Cruising the Kimberley coast in style

Holidays
Discover the remote and rugged Kimberley coast aboard a luxurious small ship on this classic Aussie cruise with a French flavour.
Montgomery Reef in the Kimberley.
The power of Mother Nature is visible at every turn on this Kimberley coast cruise aboard Ponant’s Le Laperouse – a small ship catering for 180 guests.

What to expect

Wildlife and marine life abound, and you can expect sightings of saltwater crocodiles, sharks, dolphins, turtles, dugongs and an abundance of fish and birdlife.

Guests are guided by expedition leaders who share their vast knowledge of the region’s wildlife, geology, Aboriginal culture and the history of the region’s explorers.

Ponant cruise ship Le Laperouse.

What is the itinerary?

This ‘cruise’ is considered an expedition and, as such, there are no stops between Broome and Darwin. However, highlights of the trip include the Lacepede Islands, Talbot Bay (Horizontal Falls), Montgomery Reef, Careening Bay, Hunter River, Swift Bay, Vansittart Bay and King George River.

What sort of traveller would like this cruise?

While it is a cruise, many guests onboard had not cruised before but had travelled extensively to all parts of the world. The Kimberley has to be seen from both land, ship (and air if possible).

Horizontal Falls, Talbot Bay, in the Kimberley.
Horizontal Falls, Talbot Bay. Photo Tourism WA

What were the highlights?

Seeing Montgomery Reef appear from the ocean and tower above our Zodiacs was a true highlight, as was witnessing the tidal power of Horizontal Falls. The knowledge and passion of the expedition leaders was also incredible.

How was the food?

A beautiful balance of traditional French cuisine with regional Australian highlights allowed guests to always find a favourite of the day. I particularly enjoyed dining alfresco. Every meal was outstanding when accompanied by the incredible WA sunsets from the back of the ship.

Accessing a Zodiac from Le Laperouse.
Boarding a Zodiac from Le Laperouse.

Is there anything to be aware of?

With high temperatures and humidity, Zodiac trips can last up to three hours, so a good hat, sunscreen and plenty of water are musts! Accessing the Zodiacs from the sthip was relatively straightforward. If you can step into and out of a car, you will be fine. Some people with mobility issues were unable to complete the occasional ‘wet landing’ on the beaches.

How long was the trip?

A typical cruise lasts 10 nights, however I highly recommend stays of at least one night in Broome and Darwin.

When is the best time to travel?

March to May will deliver the best of the waterfalls. May to July is considered peak season, with slightly cooler temperatures and no rainfall. July to September is whale season. Humpback whales migrate to raise their calves, which you can spot along the coastline.

Do you have any extra tips?

Book early. Ponant’s pricing structure favours early bookings. When the season is released, you can save up to 30%, with the percentage savings dropping as the ship fills up. They also have many departures with no single supplement.

Invest in a good camera/phone or choose to buy a photo package from the ship’s wildlife photographer.

On board Le Laperouse.
On board Le Laperouse.

Schedule information

In 2025, Ponant will haver three ships in the Kimberley – Le Soleal (260 guests), Le Jacques-Cartier (180 guests) and Paspaley Pearl (30 guests).

Check availability and rates with RACQ Travel in-store or call 1300 888 449  

By Barry Downs, RACQ Travel General Manager – Marketing & Product. Barry was a guest of Ponant.

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