Australia’s west coast is home to some of the country’s most extraordinary wonders, many of which are only accessible by sea. Join us aboard the Coral Adventurer and explore this endlessly fascinating destination as we visit remote archipelagos, offshore coral reefs and pristine coastlines that only few have had the opportunity to visit. Our voyage offers true explorers the opportunity to visit natural world destinations that are unlike anywhere else in the world. Encounter endemic marine species, spot native animals and birdwatch in Important Bird Areas. In addition the region has a fascinating maritime and indigenous history, from the Malgana people of Shark Bay and the Yaburara people of the Dampier Archipelago to the exploratory journeys of William Dampier, Dirk Hartog, Baudin and Freycinet.
Western Australia’s wild and largely untouched coast, with its contrasting coastal palette of rich red sands and turquoise sea is simply perfect for expedition cruising and our itinerary features numerous natural world highlights with the many coastal reserves harbouring an abundance of birdlife and fascinating marine species. We will discover the renowned Abrolhos Islands, often referred to as the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean, where in addition to the abundance of rich marine life which inhabit the waters, the islands are also a breeding site for over two million sea birds across 35 species. We also spend time in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, one of the world’s greatest wilderness treasures; this westernmost part of Australia has a unique combination of wildlife, flora and stunning scenery unlike that found anywhere else. Continuing north we spend a day in the Cape Range National Park where we will explore the crystal clear waters of World Heritage listed Ningaloo Reef, one of the longest and most pristine fringing reefs in the world. Our final three island groups are the Muiron Islands known for their incredible reef, colourful soft corals, and abundance of turtles and schools of fish; the Montebello Islands or ‘Montes’, an archipelago of more than 250 limestone islands and islets which are considered an Important Bird Area and finally the Dampier Archipelago which consists of 42 islands and islets, 25 of which are nature reserves and where the iron-red islands stand in bright contrast to the turquoise waters which surround them.
For this unique expedition we have exclusively chartered the Coral Adventurer and working with the Australian owners of the vessel have devised an exciting itinerary. We will be able to drop anchor in remote bays and use the unique Xplorer tender vessels and the Zodiac landing craft to land in otherwise inaccessible places, making the most of Western Australia’s extraordinary natural attractions. At the end of each day we return to the Coral Adventurer and indulge in the delights of the celebrated cuisine and wine along with the convivial company of just 100 fellow passengers. We will be joined on board by an expedition team including guest lecturers who have a wealth of knowledge of the flora, fauna and indigenous cultures. They will share expert guidance and insightful presentations with you throughout the voyage, both whilst on board and exploring ashore in small groups.
Coral Adventurer
For our small ship adventures in Australia and New Zealand, we have chosen to partner with Coral Expeditions and their vessel the Coral Adventurer which was purpose built to explore the remote and tropical regions of Australasia. An Australian-owned and operated company established over forty years ago, Coral Expeditions share our passion for small ships and our aim of bringing small groups of like-minded travellers to some of most beautiful and culturally fascinating places in the world accompanied by a team of experts and in a high degree of comfort.
We have exclusively chartered the Coral Adventurer which was launched in 2019 and is simply the perfect small ship for the region. Accommodating a maximum of 120 passengers (limited to just 100 for our exclusive charters) and featuring a shallow draft and high manoeuvrability, the vessel can navigate inaccessible reef systems, rivers and shores which are out of reach to larger vessels. In addition to a fleet of Zodiacs, the Coral Adventurer carries two unique Xplorer tenders which provide guests with unrivalled access to nature with ease. The atmosphere on board is relaxed and informal with the focus being on exploration and the excellent Australian crew are dedicated to providing attentive hospitality with a warm and relaxed Australian style.
Itinerary
Please note that this is an expedition cruise in its truest sense and we will be exploring many places only accessible by sea. Flexibility will be key to a successful expedition and whilst we have outlined an itinerary below, the final schedule will be determined by our Captain and the Expedition Leader based on sea and weather conditions and the wildlife we encounter.
Day 1 London to Perth, Australia.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight.
Day 2 Perth.
Arrive and transfer to our centrally located hotel for a two night stay. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax after your journey or explore the city independently.
Day 3 Perth.
After breakfast in the hotel we enjoy a tour of Perth which will include a guided walk around Kings Park, perched on Mount Eliza. Absorb impressive views of the city and the Swan River and see some of Western Australia’s remarkable flora in the Botanical Gardens. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon before we meet tonight for our welcome dinner.
Day 4 Perth to Fremantle.
After breakfast in the hotel we will transfer to the Coral Adventurer moored in Fremantle. We will sail later this morning and spend the remainder of the day cruising and settling in on board.
Days 5 to 7 Abrolhos Islands.
The Abrolhos Islands consist of 122 islands, clustered into three main groups: the Wallabi, Easter and Pelsaert Groups. Lying in the stream of the southward flowing Leeuwin current, the marine environment here is a meeting place for tropical and temperate sea life. Common marine mammals include Australian sea lions and bottlenose dolphins, and over 90 species of seabird have been identified. The treacherous reefs around these islands have claimed many wrecks over the centuries, the most famous being the 'Batavia' in 1629 whose Dutch crew swam ashore only to experience a brutal mutiny. The Abrolhos Islands offer a near-pristine natural environment with a diverse range of marine and terrestrial fauna and flora and the area also has a rich history including shipwrecks and remnants of early colonial industries such as guano mining and commercial fishing. We will spend three days exploring the area, visiting all three main groups: Pelsaert (Southern), Easter Group and the Wallabi Group. A broad range of activities will be available across these three days including visiting historical sites, wildlife viewing and world-class snorkelling sites. We will enjoy the chance to snorkel off picturesque Turtle Bay and take a short walk along the beach where you may see tamar wallabies, skinks, and the endemic Abrolhos dwarf bearded dragons. We will cruise past the Pidgeon Islands, the wealthiest of the crayfishing islands. Birdwatch for ospreys, white-bellied sea eagles and caspian terns amongst other birdlife. Conditions permitting, we hope to visit Beacon Island, also known as the Island of Angry Ghosts, where 126 men, women and children were massacred by the blood thirsty mutineers of this area over 400 years ago. This island is home to fantastic birdlife, as well as the Batavia Memorial cairn and the coral pits that are still evident from where Jeronimus Cornelisz (the mutiny ringleader) was held prior to his trial and execution. At the Easter Group we will have the opportunity to visit the sea lion colony at Little Sandy Island, home to the largest colony of sea lions in the Abrolhos. There will be opportunities to snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs at locations such as Squid Hole, the Anemone Lump or Morley Island. Also enjoy the opportunity to bird watch at Wooded Island. At the Pelsaert (Southern) group we will have the opportunity to visit Liddon Pearl Farm and crayfishing operations on Post Office Island. Here we learn what is involved with growing the pearls, learning the different shells and pearl categories, and how the different types of pearls are set. We will also gain insights into the renowned cray fishing industry of the island, from the family who has been in the Abrolhos for four generations, and hope to have the chance to snorkel the blue holes from the jetty.
Days 8 & 9 Shark Bay.
Explore the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, the first location in Western Australia to receive UNESCO World Heritage status in 1991. This is a region of colourful landscapes, rare flora and fauna, and home to a staggering 35% of all of Australia’s bird species. Explore Francois Peron National Park where red desert cliffs meet the turquoise sea. Cruise past historic Cape Inscription, the site of Dirk Hartog’s landing in 1616, and time permitting enjoy a refreshing swim off the sandy remote beach.
Day 10 Cruising the Ningaloo Coast.
The remote and well-hidden Bateman’s Bay, just north of Coral Bay, is a remote and untouched landscape with beautiful sand beaches. Weather permitting we will make a short landing on a section of the Ningaloo coast between Northwest Cape and Shark Bay where we can enjoy a swim and beachcomb.
Day 11 Exmouth & Cape Range National Park.
One of the longest and most pristine fringing reefs in the world, Ningaloo Reef has an unusually narrow continental shelf. The deep oceanic waters, reef and coastline communities are close in proximity, resulting in a huge array of significant and healthy marine life coexisting in one area. The Ningaloo Coast is also one of the most important turtle nesting rookeries in the Indian Ocean and has a significant maritime history from explorers, traders, pearl luggers, whaling and fishing. We will spend the day at Cape Range National Park with options to snorkel at Turquoise Bay, visit Yardie Creek on a nature walk, head up to the Vlamingh Head lighthouse or visit the Ningaloo Centre. There will also be some free time to explore Exmouth. It is also a coastline with a fascinating heritage, where lonely whalers battled it out against the elements.
Day 12 Muiron Islands & Serrurier Island.
The Muiron Islands are located approximately ten nautical miles off the Northwest Cape. The islands are well known for their incredible reef, colourful soft corals, an abundance of turtles, schools of fish and even sightings of manta rays. With fantastic bommies and protected reef, snorkellers will appreciate the variety of soft corals and gorgonians as well as the incredible marine life. Birdlife is abundant onshore and we hope to spot wedge-tail shearwaters, roseate terns, osprey, and black-shouldered kites. Serrurier Island is located a further 20 nautical miles northeast of the Muirons. Here we will experience great coral competition and seagrass beds that feed the local dugongs. After some in-water activities, you can stretch your legs on a stroll down the beach on these untouched islands.
Day 13 Montebello Islands.
The Montebello Islands or ‘Montes’ are an archipelago of more than 250 limestone islands and islets off the coast of the Pilbara. The islands are considered an Important Bird Area, as they support over 1% of the world’s population of fairy and roseate terns, as well as sooty oystercatchers. The Montes have an ‘explosive’ past. Alpha and Trimouille Islands were the sites of three British atomic weapons tests in the 1950s. Relics of the military operation can still be found on the islands today. We will visit the plinth, which marks Ground Zero at Trimouille Island, where now you will find a haven for wildlife, including the rufous hare wallaby. A fascinating maritime history surrounds Montebello Islands. Survivors of the British East India ship ‘Tryall’ swam here after their ship was wrecked in 1622, therefore being the first Europeans to land on the islands. We will spend a full day exploring this island group, including wildlife spotting opportunities and beautiful beach walks. Keep watch for the rare rufous hare wallaby and lagoon rays while exploring amazing vistas.
Day 14 Dampier Archipelago.
Consisting of 42 islands and islets, 25 of which are nature reserves; the iron-red islands of the Dampier Archipelago stand in bright contrast to the turquoise waters which surround them. The archipelago not only offers exceptional natural beauty but significant sites for Aboriginal and European Heritage, many of which are in National Heritage Listed Areas. Named after English explorer William Dampier who first visited the islands aboard the ‘Cygnet’ in 1699, the islands’ earliest inhabitants were the Yaburara people, as is evidenced by the thousands of rock engravings, shell middens and stone arrangements scattered across the area. In the company of local indigenous rangers, there will be ample opportunity to explore the area’s historical and cultural sites before taking to the azure waters for swimming. Birdwatchers will have the opportunity to see several species of migratory waders as well as sea eagles and ospreys. With luck, we may even see the elusive Rothschild’s rock wallaby. Please note viewing of aboriginal petroglyphs is subject to approval and guidance by traditional owners of the area and cannot be guaranteed.
Day 15 At Sea.
Relax on deck as we spend a day at sea, with presentations from the onboard Guest Lecturers, workshops, and demonstrations.
Day 16 Broome to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London.
Day 17 London.
Arrive today.
Exploring Ashore: This voyage is expeditionary in nature, exploring remote regions only accessible by sea. The Captain and Expedition Team will make changes to the daily schedule when necessary to maximise your experience. We will be at anchor on most days and will utilise the Zodiacs or Xplorer tenders to go ashore. There will be a number of beach landings and the guided walks will be up to three kilometres in distance. An alternative excursion will always be offered in place of higher impact walks and the Expedition Team will advise walking conditions and requirements prior to each excursion. There will be multiple opportunities to swim and snorkel and this expedition will appeal to those who enjoy the natural world. If you have any queries pertaining to the use of Zodiacs or the level of fitness required for this voyage please do not hesitate to contact one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
Dates and Prices
19 March to 4 April 2027 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
Promenade Stateroom with picture window | £12995 | £12495 |
Explorer Stateroom with private balcony | £14395 | £13895 |
Bridge Stateroom with private balcony | £15395 | £14895 |
Bridge Suite with private balcony | £16795 | £16295 |
Coral Stateroom with porthole for sole use | £13995 | £13495 |
Tour Reference Code: SCCA190327
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Two nights hotel accommodation in Perth with breakfast • 12 nights aboard the Coral Adventurer on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch & dinner • Onboard expedition team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, Australia ETA.
Exploring Ashore: This voyage is expeditionary in nature, exploring remote regions only accessible by sea. The Captain and Expedition Team will make changes to the daily schedule when necessary to maximise your experience. We will be at anchor on most days and will utilise the Zodiacs or Xplorer tenders to go ashore. There will be a number of beach landings and the guided walks will be up to three kilometres in distance. An alternative excursion will always be offered in place of higher impact walks and the Expedition Team will advise walking conditions and requirements prior to each excursion. There will be multiple opportunities to swim and snorkel and this expedition will appeal to those who enjoy the natural world. If you have any queries pertaining to the use of Zodiacs or the level of fitness required for this voyage please do not hesitate to contact one of our experienced Travel Consultants.

During this voyage you will be visiting out of the way destinations and will be accompanied by an expedition team. Landings and excursions will be made by the onboard Xplorer and Zodiac landing craft. This cruise will appeal to the more adventurous and those who enjoy the natural world.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
Coral Adventurer
For our small ship adventures in Australia and New Zealand, we have chosen to partner with Coral Expeditions and their vessel the Coral Adventurer which was purpose built to explore the remote and tropical regions of Australasia. An Australian-owned and operated company established over forty years ago, Coral Expeditions share our passion for small ships and our aim of bringing small groups of like-minded travellers to some of most beautiful and culturally fascinating places in the world accompanied by a team of experts and in a high degree of comfort.
We have exclusively chartered the Coral Adventurer which was launched in 2019 and is simply the perfect small ship for the region. Accommodating a maximum of 120 passengers (limited to just 100 for our exclusive charters) and featuring a shallow draft and high manoeuvrability, the vessel can navigate inaccessible reef systems, rivers and shores which are out of reach to larger vessels. In addition to a fleet of Zodiacs, the Coral Adventurer carries two unique Xplorer tenders which provide guests with unrivalled access to nature with ease. The atmosphere on board is relaxed and informal with the focus being on exploration and the excellent Australian crew are dedicated to providing attentive hospitality with a warm and relaxed Australian style.
Ship's Tour Video
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000