these delta islands. Then enjoy a swim in secluded rock pools. Late afternoon walk on a deserted beach or try to catch a Barramundi, with many great ‘snags’ to fish around.

Relax on board as we cruise across Napier Broome Bay. Midmorning there is an opportunity for a beach walk to a historic Indonesian Trepang site for an insight into the lives of the early Macassan fishermen. This site stems back to the first early contact between Aboriginal tribes and the Indonesian fishermen. Late afternoon we fish the inlets and estuaries for Barra and Mangrove Jack and we try our luck at mud crabbing.

Today we explore various coves within Vansittart Bay, visiting sites rich in the fascinating Bradshaw or Gwion Gwion art, named after Joseph Bradshaw, who in 1891 became the first European to record these amazing paintings. Some Bradshaw art, which is unique to the Kimberley, has been dated at over 17,000 years old. There is also the opportunity to walk to the crash site of the DC3 aircraft – which crashed during World War II – located on the eastern side of Vansittart Bay. Later we cruise around the coastline of the Bougainville Peninsula, where dramatic black basalt cliffs contrast with lush green rainforests.

This morning explore the estuary and gorge of the lower Mitchell River. Marvel at crocodiles, bird life, rock art and take in the flora and fauna for the last time. Depart the Kimberley Quest II by helicopter where you will enjoy a scenic flight over the Mitchell Falls. At the Mitchell Plateau airstrip you will board a light aircraft and discover the immensity of the Kimberley. Return to Broome by sunset, where our team will transfer you to your accommodation.

Whilst the published itinerary can be used as a guide, due to weather, tidal movements and the nature of cruising in the Kimberley itineraries may be subject to change. Each evening on-board your cruise the Captain will discuss the coming days planned activities and experiences and you will have the opportunity to discuss the activities and ask questions.