Eco Abrolhos
Eco Abrolhos' relaxed and laid back style together with guided Indigenous rock art tours, scenic gorge and waterfall experiences, bird watching, treks, freshwater swimming holes, incredible sunrises and sunsets......
Prices, Dates & Availability 2024
(The Traditional Owners of the Kimberley and their representatives have now implemented a permit/fee for guests accessing traditional lands when cruising the Kimberley region. In 2020 these fees totalled $195 per person)
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The Kimberley- Wyndham to Broome
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The Kimberley- Darwin to Broome
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The Kimberley- Broome to Darwin
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The Kimberley - Broome to Wyndham
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14 Day Kimberley Cruise
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* All prices are per person & based on Twin share unless otherwise listed
Prices, Dates & Availability 2025 Coming Soon
(The Traditional Owners of the Kimberley and their representatives have now implemented a permit/fee for guests accessing traditional lands when cruising the Kimberley region. In 2020 these fees totalled $195 per person)
* All prices are per person & based on Twin share unless otherwise listed
Itineraries
14 Day Kimberley Cruise – Broome to Wyndham
Day 1
Depart Broome
Welcome to your trip of a lifetime! You will be greeted in Broome at your hotel by one of the Eco Abrolhos crew, board the coach to transport you to Gantheume Bay where you will be met by the tender boats and ferried to the Eco Abrolhos. We recommend that you arrive in Broome the day before departure as transfers will commence the following morning from 9am. Then it’s all aboard the Eco Abrolhos as you meet the crew and go through the onboard vessel safety induction prior to our departure from Broome. An overnight voyage will find you awakening to a geological landscape unique only to the Kimberley
Day 2
Yampi Sound – Talbot Bay
Welcome to the Kimberley – feel the whirlpool movements of tidal water beneath your feet as we set out on the tenders to discover one of the many smaller creek systems of the Buccaneer Archipelago, also known as the Bay of 1000 islands. Let the geological sequence of time unfold before your very eyes as you prepare to visit the renowned Horizontal Falls in Talbot Bay. Finish the day with the first of our many magnificent Kimberley sunsets and take in the picturesque landscape as you reflect on the day’s activities coming to an end.
Day 3
Collier Bay – Doubtful Bay
Today you will experience the natural phenomenon of the Montgomery Reef – terraced waterfalls of ocean water flowing off an exposed coral reef system. A tender ride ensures a closer look at this incredible seascape as we check out the abundant marine life that call this place home. A Cruise into Doubtful Bay as we learn of our First Australians and their long-term connection to Raft Point. Lunchtime onboard the Eco Abrolhos, time to steam to our next destination- Red Cone Creek. Off for a quick splash exploring the Mangrove ecosystem by tender, finding our way to either Sapphire Creek or Ruby falls.
Day 4
Camden Harbour – St George Basin
We are now heading north to the ill-fated township of the Camden Harbour Settlement, an incredible story of resilience as we walk in time through the history and ruins that include a short beach landing to Sheep Island and the Camden Harbour Settlement. A late afternoon cruise through to the Rothsay Waters where we will venture into Marigui Promontory via the tenders to see remnant rainforest in Palm Valley. An art gallery can be viewed from the comfort of our tenders.
Day 5
St George Basin – Prince Regent River
An early morning fishing session in the “Land of the Giants” for those that are interested. Soon after we will be back on-board the Eco Abrolhos cruising through the St George Basin and into the Mighty Prince Regent River National Park. Tender rides will place you beneath the amazing King’s Cascades. This location provides an adventurous trek and opportunity for a swim on top of the falls or the option to continue further upstream to see the spectacular Cathedral Falls. Returning to the Eco Abrolhos for a well-deserved top deck sundowner with nibbles and entertainment.
Day 6
Prince Regent River – Port Nelson
Good morning again, it is time to head out on the tenders to discover Camp Creek. Another opportunity to see some of the larger marine reptiles that inhabit this place, and of course the birdlife of the mangrove lined river system. Breakfast back on-board the Eco Abrolhos whilst we steam to Port Nelson and visit the most northern reaches of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Here we will learn of the amazing voyages of Phillip Parker King as we tour Careening Bay and the famous “Mermaid Tree” Its back on-board the Eco Abrolhos with a steam to our next destination Naturalist Island.
Day 7
Naturalist Island – Hunter River – Prudhoe Island
Wake up to a serene landscape that will take your breath away. During the morning, our Helicopter tours (Optional extra) will depart from Naturalist Island and encompass the spectacular Mitchell Falls and surrounds. An option for a scenic tender excursion of the Hunter River to experience some wildlife encounters of the Kimberley. Back on-board the Eco Abrolhos for a bite to eat as we begin our voyage further north through the Scott Strait to arrive at a secluded anchorage near Prudhoe Island.
Day 8
Prudhoe Island
An opportunity to try your hand at pelagic fishing, a session looking for some larger predators being mackerel, tuna and queen fish. After fishing we venture around the islands in search of turtle, dugong and crocodiles on the island outcrop. The local Wunambal Gaambera people would ask a great sea Wandjina Guyarra for a seasons blessing before foraging for food this far off the coastline. The geological make up of these islands is fascinating and breath taking as well. It’s time to pull the anchor as we head due east towards Swift Bay.
Day 9
Swift Bay – Port Warrender
We head out early to experience a Wandjina Rock Art Site, a place of great significance to the Wunambal Gaambera people of the North Kimberley. We now steam to Port Warrender and the picturesque Osborne Islands. On arrival to the Osborne Islands, we take a tender tour of this area where we visit a Pearl Farm (subject to availability), a historical shipwreck and an ancient rock art site. So much to explore and learn here, time to rest up whilst we cruise through to Vansittart Bay
Day 10
Vansittart Bay
Its early morning as we head out on the tenders to a not so well-known World War 2 historical site. After a short and easy stroll, we encounter what now remains of this historical event of time. You can be sure that our Eco-guides will point out the natural vegetation, including patches of native grassland and wildflowers along the way. After a scrumptious breakfast, it is time to visit the mysterious Jar Island where we will view an ancient art gallery lost in time. This is yet another place that clearly depicts the early occupation of Indigenous Australia adding another form of rock art known locally as Gwion Gwion or (Bradshaw) to your visit to the Kimberley. After returning to the Eco Abrolhos for lunch, we are now heading to the southernmost point of the Vansittart Bay.
Day 11
Vansittart Bay – Broome Napier Bay
The tenders are all ready to go again, it’s a beach landing at Rocky Cove. Here, we will take you on a hike along a winding rocky path to experience scattered rock art sites that without explanation can show clearly a connection to Indigenous Australia. Eco Abrolhos crew will weigh anchor to make our way through to Broome Napier Bay and the amazing Drysdale River. The tenders will head off to the farther reaches of this river to explore a unique landscape where the freshwater meets the saltwater. Heading off once again through to Koolama Bay, put your feet up and enjoy the ride.
Day 12
Koolama Bay – King George River
Welcome to Koolama Bay, a site named after the vessel SS Koolama. Take in an early account of the WW2 bombing that took place here. It’s now time to head out on our tenders to explore the overwhelming King George River, a river that boasts the highest waterfalls in Western Australia. This is not to be missed as these falls are not only a spectacular sight, but this is also an opportunity for a fresh waterfall shower from one of our comfortable tenders. Its time to soak in another amazing day in the Kimberley with a quiet beverage and relaxed conversation.
Day 13
Berkeley River – Cambridge Gulf
As we cross the mouth of the Berkeley River and head to its extremity to our anchorage, it is time for a scenic tender ride. Here, you will capture the Malcom Douglas Falls whilst keeping a close lookout for the elusive short eared rock wallaby and the majestic birds of prey that frequent this place. On our way back to the Eco Abrolhos you can be sure to visit the Casuarina Falls. A natural amphitheatre carved out in time. On returning to the Eco Abrolhos, we now head out of the Berkeley River toward the Cambridge Gulf and the Lynne River.
Day 14
Cambridge Gulf
Up nice and early to witness the incoming tidal movement into the Cambridge Gulf as we make our way to Wyndham. Here we will dock alongside the Wyndham wharf ready for our final goodbye and departure to shore. Transport will be provided to take you to your destination in Kununurra. There will be a coach to provide hotel or airport transfers back to Kununurra arriving around midday, if booking a flight ex Kununurra please leave till late afternoon to allow for any delays.
14 Day Kimberley Cruise – Wyndham to Broome
Day 1
Depart Wyndham – Cambridge Gulf
Welcome to your trip of a lifetime! You will be collected from your accommodation in Kununurra by a coach and transferred to Wyndham to meet up with the Eco Abrolhos (approx 1 hour bus ride). We advise that you should arrive in Kununurra the day before departure as transfers will commence early the following morning. It’s all aboard the Eco Abrolhos, meet the crew as we take you through the onboard vessel safety induction prior to our departure from Wyndham. We are using the tidal movement into the Cambridge Gulf to explore its vast mudflats and fringing colonies of mangroves. We may stop for an afternoon explore, enjoy your first Kimberley sunset on top of our viewing deck. If tides permit we will continue on to the Berkeley River. With an overnight voyage you will awaken to a geological landscape unique only to the Kimberley.
Day 2
Cambridge Gulf – Berkeley River
Awaken to the beautiful scenery of the Berkeley River. Take a journey out on the tenders to explore the mangroves and all that lives within them. Get up nice and close to Casuarina Falls, our first waterfall stop. This is a natural amphitheatre carved out in time. After lunch we will see the Eco cross the mouth of the Berkley River and head to our anchorage, best enjoyed from magnificent view on the top deck. It’s time for a scenic tender drive. Here, you will capture the Malcom Douglas Falls whilst keeping a close lookout for the elusive short eared rock wallaby and the majestic birds of prey that frequent this place. Finish the day taking in the picturesque landscape and reflect on the day’s activities coming to an end.
Day 3
Berkeley River – Koolama Bay/King George River
The Eco will set off at high tide to cross the river mouth bar and back out into the Bonaparte Gulf enroute to the mighty King George River. After a WW2 story involving the state ship MV Koolama you will be immersed in true geological wonder as the tenders take you upstream through the overwhelming King George River which boasts the highest waterfalls in WA. This is not to be missed as these falls are not only a spectacular sight, but this is also an opportunity for a fresh waterfall shower from one of our comfortable tenders. After your spectacular adventure it is back to the Eco for sunset drinks.
Day 4
Napier Broome Bay – Vansittart Bay
Eco Abrolhos crew will weigh anchor to make our way through to Napier Broome Bay and the amazing Drysdale River. This is one of the longest river systems in the Kimberley. The tenders will head off to the farther reaches of this river to explore a unique landscape where the freshwater meets the saltwater. The tenders are all ready to go again, it’s a beach landing at Rocky Cove. Here, we will take you on a hike along a winding rocky path to experience scattered rock art sites that without explanation can show clearly a connection to indigenous Australia. There will be an opportunity to go fishing. After exploring the Drysdale River, enjoy a relaxing afternoon cruising through to Vansittart Bay.
Day 5
Vansittart Bay
Its early morning as we head out on the tenders to a not so well-known World War 2 historical site. After a short and easy stroll, we encounter what now remains of this historical event of time. You can be sure that our eco-guides will point out the natural vegetation, including patches of native grassland and wildflowers along the way. After a scrumptious breakfast, it is time to visit the mysterious Jar Island where we will view an ancient art gallery lost in time. This is yet another place that clearly depicts the early occupation of indigenous Australia adding another form of rock art known locally as Gwion Gwion or (Bradshaw) to your visit to the Kimberley. After returning to the Eco Abrolhos for lunch, we are now heading to the southernmost point of the Vansittart Bay.
Day 6
Vansittart Bay – Osborne Islands
We head out early to experience a Wandjina Rock Art Site, a place of great significance to the Wunambal Gaambera people of the north Kimberley. We now steam to Port Warrender and the picturesque Osborne Islands home to fertile pearling grounds. On arrival to the Osborne Islands, we take a tender tour of this area where we visit a pearl farm (subject to availability), a historical shipwreck and an ancient rock art site. Back onboard will see us venture further west.
Day 7
Naturalist Island – Hunter River – Port Nelson
Enjoy your breakfast at this serene landscape that is truly breathtaking. During the morning, our helicopter tours (optional extra) will depart from Naturalist Island and encompass the spectacular Mitchell Falls and surrounds. If you are not flying there is an option for a scenic tender excursion of the Hunter River to experience some wildlife encounters of the Kimberley. Back on-board the Eco Abrolhos for lunch as we begin our voyage further south west through to Port Nelson to visit a historic boab tree in the Prince Regent River National Park. We will arrive at a secluded anchorage near Prudhoe Island for the overnight. Enjoy the remote wilderness of the Kimberley.
Day 8
Port Nelson – Prince Regent River
Early morning wake up will reward those with beautiful scenery cruising into St George Basin and the Prince Regent River. After lunch its off to see the Prince Regent River in the tenders. Two of the most spectacular waterfalls the Kimberley has to offer are in this river system with an option to have a refreshing swim above the Kings Cascades. This gem is a hidden oasis. Dress up in your Hawaiian gear and meet on the
Day 9
Prince Regent River – Hanover Bay
An early morning fishing session will allow a keen angler to catch a fish for lunch or dinner. For those not interested in fishing you can head off in the tenders to explore some of the Prince Regents magnificent side tributaries of bird life and reptilian activity along the mangrove lined river system. Enjoy lunch whilst cruising out of the Prince Regent River via St George Basin and witness the tidal currents that have gouged there way into this waterway. Hanover Bay will provide a perfect anchorage for the night and if time permits we will head ashore to walk in the footsteps of the early European explorers.
Day 10
Hanover Bay – Camden Harbour – Doubtful Bay
We are now heading south to the ill-fated township of Camden Harbour Settlement, an incredible story of resilience as we walk in time through the history and ruins that include a short beach landing to Sheep Island and the Camden Harbour Settlement. We will continue our journey south past Kuri Bay into the whale breeding grounds of Camden Sound and further onward to Doubtful Bay.
Day 11
Doubtful Bay – Montgomery Reef
An early morning sunrise in Red Cone Creek and then off for a quick splash exploring the mangrove ecosystem by tender, finding our way to either Sapphire Creek or Ruby Falls. Cruise out of Doubtful Bay as we learn of our first Australians and their long-term connection to the magnificent Raft Point. The afternoon will be spent exploring one of the Kimberley’s must-see attractions Montgomery Reef, a natural phenomenon. A tender ride ensures a closer look at this incredible seascape as we check out the abundant marine life that call this place home. These saltwater terraced waterfalls fall off the world’s largest inshore reef systems. Top off your day with a drink watching the sunset behind the reef as we depart and make our way to Talbot Bay.
Day 12
Talbot Bay
You will see the geological sequence of time unfold before your very eyes as you prepare to visit the renowned Horizontal Falls. Later in the day you will experience some other wonders of Talbot Bay being Cyclone Creek or Dugong Bay both of which will hold geological wonders that we haven’t seen yet on our journey. Some of the rocks here are said to be half the age of the planet. (2.5 billion years old) A final top deck sundowner to reminisce about your adventures and the spectacular scenery you have seen along the way.
Day 13
Talbot Bay – Cone Bay – Cape Leveque
Enjoy the cruise out of Talbot Bay and witness the seams of iron ore exposed in some of the rock face as we make our way past Iron Islands, Koolan and Cockatoo Islands. Further west we will come across the Buccaneer Archipelago also known as the bay of 1000 Islands. We’ll continue our journey to Broome via King Sound, the tides here are the most ferocious and Eco Abrolhos will be dancing in the water movement as she heads towards Cape Leveque. Finally one last captivating Kimberley sunset on your Eco Abrolhos cruise, making new friends and memories.
Day 14
Broome
Beach, Gantheaume Point & into Roebuck Bay where we will say our final goodbyes and ensure a smooth departure with a complimentary coach to transfer you to your accommodation or the airport. If you are departing Broome on this day please book a flight in the afternoon to allow time for any unexpected delays.
14 Day Kimberley Cruise Itinerary – Darwin to Broome
Day 1
DARWIN
We recommend that you arrive in Darwin the day before departure as the vessel’s departure time can vary on the day due to the tides. The hotel & airport transfer times will be confirmed a week before departure of your cruise.
Day 2
CASUARINA FALLS
See us at sea as we travel towards the Berkeley River. We will haveplenty of time to settle in and meet new friends and fellow guests. We will also have the opportunity to view some movies of the Kimberley so we can all get excited and may even crack out the darts or bingo!!
Day 3
KING GEORGE RIVER
Wake up this morning to the glorious Berkley River and take in the inspiring vista from the top deck as we make our way up one of the great Kimberley gorges. Keep an eye out for the first of many crocodiles (bigones inhabit this river!!) and the chance to see a Jabiru on one of the mud banks.Once we can travel no further in our mother ship we will disembark into the tenders for a scenic cruise and maybe a chance to catch an elusive Barra for those who are keen.After lunch we will head back down to the mouth of the river and back into the tenders to view the Casuarina Falls and maybe a swim. As the sun sets enjoy a relaxing drink as we set sail for the mighty King George.
Day 4
GLYCOSMIS BAY
Once we have traversed the protective sand bar at the mouth of the magnificent King George, we will meander our way along this Kimberley icon to it’s falls. Be sure to have your camera batteries charged as you will need all you have to capture every photo opportunity!! Once at the falls we will stop within metres of them and then disembark into the tenders for a closer look. Those that feel upto it can make their way to the top of the highest single drop falls in Western Australia for one of the truly great views. In the afternoon we will set sail again for Vansittart Bay.
Day 5
JAR ISLAND
Vansittart Bay! One of the best places to view Bradshaw paintings. Wonder as to how these mysterious and elegant paintings came to be. 20,000 years old and looking like nothing you have ever seen before. We will also visit a downed DC3 plane from the war and learn about the secret WWII airbase that housed hundreds of B52 Bombers that the Japanese searched for in vain. At the end of the days adventures we will head for a nice refreshing dip in the sea on a tranquil beach.
Day 6
MITCHELL RIVER FISHING
Today sees us in the mighty Mitchell River, home of the big Barra. A chance for everyone to hook the fish of a lifetime. We will spend the day here catching dinner and trying our hand at mud-crabbing as well. For those who feel up to it, there is great waterhole to soothe the days adventures away, safe from the ever presentcrocodiles. For those who would like to see the Mitchell Falls there is an option to take a helicopter ride and enjoy the view.
Day 7
MITCHELL PLATEAU & MITCHELL FALLS
Halfway through our Kimberley Cruise we visit Bigge Island, where we have a saltwater swim and walk on a beautiful sandy beach. We explore some beachfront caves to look at Wandjina art and a burial site of one of the Wunambal people. This afternoon we will head off to the Hunter River and try our luck at spotting some whales whilst enjoying a drink or two on the top deck.
Day 8
PRINCE REGENT RIVER
Wake up to the magnificent sandstone cliffs of the Hunter River. These spectacular rock formations change colour as the light comes and goes and as we spend the day sightseeing and fishing. There is also an option today to take a helicopter ride to the Mitchell Falls.
Day 9
KINGS CASCADE WATERFALLS
The infamous Kings Cascade and the Prince Regent River, once thought to be the access to a great inland sea. Today we get up close and marvel at the Kings Cascade waterfall and learning a little of the history about the discovery of the Kimberley Region. We will enjoy a swim at the top of the falls in another great waterhole and more chances to catch the elusive Barra. In the afternoon we will cruise down the river and watch another gorgeous sunset as we make our way further south.
Day 10
KURI BAY
Waking up in Brecknock Harbour, we take an early morning run in the tenders to view the remains of the first Kimberley settlement and hear the tales of woe that beset this misinformed and tragic expedition. From here we will cruise past the famous Kuri Bay, the first Pearl Farm in the area and down to an art gallery at Freshwater Cove. You will have the chance to purchase our own little piece of history and do a bush tucker excursion with some of the local people. Just another fascinating remembrance of your Kimberly Cruise.
Day 11
RUBY FALLS
For those keen this morning we trek up the side of Raft Point for a look at some great Wandjina art and learn a little history of the area. Then it’s onwards to Freshwater Cove and its exquisite art gallery run by the locals. Buy a lasting memento and an ** option to go on a Country Cove Tour to really feel the spirit of “Country”. We spend the afternoon watching the sun dip in the west, looking for whales and wondering – does life get any better than this!
Day 12
RAFT POINT
Montgomery Reef, so named by Phillip Parkerking, in honour of his friend and surgeon on his exploration of the Kimberley coast. Witness the spectacle of this monolithic reef as it rises out of the water. We will sightsee up the channel and experience the many turtles, sharks, rays and egrets there are in this incredibly diverse system. In the afternoon we will steam across Doubtful Bay and enjoy another refreshing swim in a surprising waterfall and another chance at the golden Barra.
Day 13
TALBOT BAY
White water rafting anyone? Well not quite, there is an option here to take a ride through the Horizontal Falls in tenders and experience one of the most exciting parts of the trip which is not to be missed. In our last hurrah of our Kimberley Cruise before heading to Broome we will visit Silica Beach. Truly a standout in a sea of beaches. This beach is so named because of the amount of Silica in its snow white sand. Hear it squeak underfoot as you relax one last time on the shores of the Kimberley and start planning your return journey, for no two trips are ever the same.
Day 14
BROOME
Broome, the melting pot of many cultures, which makes this town unique. Sadly we say goodbye, but we leave with new friendships and the promise of more adventures, after the trip of a lifetime.
14 Day Kimberley Cruise Itinerary – Broome to Darwin
Day 1
BROOME
We recommend that you arrive in Broome or Darwin the day before departure as the vessel’s departure time can vary on the day due to the tides. The hotel & airport transfer times will be confirmed a week before departure of your cruise.
Day 2
HORIZONTAL FALLS
We wake this morning to a beautiful cooked breakfast as we cross the Buccaneer Archipelago, home of a thousand islands.Cruising past the last outposts of civilisation and prepare for our first swim in the aptly named Crocodile Creek! Don’t be concerned, there are no crocodiles! After a refreshing swim in a beautiful waterhole it’s time to set sail for one of the world’s greatest natural wonders – The Horizontal Waterfalls. Be amazed at the sheer immensity of the falls and we have an optional tour here to take a high speed boat ride through the falls and wonder at the power of nature’s force as millions of litres of water pours through each minute. In the afternoon, we wander towards Raft Point and the opportunity to spot whales whilst enjoying the sunset from the top deck.
Day 3
TALBOT BAY
Wake up to the magnificent rock bluffs that is Raft Point. Whilst enjoying a sumptuous breakfast we head to Montgomery Reef, the largest single reef structure in the southern hemisphere at over 350 square kms. Here we will cruise through the channel in tenders and try to count the hundreds of turtles, rays, sharks and a chance sighting of a dugong. Afterwards, it is back across Doubtful Bay for another great swim and the first of many chances to catch an elusive Barramundi or two.
Day 4
RAFT POINT
For those keen enough this morning we trek up the side of Raft Point for a look at some great Wandjina art and learn a little history of the area. Then it’s onward towards Freshwater Cove and its exquisite art gallery run by the locals. Buy a lasting memento and an option is to go on a bush tucker tour to really feel the spirit of “Country”. We spend the afternoon watching the sun dip in the west, looking for whales and wondering – does life get any better than this!
Day 5
KINGS CASCADE
History lesson this morning! Today we learn where not to try and establish a settlement in the Kimberley. We explore the ruins of Camden Harbour and hear the tragic tale of those who came and ultimately perished in trying to tame this harsh but beautiful country. In the afternoon we again set out to try and catch the Golden Barra or for those who want to relax, let’s lie on the sun lounges on the top deck with a good book!
Day 6
PRINCE REGENT
Into the void we go! Well into the Basin actually – St George’s Basin, the mouth of the Prince Regent River and onto the King’s Cascade Falls. Here we will enjoy a swim in a huge crystal clear pool at the top of the falls. This afternoon sees us heading down the river into another glorious sunset and to our next destination.
Day 7
LAND OF THE GIANTS
The Hunter River – more sightseeing, fishing and for those who wish to see this great country from the air, today is your chance. There is an option to take a helicopter ride to the mighty Mitchell Falls and this is highly recommended.
Day 8
MITCHELL PLATEAU
Today sees us leave early in the morning and head towards the Mitchell River. Along the way we will call into Bigge Island for a swim and explore some beach front caves. Here we will view some more Wandjina Art, and a burial site of one of the Wunambal people. Once in the Mitchell River we will chase the elusive Big Barra to see who catches the biggest fish of a lifetime!
Day 9
SWIFTS BAY
The Mighty Mitchell! For those needing to stretch their legs we will walk to a fabulous waterhole and wash the heat of the day away after we have again tried our hand at mudcrabbing and fishing. In the afternoon, it is off to a very special part of the Kimberley.
Day 10
VANSITTART BAY
Vansittart Bay – the place to gaze upon and wonder who left the incredible rock art known as Bradshaws. Over 20,000 years old and shrouded in mystery! Theorize as to how they came to be! We will also view more recent WWII history, hear about secret air bases and see the bomber which crashed during the war. Somewhere during the day we will have a refreshing swim and relax on a beach.
Day 11
BERKELEY RIVER
Having left behind the past in Vansittart Bay, this morning we wake to one of the great Kimberley icons, The King George River. We will marvel at the length and breadth of this great gorge as we meander our way to the highest single drop waterfall in Western Australia. Be sure to have your cameras ready as there will be photo opportunities around every bend. Those with fitness can try and climb to the top of the falls for a truly spectacular view. An afternoon fish, swim or beach walk before we set off to our last destination.
Day 12
CASUARINA FALLS
Perhaps the most beautiful river in the Kimberley – The Berkeley! Wonder as to how the great Eco Abrolhos can fit down this gorge. You can almost touch the sides. Once at its end we are off in the tenders for a sight see and then a swim and one last chance at that big Barra. After lunch we will cruise back down to the mouth and spend the afternoon looking at Casuarina Falls, beachcombing, swimming, fishing or just plain relaxing on the top deck watching our last Kimberley sunset.
Day 13
BERKELEY RIVER
Today we leave the Berkeley and set course for the Port of Darwin. Now is the time for swapping emails, exchanging photos and planning more adventures with all our new found friends. Games will be held in the lounge area.
Day 14
DARWIN
Well its 8 am and all too soon it’s time to say “Au Revoir” for surely we will meet again. Our once in a lifetime experience is over for now as we disembark at the Port of Darwin.
3 Day Fly In and Out
Day 0
Geraldton
The tour departs Geraldton airport at 2pm or 4pm and arrives at East Wallabi Island where the Eco Abrolhos crew will be waiting to welcome you. The fly time is generally 40 minutes followed by a short tender transit to the Eco Abrolhos. First on the agenda will be the required safety briefings and induction. Weather permitting, you will enjoy sunset drinks ashore overlooking Turtle Bay and the setting sun. After dinner guests are encouraged to watch the Batavia Shipwreck and mutiny re-enactment documentary to learn what happened during Australia’s most infamous Shipwreck saga.
Day 1
West Wallabi Islands
Your first activity of the day is to board the King Diver (40ft Cray fishing tender) and head off to pull the Cray pots. Watch the crew as they bring the pots onboard, help size and count the catch before the pots are re-baited and re-set. After breakfast the Batavia history starts with a tour to West Wallabi Island to view Wiebbe Hayes’s Fort which is the first European building in Australia. The tour includes a drive by of The Pidgeon Islands for a chance to learn about the area’s Cray Fishing industry. The fort tour meanders inland past a Wallaby Corridor, bird life, lizards and possibly large Carpet Pythons before arriving at the 2 forts. The staff will show you a series of waterholes that kept the marooned soldiers alive. After a crayfish lunch there will be a snorkeling option with either a snorkel on the Batavia shipwreck (weather permitting) or on the snorkel trail at Turtle Bay. For non-snorkelers there is the option of a glass bottom boat tour.
Day 2
Turtle Bay
After a crayfish lunch there will be a snorkeling option with either a snorkel on the Batavia shipwreck (weather permitting) or on the snorkel trail at Turtle Bay. For non-snorkelers there is the option of a glass bottom boat tour. After lunch we move the Eco Abrolhos south to the Easter Group. One of our options is to visit Morley Island. This island has many things to see and do. The area is a Sea Lion hotspot with the resident colony of females and young pups lazily stretched out on the sandy foreshore. It’s not uncommon for them to join the guests for a swim as they snorkel around the snorkel trail. This is a very popular snorkel site for guests catering to all snorkeling abilities. The area is also home to the Lesser Noddy – one of the world’s rarest birds. They will have returned to roost during the summer so this is the best time of the year to see them. The island is a great place to sunbake, swim, enjoy a glass-bottom boat ride, relax, or walk along the sandy foreshore. An option is to move the Eco Abrolhos to our Rat Island mooring and go ashore for sunset drinks on Little Sandy Island. This tiny island is host to one of the biggest Sea Lion colonies in the Abrolhos with up to 20 sealions returning for the night. It makes a for a fantastic sight as they come out of the water and dance to the Van Morrison tunes we have playing for us – and them… The spit at the end of the island is normally covered with over 20 species of birds that have also returned for the night. It makes for excellent viewing and photography with the setting sun.
Day 3
Leo’s Island/Wooded Island
After your last pot pull and another hearty hot breakfast, the Eco Abrolhos moves over to either Leo’s Island or Wooded Island. The Wooded Island walk showcases nesting birds in the mangrove area & one of our favorite snorkeling sites – the squid hole. Getting in and out by tender is also a lot of fun as it’s very shallow and the super clear water makes for amazing viewing. After your last pot pull and another hearty hot breakfast, the Eco Abrolhos moves over to either Leo’s Island or Wooded Island. The Wooded Island walk showcases nesting birds in the mangrove area & one of our favorite snorkeling sites – the squid hole. Getting in and out by tender is also a lot of fun as it’s very shallow and the super clear water makes for amazing viewing. After lunch we take you on a drive by tour of the Rat Island Group. This area was home to the Eco’s owners cray fishing camps and so there are a lot of stories to tell. If they are around, we will meet some of the colorful locals. There are millions of birds roosting on the Rat Islands during the spring & summer months. After the tour we will take you ashore at Big Rat Island which has the largest airstrip in the Abrolhos Islands. Then it will be time to say goodbye as you board your flight back to Geraldton.
5 Day Tour
Day 1
Geraldton
Your 5 Day Abrolhos Islands Cruise begins on Day 0 as we welcome you aboard for a complimentary night prior to departure the next morning. This allows you time to settle in your cabin, meet the crew and other passengers, complete the safety briefings and enjoy pizza night as you watch the sun set over the Eco Wharf. The next morning you have a choice of either waking with the crew & watching the sun rise over Geraldton as the Eco Abrolhos departs or enjoy a sleep in as we steam towards the Abrolhos Islands. Scheduled arrival at the Southern Group is around 10am. The next 24 hours is spent exploring a selection of the Southern Group locations
Day 2 & 3
Southern and Easter Group
The Eco Abrolhos departs the Southern Group around noon and cruises north to the Easter Group where we meet up with the morning’s fisherman. There is a selection of 6 locations where we will spend our next 36 hours.
Day 4
Batavia
Batavia Day – After a quick steam to the Wallabi Group get ready for some history lessons. There is a choice of 4 historical sites to visit.
Day 5
Wallabi Group
The morning is spent exploring around the Wallabi Group typically Turtle Bay on East Wallabi Island. The Eco Abrolhos departs around noon for the steam back to Geraldton with arrival just before sunset.
Inclusions & Options
Your expedition includes:
Optional extras:
Deck Plan & Cabins
Cabins:
King Bed Deluxe Stateroom
available (5 x bridge deck, 1 x main deck)
All have windows
King size beds (all rooms can be re-configured to 2 x king singles)
Dresser
Desk
Wardrobe and drawers
Ensuite with Toilet, Shower and Basin
Queen & Double Bed Staterooms
4 available (all on main deck) 2 x queen, 2 x double
3 of the 4 have windows or multiple portholes
Dresser
Wardrobe and drawers
Ensuite with Toilet, Shower and Basin
Single Bunk Cabin
4 available (all on lower deck)
All have portholes
Wardrobe and drawers
Ensuite with Toilet, Shower and Basin
King Single Bunk Cabin
2 king single beds
Wardrobe and drawers
Toilet, shower and basin
Deck Plan:
More About This Ship:
….. 2 optional helicopter flights and a complimentary fast boat ride through The Horizontal Falls make her a great choice.
The Eco Abrolhos is a 35 metre catamaran which can accommodate 32 passengers in 17 rooms, all of which have ensuites.
With their 4 custom built hi-powered tenders seating 8 guests each, the tours are in comfort and can be varied from tender to tender if required. The forward folding front stairs make boarding easy for any level of mobility.
