Cruise the Great Barrier Reef on our twin hulled boutique catamaran cruise ship that offers 21 cabins for a maximum of 46 guests. Our bespoke cruises take guests from Cairns to Cape York, Arnhem Land and all the remote islands and locations in between before arriving in Darwin Harbour.
Our Cape York and Arnhem Land cruise ship expedition is a fascinating tapestry that immerses keen explorers in the very best of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and remote northern coastline.
Departing 04/04/21, 18/07/21 & 03/04/22
Guests onboard will explore some of the finest locations of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, enjoy sunrise at the very ‘Tip of Australia’ at Cape York, before venturing into the remote Arnhem Land Coast and the rarely visited Tiwi Islands.
Join us aboard our ship in Cairns for a remarkable 11-night voyage of discovery to Darwin, visiting otherwise inaccessible locations and developing a rich understanding of the culture of the traditional owners of the Torres Strait and Arnhem Land.
Here, the mighty estuarine or saltwater crocodile is indeed King of the Wild and the waters of the Arafura Sea are alive with a profusion of marine and bird life.
We begin our first day aboard the ship with guests choosing to swim and snorkel in the gin clear tropical waters of the World Heritage Great Barrier Reef.
Explore the pristine coral gardens of the northern reef and tour the famous Lizard Island Research Station to learn how scientists are preserving the Reef for future generations.
Savour a glass of champagne as the sun rises over the northern ‘Tip of Australia’ on the Cape York Peninsula and discover the interesting World War II history of the Torres Strait Islands.
As our cruise ship heads West, we will venture to islands to meet cultural artisans in some of the most remote villages and renowned galleries of Australia, and meet the artists who have their paintings exhibited in the famous galleries of the world, including the Louvre in Paris.
Learn of the fascinating Macassan traders of the 17th century as we cruise the Arnhem Land coast before experiencing the friendly welcome and warm hospitality of the rarely-visited Tiwi Islanders as they share with us their ancient culture and traditional lifestyles.
Visiting both Bathurst island, you’ll gain a rich understanding of how life differs in these areas, and how the culture has evolved to work as one with nature.
A full day cruising in the remote Cobourg Peninsula also offers a myriad opportunities to spot exotic bird and marine life.
Embarkation commences at the Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal at 4:00pm for a 5:00pm departure. Enjoy dinner on board and a chance to meet your fellow travellers as we set sail northwards. Join the Captain for welcome drinks and sit down to the first of many delicious dinners.
Explore secluded Lizard Island, one of the most beautiful islands on the Queensland Coast, venture into the crystal clear waters for swimming and snorkelling or take a walk along the white sand beach, the more energetic may join our guides on a walk to ‘Cook’s Look’ on the island’s peak and the highest lookout on this part of the reef, from this high point Captain Cook was able to navigate a safe passage back through the treacherous waters after repairing the Endeavour near Cooktown over 200 years ago, a photographer’s delight, the views from the lookout over the World Heritage-listed reef and surrounding tropical islands are magnificent.
Visit Stanley Island in the Flinders Group, view the Endaen Aboriginal rock art gallery that depicts sailing ships of the last century; this is a unique art site seldom visited due to its isolated location. At Davie Reef and Cay we enjoy swimming and snorkelling and observe the large seabird rookery.
Enjoy the day exploring historic Forbes Island, its reef provides some fantastic swimming and snorkelling beachcombing and bird watching opportunities. Enjoy the tropical sunset.
Venture ashore at Cape York as the sun rises over the ‘Tip’ on Australia’s northernmost point, sip champagne and welcome the new day, anchoring at Thursday Island, learn of the history of European settlement and the large pearling fleets.
Thursday Island, or Waiben, is the hub of the Torres Strait and here we learn of the region’s pearling history. Have the privilege of visiting the remote islands of Badu or Moa, to experience cultural performances, a local meal and the remarkable art centres (Indigenous Art Itinerary only).
Visit the spectacular Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Centre. This worldclass art centre has forged a path for Yolgnu artists. View the museum’s historic collection, and browse through the remarkable art gallery of contemporary works (Indigenous Art itinerary only).
Be welcomed to country by the Yolgnu people at Galiwin’ku and Gawa communities. Gain insight into the Yolgnu culture, and meet local artists who have exhibited around the world. Cruise through the ‘Hole in the Wall’ between Raragala and Guluwuru Islands.
Anchor in the mighty Liverpool River travel ashore to explore the Maningrida Art Centre, Museum and local ’boutique’, where hand painted clothing and fabrics are offered for sale, join the Expedition Team on an Xplorer tour of the river before rejoining our small ship.
Discover the Cobourg Peninsula today, join local guides in Port Essington, famous for its failed Victoria Settlement, explore and learn about the ruins and visit the Ranger’s Interpretation Centre at Black Point.
Be welcomed to the Tiwi Islands with a smoking ceremony at Bathurst Island, dancing, and an afternoon tea of home-made damper and billy tea. Learn about the unique Tiwi culture and visit the art centre.
Arrive into Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory and gateway to the ‘Top End’.
Disembark at 8.30am.
Note:- Post Flights out of Darwin are an additional expense.
For more wonderful Great Barrier Reef Cruises see here
Cairns
This cruise only departs at 5:00pm
April
Sunday
4th April 2021
18th July 2021
3rd April 2022
11 Nights
Low, Medium
Scuba Diving Restrictions
Read more about Diving Safety on the Great Barrier Reef.
All cancellations must be in writing. Please note that all cancellations will incur an administration fee. Please see our terms and conditions for details prior to booking.
au$11,990.00
Prices are AUD, per adult and include all levies fees and taxes.
Child:
au$11,990.00
Family: au$47,960.00
Tour Code: 659