2017 - APT Small Ships

72 The Kimberley Coast Explore the isolated tributaries of the Kimberley Coast on an unforgettable expedition cruise, where nature reigns supreme. Secluded gorges, tumbling falls and towering rock faces – the unique Kimberley coastline provides a wealth of locations perfect for intrepid travellers who wish to uncover this country's great wilderness. From amazing wildlife experiences to discovering pieces of Australian history and learning more about 50,000 years of Aboriginal history, each adventure is a precious memory. Experts in the Kimberley Hosting more people to the Kimberley than any other operator, APT's Kimberley Wilderness Adventures has long standing partnerships with Indigenous communities. APT is the region's only Advanced Ecotourism tour operator, and was named the National Travel Industry's Best Domestic Tour Operator in 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015. Get Ready for Discovery With a fleet of Zodiac excursion vessels on board the MS Caledonian Sky, you can get closer to the action than ever before. This is the ideal way to explore the Kimberley coast in smaller groups guided by our experts. Experienced Expedition Team With APT's Kimberley cruises, you can be confident you're in great hands. Our Expedition Team are specialists in their field. You'll gain incredible insight into the region through expert guides who are keen to share their knowledge, including presenting informative lectures on board your expedition ship. Tales of the Kimberley... The ship anchored in Koolama Bay to give access to the incredible King George River and Falls. We were then split into our Zodiac groups for a three hour cruise, while a shorter option was also offered for a few takers. The Zodiac cruise up the gorge was absolutely incredible and enjoyed by all on board my group. The wildlife is amazing and we spotted some crocodiles, as well as sightings of two Dugongs and a hammerhead shark. Flying fox colonies were observed in the mangroves. The highlight was admiring the canyon and its spectacular sandstone walls, then seeing the rush of the falls tumbling over some 80 metres above us. There was next to nothing that could compare to this. A couple of days later, we arrive at the astounding Montgomery Reef, where we set out on an early morning departure, with the entire Zodiac fleet to be on the reef as the receding tide revealed its surface. The run to the reef from the anchorage was approximately two miles. Cruising the edge of the reef as the tide dropped revealed the magnificent coral plateau. Numerous turtles and birds were observed feeding along the reef. The next day, we arrive in Talbot Bay to experience the tidal phenomenon known as Horizontal Falls. A local high-powered fast boat takes us on a thrilling ride, and is timed perfectly to coincide with the tidal movement at the falls. Back on board, Tawny Nurse Sharks stayed by the ship's marina deck throughout the day providing great entertainment for everyone. It was an experience I will never forget. Irina Angelova (Small Ship Guest) Kimberley Coast Cruise (GKCS11R) www.aptouring.com.au

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