When it comes to choosing the best cabin side on a Kimberley cruise – port (left) or starboard (right) – the truth is that there’s no definitive “better” option, as the scenery is spectacular on both sides. The Kimberley coast is famous for its towering sandstone cliffs, rugged gorges, cascading waterfalls, and rich marine life, and the route is designed so that no matter where you are, you’ll experience unforgettable views.
On certain stretches, though, one side might feel more dramatic. For example, the port side, if travelling from Darwin to Broome, will have better views mainly during the first and last leg of the cruise. In other areas, both sides offer equal vantage points of islands, reefs, and red escarpments. Many of the highlights of a Kimberley itinerary – like the King George River, Horizontal Falls, or Montgomery Reef – are experienced from the bow of smaller vessels, or from the tender boats if you’re on a bigger boat which anchors at the river mouth and explores via tender. This is a definite advantage of travelling on a smaller vessel – with a shallow draft, you’ll be able to venture up-river in the mothership and anchor right next to the attraction.
A key factor to consider is how you like to take in the scenery. If you enjoy watching the sunrise, a cabin facing eastward during the northbound journey might be appealing. For sunsets, the opposite side could be preferable. However, since itineraries can vary depending on tides and conditions, you’ll often find that the ship changes orientation multiple times.
Ultimately, the Kimberley is all about being outside—on deck, in the tenders, or on land—so whichever side your cabin is on, you won’t miss the region’s breathtaking beauty.
