Kimberley Cruising with Kimberley Quest 2023

DAY 2: BUCCANEER ARCHIPELAGO, DUGONG BAY, TALBOT BAY
This morning will find us crossing the vast King Sound, cruising through the thousands of islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago. In and around Dugong Bay, we take a scenic tender excursion and cool off with a refreshing swim in the freshwater pools. Around the corner lies Talbot Bay, home to one of the icons of the Kimberley coast, the spectacular Horizontal Falls. Take a tender and head in for an up-close and exhilarating ride through this natural phenomenon. In the afternoon take a scenic excursion up the back of Cyclone Creek to marvel at the amazing rock formations.

DAY 3: COLLIER BAY, MONTGOMERY REEF, RED CONE CREEK
Early morning we take you Barramundi fishing in Collier Bay and then cruise to the amazing Montgomery Reef, which covers more than 300km2, making it Australia’s largest inshore reef. Watch as the tide falls right before your eyes, creating a waterfall effect as the reef rises out of the water. Then take a ride in the tenders to observe many marine species, including turtles and sea birds. In the afternoon we cruise to Red Cone Creek for a refreshing swim at Ruby Falls, or try your luck at mud crabbing.

DAY 4: DOUBTFUL BAY, SALE RIVER, RAFT POINT
This morning we fish the inlets of Doubtful Bay for the elusive barramundi and Threadfin Salmon. We then explore the Sale River and take an excursion upstream for a dip in the spring-fed rainforest pools, and on the journey home, view ancient rock art from the tenders. We then head to Steep Island and anchor below Raft Point, as we prepare to walk to the caves perched on the hill. Here is some of the finest well-preserved Wandjina art in the Kimberley. From the top we have an amazing view of the Kimberley Coast as the sun begins to set, capturing this unique landscape at its best.

DAY 5: LANGII, KURI BAY, CAMDEN HARBOUR
Visit the mysterious cove at Langii and witness the ‘Petrified Warriors’. These remarkable sandstone pillars represent the warriors killed in a Dreamtime battle. We then cruise between Augustus Island and the mainland, passing the remote pearling settlement of Kuri Bay. At nearby Camden Harbour, we visit forlorn settlers’ graves on Sheep Island and soak up the history of the early European settlement. We take one of the tenders for a spot of exploration, have a go at fishing or collect rock oysters. Alternatively relax on the sundeck to take in the beautiful scenery.

DAY 6: PRINCE REGENT RIVER, KING CASCADE, CATHEDRAL FALLS
Early morning we cruise through St George Basin, a stunning inland sea. Leaving the vista of the mighty Mt Trafalgar and Mt Waterloo, we cruise up the Prince Regent River, marvelling at the pristine waterway that cuts through sandstone cliffs and gorges. Arriving at the spring- fed King Cascade, admire the rush of water cascading in breathtaking tiers, surrounded by lush ferns and a myriad of wildlife. Climb above the falls for an unforgettable swim in a massive crystal clear pool. Be rewarded with a breathtaking view over the magnificent Prince Regent River in the distance – wilderness adventuring at its best! Late afternoon join our guides for an excursion to Cathedral Falls, while spotting crocodiles and flying foxes. Alternatively fish the Prince Regent River which is renowned for big barra and Threadfin Salmon.

DAY 7: CAREENING BAY, BIGGE ISLAND
Visit Careening Bay, site of an ancient carved boab tree first visited in 1820 by Phillip Parker King while on a hydrographic survey of the Australian coastline. Next we cruise north to Bigge Island, one of the largest sandstone islands and home to amazing Bradshaw art and Wandjina art with a maritime theme. As we continue our journey, witness the rugged terrain and ancient weathered rocks from the vessel while cruising towards the Mitchell River.

DAY 8: MITCHELL RIVER, SURVEYORS CREEK
We are now entering the incredible assortment of islands that form the Bonaparte Archipelago. Cruise to the Mitchell River, source of the magnificent Mitchell Falls, where you can charter a helicopter and take an exhilarating ride over the falls themselves. Drop a lure in later and perfect your fishing skills in these rich waters or go crocodile spotting. Late afternoon enjoy a swim in the cool tranquil waters of Surveyors Creek.

DAY 9: VANSITTART BAY, WWII DC3 CRASH SITE
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 visit the crash site of a DC3 aircraft, located on the eastern side of Vansittart Bay.

DAY 10: DRYSDALE RIVER
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.

DAY 11: GLYCOSMIS FALLS, PANGALI COVE, KOOLAMA BAY
Early morning we cruise around Cape Londonderry, the most northerly point of Western Australia. We then visit Glycosmis Falls to view a unbelievable Kimberley waterfall before witnessing the survivors’ camp at Pangali Cove where you can enjoy a freshwater dip beneath a waterfall. In the afternoon we 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.

DAY 12: KING GEORGE RIVER
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.

DAY 13: BERKELEY RIVER, CAMBRIDGE GULF
Early morning we cruise up the Berkeley River, taking in the numerous waterfalls and ancient sandstone escarpments. Take an excursion with our guides to go crocodile-spotting and bird watching or try your luck at fishing. 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 Barramundi which are lurking in the rapids, or alternatively walk to a freshwater pool to enjoy a relaxing dip. Savour your last evening under the Kimberley skies as we cruise towards Cambridge Gulf, journeying through the night towards the townsite of Wyndham.

DAY 14: WYNDHAM PORT, KUNUNURRA
Arrive into Wyndham Port early morning. Enjoy your last breakfast on board before saying goodbye to the crew of the Kimberley Quest II. Board a courtesy coach at 7.30am for transfer to Kununurra (100km), arriving at approximately 9.00am.

DAY 2: BERKELEY RIVER
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.

DAY 3: KING GEORGE RIVER
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.

DAY 4: KOOLAMA BAY, PANGALI COVE, GLYCOSMIS FALLS
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.

DAY 5: DRYSDALE RIVER
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.

DAY 6: NAPIER BROOME BAY
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.

DAY 7: VANSITTART BAY, WWII DC3 CRASH SITE
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.

DAY 8: MITCHELL RIVER, BROOME
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.

AABH can add on your additional accommodation to this cruise package.

This is only a suggested itinerary. The remote Kimberley region experiences large tidal movements which can affect our itinerary. We may need to vary this from time to time, however, no matter the tides, we always visit the spectacular icons of this region. There will be plenty of land and sightseeing excursions to many untouched places, and opportunities to catch fresh fish for the table. Please note scenic helicopter flights are available on request.

DAY 2: BUCCANEER ARCHIPELAGO, DUGONG BAY, TALBOT BAY
This morning will find us crossing the vast King Sound, cruising through the thousands of islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago. In and around Dugong Bay, we take a scenic tender excursion and cool off with a refreshing swim in one of the freshwater pools. Around the corner lies Talbot Bay, home to one of the icons of the Kimberley coast, the spectacular Horizontal Falls. Take a tender and head in for an up-close and exhilarating ride through this natural phenomenon. In the afternoon take a scenic excursion up the back of Cyclone Creek to marvel at the amazing rock formations.

DAY 3: COLLIER BAY, MONTGOMERY REEF, RED CONE CREEK
Early morning we take you fishing in Collier Bay, your first chance to catch a Barramundi. We then cruise to the amazing Montgomery Reef, which covers more than 300km2, making it Australia’s largest inshore reef. Watch as the tide falls right before your eyes, creating a spectacular waterfall effect. Take a tender ride to view many marine species, including turtles and sea birds. Enjoy an afternoon cruise to Red Cone Creek for a refreshing swim at Ruby Falls or try your luck at mud crabbing.

DAY 4: DOUBTFUL BAY, SALE RIVER, RAFT POINT
This morning we fish the inlets of Doubtful Bay for the elusive Barramundi and Threadfin Salmon. We then explore the Sale River and take an excursion upstream for a dip in the spring-fed rainforest pools, and on the journey home view ancient rock art from the tenders. In the afternoon we cruise towards Steep Island, anchor below Raft Point and walk to the caves perched on the hill. Here is some of the finest well-preserved Wandjina art in the Kimberley. From the top we have an amazing view of the Kimberley coast as the sun begins to set, capturing this unique landscape at its best.

DAY 5: KURI BAY, CAMDEN HARBOUR
Relax on board as we cruise past Augustus Island and the remote pearling settlement of Kuri Bay. At nearby Camden Harbour, we visit the forlorn settler’s graves on Sheep Island and soak up the history of the first European settlement in the 1860s.In the afternoon take a tender excursion for a spot of exploration. Have a go at fishing or collect rock oysters, before unwinding on the sundeck to take in the beautiful scenery.

DAY 6: PRINCE REGENT RIVER, KING CASCADE, CATHEDRAL FALLS
Early morning we cruise through St George Basin, a stunning inland sea. Leaving the vista of mighty Mt Trafalgar and Mt Waterloo, we cruise up the Prince Regent River, marvelling at the pristine waterway that cuts through sandstone cliffs and gorges. Arriving at King Cascade, which is spring fed, marvel at the rush of water cascading in breathtaking tiers, surrounded by lush ferns and a myriad of wildlife. Climb above the falls for an unforgettable swim in a massive crystal clear pool. Be rewarded with a breathtaking view over the magnificent Prince Regent River in the distance – wilderness adventuring at its best! Late afternoon join our guides for an excursion to Cathedral Falls, while spotting crocodiles and flying foxes. Alternatively fish the Prince Regent River which is renowned for big Barra and Threadfin Salmon.

DAY 7: PRINCE REGENT RIVER, CAMP CREEK, CAREENING BAY
Wake early morning for your last chance to catch a Barra in the rich waters of the Prince Regent River. Visit Camp Creek, a beautiful waterway lined with weeping paperbarks where you can enjoy a walk to the top of the falls for another memorable swim. In the afternoon we cruise out of the Prince Regent River and visit Careening Bay, site of an ancient boab tree first visited in 1820 by Phillip Parker King. Relax on board to another spectacular sunset as the sun sinks below the Kimberley horizon, while we cross Prince Frederick Harbour towards the Hunter River.

DAY 8: HUNTER RIVER
In the morning we explore the spectacular Hunter River, one of the most scenic rivers for a relaxing ride in the tenders as we spot ancient rock art, crocodiles and flying foxes, taking in the flora and fauna of the Kimberley 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 or airport.

This is only a suggested itinerary. The remote Kimberley region experiences large tidal movements which can affect our itinerary. We may need to vary this from time to time, however, no matter the tides, we always visit the spectacular icons of this region. There will be plenty of land and sightseeing excursions to many untouched places, and opportunities to catch fresh fish for the table. Please note scenic helicopter flights are available on request.

DAY 2: BUCCANEER ARCHIPELAGO, DUGONG BAY, TALBOT BAY
This morning will find us crossing the vast King Sound, cruising through the thousands of islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago. In and around Dugong Bay, we take a scenic tender excursion and cool off with a refreshing swim in one of the freshwater pools. Around the corner lies Talbot Bay, home to one of the icons of the Kimberley coast, the spectacular Horizontal Falls. Take a tender and head in for an up-close and exhilarating ride through this natural phenomenon. In the afternoon we take a scenic excursion up the back of Cyclone Creek to marvel at the amazing rock formations.

DAY 3: SURPRISE FALLS, SECURE BAY
Mid-morning you will visit Surprise Falls for a refreshing swim. Then enter Secure Bay and watch the incredible tidal movements as we cruise through many spectacular whirlpools. Take a scenic tender excursion to witness the colours of ancient sandstone cliffs and the stunning Kimberley Rose. Late afternoon get your first taste of fishing for Giant Trevally, mackerel, tuna and queenfish.

DAY 4: MONTGOMERY REEF, SALE RIVER & RAFT POINT
Today we cruise to the amazing Montgomery Reef which covers more than 300km2, making it Australia’s largest inshore reef. Watch as the tide falls right before your eyes, creating a spectacular waterfall effect. Take a tender ride to view many marine species, including turtles and sea birds. Later we explore the Sale River taking an excursion upstream for a dip in the spring-fed rainforest pools. On the journey home we view ancient rock art from the tenders. In the afternoon we cruise towards Steep Island, anchor below Raft Point and walk to the caves perched on the hill. Here is some of the finest well-preserved Wandjina art in the Kimberley. From the top we have an amazing view of the Kimberley Coast as the sun begins to set, capturing this unique landscape at its best.

DAY 5: DOUBTFUL BAY, RED CONE CREEK, CAMDEN SOUND
This is another day packed with adventure as we cruise towards Three Ways for Barramundi fishing and mud crabbing. Further exploration takes us to Ruby Falls, located off Red Cone Creek. Enjoy this picturesque freshwater swimming hole, filled with water lilies and smooth water-worn rocks to sit on and take in the tranquil surrounds. Marvel at the antics of infant whales as we cruise through the Humpback breeding sanctuary of Camden Sound.

DAY 6: CAMDEN HARBOUR, ROTHSAY WATER
Early morning we take you pelagic fishing or join our guides in search of Kimberley rock oysters. Afterwards visit Camden Harbour, scene of a 19th-century sheep farming fiasco by early European settlers. In this rugged setting and harsh climate, the settlement failed miserably and was abandoned after less than two years. Mid-afternoon we cruise towards Rothsay Water to take a tender excursion exploring ancient Bradshaw and Wandjina art.

DAY 7: PRINCE REGENT RIVER, KING CASCADE, CATHEDRAL FALLS
Cruising up the Prince Regent River, marvel at the pristine waterway that cuts through sandstone cliffs and gorges. We arrive at King Cascade, which is a spring-fed waterfall, surrounded by lush ferns and a myriad of wildlife. Climb above the falls for an unforgettable swim in a massive crystal clear pool. Be rewarded with a breathtaking view over the magnificent Prince Regent River in the distance – wilderness adventuring at its best! Late afternoon join our guides for an excursion to Cathedral Falls, while spotting crocodiles and flying foxes. Alternatively fish the Prince Regent River which is renowned for big Barra and Threadfin Salmon.

DAY 8: HANOVER BAY, BOOBY ISLAND
Enjoy a tender excursion around historic Hanover Bay and learn about the naming of Treachery Head and the exploits of explorer George Grey (1837). Cruise out past the scenic sandstone and basalt islands of Brunswick Bay. Marvel at the remote seabird colony of Booby Island and try your luck at pelagic fishing.

DAY 9: HEYWOOD & CHAMPAGNY ISLANDS
Spend the day exploring the spectacular crystal clear beaches of Heywood and Champagny Islands. Visit a historic secret radar base from World War II, which is a truly fascinating heritage site. The final leg of your journey takes you towards Cape Leveque as you savour your last evening on board enjoying the sunset and marvelling at the spectacular Humpback Whales.

DAY 10: CYGNET BAY, BROOME
This morning enjoy your last breakfast on board, then wave goodbye to the crew of the Kimberley Quest II before boarding a scenic flight back to Broome. On arrival ( approximately 12.00pm) in Broome a courtesy vehicle will transfer you to your accommodation. Australia and Beyond Holidays is able to offer pre and post accommodation and experiences. Reverse itinerary follows the same route.

This is only a suggested itinerary. The remote Kimberley region experiences large tidal movements which can affect our itinerary. We may need to vary this from time to time, however, no matter the tides, we always visit the spectacular icons of this region. There will be plenty of land and sightseeing excursions to many untouched places, and opportunities to catch fresh fish for the table. Please note scenic helicopter flights are available on request.

DAY 2: TALBOT BAY, DUGONG BAY & KINGFISHER ISLANDS
This morning will find us exploring Talbot Bay, home to one of the icons of the Kimberley coast; the spectacular Horizontal Falls. Take an exhilarating ride through this natural phenomenon and wonder at the amazing rock formations of Cyclone Creek. In and around Dugong Bay, we take a scenic tender excursion and cool off with a refreshing swim in one of the freshwater pools. Later in the day you will have your first taste of fishing for Giant Trevally, Mackerel, Tuna and Queenfish at the Kingfisher Islands.

DAY 3: MONTGOMERY REEF, STRICKLAND BAY
This morning, we cruise towards the amazing Montgomery Reef, which covers more than 300km2, making it Australia’s largest inshore reef. Watch as the tide falls right before your eyes, creating a spectacular waterfall effect. Take a tender ride to view many marine species, including turtles and sea birds. Later we explore Strickland Bay visiting old pearlers graves and joining our guides in search of Threadfin Salmon and other species. Before unwinding on the sun deck capturing one last sunset aboard Kimberley Quest II.

DAY 4 : CYGNET BAY – BROOME
Today, after one last breakfast, we disembark Kimberley Quest II. Followed by a Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm tour, offering you a rare glimpse into the life of an operational pearl farm. This experience will leave you with a deeper understanding of what makes this place unique! Here we wave goodbye with a transfer back to Broome. On arrival you will be transferred to your chosen accommodation.

This is only a suggested itinerary. The remote Kimberley region experiences large tidal movements which can affect our itinerary. We may need to vary this from time to time, however, no matter the tides, we always visit the spectacular icons of this region. There will be plenty of land and sightseeing excursions to many untouched places, and opportunities to catch fresh fish for the table. Please note scenic helicopter flights are available on request.