KIMBERLEY COAST BY SUPER YACHT WITH OUTBACK STATIONS

Arrive in Broome and embark Island Escape, our purpose-built super yacht. For the following eight nights, this luxurious craft will be our home. Get to know your fellow guests before we make our way to Zanders for a Welcome Dinner. Feast on the region’s freshest seafood while looking over a vast stretch of white sand and the pristine waters of Cable Beach. Return to Island Escape and settle into your elegant accommodation.

Following breakfast aboard Island Escape, immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Broome during an in-depth exploration of the city. From our position atop the rocky promontory at Gantheaume Point, we soak in views of the Indian Ocean as it fills the sweeping gulf between the horizon and ourselves. A visit to the Japanese Cemetery illustrates the number of people enticed to Broome with hopes of securing a fortune in this resort town, linked inextricably to the pearling industry. Stroll through vibrant Chinatown, which further illustrates Broome’s reputation as a cultural melting pot, before exploring the historic Sun Pictures theatre.

Afterwards, we pause for lunch at Matso’s Broome Brewery. Pair your meal with a unique mango, lychee or chilli beer. Or perhaps a more conventional, but just as refreshing, ale or lager. Soak in some time at leisure prior to transferring back to Island Escape and embarking on our glorious cruise through the Kimberley’s turquoise waters.

After a restful night sailing along the Kimberley’s rugged coastline, take in the sight of the arresting Buccaneer Archipelago during breakfast. Absorb views of rocky islands surrounded by enticing waters from the aft deck of our sleek yacht. Next, we board a high-powered jet boat for a special experience, getting up close and personal with the remarkable Horizontal Falls. The falls are created as one of the world’s greatest tides forces the pristine waters to rush through two narrow gorges at up to 20 knots. Shoot through the white-water phenomenon aboard your speedy vessel and admire the swirling waters of the Whirlpool Passage before passing back through the falls and returning to Island Escape. This evening, our onboard chefs are sure to delight with a delectable dinner.

Another tidal phenomenon lies ahead today as we visit the incredible Montgomery Reef, the world’s largest inshore reef. Aboard our convenient Zodiac vessels, we get up close as the significant tide turns and the reef appears to rise from the ocean, unveiling the vibrant world below the surface. Surrounded by cascading ocean waterfalls as far as the eye can see, we watch as the reef bursts into life. Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife, from turtles, sharks and octopuses to manta rays, dugong and dolphins, alongside the region’s many birds flocking in for a fresh feast. Upon returning to Island Escape, perhaps gaze out to sea while enjoying a cocktail, toasting the day as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean. You may also wish to treat yourself to a relaxing dip in the sun deck’s jacuzzi, as we sail towards another adventure-filled day.

Wake to the fresh sea air again this morning. We soon anchor near the mouth of the Hunter River, the stunning beaches of Naturalist Island lying before us. Upon setting foot on the island’s white sands, we embark on a scenic helicopter flight to one of the Kimberley’s most striking attractions, the four-tiered Mitchell Falls. Soar above the falls, admiring the Mitchell River as its waters converge in serene rock pools before tumbling into the deep gorge below.

After our flight, we have the opportunity to explore the region at close range, as we approach Mitchell River National Park’s diverse flora and fauna, before marvelling at its astonishing galleries of Indigenous rock art. Painted many thousands of years ago, the Gwion Gwion paintings are distinct from other forms of rock art, with their elongated human depictions. Return to our super yacht to revel in its amenities and indulge in another satisfying meal.

Rise to greet another enchanting Kimberley morning as we sail to Winyalkan Island, whose remarkable geology has been shaped by water and wind over millions of years. We wander the rugged landscape, which is home to bats and geckos. Upon returning to Island Escape, relax and enjoy lunch as we pass rocky coastlines enveloped in native trees and shrubs during our cruise to Swift Bay. 

A short walk from our Zodiac landing, we find several rock shelters housing some of the region’s most fascinating rock art sites. A reminder of the Kimberley’s Indigenous past, present and future, these graceful pieces depict birds, fish and turtles, as well as spiritual Wandjina figures. After further exploration, we cruise back across the bay’s clear waters to our super yacht for another relaxing evening on board.

Following breakfast on board our vessel, we embark on an in-depth discovery of historic Vansittart Bay. Step ashore at one of the bay’s pristine white beaches and continue on to the area’s vast salt flats. Close by, we discover an unlikely artefact. The wreckage of a US Air Force DC3 plane has remained here ever since it lost its way, running out of fuel and crashlanding in 1942. Still largely intact, the aircraft is a stark reminder of northern Australia’s involvement in the war.

Lying within Vansittart Bay itself is Jar Island, which boasts some of the Kimberley’s most remarkable Gwion Gwion artworks, dating back thousands of years. We take our Zodiacs to the island to explore its wonders, which powerfully demonstrate the region’s rich history and culture. 

Standing 100 metres high, the imposing twin cascades of King George Falls lie ahead today. Our Zodiacs allow us to journey along the King George River with ease before the spectacular falls reveal themselves. Marvel at the towering red sandstone cliffs as we cruise towards the tumbling waterfalls, inching our way close enough to be showered by the refreshing droplets of this powerful natural wonder. Spend the day exploring the region, admiring its rugged scenery and plentiful wildlife. This evening, savour a final dinner aboard Island Escape and soak in the panoramic river and sea views as the sun sets on our awe-inspiring cruise.