Northern Explorer

Join Crown Princess on your Northern Explorer cruise.

Enjoy a relaxing day at sea.

This tiny island measures in at just 1,600 feet long by 490 feet wide, though it is the only permanently inhabited island in the Coral Sea Islands Territory. You won’t find any neighborhoods, schools or homes here, however. The only structures on Willis Island comprise a weather monitoring station hosted by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology, where just a handful of weather observers reside at any given time.

Willis Island is one of several tropical islands sitting beyond the Great Barrier Reef in the Coral Sea Islands Territory, and is surrounded by thriving reefs where many creatures make their homes. Numbering into the thousands, Willis Island itself caters to many species of seabirds, including Masked, Brown and Red-footed Boobies that cry out nearly 24 hours a day. It is also an important nesting ground for turtles.

Nestled between the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, Port Douglas is a tropical paradise brimming with adventure and relaxation. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef for world-class snorkelling and scuba diving, or explore the lush greenery of the Daintree on a guided tour. Stroll along Four Mile Beach, known for its golden sands and tranquil waters, or wander through the charming shops and cafes of Macrossan Street. For a taste of local culture, visit the Port Douglas Sunday Market and discover unique crafts and fresh produce. Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor activities or serene beachside escapes, Port Douglas offers an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

Cairns is one of Australia’s hottest vacation destinations. Cairns boasts three of Australia’s great natural wonders. Just offshore, immense bastions of living coral form the Great Barrier Reef. Sixteen miles of superb beaches stretch to the north of the city – the famed Marlin Coast. And inland lays the immense Daintree National Park. Cairns itself basks in tropical sunshine, balmy breezes waft in from Trinity Bay. The city’s graceful, tree-lined esplanade was once the gateway to the gold fields of North Queensland.

Cairns graceful, tree-lined esplanade was once the gateway to the gold fields of North Queensland. A travel tip – Cairns is pronounced “cans.”

Enjoy a relaxing day at sea.

Enjoy a relaxing day at sea.

Enjoy a relaxing day at sea.

Closer to Indonesia than to any other Australian city, Darwin is the capital of the “Top End” – the remote, vast Northern Territory. Home to more than half of the territory’s population, the city reflects the rugged endurance and individualism required to survive the Outback. Darwin also boasts a colorful history to add to that heritage. During World War II the Japanese bombed the city and threatened invasion. In 1974, Cyclone Tracy cut a destructive swath through the region. In addition, man-eating crocodiles, tropical monsoons, searing heat and bush fires that burn for weeks are all part of everyday life.

Locals in the Top End consume over 60 gallons of beer a year. All those empties don’t go to waste: Each year Darwin residents compete in the Beer Can Regatta, a race with boats, rafts and other vessels manufactured out of beer cans.

Enjoy a relaxing day at sea.

Located in the northern part of Western Australia, Kimberley is one of the continents earliest settled regions, dating as far back as 40,000 years. But although its mainland has been inhabited for centuries, its over 8,000 miles of ruggedly beautiful coastline remain so unspoiled that the Kimberley Coast has been identified as one of the least impacted marine environments in the world. Healthy reefs and incredible biodiversity make the Kimberley Coast a prime spot for marine wildlife viewing, from sea turtles to blue crabs, manta rays and the planets largest population of humpback whales. Approaching the Kimberley Coast from the Indian Ocean, youll make out dramatic red cliffs that stand out in stark contrast to the aquamarine waters of the fringing reefs below. More than 2,600 islands are scattered beyond the reefs, serving as nesting grounds to a variety of seabirds, including cormorants, giant Australian pelicans and Red-footed Boobies. The islands also provide breathtaking scenery in one of the worlds most extensive coastal wilderness areas – and the best way to take it all in is from the sea!

In the 1870s, pearl fishermen discovered the rich waters of Roebuck Bay. A decade later, Broome was founded as a base for the pearl trade and was soon described as “the pearling capital of the world.” Japanese, Chinese and Aborigine divers toiled in arduous, dangerous labor to harvest oysters from the seabed. For all its importance to the pearling industry, Broome remained a remote outpost on Australia’s Kimberley Coast until its discovery as a travel destination. The legacy of its pearling days can be seen in the town’s colorful mix of 19th- and early 20th century buildings. Broome also boasts Cable Beach – a 13-mile strand of white-sand that stretches along the azure waters of the Indian Ocean.

Enjoy a relaxing day at sea.

Exmouth, a hidden treasure on Western Australia’s Coral Coast, offers a wealth of adventures in a stunning natural setting. Dive into the vibrant marine world of Ningaloo Reef, where you can snorkel with whale sharks or explore colorful coral gardens. Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Cape Range National Park, with its dramatic gorges, stunning beaches, and diverse wildlife. For a touch of local charm, visit the Exmouth Markets or enjoy fresh seafood at local eateries. Don’t miss the chance to experience the striking beauty of Turquoise Bay, known for its clear waters and fantastic snorkeling opportunities. Whether you’re seeking underwater adventures or rugged natural beauty, Exmouth promises an unforgettable escape.

Enjoy a relaxing day at sea.

Arrive in Fremantle where you’ll disembark today.