Snapshot of our Team’s Kimberley Cruise Experiences
Some of our team members recently explored the Kimberley aboard 3 different expedition vessels, and here's a quick summary of what they discovered. Keep reading for their full insights after each cruise offering below. 
Ponant's Le Jacques Cartier
Fiona, our National Sales Manager said:
“The high teas were exceptional every day, and you really can't beat the Kimberley sunrises and sunsets. The French luxury and expert expedition team made it unforgettable.”
Coral Expeditions' Coral Adventurer
Tamika (Business Development in WA & SA): "What impressed me most was how they cater for every mobility level - everyone can participate in shore excursions. The crew knew everyone's names within days. It felt like travelling with friends."
Liz (Destination Specialist): "Watching waterfalls form at Montgomery Reef as the tide fell was pure magic. Witnessing whales double breach and standing beneath King George Falls for a 'Kimberley shower'- these moments will stay with me forever."
Ocean Dream
Vinny (Destination Specialist): “My first time to the Kimberley and they made it so special. The hospitality, service, food and locations were exceptional. Everything was perfect from start to finish.”
Why Choose a Kimberley Cruise Holiday?
Kimberley cruises offer a unique way to explore WA’s spectacular coastline. Whether you're an Australian looking for a convenient domestic holiday or an international visitor wanting to experience Western Australia's natural wonders, here's why cruising the Kimberley region is the perfect choice:
- Convenient embarkation points: Kimberley cruise departures are available from Darwin, Broome and Fremantle. For Australian residents, it's often just a short domestic flight or even a local drive. For international visitors, these ports have excellent connections from major cities.
- Access remote destinations: the Kimberley region and Australia's northwest coast can be tricky to reach by land. Cruise ships access hidden gorges, pristine beaches and ancient rock art sites that would take weeks to explore overland.
- Expert-led Kimberley experiences: most expedition cruises feature naturalists, marine biologists and Indigenous guides with expertise in West Australian fauna and flora. Learn about Aboriginal culture directly from local custodians and understand unique ecosystems.
- Perfect for group travel: whether it's a family reunion, friends' getaway, special celebration or multi-generational adventure, Kimberley cruises bring groups together in spectacular settings. With varied activities and comfortable ships, everyone can participate at their own pace.
What Makes Kimberley Cruises Special
Western Australia’s diverse coastline offers exceptional cruise experiences for every travel style and budget. Intimate expedition vessels can access hidden gems and attractions that larger ships cannot reach, while luxury cruise lines offer gourmet dining and suite cabins that rival 5-star resorts.
Here are some unique experiences in the Kimberley that you can’t get anywhere else:
- Wildlife encounters: spot whales, dolphins, sea turtles and incredible birdlife in their natural habitats
- World Heritage Sites: visit protected areas around the Kimberley region
- Aboriginal culture: learn from Indigenous guides about ancient traditions and connections to country
- Stunning scenery: experience dramatic gorges, pristine beaches and spectacular coastlines
Exclusive Kimberley Cruise Deals & Special Offers
We're delighted to offer exceptional cruise deals across our range of 2026 and 2027 voyages.
Ponant Cruise between Broome and Fremantle: 2026 departures
We have exclusive access to Deluxe Staterooms that are sold out elsewhere. You won't find this availability through other travel agents! Enjoy this stunning 12-night luxury expedition showcasing the rugged beauty of Australia's northwest coast. Secure your spot now on one of Australia's most sought-after expedition cruises.
Ponant 2027 Kimberley Cruises
Set sail for the wild and awe-inspiring landscapes of the Kimberley on a luxury small ship with Ponant. Enjoy all-inclusive meals, open-bar, hosted shore excursions & zodiac safari’s as well as informative lectures by a team of professional expedition guides.
- Kimberley Cruise & Explore: Darwin – Broome (on board Le Soleal)
- Kimberley Cruise & Explore: Broome – Darwin (on board Le Jacques Cartier)
- West Coast Odyssey Cruise: Broome – Fremantle or vice versa (on board Le Soleal)
Firsthand Experience by our Team: Ponant’s Le Jacques Cartier
Fiona, our National Sales Manager, recently sailed aboard Ponant's Le Jacques Cartier in August 2025. Here's what impressed her:
Refined French luxury and gastronomy: Ponant delivers an intimate yacht-like experience centred on refined French gastronomy. "Every day the high teas were exceptional!" Fiona said. Dining options range from casual deck dining to a more formal à la carte restaurant, with all-inclusive alcoholic beverages and lovely French champagne and cocktails available throughout.
Expert expedition team: the onboard lectures are informative, featuring experts sharing deep insights into geology, birdlife, marine life and the region's natural wonders. "The lectures were fantastic," Fiona noted, "Their expedition team all shared a passion for the region."
Exceptional service: "The staff go above and beyond," Fiona shared. "Your cabin is serviced twice daily with fresh towels and mini bar refreshments."
Kimberley's stunning landscapes: "You really can't beat the sunrise and sunsets each day in the Kimberley and the stunning landscapes," Fiona said.
For travellers seeking luxury expedition cruising with refined French elegance and attentive service, Ponant delivers an unforgettable Kimberley experience.
Rail & Sail: The Ghan meets Coral Geographer
Can’t decide between a cruise or a rail journey? Why not combine two iconic Australian experiences into one unforgettable 15-night journey!
Travel through Australia's Red Centre aboard the famous Ghan railway. Then take a coastal cruise between Darwin and Broome on Coral Expeditions’ ship. This unique Rail & Sail package showcases the best of Australian adventure travel.
Coral Expeditions Kimberley Cruise between Darwin and Broome
If you prefer just the cruise element, then this Coral Expeditions package offers a 14-night journey between Darwin and Broome, through one of the world's last true wilderness areas. Coral Expeditions has forged the way in the Kimberley coast for over 35 years, with a fleet of 3 modern and intimate ships purpose built for the region.
Insights from our Team: Coral Expeditions’ Coral Adventurer
Tamika’s Experience:
Truly inclusive exploration: "What impressed me most was how they cater for every mobility level," Tamika said. "Their expedition boats can be lifted directly to deck level, so everyone can participate in shore excursions regardless of physical ability. They even have sunroofs and toilets onboard for comfort."
Genuine expedition experiences: Unlike traditional cruises that follow set itineraries, Coral Expeditions embraces the true spirit of exploration. "Each voyage is unique," Tamika noted. "The chance that you may be the first ship to explore a new destination is exhilarating. There's something magical about experiencing such an untouched region and seeing all the wildlife, whales, sharks, birdlife living so freely."
Warm, social atmosphere: "The crew-to-passenger connection was extraordinary," Tamika explained. "They made a genuine effort to socialise with everyone onboard and learned all passengers' names within a day or two. Solo travellers never felt alone. The crew were always available to answer questions and share their expertise. It felt more like travelling with friends than being on a commercial cruise."
Liz’s Experience:
Unforgettable wow moments: "Every moment aboard the Coral Adventurer was nothing short of magical," Liz shared. “At the Lacepede Islands, being surrounded by birdlife and spotting turtles in their natural habitat gave me a renewed appreciation for untouched wilderness. Witnessing whales double breaching that afternoon was such a magical experience!"
Stunning landscapes and natural wonders: "Watching waterfalls form at Montgomery Reef as the tide fell was unforgettable”, Liz said. “Getting to stand beneath King Cascade and King George Falls for a 'Kimberley shower' was another highlight I'll never forget.”
Peaceful mornings and expedition magic: "I spent most mornings alone up on the Bridge or Vista deck watching the sunrise while the rest of the passengers were still asleep," Liz reflected. "Already a cruise convert, expedition cruising is another level. It's all about the destination, and everyone should add a Kimberley expedition cruise to their bucket list."
For travellers seeking authentic Kimberley exploration with genuine care, camaraderie and unforgettable wildlife encounters, Coral Expeditions delivers an experience that goes beyond typical cruising.
Ocean Dream: Luxury Kimberley Expeditions
Ocean Dream is a modern luxury vessel offering an intimate, personalised adventure around the Kimberley region. It also has tenders which are used for excursions and fishing. With smaller guest numbers, Ocean Dream feels like your own private vessel with no queues or crowds.
Testimonial by our Staff Member: Ocean Dream’s Kimberley Cruise
Vinny's Experience:
One of our Destination Specialists, Vinny, recently experienced Ocean Dream through the Kimberley for the first time. This is her testimonial:
Exceptional hospitality and service: "The hospitality, the service, staff, food and locations visited were exceptional," Vinny said. "Not to mention, the luxurious and modern vessel."
Perfect from start to finish: "The experience was just fantastic," Vinny shared. "It was my first time to the Kimberley and they made it so special. There is not one single thing I can fault - everything was just perfect from start to finish. I have learnt so much by being on this cruise and definitely recommend it to anyone wanting to do a Kimberley cruise."
Ocean Dream offers exclusive Kimberley experiences and are featured in our WA brochure. To learn more about availability, pricing and departure dates, please contact our Reservations team directly on bookings@bkbholidays.com or 1300 357 057.
More Kimberley Cruise Partners
We're proud to partner with a range of premium Kimberley expedition cruise operators, each offering unique experiences tailored to different travel styles and group sizes.
Kimberley Pearl: offers an intimate, adventure-style cruise aboard a beautifully restored and refurbished pearling vessel, with 6 ensuite cabins and a maximum of 12 guests.
Eclipse Expeditions: Australian-owned and operated luxury charter operation offering a bespoke, all-inclusive and eco-conscious catamaran cruise around the Kimberley.
Heritage Expeditions: Australasia's cruise pioneers and a family-owned and operated cruise company, offering Kimberley adventures of a lifetime.
Eco Abrolhos Cruises: expedition-style Kimberley cruise for an intimate, small-group experience (up to 32 guests) with 17 privately ensuite and air-conditioned cabins to suit all budgets.
Kimberley Quest: multi-award-winning, luxury cruise company operating extended wilderness expeditions along the stunning Kimberley coast, with a maximum of 18 guests.
True North: a purpose-built vessel to reach secluded destinations within the Kimberley region which few will ever see. Experience close encounters with nature that feel personal, not crowded.
Silversea: with ocean-view suites and butler service, discover the timeless Kimberley coast in a luxurious, all-inclusive expedition-style cruising. Accommodates 240 guests.
These exclusive Kimberley cruises are also featured in our WA brochure. To learn more about specific departures, itineraries and rates, please reach out to our Kimberley Cruise Specialists Team via bookings@bkbholidays.com or 1300 357 057.
Why You Should Book Early for Your Kimberley Cruise
Australian expedition cruises sell out months in advance, especially for the popular Kimberley season (April to October). Here's why securing your booking now is essential:
Limited vessel capacity in Australian waters: unlike mass-market cruises, expedition ships exploring the Kimberley carry only 12 - 200 passengers. With just a handful of vessels operating in these remote regions and a short cruising season, cabins fill up fast. Popular 2026 departures are already selling out.
Exclusive cabin allocations: we have special access to Deluxe Staterooms on select Ponant cruises that aren't available elsewhere. These exclusive allocations are limited and released on a first-come, first-served basis. Once they're gone, you'll miss out on these sought-after accommodations.
Lock in 2026-2027 pricing: cruise prices typically increase 6-12 months before departure. Early bookers can save up to 30% compared to those who wait. With the Kimberley's growing popularity, prices are rising year after year. Booking now protects you from future price increases.
Start Your Kimberley Cruise Adventure
Whether you’re looking for luxury expedition vessels exploring Western Australia’s remote coastlines or iconic rail and sail combinations, our diverse range of Kimberley cruise packages ensures there's something for everyone.
Explore our top Kimberley cruise deals and don't miss our exclusive early bird specials and limited time offers. Kimberley cruise season is typically from April to October, depending on whether you’re visiting the northern or southern regions. This is when weather conditions are ideal, and vessels operate in the region. Due to the short cruising season and limited vessel capacity, cabins fill up fast and advance booking is essential.". make sure to book well in advance to secure the best rates and premium cabin selection for your 2026 and 2027 departures.
Not sure which West Australian cruise package is right for you? Our cruise specialists are ready to help you find the perfect Kimberley expedition, Rail & Sail experience or luxury voyage.
Ready to book your dream Australian cruise?
Contact our team of Kimberley cruise specialists today:
- Email: bookings@bkbholidays.com
- Phone: 1300 357 057
