Kimberley Coast Cruising, 4WD Tours Kimberley Region, Outback Tours, Bungle Bungles
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15 KIMBERLEY COAST CRUISING PERSONAL SERVICE Craig Ward Dive instructor, marine biologist and ship captain for over twelve years, Craig has been involved in marine research and education throughout the Indo-pacific. Craig studied Zoology at James Cook University and was a research project coordinator for the biology department. He became a wildlife keeper and later recognised as a regularly cited author. In 2003, he established a marine expedition services company, designed to bridge the gap between tourism and conservation. 2016 will be Craig's 12th consecutive year in the Kimberley. Jamie Watts A fisheries consultant, researcher and marine life educator, including writing for several magazines, Jamie spends most of the year on expedition ships. He has been a scientist and marine ecologist for the British Antarctic Survey and has a soft spot for Leopard Seal and Fur Seal interactions. He is in the process of finishing his first book, on the marine life of the Antarctic. When not working, Jamie spends time with his son Alex, or researches and travels in search of weird and wonderful marine life. Jane Ballantyne What started out for Jane as a plan to guide day trips to the Blue Mountains until she figured out what she wanted to do with her studies, has turned into eleven magnificent years of tour guiding (six of those in the Kimberley), reflecting her studies of a Bachelor of Arts in Tourism, honours in a Bachelor of Applied Science and a diploma in Tourism Guiding. Jane was nominated as a finalist in Tourism Western Australia's FACET 'Golden Guide Awards'. Along with her exceptional knowledge, our passengers love Jane's great sense of humour and adventure. Jane Wilson Born and raised in Australia, Jane graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Science and then a Master of Environmental Studies. Previously a research scientist, for the last 10 years Jane has worked on expedition vessels as a zodiac driver, lecturer and expedition leader, Jane has covered many remote corners of the world including South America, the Arctic, Antarctica, Europe, Southeast Asia and of course, the Kimberley. When Jane is not showing the remote wonders of the Kimberley, she keeps her hand in the science pie. A (not so) Typical Day While there's no such thing as a 'typical day' on a Small Ship Expedition cruise, here is a glimpse at what a day could well be like in the Kimberley: For Those That Rise Early Some are headed for a fresh pot of coffe e; others are headed for a morning spa. The Expedition Team, meanwhile, are readying the Zodiacs for shore discoveries. Breakfast at Leisure The buffet breakfast in the main dining room includes an assortment of cooked and continental items. People come and go – for everyone dines at their own pace. Morning Zodiac Expedition It's time to don outdoor gear and set off for a shore landing. Some guests may set off on a guided nature walk to learn about the geology of the reg ion and indigenous culture. Others may opt for a more casual Zodiac cruise to a secluded shore to observe the phenomenon of the receding tides and what lies beneath. An Energ ising Lunch The energy of the morning offers a ready excuse to enjoy lunch in the dining room or a lig ht buffet in the bar. Afterno on Shore Landing The afternoon presents the perfect opportunity to travel ashore to get up close to the ancient Aborig inal rock art dating back some 20,000 years, hearing interpretations of their meaning. Perhaps learn about the history of World War II as you discover the ruins of a plane wreckage, or you may wish to get up close to a marvellous waterfall. Pre-Dinner Presentation Before dinner, a daily re-cap takes place, at which wildlife sig htings are confirmed and tomorrow's proposed landings reviewed. Informal presentations are also conducted each day, relevant to the day's activities. In the Evening In the main dining room, it's obvious that the ship's team of chefs have be en busy. Dinner is as delicious as usual, accompanied by be er and a range of wines. After dinner, some retire to their suite; many enjoy an informative talk; and others me et in the bar for a drink. 15 MEET YOUR EXPEDITION TEAM 15 MEET YOUR EXPEDITION TEAM