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Rowley Shoals Cruise - Coral Atoll
A True North favourite
The Rowley Shoals feature exaggerated corals, mind-blowing fish life and stunning underwater clarity; but perhaps more important than anything else – even today they are visited by only a fortunate few!
Just an overnight cruise from Broome, the Rowley Shoals include some of the world’s most-pristine coral reef and, a Rowley Shoals cruise is a must-do experience for any adventurer with an interest in marine life.
This small ship cruise features guided underwater tours led by a marine biologist and a team of underwater naturalists. Divers and snorkelers alike will revel in a diverse wonderland of coral habitats including maze-like lagoons, tidal canyons and breathtaking walls. And keen anglers will match wits with blue-water pelagics such as black marlin, sailfish, wahoo and yellow-fin tuna. Please refer to the sailing schedule to determine if this itinerary is available on the TRUE NORTH or TRUE NORTH II.
Wander the enticing shores of Bedwell Island, see nesting red-tailed tropicbirds and indulge with sunset drinks on the beach – 300 kilometres from the West Australian coast. This Australian cruise favourite features Western Australia’s premiere coral playground – the protected waters of the Rowley Shoals Marine Park.
This itinerary is provided as example only – prevailing conditions, local arrangements and indeed, what we discover on the day, may cause variation.
The Rowley Shoals feature exaggerated corals, mind-blowing fish life and stunning underwater clarity; but perhaps more important than anything else – even today they are visited by only a fortunate few!
Just an overnight cruise from Broome, the Rowley Shoals include some of the world’s most-pristine coral reef and, a Rowley Shoals cruise is a must-do experience for any adventurer with an interest in marine life.
This small ship cruise features guided underwater tours led by a marine biologist and a team of underwater naturalists. Divers and snorkelers alike will revel in a diverse wonderland of coral habitats including maze-like lagoons, tidal canyons and breathtaking walls. And keen anglers will match wits with blue-water pelagics such as black marlin, sailfish, wahoo and yellow-fin tuna. Please refer to the sailing schedule to determine if this itinerary is available on the TRUE NORTH or TRUE NORTH II.
Wander the enticing shores of Bedwell Island, see nesting red-tailed tropicbirds and indulge with sunset drinks on the beach – 300 kilometres from the West Australian coast. This Australian cruise favourite features Western Australia’s premiere coral playground – the protected waters of the Rowley Shoals Marine Park.
This itinerary is provided as example only – prevailing conditions, local arrangements and indeed, what we discover on the day, may cause variation.
23 August, 2025 to 28 August, 2025
True North II - Ocean Class - Twin
$6,595 AUD pp
Located on the lower deck – Ocean Class cabins feature roomy singles and en-suite. Cabin size is approximately 12 square metres.
Other features include 2 portholes, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone.
view cabin photo
view cabin photo
True North II - River Class - Double
$8,595 AUD pp
Located on the middle deck – River Class cabins feature a king size double (that can be converted to singles) and en-suite. Cabin size is similar to Explorer Class.
Other features include large panoramic windows, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone.
view cabin photo
view cabin photo
True North II - Explorer Class - Stateroom
$9,995 AUD pp
Located on the upper deck – Explorer Class cabins feature a king size double (that can be converted to singles) and a twin basin en-suite. Cabin size is 15 square metres.
Other features include large panoramic windows, amenities fridge, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone.
view cabin photo
view cabin photo
28 August, 2025 to 02 September, 2025
True North II - Ocean Class - Twin
$6,595 AUD pp
Located on the lower deck – Ocean Class cabins feature roomy singles and en-suite. Cabin size is approximately 12 square metres.
Other features include 2 portholes, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone.
view cabin photo
view cabin photo
True North II - River Class - Double
$8,595 AUD pp
Located on the middle deck – River Class cabins feature a king size double (that can be converted to singles) and en-suite. Cabin size is similar to Explorer Class.
Other features include large panoramic windows, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone.
view cabin photo
view cabin photo
True North II - Explorer Class - Stateroom
$9,995 AUD pp
Located on the upper deck – Explorer Class cabins feature a king size double (that can be converted to singles) and a twin basin en-suite. Cabin size is 15 square metres.
Other features include large panoramic windows, amenities fridge, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone.
view cabin photo
view cabin photo
06 September, 2025 to 11 September, 2025
Ocean Class - Twin
$9,505 AUD pp
Located on the lower deck – Ocean Class cabins feature roomy singles and en-suite. Cabin size is approximately 12 square metres.
Other features include 2 portholes, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone.
view cabin photo
view cabin photo
Ocean Premium Cabin
$10,595 AUD pp
Located on the lower deck - Ocean Premium Cabin feature a king size double and en suite. Cabin size is approximately 14 square metres. Other features include 2 portholes, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone.
view cabin photo
view cabin photo
River Class - Double
$11,995 AUD pp
Located on the middle deck – River Class cabins feature a king size double (that can be converted to singles) and en-suite. Cabin size is similar to Explorer Class.
Other features include large panoramic windows, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone.
view cabin photo
view cabin photo
Explorer Class - Stateroom
$13,595 AUD pp
Located on the upper deck – Explorer Class cabins feature a king size double (that can be converted to singles) and a twin basin en-suite. Cabin size is 15 square metres.
Other features include large panoramic windows, amenities fridge, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone.
view cabin photo
view cabin photo
18 September, 2025 to 23 September, 2025
True North II - Ocean Class - Twin
$6,595 AUD pp
Located on the lower deck – Ocean Class cabins feature roomy singles and en-suite. Cabin size is approximately 12 square metres.
Other features include 2 portholes, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone.
view cabin photo
view cabin photo
True North II - River Class - Double
$8,595 AUD pp
Located on the middle deck – River Class cabins feature a king size double (that can be converted to singles) and en-suite. Cabin size is similar to Explorer Class.
Other features include large panoramic windows, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone.
view cabin photo
view cabin photo
True North II - Explorer Class - Stateroom
$9,995 AUD pp
Located on the upper deck – Explorer Class cabins feature a king size double (that can be converted to singles) and a twin basin en-suite. Cabin size is 15 square metres.
Other features include large panoramic windows, amenities fridge, in-cabin entertainment and satellite telephone.
view cabin photo
view cabin photo
Rowley Shoals Cruise - Coral Atoll itinerary:
show reverse itinerary
Day 1 Welcome aboard the True North
Your “welcome aboard” the luxurious TRUE NORTH is in the frontier pearling port of Broome. embarkation is at 1700 – time for a cocktail with your fellow adventurers before departing at approximately 1800. Dinner is served shortly after leaving port and then it’s an overnight steam to the Rowley Shoals.
(Please note that the TRUE NORTH visits the Rowley Shoals only during the months of September, October and November. These months are normally associated with “the doldrums” – a period of light winds and calm seas. In addition, the TRUE NORTH is fitted with computer controlled motion stabilisers that minimise vessel movement. Guests can therefore anticipate comfortable conditions when travelling to the Shoals – however observing the normal precautions associated with the prevention of seasickness is always recommended.)
Day 2 Clerke Reef
Arrive early at Clerke Reef and enjoy a sumptuous breakfast before heading-out with our experienced crew to explore the atoll's huge lagoon. You will marvel at pristine reefs teaming with life – clouds of fish and corals of every imaginable shape and colour. There will be opportunities for diving on the outer reef, relaxed snorkelling in tropical waist deep water, beach combing on Bedwell Island, or perhaps some “catch and release” lagoon fishing using eco-friendly tackle. Our experienced crew will be on-hand to personally introduce the delights of this remarkable coral atoll.
When you’re not on excursion, relax onboard TRUE NORTH and enjoy our renowned cuisine in air-conditioned comfort. The licensed open-air bar will definitely be the spot to witness your first ‘Rowley’s Sunset’.
Day 3 The Aquarium
Start the day with a visit to the Aquarium. Forget the Great Barrier Reef – this is world-class snorkelling at its very best! Even if you have never put your head under water before – this is an absolute must. The water is only waist deep however the experience is literally ‘out of this world’! More brilliantly coloured corals, giant clams and more than 600 of the world’s most beautiful tropical fish species at your fingertips! Don’t forget your underwater camera.
In the afternoon we’ll ‘crank up the action’ with something very unique – high-speed snorkel drifts through the outer reef! Again, our experienced crew members will be on hand to ensure that everyone gets to try this once-in-a-lifetime experience – as many times as you like! See Maori wrasse, potato cod, reef sharks, trevally and other large species up-close.
Our anchorage tonight is in the “swimming pool like” waters of Clerke Lagoon – 300 kilometres off the coast of Australia!
Day 4 The Outer Reef
Perhaps an early morning swim and breakfast on the deck before the adventure boats set off to explore the outer reef. Snorkelling on the outer reef of a coral atoll is a totally different experience – sheer coral walls teeming with life will take your breath away. The fishing boats will troll the deep blue in search of pelagic species such as Spanish mackerel, giant dog tooth tuna, wahoo and of course the fastest fish in the sea - the prized sailfish! Close encounters with humpback whales and manta rays are also on the agenda. Finish the day with sunset drinks on the beach and one of our famous Island Parties. Then it’s back to the ultimate comfort of your TRUE NORTH cabin and, another perfect night in Clerke Lagoon – 360° stars reflected in a glassy ocean.
Day 5 Bedwell Island
By now you will be addicted to snorkelling and diving amongst the untouched corals of Clerke Reef and, your wish is our command. Spend the day exploring the outer reef, or perhaps discover ‘The Maze’ – a labyrinth of coral bombies inside the lagoon. Stroll along your very own sand cay, enjoy a swim at the beach or relax in the shade of one of our colourful umbrellas. Take a stand-up board for a paddle or circumnavigate the island in one of our twin kayaks. The dedicated fishers will be out again – one last chance to win the ‘Fish Hat’!
Then all too soon it’s time for our overnight steam to Broome. Join the crew in the bar lounge and reflect on our shared adventures. Re-live what is guaranteed to be an experience of a lifetime as the Rowley Shoals melt into a blazing western sky.
Day 6 Arrive in Broome
Early morning arrival in Broome in time to disembark at 0800 hours. Transfer to the airport or your accommodation – your voyage on the TRUE NORTH need only be the start of a Kimberley Adventure!
Please Note:
This is a sample itinerary only. Prevailing conditions, local arrangements and indeed, what we discover on the day, may cause variation.
Rowley Shoals Cruise - Coral Atoll reverse itinerary:
show main itinerary
Please Note: *
This is a sample itinerary only. Prevailing conditions, local arrangements and indeed, what we discover on the day, may cause variation.
Day 6 Arrive in Broome *
Early morning arrival in Broome in time to disembark at 0800 hours. Transfer to the airport or your accommodation – your voyage on the TRUE NORTH need only be the start of a Kimberley Adventure!
Day 5 Bedwell Island *
By now you will be addicted to snorkelling and diving amongst the untouched corals of Clerke Reef and, your wish is our command. Spend the day exploring the outer reef, or perhaps discover ‘The Maze’ – a labyrinth of coral bombies inside the lagoon. Stroll along your very own sand cay, enjoy a swim at the beach or relax in the shade of one of our colourful umbrellas. Take a stand-up board for a paddle or circumnavigate the island in one of our twin kayaks. The dedicated fishers will be out again – one last chance to win the ‘Fish Hat’!
Then all too soon it’s time for our overnight steam to Broome. Join the crew in the bar lounge and reflect on our shared adventures. Re-live what is guaranteed to be an experience of a lifetime as the Rowley Shoals melt into a blazing western sky.
Day 4 The Outer Reef *
Perhaps an early morning swim and breakfast on the deck before the adventure boats set off to explore the outer reef. Snorkelling on the outer reef of a coral atoll is a totally different experience – sheer coral walls teeming with life will take your breath away. The fishing boats will troll the deep blue in search of pelagic species such as Spanish mackerel, giant dog tooth tuna, wahoo and of course the fastest fish in the sea - the prized sailfish! Close encounters with humpback whales and manta rays are also on the agenda. Finish the day with sunset drinks on the beach and one of our famous Island Parties. Then it’s back to the ultimate comfort of your TRUE NORTH cabin and, another perfect night in Clerke Lagoon – 360° stars reflected in a glassy ocean.
Day 3 The Aquarium *
Start the day with a visit to the Aquarium. Forget the Great Barrier Reef – this is world-class snorkelling at its very best! Even if you have never put your head under water before – this is an absolute must. The water is only waist deep however the experience is literally ‘out of this world’! More brilliantly coloured corals, giant clams and more than 600 of the world’s most beautiful tropical fish species at your fingertips! Don’t forget your underwater camera.
In the afternoon we’ll ‘crank up the action’ with something very unique – high-speed snorkel drifts through the outer reef! Again, our experienced crew members will be on hand to ensure that everyone gets to try this once-in-a-lifetime experience – as many times as you like! See Maori wrasse, potato cod, reef sharks, trevally and other large species up-close.
Our anchorage tonight is in the “swimming pool like” waters of Clerke Lagoon – 300 kilometres off the coast of Australia!
Day 2 Clerke Reef *
Arrive early at Clerke Reef and enjoy a sumptuous breakfast before heading-out with our experienced crew to explore the atoll's huge lagoon. You will marvel at pristine reefs teaming with life – clouds of fish and corals of every imaginable shape and colour. There will be opportunities for diving on the outer reef, relaxed snorkelling in tropical waist deep water, beach combing on Bedwell Island, or perhaps some “catch and release” lagoon fishing using eco-friendly tackle. Our experienced crew will be on-hand to personally introduce the delights of this remarkable coral atoll.
When you’re not on excursion, relax onboard TRUE NORTH and enjoy our renowned cuisine in air-conditioned comfort. The licensed open-air bar will definitely be the spot to witness your first ‘Rowley’s Sunset’.
Day 1 Welcome aboard the True North *
Your “welcome aboard” the luxurious TRUE NORTH is in the frontier pearling port of Broome. embarkation is at 1700 – time for a cocktail with your fellow adventurers before departing at approximately 1800. Dinner is served shortly after leaving port and then it’s an overnight steam to the Rowley Shoals.
(Please note that the TRUE NORTH visits the Rowley Shoals only during the months of September, October and November. These months are normally associated with “the doldrums” – a period of light winds and calm seas. In addition, the TRUE NORTH is fitted with computer controlled motion stabilisers that minimise vessel movement. Guests can therefore anticipate comfortable conditions when travelling to the Shoals – however observing the normal precautions associated with the prevention of seasickness is always recommended.)
True North & True North II
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition
Length: True North - 50 metres/True North II - 35 meters
Passenger Capacity: 36/22
Built/Refurbished: 2005/2023
TRUE NORTH
The TRUE NORTH allows discerning adventurers to experience wilderness in surroundings more akin to one of the world’s most exclusive hotels. Guests are able to take advantage of a number of lavish vantage points including a sundeck, a forward observation lounge, a ship’s lounge and an alfresco bar. The ship’s naturalist presents interpretative information on plasma screens and, an internet café enables convenient communication with the outside world.
A popular venue on any North Star cruise, the lower deck dining room offers the ultimate in comfort and uninterrupted vista – large panoramic windows ensure that guests never miss any of the action, even when they are enjoying the ‘finest in fine dining’. All cabins feature stylish décor, en-suite facilities, in-house entertainment and satellite telephones. The Explorer Class staterooms and the River Class cabins offer king size beds that can be converted to singles and the Ocean Class twins feature roomy single beds.
Multiple expedition boats provide guests with greater opportunity to do “what they want, when they want” and, to add yet another dimension to adventure, most cruise options feature an onboard helicopter!The purpose built TRUE NORTH is able to explore the upper reaches of shallow river systems – guests need only step out of their cabins to experience wilderness and, the latest in computer controlled motion stabilizers ensures a comfortable ride.
TRUE NORTH II
TRUE NORTH II features a more intimate experience with just 22 guests and a combined saloon/lounge. The dining salon features a stunning ‘boardroom’ setting and the revered True North dining experience. There is also a sundeck, outdoor bar deck and a dedicated sports deck.
All cabins feature ensuite or private facilities with in-house entertainment and satellite telephones. The Explorer Class staterooms and River Class cabins offer queen-size bedsand the Ocean Class cabins feature roomy bunk-configured singles.
Just like the TRUE NORTH – TRUE NORTH II is purpose-built to explore coastal areas including the upper reaches of shallow river systems – guests need only step out of their cabins to experience wilderness. But the adventure doesn't stop there! Multiple adventure boats provide guests with greater opportunity to do “what they want, when they want” and, to add yet another dimension to adventure, most itineraries feature an onboard helicopter!
And again, just like they are on TRUE NORTH, the crew of the TRUE NORTH II are generally young Australians who create a truly authentic onboard experience. Our crew are always very much part of onboard life - you may even feel as though they are having just as much fun as you are! That’s because they are – every day is an adventure for the crew as well and you will not be able to resist their enthusiasm and passion!
Unlike more conventional cruise experiences – True North crew are encouraged to interact with our guests. They will uniquely chaperone your every experience providing assistance, interpretation and genuine company. They will bait your hook and carry your SCUBA tank but they will also join you for dinner and entertain in the ship’s lounge. And not forgetting that they will also prepare fine meals of distinction, maintain your cabins with our renowned degree of attention and safely navigate ship, boat and helicopter to each destination. Guests on a True North adventure cruise never fail to recognize the outstanding involvement of the crew - they are one of the reasons that an adventure on the TRUE NORTH is not just another expedition cruise!
• Enjoy world class snorkelling
• Have fun exploring the outer reefs
• Have fun exploring the outer reefs