All-Inclusive Kimberley Expedition Fly & Cruise Package

Your Silverseas’ experience will start as soon as you leave home, with a private chauffeur service* taking you from your home to your domestic airport for your flight. This luxury service is included as part of your all-inclusive offer on this voyage. Once your flight arrives in Darwin, a private transfer will take you from the airport to the ship.

Discover the beauty of Koolama Bay, located at the mouth of the King George River in the Kimberley region. This stunning bay got its name from a ship that was beached here during World War II after a Japanese aerial attack. Embark on a Zodiac cruise from Koolama Bay to explore the majestic King George Falls, towering at an impressive 260 feet (80 m) high, making them one of Australia’s tallest waterfalls. As you journey through the river, surrounded by dramatic red rock formations, you’ll encounter an array of wildlife including saltwater crocodiles, magnificent birdlife like giant raptors, and the striking Brahminy Kite.

Discover the jaw-dropping Kimberley region in Australia, home to some of the oldest collections of rock art. This ancestral art, depicting warriors, animals, and nature, is an authentic testament to Aboriginal culture, rituals, and traditions. Tranquil Swift Bay offers you the opportunity to explore astonishing Wandjina art galleries and awaken the adventurer in you. A quick zodiac ride on the turquoise waters allows you to admire the coast’s spectacular scenery, while a short walk across the rocky and wild landscape – 250 meters from the landing site – leads you to the historic and artistic caves. In these ancient galleries, you can observe two different styles of rock art: the Gwion Gwion style, featuring long and skinny human-like figures, and the rounder Wandjina style, both equally impressive and special. To admire the most spectacular of the ancient paintings, you’ll need to keep your wits about you as it is painted on the ceiling and only visible by lying down. However, beware if you have claustrophobia, as the ceiling is only about a meter above your head. Those who do manage to wiggle into the best position will fully appreciate the artwork’s enormous scale and size, leaving them undoubtedly captivated by the experience.

Located in the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean, Ashmore Reef Marine Park is an Australian External Territory situated 630 km off the coast of Broome. Encompassing 583 square km, this protected area is a haven of natural beauty with its diverse shades of blue, stunning underwater wonders, and enchanting wildlife. Comprising three tiny islands and their surrounding waters, Ashmore Reef is a flourishing oasis of wildlife. Home to over 40 bird species, including crested terns, white-tailed tropicbirds, and greater frigatebirds, it is a favorite nesting ground for more than 100,000 seabirds annually. Additionally, the islands serve as a sanctuary for thousands of migratory shorebirds such as curlew sandpipers, bar-tailed godwits, and great knots, some of which travel from as far as Siberia. Beneath the surface, the vibrant reef teems with around 500 species of fish, as well as marine turtles, dugongs, and playful dolphins. To preserve the rich and delicate ecosystem, Ashmore Reef has been designated a Sanctuary zone, offering the highest level of protection for the wildlife and minimizing human disturbance. While only scientific research is allowed in this area, visitors can explore the Recreational Use Zone, which includes a small section of West Island, and marvel at the unique beauty of this special place.

Like a magical oasis in the Indian Ocean, Adele Island emerges as a haven of peace and tranquility. Located 65 miles off Kimberley’s rugged coast, this sandy paradise is a sight to behold. The sands of Adele Island shift and change with the tides, creating a mesmerising dance of nature right before your eyes. At the heart of the island lies a stunning tidal lagoon teeming with biodiversity. Adele Island serves as a bustling habitat for breeding birds and turtles, while its waters provide a playful playground for young humpback whales and bottlenose dolphins. Keep a lookout for the majestic silhouettes gliding beneath the surface of the shallow sea. The crystal-clear waters make it easy to spot a variety of sea creatures gracefully swimming by. Be cautious, though, as there may be watchful crocodiles lurking nearby. Encounter beautiful sea turtles, colorful fish, and unique bird species such as the lesser frigate bird and brown booby as you explore this pristine island retreat. Marvel at the sight of seabirds swirling around you like a gentle whirlwind. The seabed is adorned with vibrant coral reefs, resembling underwater cities bustling with life. Surrounded by the soothing sounds of the waves, the crunching of sandy footsteps, and the melodious songs of birdlife, Adele Island is a harmonious symphony for the senses.

Located off the coast of Western Australia, the Buccaneer Archipelago is a hidden gem of the Kimberley region. Covering an area of 50 square kilometers, this archipelago consists of approximately 800 islands that serve as a natural barrier, protecting the mainland from the powerful 12-meter tides and rapid currents of the Yampi Sound. While swimming in these waters may not be advisable due to their strength, they create stunning natural wonders like the horizontal reversible waterfall in Talbot Bay. This unique phenomenon is caused by the tidal pull, which also creates narrow passages between the islands, posing a challenge for sailors. The history of the Buccaneer Archipelago dates back to 1688 when it was first sighted by William Dampier. However, it wasn’t until 1821 that the region was named Buccaneer by Captain Phillip Parker King in honor of Dampier’s visit. Commander John Lort Stokes also mentioned the area in his records in 1838. In the 180s, the archipelago attracted adventurous individuals seeking opportunities in pearling and mining. Pearling activities were concentrated in Cygnet Bay, Cascade Bay, Cone Bay, and Strickland Bay in the 1880s, while mining operations focused on extracting iron ore from Koolan Island on the eastern side of the Sound. Today, this location remains a source of some of the world’s richest iron ore. The Buccaneer Archipelago offers a blend of history, natural beauty, and economic opportunities, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an adventure in Western Australia.

Located next to Montgomery Reef on the mainland, Freshwater Cove – also known locally as Wijingarra Butt Butt – offers a warm welcome from Aboriginal guides with a traditional ochre ceremony on the beach. The striking rock formations along the shore hold significance as spiritual ancestors connected to the historic Wandjina battle. Nearby caves feature ancient rock art, accessible only through guided tours. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the area with a visit to Freshwater Cove.

Montgomery Reef spans an impressive 300 square kilometers and boasts a dramatic tidal change of up to 4 meters. As the tide recedes, the reef appears to emerge from the water, revealing a mesmerising semi-submerged world. At low tide, a river is unveiled, offering access to a unique and enchanting landscape. Venturing further into the river on Zodiacs, visitors will be greeted by cascading waterfalls reaching heights of up to 3 meters at the reef’s edge. Along the way, one can marvel at the diverse array of reef birds and sea creatures, including turtles and manta rays. A trip to Montgomery Reef is a rare opportunity that hinges on the tides, but it promises to be an unforgettable experience of a lifetime.

The Hunter River boasts a vast mangrove system, surrounded by towering red sandstone cliffs. Within the narrow mangrove channels, you can spot various bird species, mudskippers, fiddler crabs, and the infamous saltwater crocodile – one of the most aggressive crocodile species known to man. At Naturalist Island, located at the river’s mouth, there is a breathtaking sandy beach, perfect for small helicopters to land and pick up visitors who want to explore the Kimberley’s vast interior. A must-see inland is the renowned Mitchell Falls, where four tiers of waterfalls cascade into deep pools that then flow into the mighty Mitchell River. The headwaters of the falls offer cool waters, providing a refreshing escape from the heartland’s heat.

Located near the northern tip of Western Australia, Vansittart Bay is a historically significant area named by Phillip Parker King during his surveys in the early 19th century. One of the highlights of the bay is Jar Island, where visitors can explore the unique Bradshaw (Gwion Gwion) and Wandjina styles of rock art at two nearby sites. For those interested in more recent history, the Anjo Peninsula offers an intriguing experience. A beach landing and a short hike across a lagoon, or a walk around the lagoon depending on tides, will lead you to a World War II site. Here, you can view the almost intact wreck of an old C-53 airplane, providing a glimpse into the past.

Your ship docks in port in Darwin late this evening, and disembarkation will begin in the morning. This tropical city is a hidden gem in this vast and diverse country, located 2,000 miles from Sydney and Melbourne. Named after Charles Darwin by British settlers, this historically isolated outpost has a unique charm that will enchant and captivate you. Despite its remote location, Darwin has a resilient spirit forged through its history of being on the front line during the Pacific War and enduring the devastation of Cyclone Tracy in 1973.

Your expedition finishes today in Darwin as you disembark from your ship in the morning. From the ship you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight to your home city. Once you land at your home airport, a private executive transfer will transfer you back to your house.