14 Day Cruise

True North: Kimberley Ultimate

True North: Kimberley Ultimate

True North features enhanced levels of comfort and luxury throughout, allowing passengers the opportunity to experience wilderness in surroundings more akin to one of the world’s most exclusive hotels. Enjoy personalised service – a passenger limit of 36 and a crew of 18 ensure attention to detail and excellence in service.

All meals on the True North feature fine dining. Meals may even include that day’s catch – True North offers many fishing opportunities amongst other shore excursions, in 6 dedicated expedition boats.

A number of lavish vantage points including a sundeck, a forward observation lounge, a ship’s lounge and an indoor/outdoor bar; 2 huge plasma screens in the lounge; an internet café; the latest in computer controlled motion stabilizers; lower deck dining room with large panoramic windows ensuring that passengers never miss any of the action, even when they are enjoying the ‘finest in fine dining’.

Please note – helicopter flights are an additional extra and are not included in the cruise price unless they are part of a transfer at the beginning or end of the cruise.

Bonus El Questro Day Tour!

El Questro day tour for $99 pp (usually $725 pp) when you book True North with the Kimberley Cruise Centre. Your guide will pick you up from True North at Wyndham port with a personal 4wd tour of El Questro wilderness park. Soak in Zebedee thermal springs, enjoy a delicious lunch at Emma Gorge Resort (own expense), then enjoy a guided walk to stunning Emma Gorge. Option for a pre or post-cruise overnight at ELQ – please enquire.

Helicopter

True north helicopter
Adding yet another dimension to adventure, most True North cruises feature an onboard helicopter!

Carrying guests in air conditioned comfort, the ship’s helicopter provides unique opportunity to witness grandeur; unique opportunity to fish billabongs that have never been fished; unique opportunity to discover your very own wilderness! Now it’s not uncommon for our guests to embark with some uncertainty about flying in a helicopter – however it’s always a different story when the time comes for disembarkation.

“Wow – who would have thought, I have never been in a helicopter before, now I can’t get enough. I can’t speak highly enough about the whole operation, I felt completely safe and I could not have hoped to have seen all that I saw if we didn’t have a helicopter onboard.”

The ship’s helicopter helps you to climb mountains and volcanoes in air conditioned comfort. Even if you are not as spritely as you once were – the helicopter will deliver you without fuss to even the most inaccessible locations.

See ancient rock art without leaving your seat. Glide over impenetrable jungle and swoop on historic and cultural highlights. Take someone special on a sunrise flight or join the entire guest compliment for an unforgettable heli-picnic.

Helicopter Specifications

The light, single-engine Eurocopter 130 B4 is the quietest, most spacious helicopter available on the market. The ultra-quiet EC130 B4 integrates the latest technological advances of EUROCOPTER’s new generation helicopters. It has a maximum gross weight of 2.4tonnes, and offers an enlarged cabin, allowing comfortable accommodation for the pilot and 6 passengers on individual leather seats.

With air-conditioning and large cabin windows, it is perfectly suited for getting those spectacular aerial shots and exploring the many destinations that are on offer with North Star Cruises Australia.

Heli-operations are run by Rob Colbert, Chief Pilot of Skyhook Helicopters Pty Ltd. Rob has been working in and flying around the Kimberley region for over 23 years, and has been working with TRUE NORTH since 1996. He has a keen interest in fishing, local history and culture, and provides entertaining commentary on all flights! Or you may be lucky enough to have Rainor Marshall or Will Stinson as your pilot, both experienced and very knowledgeable in their own right!

Cruise Details

For 30 years True North Adventure Cruises’ flagship adventure has been the Kimberley Ultimate! During this time the Kimberley Ultimate has also become known as one of Australia’s most exclusive holiday experiences – and for good reason! The Ultimate is nearly 2 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!”

Reverse Destination Option Available

A number of vantage points including a sundeck, a forward observation lounge, a ship’s lounge and an indoor/outdoor bar; 2 huge plasma screens in the lounge; an internet café; the latest in computer controlled motion stabilizers; lower deck dining room with large panoramic windows ensuring that passengers never miss any of the action, even when they are enjoying the ‘finest in fine dining’.

All cabins feature enhanced décor, en-suite facilities, in-house entertainment and satellite telephones.

ocean class  Ocean Class

  • Location: Lower Deck and Main Deck
  • Twin beds
  • Two port holes
  • Private ensuite bathroom
  • In-cabin entertainment
  • Satellite phone
  • ALL OCEAN CLASS CABINS HAVE 2x single beds EXCEPT for Camden Harbour (cabin 11 on the deckplan) which has bunk beds, therefore receives a 10% discount.
  • 2024 Ocean Class Premium cabins available (King Bed)- added cost tba

River Class

  • Location: Main Deck
  • Large viewing windows
  • King Sized Bed (adaptable to 2 single beds)
  • Private ensuite
  • In-cabin entertainment
  • Satellite phone

Explorer Class

  • Location: Upper Deck
  • Large viewing windows
  • King Sized Bed (adaptable to 2 single beds)
  • Private ensuite with twin basin
  • Amenities fridge
  • In-cabin entertainment
  • Satellite phone
 

Destination : Broome
Departure :  Wyndham

Included:

  • Accommodation
  • National park fees
  • Services of staff
  • Meals
  • Non-alcoholic beverages
  • Shore excursions by tender boat
  • Coffee & tea

Not Included:

  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Flights to/from your cruise
  • Souvenirs on board
  • Optional extra helicopter flights
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    Embark in Kununurra
    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.
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    King George River
    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. 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 about the history of the wreck of the Koolama and take a stroll at Tranquil Bay.
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    Drysdale, Fishing, Cape Londonderry & Beach Combing
    Explore the Drysdale and catch one of our favourite fish, the impressive mangrove jack! The expedition boats will head ‘up-river’ on a barra expedition complete with scones and billy tea! There will also be opportunities to indulge in some beachcombing and in the afternoon, join a scenic flight to Cape Londonderry – the northern most point of Western Australia!
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    Bradshaw Art Work, Eagle Falls, DC3 WW2 Crash Site
    Today you will have an opportunity to see the “Bradshaws” – ancient rock art that pre-dates other examples of Aboriginal culture. The heli-picnic at Eagle Falls is always a ‘big hit’ – another breathtaking helicopter flight and, TRUE NORTH’s mouth-watering 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.
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    Mitchell River, Surveyors Creeks, Mitchell Falls
    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.
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    Fresh Oysters, Wandjina, Bradshaw, Voltaire Passage
    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 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. In the afternoon we will explore Voltaire Passage and the many surrounding islands. Back on board, the crew will explain the intriguing process of pearl farming. Then join us for our pearl party! Enjoy a glass of bubbly and a taste of pearl meat, whilst trying on exquisite pieces created by the artistes at Linneys, Jewels of the Kimberley and Kimberley Fine Diamonds.
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    The Roe River & Prince Frederick Harbour
    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 Surveyor-General of Western Australia – John Septimus Roe conducted numerous expeditions along the Kimberley coast between 1829 & 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 and enjoy sunset drinks on Art Island.
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    Hunter River, Jackson Falls, Heli Ride
    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, it’s only a short hike to Jackson Falls and there’s even more splendour from the helicopter!
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    Phillip Parker King’s Boab, Prince Regent, King Cascade
    Our first stop this morning is one of the Kimberley’s most historic sites – Phillip Parker King’s boab tree. And then it’s onto 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 manoeuvre the TRUE NORTH right under the falls before another breathtaking helicopter flight to a picnic that you’ll never forget – TRUE NORTH’s mouth- watering cuisine alongside a crystal clear billabong – in one of the most remote places on earth! The helicopter will also be popular when the first group of intrepid explorers returns from Jurassic Park! Then we’ll rejoin the TRUE NORTH for an overnight anchorage off Camp Creek.
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    Heli Flight, Champagne Sunrise, Billabong Swims
    The early-risers will be treated to a heli-flight with a difference – a champagne sunrise on the top of a mountain! 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. The more adventurous will use the helicopter to fish our most secret billabongs and everyone will find their own special place in the mighty Regent.
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    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. You will probably be enjoying lunch as we weigh anchor and set sail for Montgomery Reef! Montgomery is a unique eco-system 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, manta rays and every imaginable sea creature abound and the helicopter puts all in perspective!
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    Fishing, Raft Point Wandjina Paintings
    Start the day with some more hot fishing action – this time at “Three Ways”. A short lunchtime cruise will deliver 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.
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    Cockatoo & Koolan Islands
    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! Enjoy a swim at Crocodile Creek and a walk on Silica Beach. 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 & Koolan Islands, Cape Leveque and down the Dampier Peninsula to Broome.
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    Arrive in Broome
    Our arrival into Broome is in time for an early morning coach transfer to your accommodation or connecting flights – our crew are already looking forward to the next opportunity to welcome you aboard the TRUE NORTH!

Bonus El Questro Tour!

El Questro day tour when you book True North with the Kimberley Cruise Centre. Your guide will pick you up from True North at Wyndham port with a personal 4wd tour of El Questro wilderness park. Soak in Zebedee thermal springs, enjoy a delicious lunch at Emma Gorge Resort (own expense), then enjoy a guided walk to stunning Emma Gorge. Option for a pre-cruise overnight at ELQ – please enquire.

Pricing                               2024                    2025

Ocean Class   $26,995 pp   $28,595 pp
Ocean Premium Class   $30,595 pp   $32,595 pp
River Class   $34,595 pp   $36,595 pp
Explorer Class   $38,995 pp   $39,995 pp

Cruise Fare includes: One way coach transfer Kununurra – Wyndham; Meals; Shore excursions by tender boat; Crew.

Cruise Fare does not include: Alcohol; Flights before or after the cruise; Helicopter flights.

Single travellers: Can share a cabin with another traveller of the same gender and pay the twin share rate. We can advertise for a stranger to share OR pay an 80% single supplement for exclusive use of the stateroom.

Cruise Dates

2024
20 Apr – 3 May 2024 Wyndham – Broome
11 – 24 May 2024 Wyndham – Broome
1 – 14 Jun 2024 Wyndham – Broome
22 Jun – 5 Jul 2024 Wyndham – Broome
13 – 26 Jul 2024 Wyndham – Broome
3 – 16 Aug 2024 Wyndham – Broome
2025
19 Apr – 2 May 2025 Wyndham – Broome
10 – 23 May 2025 Wyndham – Broome
31 May – 13 Jun 2025 Wyndham – Broome
21 Jun – 4 Jul 2025 Wyndham – Broome
12 – 25 Jul 2025 Wyndham – Broome
2 – 15 Aug 2025 Wyndham – Broome