Explore Untamed Beauty: Ponant's Kimberley Expedition

Day 1 - Broome

Broome, Western Australia, Australia: Traffic in the bustling Broome Harbour is tightly regulated, necessitating special permits for all vehicles accessing the pier area. As such, guests are not permitted to enter on an individual basis. To ensure a smooth departure, Silversea offers a group motorcoach transfer from the pier to the airport. This transfer will occur shortly after the ship receives clearance, and the exact timings will be communicated by the ship's crew. Guests who prefer not to go directly to the airport will be transported to Pearl Luggers, located 10 to 15 minutes from the airport, where taxis are readily available for hire.

Day 2 - Lacepede Islands

Lacepede Islands, Western Australia, Australia: The Lacepede Islands, a group of four, are beautifully situated off the Kimberley coast. These islands are crucial to Australia’s rich wildlife, serving as key breeding grounds for Green Turtles and home to a variety of birds, including Masked Boobies, Australian Pelicans, Lesser Frigatebirds, and the world's largest colony of Brown Boobies. Join the expedition team for a guided zodiac tour to witness this abundant wildlife. Due to the sensitive environment, landings on the Lacepede Islands are strictly prohibited.

Day 3 - Collier Bay

Collier Bay, Western Australia, Australia: Located on the rugged and remote coast of the Kimberley, accessible only by ship, Collier Bay features one of the largest tidal movements globally. This creates unique phenomena such as the “Horizontal Waterfalls” – a waterfall reaching up to 4m through the narrow cliffs of Talbot Bay. The Montgomery Reef provides a spectacular view of cascading mini-waterfalls as the reef appears to rise dramatically from the turquoise waters. The reef is Australia’s largest inshore reef, with seagrass beds and vibrant corals. Venturing into this breathtaking landscape takes visitors into an area rich with Aboriginal history. After a hike, visitors can admire open-air painted caves depicting myths of creation. Activities are subject to weather and tide conditions.

Day 4 - Collier Bay

Collier Bay, Western Australia, Australia: The marvels of Collier Bay continue with its impressive tidal phenomena, offering the spectacle of waterfalls and the vibrant Montgomery Reef. Visitors can immerse themselves in Aboriginal culture by exploring the remarkable painted caves, revealing ancient creation stories. Because the region is subject to the whims of weather and tides, activities may vary.

Day 5 - Careening Bay

Careening Bay, Western Australia, Australia: Named by Lieutenant Phillip Parker King during his 1820 expedition to repair the leaking HMC Mermaid, Careening Bay is historically significant. After using the bay to careen the vessel and carry out repairs, the ship’s carpenter etched the vessel's name and the year into a prominent boab tree—now a National Heritage listed site, the tree stands at 3 metres wide.

Day 6 - Hunter River & Mitchell Falls

Hunter River & Mitchell Falls, Western Australia, Australia: This day offers an awe-inspiring experience as you journey through the tranquil waters of the Hunter River. The expedition includes a visit to the breathtaking Mitchell Falls, where cascading waters offer the perfect backdrop for exploration and adventure in the heart of the Kimberley.

Day 7 - Swift Bay

Swift Bay, Western Australia, Australia: The Bonaparte Archipelago is a rugged labyrinth of islands stretching nearly 150km along the Kimberley coast. Swift Bay remains unblemished, a sanctuary of fractured sandstone creating natural rock shelters adorned with Wandjina and Gwion Gwion style rock art. The expedition team will guide you onshore to explore these unique art styles in situ.

Day 8 - Vansittart Bay

Vansittart Bay, Western Australia, Australia: Vansittart Bay is a sheltered expanse dotted with islands and coves. Jar Island hosts ancient rock art galleries featuring the distinctive Gwion Gwion style, native to the Kimberley. Overlooked by early European researchers in favour of Wandjina art, Gwion Gwion has achieved global recognition. An expedition team will escort you on a walk past intriguing rock formations to these historic galleries.

Day 9 - Tranquil Bay

Tranquil Bay, Western Australia, Australia: Tucked away in Western Australia, Tranquil Bay offers a serene escape with its calm waters and untouched natural beauty. It serves as an excellent spot for relaxation and reflection. Discover the quiet charm of this hidden gem while enjoying the shades of rich burgundy during sunset.

Day 10 - Bucolic Creeks

Bucolic Creeks, Northern Territory, Australia: Discover calm serenity amid the rustic settings of Bucolic Creeks. Wander through scenic landscapes rich in flora and fauna, providing visual delight and a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty.

Day 11 - Darwin

Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia: Darwin, Australia's most vibrant and exotic capital, is encircled by the turquoise waters of the Timor Sea. The city is a relaxing blend of tropical allure and resilient outback culture. With its intimate proximity to Southeast Asia and multicultural populace, Darwin offers a distinctly different atmosphere from the rest of Australia. A rich history of overcoming adversity has crafted a city that now flourishes as a hub for administration and commerce, providing the ideal launching point for exploring Australia's Top End, including the wonders of Kakadu and the Kimberley region.