I was buzzing with excitement for my very first small ship expedition along the Kimberley coast aboard the thirty-eight-metre catamaran, MV Reef Prince.
While I’ve previously travelled the Gibb River Road and made my way up to Cape Leveque, I’d always heard that seeing this stunning region from the sea offers a completely different perspective.
And now, I was about to find out exactly why.
It was even more spectacular than I had imagined.
Enjoying the serenity.
After a lovely stay at the iconic Cable Beach Club, we were transferred to the ship.
The MV Reef Prince accommodates up to thirty-six guests, ensuring an exceptionally intimate experience.
From the moment I stepped aboard, I was super impressed by the spaciousness of the catamaran.
With four decks, including a beautiful lounge and dining area, there was more than enough room to relax and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings.
I was assigned to Cabin Two on the main deck, an outside cabin with expansive windows running along the base of the bed.
The effect was like sleeping with the sea as your backdrop — each morning I woke to ever-changing views, which only grew more spectacular as we sailed through the archipelago and along the river systems.
I was assigned to Cabin Two on the main deck, an outside cabin with expansive windows.
Each morning I woke to ever changing views, which only grew more spectacular as we sailed through the archipelago and along the river systems.
One of my favorite moments of each day was waking up early — usually around six o’clock in the morning — to brew myself a cappuccino.
I’d head to the bow of the ship to watch the sunrise over the ocean and islands.
The colours in the sky were simply breathtaking.
The days flew by in a blur of adventure.
With two excursions daily, our tour director would post the upcoming itinerary each night on a communal whiteboard, and we’d be ready to explore.
Onboard, we were treated to incredible meals by French chef Gigi, who was always busy preparing dishes that were more than worthy of a top-tier restaurant.
Every meal was an experience, from the exquisite flavours to the beautiful presentation.
The crew couldn’t have been more attentive, keeping the ship running smoothly, delivering our meals, maintaining our spotless cabins, and even washing our clothes and returning them to our rooms — all complimentary.
The attention to detail and care made every moment on the ship feel effortless and relaxing.
Dining under the stars on day five.
or book an appointment to speak to a Kimberley cruise expert at a time of your choosing.
Berkeley River is renowned for narrow high gorges, wildlife, fishing, walks, Aboriginal art sites, and waterhole swims.
Picking a favourite day is nearly impossible — each was filled with new wonders.
But Montgomery Reef was a standout.
It was even more spectacular than I had imagined, and I learned so much about the dynamic tidal movements.
We swam in secluded freshwater holes at King Cascades and took a refreshing dip off sandbars.
There was a sense of complete serenity, with no one else around apart from our small group.
The grand finale of the expedition took us to King Gorge’s twin falls and the Berkeley River.
The towering gorges and vibrant colors at sunset were awe-inspiring, making for an unforgettable conclusion to our journey.
Throughout this trip, I made lifelong friends among our group of twenty-six, and we all agreed: This was hands-down the best trip we had ever taken.
I can see why the Kimberley is a bucket-list destination for so many people.
I’m incredibly grateful for the time spent aboard this beautiful vessel, exploring one of the most remote and stunning corners of the world.
I made lifelong friends among our intimate group of twenty-six.
The Reef Prince in all its glory!
Thank you, Reef Prince, for an unforgettable adventure!
If you’re looking for an adventure that will stay with you long after you return, I highly recommend the Reef Prince.
I can help you create a truly memorable trip.
Contact me to explore the possibilities.
Includes the top nine questions travellers ask and our honest answers to them, plus a pre-trip checklist.
It’s the perfect starting point for initial research.
Kimberley cruises are not one size fits all — there are many different ships each offering their own special elements.
We would love to help you. You’re invited to book a FREE 30-Minute Kimberley Cruise Planning Session to have all you questions answered, without the “hard sell” everyone hates.
With almost twenty years of experience in booking Kimberley cruises we have great relationships with many of the most popular cruise vessels. Why does that matter to you?
It means we have been able to negotiate some great free inclusions with several of the best cruise vessels including free flights, free tours, and free accommodation in Darwin or Broome.
With over twenty-five years travel industry experience (starting at Traveland), Danielle brings a wealth of knowledge to help make her clients’ adventures as stress free as possible.
Expedition Partners (formerly Flower Travel) specialise in expedition style travel by small ship cruise and private rail journeys.
PH: 1300 654 861
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