True North 2: Kimberley Ultimate

13 Day Ultimate Cruise

One of Australia’s most exclusive holiday experiences

For 30 years the TRUE NORTH’s flagship adventure has been the Kimberley Ultimate!

The Ultimate is simply two weeks of lavish indulgence.

All of the Kimberley coast’s iconic attractions are included plus much, much, more and, all is enjoyed at a leisurely pace that ends with guests frequently remarking “that’s the best holiday I have ever had!” If you want not one heli-picnic but two – if you want more time for exploring, more time for fishing and, twice as many mouth-watering dining experiences – then the Kimberley Ultimate is the right TRUE NORTH adventure for you!

Please refer to the sailing schedule to determine if this itinerary is available on the TRUE NORTH or TRUE NORTH II.

This itinerary is provided as example only – prevailing conditions, local arrangements and indeed, what we discover on the day, may cause variation. Helicopter flights can be purchased additional to the indicated tariff as a package or individually.

Cruise Itinerary

Welcome aboard
Join our coach transfer in Kununurra – your “welcome aboard” the magnificent TRUE NORTH will be in the frontier town of Wyndham. Embarkation is at 1700 – time for a cocktail with your fellow adventurers before departing at approximately 1830. Dinner is served shortly after leaving port and then it’s an overnight cruise to the King George River.
The King George Falls

As soon as the tide is high enough, we’ll cross the sand bar at the mouth of the mighty King George to reveal a breathtaking river vista. Our journey upstream will take us to the very ‘jewel in the crown’ – The King George Falls. Take a shower on the bow and then fly above the Twin Falls in the ship’s helicopter for yet another cruise highlight. In the afternoon learn about the history of the wreck of the Koolama and explore Tranquil Bay.
The Drysdale

Explore the Drysdale and catch one of our favourite fish, the impressive mangrove jack! The adventure boats will then head “up-river” for scones and billy tea – a signature TRUE NORTH experience! There will also be opportunity to indulge in beachcombing and sightseeing. In the afternoon, the fishers will hunt ‘goldies’ while those on land visit an ancient rock art gallery in Vansittart Bay
Eagle Falls

Today you will see the “Bradshaws” – ancient rock art that pre-dates other examples of Aboriginal culture. In fact, they are possibly the oldest ‘paintings’ known to man. The heli-picnic at Eagle Falls is always a ‘big hit’ – a breathtaking helicopter flight and, the TRUE NORTH’s mouth-watering fare alongside a picture-perfect waterfall! Vansittart Bay also has a reputation for producing monster mackerel and the adventure boats will also be busy exploring the local beaches and creeks.
The Mitchell

The Mitchell River is renowned for big barra and even bigger crocs! The adventure boats will head up river to scenic Surveyors Creek - a great place for a swim (no crocs here!) The fishermen will again join the hunt for the elusive barramundi and there will be more opportunities for helicopter flights over ancient land including the spectacular Mitchell Falls! Then join us for our pearl and diamond party! Enjoy a glass of bubbly whilst trying on exquisite pieces created by the artistes at Allure, Jewels of the Kimberley and Kimberley Fine Diamonds.
Swift Bay

Wake up in the stunning turquoise waters of Swift Bay. No time to dally – after an early morning breakfast it’s time to join the ‘hunt for the black-lip oyster’. In fact – their muchtalked about proportions render them not hard to find at all! Savour their unique taste direct from the rock – aside from some freshly squeezed lemon, you can’t get much more a la naturale than that! There are also some excellent examples of both Wandjina and Bradshaw art nearby and the waters are alive with light game species such as queenfish, giant trevally and mackerel. Join the crew for a walk through a rock art gallery, followed by sunset drinks on the picturesque Winyalkin Island. Enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres from our chefs and watch the sun descend on another action packed day in the Kimberley!
The Roe

The Roe River - another great opportunity to catch a barra as we explore a river that boasts one of the highest crocodile counts in the Kimberley! The Roe was named after the first Surveyor-General of Western Australia - John Septimus Roe conducted numerous expeditions along the Kimberley coast between 1829 and 1849 and the ship’s helicopter will dramatically demonstrate the maze of creeks and endless coast that the early explorers encountered! In the afternoon we will sail into Prince Frederick Harbour to visit a Wandjina art site on the aptly named Art Island! And the heli will be available to perch on one of the Kimberley’s highest peaks – sunset over Prince Frederick Harbour (accompanied by cheese and bubbles no doubt!)
The Hunter

Wake this morning in the magnificent Hunter River. The Hunter is about as far away as you can get in Australia – a stunning river system that is lined with dense mangrove forests and surrounded by rainforest encrusted mountains. And, the Hunter has it all - fishing, mud crabbing, bird-watching and simply exploring “where few have been before!” Join one of our adventure boats for a closer look, enjoy a challenging hike to Jackson Falls and, there’s even more splendour from the helicopter! In the afternoon, visit one of the Kimberley’s most historic sites – Phillip Parker King’s boab tree.
The Prince Regent

In the heart of the Kimberley lies the mighty Prince Regent! The scenery will astound and there will be some ‘not to be missed’ fishing action as the TRUE NORTH graces this majestic river! At King Cascade we will manoeuvre the TRUE NORTH right under the falls! Then it’s time for more ‘adventure in the tenders’ – a chance to stretch the laces on your hiking boots and an opportunity to swim in yet another picture perfect billabong, or perhaps you’d like to venture further upriver to visit the spectacular ‘Amphitheatre’ waterfall. The helicopter will also be popular when the first group of intrepid explorers returns from Jurassic Park! Then re-join the TRUE NORTH for an overnight anchorage off Camp Creek.
Champagne Sunrise

The early-risers will be treated to a heliflight with a difference – a champagne sunrise on the top of a mountain! The sightseeing tenders will explore Camp Creek before another breathtaking helicopter flight to a picnic that you’ll never forget – our chefs will prepare more of their destination-inspired dishes alongside a crystal-clear billabong – in one of the most remote places on earth! The helicopter will take to the skies once again, this time to land at several remote rock art sites. Accessible only by helicopter, these ancient art galleries will simply leave you in awe!
Montgomery Reef

Start the day with some more hot fishing action – this time at “Three Ways”. Join crew and guests alike for a moderate walk to Ruby Falls and be rewarded with a refreshing swim in the large natural rock pool. Enjoy lunch as we weigh anchor and set sail for another Kimberley icon – Montgomery Reef! Montgomery is a unique ecosystem that must be seen to be believed – and see it you will – as 140 square miles of coral reef rises out of the ocean right before your very eyes! Water cascades from the reef as the tide falls exposing a privileged glimpse of another world! Turtles, dugong, crocodiles and every imaginable sea creature abound and the helicopter puts all in perspective!
Kingfisher Islands

The adventure boats will be away early for another ‘crack at the fish!’ Trolling around the Kingfisher Islands reliably produces hefty pelagics such as armwrenching trevally and lure smashing mackerel. A couple of good-sized ‘goldies’ and some leaping queenfish will add to the sashimi menu! The keen anglers will take-off on a heli fishing adventure to a secret-spot where the fresh meets the salt and as the day comes to an end, make your way to the bar lounge for cocktail hour before another unique dining experience.
The Horizontal Falls

It’s time to ‘personally’ introduce you to another Kimberley icon – The Horizontal Falls. Experience the awesome power of the region’s huge tidal range in an exhilarating tender ride and then climb aboard your air conditioned helicopter for a view of the falls that very few experience! Take a refreshing swim and then walk on the squeaky white sands of Silica Beach. Or join one of the adventure boats on a sightseeing expedition to Whirlpool Pass, another demonstration of the Kimberley’s powerful tides. All too soon your adventure on the TRUE NORTH is coming to an end – enjoy a farewell dinner to remember as the TRUE NORTH glides past Cockatoo and Koolan Islands, Cape Leveque and down the Dampier Peninsula to Broome!

Cruise Itinerary

Embark in Broome
Your ‘Welcome Aboard’ the magnificent TRUE NORTH is in the pearling port of Broome. Embarkation is at 1700 – time for a cocktail with your fellow adventurers before departing at approximately 1830. Dinner is served shortly after leaving port for the overnight cruise to Yampi Sound.
Buccaneer Archipelago, Horizontal Falls, Silica Beach

It’s time to ‘personally’ introduce you to a Kimberley icon – The Horizontal Falls. Experience the awesome power of the region’s huge tidal range in an exhilarating tender ride and then climb aboard your air conditioned helicopter for a view of the falls that very few experience! Enjoy a walk on Silica Beach.
Fishing at 3 Ways, Raft Point Art, Montgomery Reef

Start the day with some hot fishing action – this time at “Three Ways”. Then all aboard to the impressive silhouette of Raft Point. Here, join crew and guest alike for a moderate climb to an art gallery with a difference and, the well-preserved Raft Point Wandjina Paintings. You will probably be enjoying lunch as we weigh anchor and set sail for Montgomery Reef! Montgomery is a unique eco-system that must been seen to be believed – and see it you will – as 400 sq km of coral reef rises out of the ocean right before your very eyes! Water cascades from the reef as the tide falls exposing a privileged glimpse of another world! Turtles, dugong, manta rays and every imaginable sea creature abound and the helicopter puts it all in perspective.
Prince Regent River, King Cascade

The scenery will astound and there are some not to be missed fishing spots as the TRUE NORTH graces the majestic Prince Regent River. At King Cascade we manoeuvre the TRUE NORTH right under the falls. Then it’s time for more ‘adventure in the tender’ – a chance to stretch the laces on your hiking boots and an opportunity to swim in yet another picture perfect billabong. The helicopter will be popular again when the first group of intrepid explorers returns from Jurassic Park.
Hunter River, Naturaliste Island

If you think the Regent was good – wait till ya see the Hunter! With stunning red cliffs set behind rainforest and mangroves – the Hunter River is yet another awesome setting for fishing, mud crabbing, bird watching and just simply exploring! Enjoy an exhilarating hike to the hidden Jackson Falls and there’s even more splendour from the helicopter! Hopefully we’ll have time for a sunset drink on Naturaliste Island and then it’s an overnight cruise to Vansittart Bay.
Fishing & Billabong Swims

Be amongst the first on deck and join an early morning fishing expedition, or see some stunning rock art or join the ship’s naturalist in one of the expedition boats – and all before another breathtaking helicopter flight to a picnic that you’ll never forget. The True North’s mouthwatering cuisine alongside a crystal clear billabong – in one of the most remote places on earth.
Hunter River, Prince Frederick Harbour

Wake this morning in the magnificent Hunter River. The Hunter is about as far away as you can get in Australia – a stunning river system that is lined with dense mangrove forests, surrounded by rainforest encrusted mountains and home to man-eating crocodiles. And, the Hunter has it all – fishing, mud-crabbing, bird-watching and simply exploring “where few have been before!” Join one of our expedition boats for a closer look, it’s only a short hike to Jackson Falls, and, there’s even more splendour from the helicopter. In the afternoon we will sail into Prince Frederick Harbour for another chance to catch a plump wet season barra, finishing the day with sunset drinks on your own secluded beach. .
Fresh Oysters, Wandjina & Bradshaw Rock Art, Voltaire Passge

No time to dally – after an early morning breakfast it’s time to join the ‘hunt for the black-lip oyster’. In fact – their much-talked about proportions render them not hard to find at all. Savour their unique taste direct from the rock – aside from the freshly squeezed lemon, you can’t get much more a la-naturale than that. There are also some excellent examples of both Wandjina and Bradshaw art nearby and the waters are alive with light game species such as queenfish, giant trevally and mackeral. In the afternoon we will explore Voltaire Passage and the many surrounding islands. Then join us for our pearl party. Enjoy a glass of bubbly whilst trying on exquisite pieces created by the artistes at Linneys, Jewels of the Kimberley and Kimberley Fine Diamonds.
Mitchell River, Surveyors Creek, Mitchell Falls + Optional Heli

The Mitchell River is renowned for big barra and even bigger crocs. The expedition boats will head up river to the scenic Surveyors Creek – a great place for a swim (no crocs here!) The fishermen will again join the hunt for the elusive barramundi and, there will be more opportunities for helicopter flights over an ancient land including the spectacular Mitchell Falls. Then, join the crew for cocktail hour before experiencing another unique dining experience.
Bradshaw Art, Exploring Beaches & Rivers

Today you will have another opportunity to see the “Bradshaws” – ancient rock art that pre-dates other examples of Aboriginal culture. In fact, they are possibly the oldest ‘paintings’ known to man. The heli-picnic at Eagle Falls is always a ‘big hit’ – another breathtaking helicopter flight and, TRUE NORTH’s mouthwatering fare alongside a picture perfect waterfall in remote far-north Western Australia! The tenders will be busy exploring local beaches and rivers and, we also visit an isolated site in the rainforest where a lone bomber crashed during WWII.
King George River & Falls, Koolama Bay, Tranquil Bay

Yet another mighty Kimberley river – the King George! As soon as the tide is high enough, we’ll cross the sand bar at the mouth to reveal even more breathtaking river vista. Then our journey upstream will take us to the very ‘jewel in the crown’ – The King George Falls. Here we anchor at the base of the Twin Falls and you will find endless places to explore. Climb or take the helicopter to the top of the falls for a cruise highlight. In the afternoon learn the history of the wreck of the Koolama and take a stroll at Tranquil Bay before we continue onto the frontier port of Wyndham.
Disembarkation in Wyndham

Your courtesy coach will arrive at approximately 0800 hours for transfer to Kununurra and your crew will already be looking forward to the next opportunity to welcome you aboard the mighty TRUE NORTH!
Special Offer - El Questro $99

Exclusive day tour for $99 per person (usually $725 pp)! Kimberley Cruise Centre will arrange an exclusive day tour of the East Kimberley including El Questro wilderness park and the Ord Valley culminating in Kununurra. Soak in Zebedee thermal springs*, enjoy a delicious lunch at Emma Gorge Resort*, then (if you’re feeling up for it) enjoy a guided walk to stunning Emma Gorge. Option to stay overnight – please enquire. *Itinerary is flexible- weather, roads and timing may affect itinerary

Cruise Itinerary

Embark in Broome
Your ‘Welcome Aboard’ the magnificent TRUE NORTH is in the pearling port of Broome. Embarkation is at 1700 – time for a cocktail with your fellow adventurers before departing at approximately 1830. Dinner is served shortly after leaving port for the overnight cruise to Yampi Sound.
Buccaneer Archipelago
Awaken to the majestic Kimberley and savour an irresistible True North breakfast as we glide past Cockatoo and Koolan Islands – our attentive crew will be happy to introduce the colourful histories of both! Then it’s time to ‘personally’ introduce you to a Kimberley icon – The Horizontal Falls. Experience the awesome power of the region’s huge tidal range in an exhilarating tender ride and then climb aboard your air conditioned helicopter for a view of the falls that very few experience! Then – you will have hardly had a chance to catch your breath when, for those who can’t wait one minute longer, Leadline Creek will be the first opportunity to ‘land a barra’! Before you know it, your first day onboard will be coming to an end – but there’s still time to select a fine wine and to enjoy a leisurely evening meal as we cruise to Doubtful Bay.
Sale River, Montgomery Reef
This morning is devoted to exploring the Sale River. Fish the mouth for barra and then join naturalists and adventurers alike as we ‘ride the tide’ on a classic river expedition! Enjoy a swim in your very own billabong before returning to the ultimate comfort of the True North. Then, you’ll probably be enjoying lunch as we weigh anchor and cruise for another Kimberley icon – Montgomery Reef! Montgomery is a unique eco-system that must be seen to be believed – and see it you will – as 400 sq km of coral reef rises out of the ocean right before your very eyes. Water cascades from the reef as the tide falls exposing a privileged glimpse of another world. Turtles, dugong, manta rays and every imaginable sea creature abound and the helicopter puts all in perspective.
Prince Regent River, King Cascade
The scenery will astound and there are some not to be missed fishing spots as the True North graces the majestic Prince Regent River. At King Cascade we manoeuvre the True North right under the falls. Then it’s time for more ‘adventure in the tender’ – a chance to stretch the laces on your hiking boots and an opportunity to swim in yet another picture perfect billabong. The helicopter will be popular again when the first group of intrepid explorers returns from Jurassic Park.
Hunter River, Naturaliste Island
If you think the Regent was good – wait till ya see the Hunter! With stunning red cliffs set behind rainforest and mangroves – the Hunter River is yet another awesome setting for fishing, mud crabbing, bird watching and just simply exploring! Enjoy an exhilarating hike to the hidden Jackson Falls and there’s even more splendour from the helicopter! Hopefully we’ll have time for a sunset drink on Naturaliste Island and then it’s an overnight cruise to Vansittart Bay.
Bradshaw Art, River & Beach Exploring
Today there will be an opportunity to see the “Bradshaws” – possibly the oldest art known to man. The heli-picnic at Eagle Falls is always a ‘big hit’- enjoy a sumptuous picnic lunch amidst breathtaking scenery. The tenders will also be busy exploring local beaches and creeks. Overnight we cruise to Koolama Bay.
King George River & Falls, Tranquil Bay
Yet another mighty Kimberley river – The King George! As soon as the tide is high enough, we’ll cross the sand bars at the mouth to reveal even more breathtaking river vista. Then our journey upstream will take us to the very ‘jewel in the crown’ – The King George Falls. Here we anchor at the base of the Twin Falls and you will find endless places to explore. Climb, or take the helicopter, to the top of the falls for a cruise highlight. Just the thought of leaving this magnificence will inspire mutiny! Learn about the bombing of a state-ship during WWII, then take a stroll at Tranquil Bay before we continue onto the frontier port of Wyndham.
Disembarkation in Wyndham
Your courtesy coach will arrive at approximately 0800 hours for transfer to Kununurra and your crew will already be looking forward to the next opportunity to welcome you aboard the mighty TRUE NORTH!

Cruise Details

or Reverse Itinerary

Accommodation

Explorer Class Staterooms

2 Cabins in Total - ALL LOCATED ON THE MAIN DECK

Located on the main deck – Explorer Class staterooms feature a free standing queen size bed and a twin basin en-suite. Cabin size is 12 square metres (129 square feet). Other features include large panoramic windows, in-cabin entertainment and desk space.

FEATURES:

Approximate dimensions 3.4m X 3.4m
Plenty of storage for clothing and other personal items
Queen size bed
Writing desk and chair
Large viewing windows (3)
Wall-mounted TV
Spacious ensuite featuring twin basins
Personal air conditioning unit
Original artwork in the cabin

River Class Cabins

6 CABINS IN TOTAL - 2 LOCATED ON THE MAIN DECK with 4 on the Lower Deck

Located on the main and lower decks – River Class cabins feature a queen size double and en-suite. Cabin size is 7 square metres (75 square feet). Other features include a large panoramic window or two port holes, in-cabin entertainment and option for pullman.

FEATURES:

Approximate dimensions 3.1m X 2.1m
Wall-mounted TV
Queen size bed
Personal air conditioning unit
Large viewing window or large porthole
Spacious ensuite
Plenty of storage for clothing and other personal items

Ocean Class Cabins

3 cabins in total - All located on the lower deck

Located on the lower deck – Ocean Class cabins features roomy bunk configured singles and en-suite or private bathroom. Cabin size is approximately 5.6 square metres (60 square feet). Other features include a large porthole.

FEATURES:

Approximate dimensions average 2.7 X 2m
Personal air conditioning unit
Roomy twin single bunkbeds
Spacious ensuite or private bathroom
Large porthole allow plenty of natural light
Drawers and closet space to store clothing and other personal items

Cuisine

Meals are based on healthy local produce and fresh seafood wherever possible (with a light smattering of extremely tasty irresistible desserts that – may not be so healthy!). Please let us know if you have any dietary requirements upon final payment.

Destination : Broome
Departure : Kununurra / Wyndham
Dress Code : Casual

Included: