The best way to explore the Kimberley they haven’t told you about

Ever wanted to time travel? A visit to the Kimberley in Western Australia will take you back almost two billion years. One of the oldest environments on Earth, this prehistoric playground is famed for its rugged terracotta plateaus, winding rivers and ancient gorges, but its coastal beauty is not to be forgotten.

The small ship can get you closer to the action.Credit: Seabourn

With striking coral atolls, rushing waterfalls and fiery sandstone cliffs that plunge into the turquoise Timor Sea, the Kimberley coastline has no shortage of world-class views. It’s little wonder, then, that the 10-day Kimberley Coastal Expedition is one of APT’s most popular tours. Book a spot on this all-inclusive cruise and not only will you gain a front-row seat to some of the world’s most awe-inspiring sights, you’ll also find yourself at the heart of the action.

Aboard the ultra-luxurious Seabourn Pursuit, you’ll weave in and out of the Kimberley’s archipelagos, coves and marine parks while daily Zodiac tours allow for close-up exploration of these epic sights — including the spectacular King George Falls.

Recently launched in 2023, the Seabourn Pursuit was specifically designed for the luxury expedition traveller. Boasting eight impeccable dining experiences, all-inclusive premium beverages, relaxation and wellness spaces, and a 24-person expedition team, there’s no better way to explore the Kimberley coast.

Memories to last a lifetime

With 60 years’ experience traversing the Australian outback (and almost 100 years of touring expertise), APT is the expert in the Kimberley’s most breathtaking attractions — which is why the first stop on your itinerary is the exceptional Adele Island.

Despite its small size, this fishhook-shaped cay is teeming with birds, reef sharks, rays and humpback whales thanks to its bountiful tidal lagoon. Access to Adele Island is typically only granted to scientists and marine biologists, but when accompanied by your APT cruise director and expedition team, you’ll be able to explore this remote island by Zodiac before voyaging to the Buccaneer Archipelago.

As you drift into this aquamarine paradise, take advantage of your spacious suite’s private verandah (and inclusive personalised mini-bar) and admire the panoramic views of more than 800 islands. Next, as you head towards Talbot Bay, you might like to grab a glass of champagne to enjoy on the expansive deck, laze in the infinity pool or cosy up at one of the seven lounges and bars onboard.

Once you’ve arrived in Talbot Bay, you’ll enjoy a renowned APT Signature Experience and explore the unique Horizontal Falls by Zodiac. Formed by large tidal waves, this natural phenomenon sees water fall horizontally through narrow coastal gorges, making for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

After tackling the whitewater, retreat to your lavish suite to sit back and take in the stunning colours of the Kimberley sunset from your private verandah, and maybe even order something from the 24-hour gourmet in-room dining menu. Boasting 132 all-verandah suites, you can relax in comfort on the Seabourn Pursuit, with luxury upgrades offering even more space and first-class finishes.

Commitment to community

This prehistoric playground is famed for its rugged terracotta plateaus, winding rivers and ancient gorges.

As a symbolic gesture of stewardship and responsibility towards the Kimberley, the Wunambal Gaambera people were recently named the Seabourn Pursuit’s godparents. Thanks to this unique partnership, every guest aboard the ship can rest easy knowing the Traditional Owners have bestowed their blessings upon them.

Before you explore the Indigenous rock art of Freshwater Cove, you’ll be honoured with an immersive smoking ceremony conducted by the Arraluli people. During this Signature Experience, an Aboriginal guide will lead you through stunning rock-art galleries and explain their cultural significance.

Later, depart with your expedition team to discover Montgomery Reef by Zodiac, where you can watch the reef “rise” out of the ocean as tidal waters cascade into surrounding channels.

After exploring the vibrant Ashmore Reef, with its prolific bird and marine life, from the water, the next day you’ll make landfall to walk across salt flats to view the wreckage of a US Air Force DC3 that crash-landed near Vansittart Bay during World War II.

Your cultural education doesn’t end once you’re back on board, either. Thanks to the Seabourn Pursuit’s impressive Discovery Centre, you’ll be treated to insightful lectures, talks and discussions presented by your expert expedition team.

On the June 18, 2025 departure, former Governor-General and retired chief of the Australian Defence Force Sir Peter Cosgrove will be onboard to host an informative dinner and conduct several lectures and Q&As on the history of war and geopolitics. With more life and career experience than most, Cosgrove’s reflections are sure to leave you feeling inspired.

To discover more, visit aptouring.com.au.