It is the diversity and pristine nature of the destinations that make a Kimberley coastal expedition a truly memorable experience. From Ancient Landscapes, ancient cultures and ancient reptiles to spectacular scenery, unique tidal phenomena and amazing wildlife, a Kimberley coast expedition has something for even the most ardent traveller.
Expedition Highlights:
– Experience an exclusive visit to a working Paspaley Pearl Farm.
– Discover the aboriginal rock art heritage of the Kimberley, the greatest collection of outdoor galleries in the world.
– Explore the Hunter-Roe river system, lined with ancient rainforest pockets, pristine mangroves and mosaic sandstone cliffs. They are amongst the most pristine mangrove forests in the world, supporting a rich and diverse fauna.
– View the unique tidal phenomenon of the Horizontal Falls in Talbot Bay.
– View Western Australia`s highest waterfall on the King George River.
– Experience the wonder of the power of the tides at Montgomery Reef, the world`s largest inshore reef system.
– From July to September witness the largest population of migrating humpback whales on the planet.
– Explore the pristine 12,000 kilometers of coastline and more than 2,500 islands that comprise the Kimberley Coast.
– The Kimberley is a national biodiversity hotspot, listed in the top 3.7% of least impacted marine environments worldwide.
_______________
The Kimberley You Haven`t Seen cruise package includes:
– 10 night luxury expedition cruise aboard the boutique motor yacht Paspaley Pearl by Ponant from Darwin to Broome
– All meals – menus designed by the famed Serge Dansereau of Bathers Pavilion
– Open Bar including French champagne, wine, beer, spirits, cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages
– Complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi (connectivity dependent on navigation and latitude)
– Shore landings and exploration vessel outings guided by a team of expert Expedition guides
– Kimberley Visitor Passes
– Entry fees to National and Marine Parks
– Non-motorised water sports (Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, Snorkeling)
– Fishing equipment
Additional Expenses:
– Pre and/or Post voyage packages
– Additional shore excursions such as scenic Helicopter flights
– Premium wines
– Tips for the onboard crew are appreciated but not compulsory
_______________
Solo Travellers – Secure free solo supplement when you book the Ocean Twin Stateroom (Stateroom 102), applicable on every voyage. For other Ocean Deck staterooms, a 30% supplement applies, while Horizon Deck suites come with a 50% supplement. Solo Supplement is subject to change, and may be increased at any time at the discretion of the company.
_______________
Flexible Expedition Itinerary:
Experience the freedom of a flexible expedition itinerary, where the adventure unfolds in harmony with nature. These itineraries adapt to tides and other environmental factors, ensuring an authentic exploration. Embrace the cultures, history and biodiversity of the remote areas visited, guided by a team of expert guides who offer a dynamic and unforgettable journey tailored to the whims of the elements.
Special Conditions
Special Validity Dates
Cruise Itinerary
| Date | Activity | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07 Apr 2025 | Darwin, NT, Australia |
||
| 08 Apr 2025 | Kimberley Coast, Western Australia |
||
| 09 Apr 2025 | Kimberley Coast, Western Australia |
||
| 10 Apr 2025 | Kuri Bay, Western Australia |
||
| 11 Apr 2025 | Prince Regent River, Western Australia |
||
| 12 Apr 2025 | Prince Frederick Harbour, Western Australia |
||
| 13 Apr 2025 | Camden Harbour, WA, Australia |
||
| 14 Apr 2025 | Collier Bay, Western Australia |
||
| 15 Apr 2025 | Collier Bay, Western Australia |
||
| 16 Apr 2025 | Buccaneer archipelago, WA |
||
| 17 Apr 2025 | Broome, W A |
All itineraries and ports of call at the discretion of the cruise line subject to local weather conditions and may change without notice.
10 Night Cruise sailing from Darwin to Broome aboard Paspaley Pearl.
It is the diversity and pristine nature of the destinations that make a Kimberley coastal expedition a truly memorable experience. From ancient landscapes, ancient cultures and ancient reptiles to spectacular scenery, unique tidal phenomena and amazing wildlife, a Kimberley coast expedition has something for even the most ardent traveller.
DAY 1 Embarkation | Darwin
DAY 2-3 North Kimberley Coast
Renowned for its remarkable gorges and waterfalls that have carved their way into the sandstone escarpment over the past 20 million years the North Kimberley coast boasts scenery on an epic proportion. The weathering of the ancient sandstones has created a spectacular colour palette that contrasts with the azure waters of the Timor Sea to create picture perfect vistas. The red and orange hues in the sandstones vary with the light throughout the day creating a continual changing wallpaper of passing scenery that is simply stunning. The region hides some remarkable survival stories and tales of epic treks across vast swathes of harsh country. Despite its seemingly inhospitable nature the Wunambal Gaambera and Balanggarra peoples have been occupying the region for thousands of years and their traditions are given form in the rock art that makes up the greatest collection of outdoor galleries in the world.
The region is best known for the iconic destinations of King George Falls (Oomari), Vansittart Bay (Banjal) and Jar Island (Ngula).
With PASPALEY PEARL, we also have access to destinations inaccessible to larger vessels including Cape Voltaire, Freshwater Bay, Drysdale River, Glycosmis Bay and Falls, Cape Bernier, Seaplane Bay, Berkeley River, and Casuarina Falls.
DAYS 4-6 Bonaparte Archipelago & Kuri Bay Pearling Experience
The Bonaparte Archipelago is a maze of islands and islets stretching 150 kilometres offshore from Collier Bay to the Admiralty Gulf known for its rich collection of Rock Art galleries. These remarkable artworks, created by First Nations Peoples, provide an insight into the oldest continuing culture on earth. The mainland is home to some of the most scenic parts of the Kimberley coast. Prince Frederick Harbour and the Roe-Hunter River System are lined with ancient rainforest pockets, pristine mangroves, and mosaic sandstone cliffs. The adjacent Prince Regent National Park is one of Australia’s most important conservation sites, regarded for its ‘outstanding scenic grandeur’ and containing half of the known bird and animal species in the Kimberley.
Located 370km north of Broome and 460km west of Kununurra, Kuri Bay lies at the heart of the Lalang – Garram/Camden Sound Marine Park. It was the location of Australia’s first cultured pearl farm and is named after the company’s first principal, Tokuichi Kuribayashi. Today the clear pristine waters are the home of Paspaley, the world’s most important producer of cultured pearls. Such is the superior and widely recognised quality of the gems they are in their own category and recognised simply as ‘Paspaley Pearls’.
Guests will experience a behind the scenes guided walking tour of the Paspaley facilities and discover the intricate processes required to produce the most beautiful pearls in the world.
DAYS 7-9 Collier Bay and Camden Sound
Located in one of the remotest regions of Australia, with no road access and the nearest town over 250 kilometres away, the stunningly rugged Collier Bay and Camden Sound are home to the second largest tides in the world. This ebb and flow of the tide has shaped the ancient landscape into a breathtaking vista and created unique tidal phenomena such as Horizontal Falls (Garaanngaddim). The region is of cultural significance to the Dambeemangarddee, a saltwater people who have been living along the coast for many thousands of years. (Their culture and connection to the environment has evolved with an inherent association to these tidal movements). The rich marine environment is also home to the world’s largest inshore reef system, Montgomery Reef (Yowjab) and each year the world’s largest population of migrating humpback whales visit the region.
The region is best known for the iconic destinations of Horizontal Falls (Garaanngaddim), Montgomery Reef (Yowjab), Raft Point (Ngumbree) and Freshwater Cove (Wijingarra Bard Bard).
With PASPALEY PEARL, we also have access to destinations inaccessible to larger vessels including Sampson Inlet, Hall Point, Red Cone Creek, Sapphire Falls, Ruby Falls, Sale River, Walcott Inlet, Prior Point and Langgi.
DAYS 10 Buccaneer Archipelago
Extending from the Dampier Peninsula to the Southern edge of Collier Bay the 800 islands of the Dampier archipelago and adjacent mainland offer a veritable playground of unique experiences, ideal for exploration by boutique expedition motor yacht. Named after the English buccaneer and privateer William Dampier, the archipelago is regarded as one of the most spectacular island groups in Australia. There are islands listed as Important Bird Areas by Birdlife International, whilst others are home to Western Australia’s largest population of breeding Green Sea turtles. The pristine coastline contains secluded white sandy beaches, mangrove estuaries and spectacular tortured landscapes providing a geological insight into the formation of this remarkable land.
The region is best known for the iconic destinations of The Lacepede Islands, Yampi Sound, Adele Island and Cape Leveque.
With PASPALEY PEARL, we also have access to destinations inaccessible to larger vessels including Hidden Island, Whirlpool Pass, Sunday Island, Strickland Bay, Tallon Island, Hell’s gate, Edeline and Cascade Bay.
DAY 11 Disembarkation | Broome. Western Australia
Often referred to as the pearl of North West Australia, Broome is Western Australia’s coastal gateway to the magnificent wilderness region of the Kimberley. It’s also home to the world-famous white sands of Cable Beach, making it one of the State’s most popular holiday destinations. Situated 2,240 km (1,390 mi) north of Perth with a permanent population estimated at 14,436, growing to over 45,000 per month during the tourist season.
PASPALEY PEARL will be alongside the wharf in Broome.
Marrying PASPALEY’s heritage of over 80 years in the Kimberley and Northern Australia with PONANT’s 35-year history of luxury expedition travel, PASPALEY PEARL emerges as the embodiment of comfort and adventure. Marking a milestone in the development of boutique expedition travel, she offers a benchmark-setting standard of excellence in the Asia Pacific region.
Featuring 15 staterooms and suites and hosting a maximum of 30 guests per voyage, PASPALEY PEARL emerges as the newest and only boutique expedition motor yacht in the Kimberley with private balconies. Having the ability of reaching exotic destinations previously inaccessible by larger vessels, each expedition promises an authentic and enriching experience, inviting you to not just observe but to participate in the timeless rituals and customs that define the remarkable cultures of the destinations we visit.
PASPALEY PEARL is designed to feel like a home away from home. A classic yet contemporary environment that expresses timeless luxury while harnessing the history of PASPALEY and PONANT’s spirit of adventure.
Ship Profile & Stats
- Length: 53.5 m
- Tonnage: 994
- Maiden Voyage: 2025
- Passenger Capacity (dbl): 30
- Officer Nationality: Australian
- Ship Registration: Marshall Islands
Ship Amenities
- Hair Dryer
- Individually controlled air-conditioning
- International 240V sockets
- USB charging points
- Flat-screen TV
- On-demand entertainment system
- Complimentary WIFI
Ship Facilities
- Sun Deck Lounge & Jacuzzi
- Outdoor Dining, Lounge & Bar
- Main Deck Dining, Lounge & Bar
- Forward Sunset Lounge
EXPERIENCE CRUISING ANOTHER WAY, DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF YACHT CRUISES.
Our mission is to transport you to mythical destinations and secret ports only accessible to small capacity ships.
To offer the delights of a French-inspired cuisine in an intimate environment – a discreet service where no attention to detail is spared – and unforgettable moments of relaxation on board elegant yachts of character.
To combine sophistication and conviviality, with priority given to authentic experiences, emotions and the ongoing quest for excellence.
Yacht cruises: more than a cruise, a privilege…
Attentive, professional, discreet and elegant, the fully bilingual service on board will meet your every desire. Our unique atmosphere is filled with a signature sentiment: a warm welcome from an experienced crew who are passionate about what they do, in the tradition of private yachting.
In the dining areas, our gourmet cuisine is worthy of top fine dining restaurants: exquisite wines are available, and menus are created with expertise by our skilled chefs with a French-inspired menu enhanced by specialties from our various ports of call.
Pleasure, enrichment, discovery: relax – we take care of everything…
Select the Deck to view detail.
Select the Cabin to view detail.
20m2 Including balcony on the Horizon Deck. The Horizon Suite is an elegantly designed suite with a large wardrobe and the choice between a king-size bed or two twin beds. Its most striking feature is the floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a private balcony, offering a panoramic view. The suite includes a spacious bathroom with a shower, heated floors, luxury amenities, and a hairdryer. There’s individually-controlled air conditioning and international 240V sockets, USB charging points, and wall-mounted reading lamps are provided. Entertainment needs are catered for with a flat-screen TV and an on-demand entertainment system. Guests also enjoy complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi, though connectivity may vary depending on navigation and latitude.
17.5 – 18m2 on the Ocean Deck. The Ocean Stateroom is a tastefully designed accommodation featuring a large wardrobe and the option of one queen-size bed or two twin beds. It boasts a spacious bathroom equipped with shower, heated floors, luxury amenities, and a hairdryer for added comfort. The stateroom also includes individually-controlled air conditioning, international 240V sockets, USB charging points, and wall-mounted reading lamps for convenience. Guests can enjoy entertainment through a flat-screen TV with an on-demand entertainment system. Additionally, complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi is available, although its connectivity may vary based on navigation and latitude.
16m2 on the Ocean Deck. The Ocean Twin Stateroom offers a blend of elegance and practical design, featuring a large wardrobe and the option of one double bed or two single beds. Guests can enjoy the comfort of a spacious bathroom equipped with shower, heated floors, luxury amenities, and a hairdryer. For convenience and comfort, the stateroom includes individually-controlled air conditioning, international 240V sockets, USB charging points, and wall-mounted reading lamps. Entertainment needs are met with a flat-screen TV paired with an on-demand entertainment system. Additionally, guests are provided with complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi, although connectivity may vary based on navigation and latitude.
27m2 Including balcony on the Horizon Deck. The Pearl Suite is sophisticated and meticulously crafted, complete with ample wardrobe space. It features floor-to-ceiling glass doors that lead to a private balcony. Guests have the option of one king-size bed or two twin beds. The suite boasts a spacious bathroom equipped with shower, heated floors, luxury amenities, and a hairdryer. For personalised comfort, there is individually-controlled air conditioning, along with international 240V sockets, USB charging points, and wall-mounted reading lamps for convenience. Entertainment is provided through a flat-screen TV with an on-demand entertainment system. Additionally, guests can enjoy complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi, although its connectivity may vary depending on navigation and latitude.
* Unless otherwise noted all pricing is on a per person twin share basis. All prices based on cash payment - credit card fees may apply. Cruise deposit, amendment and cancellation conditions apply. Special conditions may apply - please ask for full details at time of enquiry. All passports, vaccinations and visas are the responsibility of the travelling guest to secure prior to departure from Australia. Any pricing not in Australian Dollars will be converted on the day of payment into the relevant currency based on our daily rate of exchange. Please note that many of the prices shown on this website are not shown in real time. Whilst we endeavour to keep our pricing as up-to-date as possible, the advertised prices shown here may differ slightly from the live prices in our booking system. All pricing and offers are subject to availability at time of booking. Whilst all information is correct at the time of publication, offers are subject to change. We reserve the right to correct errors without penalty. Please submit any data errors/omissions you may notice on this site.
Unless otherwise expressly noted, all materials, including images, illustrations, designs, icons, and photographs appearing anywhere on this website are protected by worldwide copyright laws and treaty provisions. The copyright on such materials is held by the original creator of the materials. None of the materials may be copied, reproduced, displayed, modified, published, uploaded, posted, transmitted or distributed in whole or in part in any form or by any means other than as provided by Cruise Factory and Cruise Traveller to its clients, or with the prior written permission of Cruise Factory and Cruise Traveller. All rights not expressly granted in these Terms are reserved. Any unauthorised use of the materials appearing on this website may violate copyright, trademark and other applicable laws and could result in criminal or civil penalties.