Guide to Cruising the Kimberley

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. Choose from shorter, seven-day cruises, longer 14-day events or specialist expeditions focusing on coast and coral.

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 members (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 those hard-to-reach places. There's also a spa on the front deck and wi-fi. 

Big boat comforts: Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises' newly refurbished vessel, Silver Discoverer, delivers the ultimate big boat luxury experience. 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-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. They 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. On one of these cruises and you'll be joined by no more than about 38 other passengers, ensuring intimacy and camaraderie.  

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. 

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.  

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. 

Intimate opulence: YOTSPACE superyacht voyages   

For an exclusive luxury getaway, YOTSPACE superyacht voyages’ 35-metre (115-foot) superyacht offers the perfect base to connect with the Kimberley in style. Fitted with just four ensuite cabins, both the 11 and seven-day escapes are designed to be as bespoke and intimate as you desire, allowing guests to immerse themselves in this remarkable region in peace. In between exploring, guests can enjoy the yacht’s outdoor spa, sunset cocktails and the onboard chef’s gourmet creations.