Travel & Leisure Facts and Notes

Tourists have been enjoying the Kimberley Region of Australia’s northwest for years, and the nearly one thousand rocky islands just off its coast. Their bays, secluded beaches, rainforests and mangroves are best explored by boat, and offer plenty of opportunities to see the sights and more.

You can find a cruise to go with any interest, from birdwatching, photography and beach combing to hiking and fishing. Take a longer trip if you’d like to swim in some of the area’s beautiful waters, teaming with fish, turtles and other wildlife, or do some island exploration.

See whales, sharks, birds and saltwater crocodiles from a distance, check out Strickland Bay’s amazing eroded rocks, Hidden Island’s fantastic pure white beach, and Kooland Island’s iron mine.

Other features you might see on one of these tours include majestic waterfalls, Aboriginal art, working pearl farms and more. You’ll get the chance to fish near coral reefs and collect oysters, with some cruises offering the option of the day’s catch for your meal.

Check out the Horizontal Falls at Talbot Bay - a real horizontal waterfall that’s caused by the way the tide goes through a passage in the cliffs. The gap is so narrow that the water builds up faster on one side than it can pass through, making a difference of four to six meters in the water level, and causing a waterfall to flow between the bays.

Some have described these falls as one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. However, you should remember to see them under the safe circumstances of a cruise, since extreme water conditions have caused many fatalities among sailors and pearl divers through the years.

Fortunately, it’s safe if you travel with someone who knows what they’re doing, and boats even pass through the horizontal waterfall, if you’re looking for a thrill. Want to see the spectacular sight without getting wet? Consider a helicopter or seaplane ride instead.

If you want to make sure you have plenty of time on the islands, choose cruises that do most of the distance travel at night. You should also pay close attention to what’s included - you may have to pay extra for snacks, meals, snorkeling gear and fishing tackle on some cruises, while other include them in the basic fee.

The right clothing is vital to an Australian adventure cruise - bring light weight clothes to stay cool, a wide hat and good shoes for walking that will survive getting wet. Add in insect repellent, sunscreen, and don’t forget the camera.

Most tours travel during the dry season, between April and November, but some run during the wet season, due to the many locations for shelter if the weather becomes rougher. Choose your cruise time according to what sights you want to see and the kind of weather you’re willing to put up with.

Kimberley adventure cruises are a great choice for anyone who’s looking for fun. Pick a cruise that lasts long enough to let you see it all, and get all cruise details before you leave, so you’ll have a great time.