Kimberley Coast Cruising, 4WD Tours Kimberley Region, Outback Tours, Bungle Bungles
Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/495700
63 EXTEND YOUR STAY FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Frequently Asked Questions As the Kimberley experts, we have the answers to your questions. When should I travel? May through to October are the best months to travel to the Kimberley. When cruising, the start of the season is ideal for waterfalls, while late in the season in September, whales are likely to be spotted. In April/May as well as September/October, the weather is fine and hot with mild nights (average maximum 33 degrees Celsius). From June to August, the days are fine and warm with cold nights (average maximum 29 degrees Celsius). Inland conditions at night can drop down to 2 degrees Celsius. Rainfall is rare. We recommend including layering clothing in the evenings when travelling during this time of year. What's the main difference between the two ships? Both expedition ships offer a superb experience. The MS Caledonian Sky offers a boutique experience while the Oceanic Discoverer offers a more active itinerary. Do I need travel insurance? Travel insurance is mandatory on all cruises. Purchase comprehensive cover for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise on tour or before leaving home. (This includes cover for any cancellation penalties, medical and curtailment expenses, loss of luggage, etc.). Do I need a passport and visa? If you are travelling aboard the MS Caledonian Sky, you must have a valid passport with at least six months validity from the return date, as well as consult with the Indonesian consulate to ensure you obtain a visa. It is your responsibility to ensure these are obtained prior to departure. Passengers travelling on the Oceanic Discoverer do not require a passport or visa for their cruise. What's a standard meal? There's nothing standard about our meals on board these two fantastic ships, and are praised as being plentiful, well-balanced and healthy. Enjoy a sumptuous buffet breakfast with hot and cold options; take in a delicious light lunch; then savour a delectable three-course dinner. Should you have any special dietary requirements, you must advise these at the time of booking. What about alcohol? A selection of alcoholic beverages are included during lunch and dinner aboard the Oceanic Discoverer and at your discretion aboard the MS Caledonian Sky. On land tours, every lodge and hotel in the Kimberley are licensed to sell alcohol, with a limited range available for purchase, allowing you to enjoy an evening drink (to guests over 18 years of age). Passengers cannot bring their own alcohol. Is there internet access available on the ship? Complimentary wireless internet access is available on board the MS Caledonian Sky. Wireless internet access is available on the Oceanic Discoverer for a fee. Please note that due to the remote location, the wireless signal can be weak and intermittent. Can clothes be washed along the way? Both ships have laundry facilities available. Hand washing facilities are available at each of our Wilderness Lodges (however, hand washing is not encouraged at Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge due to water conservation principles). In larger centres such as Darwin, Kununurra and Broome, hotels feature coin-operated washing machines and dryers. Are there any luggage restrictions? While there are no luggage restrictions on board your cruise, there are on land tours due to the vehicle size and strict regulations for vehicle weight: pack your required items into one small bag (no hard suitcases) weighing no more than 16kgs. Alternatively, suitcases are acceptable if they fit within the following specified dimensions of 70cm length x 40cm width x 25cm height. If you have excess luggage, please arrange for it to be forwarded to the tour's final destination, prior to arrival at your end point. What level of health & fitness is required? As tours visit remote areas and feature activities with varying degrees of difficulty, it is vital to select a tour with an activity level suited to your health and fitness. A good level of fitness is essential for you to undertake walks in hot conditions and over terrain with uneven and slippery surfaces. Some walks will require you to clamber over boulders up to one metre high. It is your responsibility to carry any medication (which may require a cooler bag). Consult your local medical practitioner for any health advice. What about the 4WD vehicles? Our specially engineered custom built Mercedes Benz and Isuzu 4WD vehicles set a benchmark. They have air conditioning, comfortable coach-style reclining seating, state-of-the-art PA system, large tinted windows and are equipped with a satellite phone, first aid kit and drinking water.