Tropical Expedition 
No single supplement 
Superior Stateroom
15% Ponant Bonus
226 ft²
3
Australia's Iconic Kimberley
Broome - Darwin
Dates:
8/8/2023
to
8/18/2023
Other available dates
days
nights on board
TRANSFER TO THE PIER OF BROOME
Set sail for the wild and grandiose landscapes of Kimberley, following this exceptional PONANT itinerary.
From Broome to Darwin, embark for an 11-day expedition cruise.
In one of the most picturesque parts of the region, the Hunter River, you will see wild mangrove forests where saltwater crocodiles live along with many species of birds.
The highpoint of this cruise will undoubtedly be the discovery of the King George River and the majestic Twin Falls, the highest falls in Western Australia.
You will also visit Collier Bay, where you will be able to admire the Montgomery Reef, home to vast expanses of lagoons and immense coral reefs.
Your ship will take you along one of the most spectacular coasts in the entire region.
With their falls, abrupt gorges, savannah, calm waters and desolate mountain chains, the wild lands of Kimberley are the promise of an exceptional adventure.
This itinerary is given as an indication only. Based on tide times and weather conditions, the Captain and the Expedition Leader may need to switch the order of certain ports of call around to ensure guests have the best possible experience.
Ref : BD554 - SO080823
Your itinerary
Join our highly qualified local expedition team Enjoy regular Zodiac® outings & shore visits to get close to Kimberley nature Discover billions of years-old landscapes & ancient rock art Listen to stories of...
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Your trip in detail
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Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Included in your cruise
For more peace of mind, PONANT organizes your trip before or after the cruise. This package is included in the price of your cruise.
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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LE CHAMPLAIN
7/24/2023 to the 8/2/2023
LE BORÉAL
- New
- Last staterooms
LE PONANT
- New
- Last staterooms
LE PONANT
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24h room service
- Inclusive Internet access Wi-Fi (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar included
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Three ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Expedition programmes include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landings"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to isolated regions is an exhilarating experience. In remote areas, please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- Cotton comfortable and light-weight shorts/bermuda shorts
- Light weight long trousers
- Long-sleeved breathable SPF50+ shirts
- Cotton short sleeved T-shirt
- Aquatic UV long-sleeved T-shirt for sun protection during snorkeling or swimming
- Aquatic non-slip sandals
- Windproof, waterproof and breathable outer layer
- Broad brimmed anti-UV hat with strap and veil to protect the neck
- Comfortable walking shoes
Accessories:
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Sunscreen and after-sun with high SPF index & insect repellent
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
Please note:
During your visits to some local communities, all guests will be required to dress respectfully. Ladies must have their shoulders and thighs covered. Gentlemen should have their shoulders covered also.
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
TECHNICAL OUTFITS:
- Shorts / bermudas
- Light weight long trousers
- Wind and waterproof light “breathable” outer layer
- Sweater/pullover for the evening
- Short and long sleeved cotton shirts
- Waterproof UV long sleeved T-shirt
- Long sleeved cotton shirt for sun protection during zodiac excursions and excursions ashore
- Ankle canvas shoes (which dry quickly and protect ankles)
- Aquatic shoes for wet landings on shore
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses with high UV filter
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Sun portective hat/cap with strap and veil to protect the neck
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Mosquito and insect repellent
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- Join our highly qualified local expedition team
- Enjoy regular Zodiac® outings & shore visits to get close to Kimberley nature
- Discover billions of years-old landscapes & ancient rock art
- Listen to stories of the dreamtime from the oldest continuous culture on the planet
- Explore pristine mangrove environments, home to the world’s largest living reptile
- Possibility to reach the Mitchell Falls by helicopter, from Hunter River.
- Witness unique tidal phenomena such as the Horizontal Falls
Ports of Call & Excursions
August 8, 2023 - Broome
Embarkation 8/8/2023 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Departure 8/8/2023 at 8:00 PM
Located in the northwest of the Kimberley region and in the far north of Western Australia, the town of Broome is reputed for its history and its glorious pearling era. The fascinating Chinatown district, which is the historic city centre, and the famous Japanese Cemetery, dates back to 1896, and has a past marked by the immigration of numerous Chinese and Japanese workers, attracted by the prosperous pearl industry at the end of the 19th century and at the beginning of the 20th century. Broome is also famous for the “Staircase to the Moon”, an optical illusion created by the Moon reflecting on the sand banks at low tide, like a staircase climbing up towards the sky, a unique spectacle provided by nature…
August 9, 2023 - Lacepede Islands
Arrival 8/9/2023
Departure 8/9/2023
The Lacepede Islands are Western Australia’s most important breeding habitat for Green Turtles (Chelonia mydas), and have been named by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area (IBA). The breeding colony of Brown Boobies is possibly the largest in the world. Up to 20,000 Roseate Terns have also been recorded here. Other birds breeding on the islands include Masked Boobies, Australian Pelicans, Lesser Frigatebirds, Eastern Reef Egrets, Silver Gulls, Crested, Bridled and Lesser Crested Terns, Common Noddies, Pied and Sooty Oystercatchers. Join your expedition team for a guided zodiac tour to view the prolific wildlife. Due to the sensitive nature of the environment, landings are prohibited on the Lacepede Islands.
August 10, 2023 August 11, 2023 - Collier Bay
Arrival 8/10/2023
Departure 8/11/2023
Lying to the east of the Buccaneer archipelago, the ancient landscapes of Collier Bay have been shaped by the massive tidal movements the region is renowned for, creating a photographer’s paradise. With a tidal range exceeding 14 metres, recorded near Yule entrance at the southern end of the bay, they are among the largest in the world. This massive daily movement of water creates unique phenomena that occur nowhere else in the world. Nestled in the centre of the Bay is Montgomery Reef, the world’s largest inshore reef system. As the tide falls a raging torrent of water cascades off the top of the reef, creating turbulent ‘rivers’ and mini waterfalls. At the Southern end of the Bay, Talbot Bay is home to the world’s only ’Horizontal Falls’ described by Sir David Attenborough as “One of the greatest wonders of the natural world.” Hidden in the many caves and grottos of this ancient landscape are a multitude of ancient Rock Art galleries. Here you can find spectacular examples of the Wandjina and Gwion Gwion styles.
As we are at the mercy of weather and tide conditions in this region, the activities mentioned above are only possible experiences and can’t be guaranteed.
August 12, 2023 - Careening Bay
Arrival 8/12/2023
Departure 8/12/2023
Careening Bay was named by Lieutenant Phillip Parker King after his ship, HMC Mermaid, was careened there during his third voyage of discovery in 1820. King surveyed the western coast to complete the map initiated by Flinders 20 years earlier. The Mermaid had been leaking badly and King needed to find a shallow sandy bay where he could careen his boat to undertake repairs. At a high tide, on a warm September afternoon, he ran the Mermaid onto the sands. For ten days the Mermaid crew worked hard before refloating the vessel. The ship’s carpenter carved the name of the vessel and the year into a conspicuous boab tree. The famous boab tree is now 3 metres wide and National Heritage listed. A reminder of a by gone era of exploration!
August 13, 2023 - Hunter River
Arrival 8/13/2023
Departure 8/13/2023
Arguably one of the most scenic parts of the Kimberley coast, Prince Frederick Harbour and the Hunter River are lined with ancient rainforest pockets, pristine mangroves and mosaic sandstone cliffs. They are considered to be some of the most pristine mangrove forests in the world, containing up to 18 different species, supporting a rich and diverse fauna. The sandstone escarpment at the river mouth, known as “Kampamantiya” rises over 200 metres high before giving way to extensive mud banks and mangrove forests home to numerous bird species and the iconic saltwater crocodile. Our expert Expedition Team will share their knowledge with you as you explore this pristine mangrove environment by zodiac keeping a constant lookout for wildlife. You will also have the opportunity to reach the Mitchell Falls by helicopter from Naturalist Island beach.
August 14, 2023 - Swift Bay
Arrival 8/14/2023
Departure 8/14/2023
The Bonaparte Archipelago, is a stunningly rugged maze of islands stretching almost 150 km along Western Australia's remote Kimberley coast. Its colour and scale conspire to take ones’ breath away. Its distant location has meant it has remained an unspoilt and remarkably pristine location to explore and experience. Phillip Parker King named “Swift's bay" after Jonathon Swift (1667-1745) the author of Gulliver’s travels. The ‘T’ shaped bay is composed of heavily fractured sandstone providing an abundance of rock shelters. On the walls of these shelters are examples of both Wandjina and Gwion Gwion style rock art. Join your expedition team ashore for a guided walk to a number of rock art galleries depicting these unique rock art styles.
August 15, 2023 - Vansittart Bay
Arrival 8/15/2023
Departure 8/15/2023
Jar Island contains ancient rock art galleries depicting the Gwion Gwion style unique to the Kimberley region. Mainly neglected by, or unknown to, the early European researchers of Aboriginal culture in the Kimberley in favour of the dominant and more dramatic Wandjina art, Gwion Gwion art has in recent years gained world prominence. It is generally thought that this art may extend back to over 30,000 years before our time and represents the first wave of seagoing colonisers of the Australian continent. As it is, these are the oldest detailed depiction of human figures in the world. Join your Expedition Team ashore for a short walk, past some fascinating rock formations, to the site of the Gwion Gwion art galleries.
August 16, 2023 - King George River
Arrival 8/16/2023
Departure 8/16/2023
The journey up the King George River is nothing short of breathtaking. The 80-metre-high sides of the gorge display varying degrees of weathering of the ancient Warton sandstone. The colours and textures of the gorge change with the light as you travel further up the river creating a continual changing scenery that is simply stunning. The journey culminates at the King George twin falls; the highest single-drop falls in the whole of the Kimberley (80 m or 260 ft). Fed by wet season run-off the level of water cascading over the falls varies from year to year. Your Expedition Team will escort you in either the zodiacs or ships tenders to the foot of the twin falls, and explain all about the stunning geological formations of the canyon.
August 17, 2023 - At sea
Arrival 8/17/2023
Departure 8/17/2023
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
August 18, 2023 - Darwin
Arrival 8/18/2023 early morning
Disembarkation 8/18/2023 at 7:00 AM
Darwin is located in Australia’s Northern Territory which is also known as the “Top End”. It is the capital city and the most populated town of the Northern Territory. Darwin is a beautiful tropical city, a melting pot of people and cultures, over 50 different cultures live and work side by side that prides itself in its unique and friendly laid-back lifestyle. Come discover the town’s still recent history through its emblematic buildings such as the new Parliamant House opened in 1994, a magnificent example of tropical architecture or Admiralty House declared heritage place, a tropical-style home elevated on stilts that has survived two cyclones and numerous air raids.
Mitchell Falls helicopter flight & landing
This optional tour must be prebooked at least 90 days prior to your voyage, your shipboard account will be charged automatically. Cancellation made within 21 days are non-refundable. Any reservation made after this deadline will be confirmed on-board based on availability. A minimum of participants must be booked in order to operate this tour.
Today your ship will be anchored in Prince Frederick Harbour and our fleet of zodiac will be exploring the lower reaches of the Hunter River. The Mitchell Falls are on the Mitchell River and the only way to see them is to take the scenic helicopter flight and landing at the falls.
After a short zodiac ride to a wet landing on Naturalist Island you will be given a safety briefing by the helicopter pilot. The pilot will allocate each guest a seat in the helicopter.
After taking off from the beach enjoy a 20-minute flight to the stunning Mitchell Plateau. Your experienced pilots will keep you informed about one of the most scenic and biologically important areas of Western Australia.
You will land next to the falls where you will have approximately fifty minutes to explore the area before your return flight. You will be unaccompanied in a stunning yet rugged and very remote area, with uneven rocky surfaces and little shade from the sun. From the landing site, it is a short 10-minute walk to some great spots to photograph the quadruple drops of Mitchell Falls. You may even have time for a refreshing swim in the river, well above the saltwater crocodile habitats the Kimberley is renowned for.
After your time on the plateau you will have another opportunity to view the vast expanse of the Kimberley region from the air as the skilled pilots take you along a different route for the return 20-minute flight to Naturalists Island.
- A minimum of 12 participants is required to confirm this tour. Helicopter type is determined by the local operator and varies from Jet Ranger (1 seat in front and 3 seats forward-facing in the back) or Long Ranger (1 seat in front and 2 forward facing + 2 rear facing in the back). Helicopter loading and seat position is determined on a weight basis by the pilots. For better photographic opportunities, the rear doors of the helicopters are removed for the flights. A good level of mobility and fitness is required to alight the aircraft and walk around the plateau to view the falls. Please note that you will be unaccompanied in a stunning yet rugged and very remote area, with uneven rocky surfaces and little shade from the sun. It is possible to take the scenic helicopter flight as well as the included zodiac tour organised by the ship.
Total : €590
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Soléal
Like Le Boréal and L’Austral, the two sister ships that preceded it, Le Soléal further reaffirms PONANT's signature approach: to take passengers to the farthest reaches of the planet onboard five-star ships offering top-of-the-range services.
An elegant appearance and refined interior design combine with cutting-edge technology to offer a new type of cruising: adventure in a luxury setting.
Up to 264 Guests
132 staterooms & suites
145 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
TRANSFER TO THE PIER OF BROOME
For your serenity, a transfer to the ship is organised on the day of embarkation and this is included in your cruise fare.
Embarkation day – Broome
In Broome, the meeting point for embarkation is at the Mangrove Hotel, 47 Carnarvon St, Broome.
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For guests arriving at the airport on the day of embarkation, you will be transferred to the Mangrove Hotel. Upon airport arrival, please make yourself known to the Broome Transit Desk to arrange your “shuttle bus” transfer to the Mangrove Hotel. The Broome Transit Desk is located in the arrival’s hall, next to the carousel.
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For guests who booked a PONANT pre-cruise package at the Kimberley Sands, your transfer to the Mangrove Hotel will be at 10.30am.
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For guests who have booked their own Broome accommodation, please ensure you arrive at the Mangrove Hotel, no later than 3pm for your transfer to the ship.
At the Mangrove Hotel, all guests can enjoy some leisure time around the property or enjoy Broome City until the transfer to the ship at 3pm.
– Cruise onboard your ship –
Please note:
-
To anticipate your bus transfer before embarkation, your travel agent will need to advise PONANT of your flight arrival details.
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If you are arriving into Australia on an international flight, please note that you will need to clear immigration, pick up your luggage and check them in again at the domestic terminal for your connecting flight into Broome.
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Local English-speaking assistance services will be provided.
This programme is subject to change.
Tropical Expedition
Explore the planet’s most remote tropical regions during a PONANT expedition cruise. In the heart of Oceania’s archipelagos or the Indian Ocean atolls, along the wild coastlines of Central America or Australia, our luxury amenities and services will make your expedition cruise an unforgettable experience. Our expedition leaders and their teams of naturalist guides devise exceptional itineraries and organise daily outings, shore visits in Zodiac® dinghies, or snorkelling when the cruises are conducive to it, to take you as close as possible to nature. Aboard the ship, they share their knowledge during lectures on a variety of topics such as the fauna and flora, the history of the great explorations, geology and climatology. On land, using the local transport options or during hikes, discover the must-see natural sites and, for a few hours, partake in the life and ancestral customs of the local populations.
No single supplement
FREE SINGLE SUPPLEMENT *
*The supplement for single usage of a double cabin is waived, according to availability and staterooms categories.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
OVERNIGHT IN BROOME (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Broome
Meet at Broome Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off your own flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Kimberley Sands 4*.
Official check-in time is 2pm.
Your luggage can be stored at the hotel before check-in.
The afternoon and dinner are at leisure.
Day 2 - Broome
Morning is at leisure.
Your transfer to the meeting point for embarkation will be at 10.30am. You will then enjoy some leisure time until the transfer to the ship at 3pm.
Embarkation on board your ship.
Your hotel:
Located in a peaceful bush setting just minutes from the turquoise blue waters and white sands of iconic Cable Beach, the Kimberley Sands offers elegant rooms designed to capture light and the Indian Ocean breezes. The hotel allows guests to relax and dine at the Sands Restaurant and Bar overlooking the Maxima Pool.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
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1-night accommodation in Garden view room at the Kimberley Sands 4*, local standards (or similar) including breakfast.
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Transfers as mentioned in the programme.
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The services of a local guide on the group transfer.
Your programme does not include:
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Dinner on Day 1.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
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Early check-in and/or late check-out are available depending on availability and at a supplement.
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An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please, contact your travel agent for further detail.
Contact of your hotel:
Kimberley Sands Resort
10 Murray Road, Cable Beach
Broome, Australia
Telephone: +61 8 9193 8300
To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $250
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
Mitchell Falls helicopter flight & landing
This optional tour must be prebooked at least 90 days prior to your voyage, your shipboard account will be charged automatically. Cancellation made within 21 days are non-refundable. Any reservation made after this deadline will be confirmed on-board based on availability. A minimum of participants must be booked in order to operate this tour.
Today your ship will be anchored in Prince Frederick Harbour and our fleet of zodiac will be exploring the lower reaches of the Hunter River. The Mitchell Falls are on the Mitchell River and the only way to see them is to take the scenic helicopter flight and landing at the falls.
After a short zodiac ride to a wet landing on Naturalist Island you will be given a safety briefing by the helicopter pilot. The pilot will allocate each guest a seat in the helicopter.
After taking off from the beach enjoy a 20-minute flight to the stunning Mitchell Plateau. Your experienced pilots will keep you informed about one of the most scenic and biologically important areas of Western Australia.
You will land next to the falls where you will have approximately fifty minutes to explore the area before your return flight. You will be unaccompanied in a stunning yet rugged and very remote area, with uneven rocky surfaces and little shade from the sun. From the landing site, it is a short 10-minute walk to some great spots to photograph the quadruple drops of Mitchell Falls. You may even have time for a refreshing swim in the river, well above the saltwater crocodile habitats the Kimberley is renowned for.
After your time on the plateau you will have another opportunity to view the vast expanse of the Kimberley region from the air as the skilled pilots take you along a different route for the return 20-minute flight to Naturalists Island.
- A minimum of 12 participants is required to confirm this tour. Helicopter type is determined by the local operator and varies from Jet Ranger (1 seat in front and 3 seats forward-facing in the back) or Long Ranger (1 seat in front and 2 forward facing + 2 rear facing in the back). Helicopter loading and seat position is determined on a weight basis by the pilots. For better photographic opportunities, the rear doors of the helicopters are removed for the flights. A good level of mobility and fitness is required to alight the aircraft and walk around the plateau to view the falls. Please note that you will be unaccompanied in a stunning yet rugged and very remote area, with uneven rocky surfaces and little shade from the sun. It is possible to take the scenic helicopter flight as well as the included zodiac tour organised by the ship.
Total : €590
According to availability, price per passenger.