Guide to Cruising the Kimberley
There are many outstanding cruising experiences on offer in Australia's Kimberley region.
By Fleur Bainger
Two billion years of natural history are on show along the isolated Kimberley coast in Western Australia. The geology alone is mind bending, with ochre rock formations created during intense movements of the earth, twisted by time and eroded over millennia. Waterfalls blow fine mist over clifftops, giant boab trees stand like proud sentinels and Aboriginal rock art hides in the crevices. Among all this age, there's the most sought after commodity: peace, best achieved while reclining on the deck of a cruise boat. Multi-day tours, all covering roughly the same itinerary, depart from Broome, Wyndham (via Kununurra) and sometimes Darwin. April and May are generally regarded as the best times to go as the area's waterfalls are in full force after the wet season. However, any time within the cruising season (April to October) is bound to be special.
Don't miss
- Cruise the Kimberley's crystal-clear waters to see unique rock formations, steep cliffs and pounding waterfalls
- Take a helicopter ride from your cruise to the Kimberley's hard-to-reach places
- Discover the Kimberley's reefs, gorges and coastline
How to get there
The Kimberley region's major gateway is the outback beach town of Broome, located on the west side of the Kimberley. You can fly direct from Perth to Broome year round. During high season (April to October) there are also direct flights to Broome from Melbourne and Sydney. The Kimberley has a second major town on its eastern side, Kununurra, with flights direct from both Perth and Darwin.
Top cruises to do in the Kimberley
True North Adventure Cruises, The Kimberley, Western Australia © True North Adventure Cruises
Boutique luxury: True North Adventure Cruises
True North Adventure Cruises have been operating for over 30 years, offering tours that promise intimate views and up-close encounters. The multimillion-dollar vessel, True North, hosts 36 people, retaining a boutique feel while offering a five-star hotel-style experience. An on-board helicopter whisks guests over waterfalls, islands and cliff edges. There are shorter, seven-day cruises, longer, 14-day events and specialist expeditions focusing on coast and coral.
Great Escape Charter Company, Kimberley, Western Australia © The Great Escape Charter Company
Barefoot luxury: The Great Escape Charter Company
Family-owned and run, The Great Escape Charter Company has a 26 metre (85 foot) luxury catamaran that caters to just 14 guests, with six crew (including an excellent chef) attending to their every need. Each room has a queen bed, flat screen TV and private bathroom. Importantly, a helicopter sits on the roof, providing access to hard-to-reach places. There's also a spa on the front deck and wi-fi.
Silversea Cruises, the Kimberley, Northern Territory © NT Photo Silversea Cruises
Big boat comforts: Silversea Cruises
Silversea Cruises' newly refurbished vessel, Silver Discoverer, delivers the ultimate in big boat luxury. For the 120 passengers on board, all rooms have butler service and ocean views. There are lounges, a pool and poolside grill, a sundeck, two gyms and even a beauty centre. Zodiac boats ferry guests to terrestrial sites, fishing spots and narrow waterways. Helicopter excursions to places such as the four-tiered Mitchell Falls can be arranged and a flight to the Bungle Bungles is included. Historians, naturalists and geologists travel on board.
Eco Abrolhos Cruises, Kimberley, Western Australia © Eco Abrolhos
Eco adventure: Kimberley Expeditions and Eco Abrolhos
While almost all Kimberley cruises include a respectful appreciation for the environment, Kimberley Expeditions and Eco Abrolhos each offer a special focus. Both vessels are stable catamarans with shallow drafts, allowing them to nose right under waterfalls, meaning less jumping in and out of Zodiac boats to see things. Both are owned and run by passionate couples who have been in the region for years and aim to tread lightly on the extraordinary nature they visit. And both fit about 38 passengers, ensuring intimacy and camaraderie.
APT Kimberley Expedition Cruising, Kimberley, Western Australia © Graham Werner
Traditional Cruising: APT
Highly regarded touring company APT owns and operates two 'sister' expedition vessels in the Kimberley. Travel with a maximum of 100 guests and 75 on-board crew, plus an expert 10-member Expedition Team who provide valuable insights for the entirety of your cruise. Discover the reefs, coastline and remote gorges by Zodiac, inflatable boats that let you get close to the action. Plus, step ashore to explore remote locations. Benefit from the intimate on-board atmosphere while still enjoying the benefits of spacious suites, restaurants, bars, library, gym and salon. Both ships have internet access, and APT cruises include national park entrance fees, airport transfers, port charges, gratuities, all meals and select beverages while on board.
Coral Expeditions, Kimberley, Western Australia © Coral Expeditions
Ten-night highlights: Coral Expeditions
Coral Expeditions has over 23 years of experience pioneering the Kimberley region, and offers expert knowledge and Australian hospitality on their 10-day cruises. Cruising from April to September, the voyage will bring you to shallow bays, serene beaches and on exciting excursions with highly-skilled expedition leaders. The expedition leaders travel side-by-side with guests to ensure the most enriching experience while considering the local environment. With smaller ships, Coral Expeditions get you closer to the source, reaching remote destinations, observing diverse wildlife and witnessing some of the Kimberley's greatest natural wonders.
Horizontal Falls Houseboat, the Kimberley, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia
Targeted trip: Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures
If you don’t have a week or two to spare, and want to fly in and out to a specific part of the Kimberley coast, Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures may be your best bet. Following a scenic flight from Broome, its 12-person luxury houseboat departs from the fascinating Horizontal Falls and targets the thousand islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago over a four-night adventure. Helicopter excursions provide alternative views of the rocky red surfaces, and a new speedboat delivers thrilling experiences next to the remote landforms, as well as access to excellent fishing zones.
Popular itineraries
More experiences around the Kimberley
