Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
25% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
Australia's Iconic Kimberley
Darwin - Broome
Dates:
19/9/2024
to
29/9/2024
Other available dates
days
nights on board
Ref : DB875 - EX190924
Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Included in your cruise
To make sure things run smoothly, PONANT has included certain elements before and after your cruise as part of the price.
Shore Excursions, Overlands & Pre/Post Programmes
To complete your voyage, PONANT can organise a range of shore excursions, pre & post cruise activities and packages, plus transfers.
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*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Selection of Clarins top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Expedition programmes include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landings"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to isolated regions is an exhilarating experience. In remote areas, please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- Cotton comfortable and light-weight shorts/bermuda shorts
- Light weight long trousers
- Long-sleeved breathable SPF50+ shirts
- Cotton short sleeved T-shirt
- Aquatic UV long-sleeved T-shirt for sun protection during snorkeling or swimming
- Aquatic non-slip sandals
- Windproof, waterproof and breathable outer layer
- Broad brimmed anti-UV hat with strap and veil to protect the neck
- Comfortable walking shoes
Accessories:
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Sunscreen and after-sun with high SPF index & insect repellent
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
Please note:
During your visits to some local communities, all guests will be required to dress respectfully. Ladies must have their shoulders and thighs covered. Gentlemen should have their shoulders covered also.
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
TECHNICAL OUTFITS:
- Shorts / bermudas
- Light weight long trousers
- Wind and waterproof light “breathable” outer layer
- Sweater/pullover for the evening
- Short and long sleeved cotton shirts
- Waterproof UV long sleeved T-shirt
- Long sleeved cotton shirt for sun protection during zodiac excursions and excursions ashore
- Ankle canvas shoes (which dry quickly and protect ankles)
- Aquatic shoes for wet landings on shore
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses with high UV filter
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Sun portective hat/cap with strap and veil to protect the neck
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Mosquito and insect repellent
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Ports of Call & Excursions
19 September 2024 - Darwin
Embarkation 19/9/2024 From 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm
Departure 19/9/2024 at 5:00 pm
Darwin is located in Australia’s Northern Territory which is also known as the “Top End”. It is the capital city and the most populated town of the Northern Territory. Darwin is a beautiful tropical city, a melting pot of people and cultures, over 50 different cultures live and work side by side that prides itself in its unique and friendly laid-back lifestyle. Come discover the town’s still recent history through its emblematic buildings such as the new Parliamant House opened in 1994, a magnificent example of tropical architecture or Admiralty House declared heritage place, a tropical-style home elevated on stilts that has survived two cyclones and numerous air raids.
20 September 2024 - King George River
Arrival 20/9/2024
Departure 20/9/2024
The journey up the King George River is nothing short of breathtaking. The 80-metre-high sides of the gorge display varying degrees of weathering of the ancient Warton sandstone. The colours and textures of the gorge change with the light as you travel further up the river creating a continual changing scenery that is simply stunning. The journey culminates at the King George twin falls; the highest single-drop falls in the whole of the Kimberley (80 m or 260 ft). Fed by wet season run-off the level of water cascading over the falls varies from year to year. Your Expedition Team will escort you in either the zodiacs or ships tenders to the foot of the twin falls, and explain all about the stunning geological formations of the canyon.
21 September 2024 - Vansittart Bay
Arrival 21/9/2024
Departure 21/9/2024
Jar Island contains ancient rock art galleries depicting the Gwion Gwion style unique to the Kimberley region. Mainly neglected by, or unknown to, the early European researchers of Aboriginal culture in the Kimberley in favour of the dominant and more dramatic Wandjina art, Gwion Gwion art has in recent years gained world prominence. It is generally thought that this art may extend back to over 30,000 years before our time and represents the first wave of seagoing colonisers of the Australian continent. As it is, these are the oldest detailed depiction of human figures in the world. Join your Expedition Team ashore for a short walk, past some fascinating rock formations, to the site of the Gwion Gwion art galleries.
22 September 2024 - Ashmore Reef (technical stop)
Arrival 22/9/2024
Departure 22/9/2024
Located 600km North of Broome, on the edge of the continental shelf, Ashmore reef consists of 3 low-lying tropical islands surrounded by coral reef. The islands have a combined land area of approximately 54 hectares and are a designated important bird area (IBA). Visitation to Ashmore reef and Islands is strictly controlled and most of the reef is designated as a sanctuary zone where access is prohibited. Our visit to Ashmore reef is required to ensure we comply with Australian government regulations. Should weather, sea and tide conditions permit there may be an opportunity for guests to undertake a zodiac tour to the vicinity of West Island.
23 September 2024 - Careening Bay
Arrival 23/9/2024
Departure 23/9/2024
Careening Bay was named by Lieutenant Phillip Parker King after his ship, HMC Mermaid, was careened there during his third voyage of discovery in 1820. King surveyed the western coast to complete the map initiated by Flinders 20 years earlier. The Mermaid had been leaking badly and King needed to find a shallow sandy bay where he could careen his boat to undertake repairs. At a high tide, on a warm September afternoon, he ran the Mermaid onto the sands. For ten days the Mermaid crew worked hard before refloating the vessel. The ship’s carpenter carved the name of the vessel and the year into a conspicuous boab tree. The famous boab tree is now 3 metres wide and National Heritage listed. A reminder of a by gone era of exploration!
24 September 2024 - Swift Bay
Arrival 24/9/2024
Departure 24/9/2024
The Bonaparte Archipelago, is a stunningly rugged maze of islands stretching almost 150 km along Western Australia's remote Kimberley coast. Its colour and scale conspire to take ones’ breath away. Its distant location has meant it has remained an unspoilt and remarkably pristine location to explore and experience. Phillip Parker King named “Swift's bay" after Jonathon Swift (1667-1745) the author of Gulliver’s travels. The ‘T’ shaped bay is composed of heavily fractured sandstone providing an abundance of rock shelters. On the walls of these shelters are examples of both Wandjina and Gwion Gwion style rock art. Join your expedition team ashore for a guided walk to a number of rock art galleries depicting these unique rock art styles.
25 September 2024 - Hunter River
Arrival 25/9/2024
Departure 25/9/2024
Arguably one of the most scenic parts of the Kimberley coast, Prince Frederick Harbour and the Hunter River are lined with ancient rainforest pockets, pristine mangroves and mosaic sandstone cliffs. They are considered to be some of the most pristine mangrove forests in the world, containing up to 18 different species, supporting a rich and diverse fauna. The sandstone escarpment at the river mouth, known as “Kampamantiya” rises over 200 metres high before giving way to extensive mud banks and mangrove forests home to numerous bird species and the iconic saltwater crocodile. Our expert Expedition Team will share their knowledge with you as you explore this pristine mangrove environment by zodiac keeping a constant lookout for wildlife. You will also have the opportunity to reach the Mitchell Falls by helicopter from Naturalist Island beach.
26 September 2024 27 September 2024 - Collier Bay
Arrival 26/9/2024
Departure 27/9/2024
Lying to the east of the Buccaneer archipelago, the ancient landscapes of Collier Bay have been shaped by the massive tidal movements the region is renowned for, creating a photographer’s paradise. With a tidal range exceeding 14 metres, recorded near Yule entrance at the southern end of the bay, they are among the largest in the world. This massive daily movement of water creates unique phenomena that occur nowhere else in the world. Nestled in the centre of the Bay is Montgomery Reef, the world’s largest inshore reef system. As the tide falls a raging torrent of water cascades off the top of the reef, creating turbulent ‘rivers’ and mini waterfalls. At the Southern end of the Bay, Talbot Bay is home to the world’s only ’Horizontal Falls’ described by Sir David Attenborough as “One of the greatest wonders of the natural world.” Hidden in the many caves and grottos of this ancient landscape are a multitude of ancient Rock Art galleries. Here you can find spectacular examples of the Wandjina and Gwion Gwion styles.
As we are at the mercy of weather and tide conditions in this region, the activities mentioned above are only possible experiences and can’t be guaranteed.
28 September 2024 - Lacepede Islands
Arrival 28/9/2024
Departure 28/9/2024
The Lacepede Islands are Western Australia’s most important breeding habitat for Green Turtles (Chelonia mydas), and have been named by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area (IBA). The breeding colony of Brown Boobies is possibly the largest in the world. Up to 20,000 Roseate Terns have also been recorded here. Other birds breeding on the islands include Masked Boobies, Australian Pelicans, Lesser Frigatebirds, Eastern Reef Egrets, Silver Gulls, Crested, Bridled and Lesser Crested Terns, Common Noddies, Pied and Sooty Oystercatchers. Join your expedition team for a guided zodiac tour to view the prolific wildlife. Due to the sensitive nature of the environment, landings are prohibited on the Lacepede Islands.
29 September 2024 - Broome
Arrival 29/9/2024 early morning
Disembarkation 29/9/2024 at 8:00 am
Located in the northwest of the Kimberley region and in the far north of Western Australia, the town of Broome is reputed for its history and its glorious pearling era. The fascinating Chinatown district, which is the historic city centre, and the famous Japanese Cemetery, dates back to 1896, and has a past marked by the immigration of numerous Chinese and Japanese workers, attracted by the prosperous pearl industry at the end of the 19th century and at the beginning of the 20th century. Broome is also famous for the “Staircase to the Moon”, an optical illusion created by the Moon reflecting on the sand banks at low tide, like a staircase climbing up towards the sky, a unique spectacle provided by nature…
Mitchell Falls Helicopter Flight and Landing
Total : €555
According to availability, price per passenger.Mitchell Falls helicopter flight & landing
This optional tour must be prebooked at least 90 days prior to your voyage, your shipboard account will be charged automatically. Cancellation made within 21 days are non-refundable. Any reservation made after this deadline will be confirmed on-board based on availability. A minimum of participants must be booked in order to operate this tour.
Today your ship will be anchored in Prince Frederick Harbour and our fleet of zodiac will be exploring the lower reaches of the Hunter River. The Mitchell Falls are on the Mitchell River and the only way to see them is to take the scenic helicopter flight and landing at the falls.
After a short zodiac ride to a wet landing on Naturalist Island you will be given a safety briefing by the helicopter pilot. The pilot will allocate each guest a seat in the helicopter.
After taking off from the beach enjoy a 20-minute flight to the stunning Mitchell Plateau. Your experienced pilots will keep you informed about one of the most scenic and biologically important areas of Western Australia.
You will land next to the falls where you will have approximately fifty minutes to explore the area before your return flight. You will be unaccompanied in a stunning yet rugged and very remote area, with uneven rocky surfaces and little shade from the sun. From the landing site, it is a short 10-minute walk to some great spots to photograph the quadruple drops of Mitchell Falls. You may even have time for a refreshing swim in the river, well above the saltwater crocodile habitats the Kimberley is renowned for.
After your time on the plateau you will have another opportunity to view the vast expanse of the Kimberley region from the air as the skilled pilots take you along a different route for the return 20-minute flight to Naturalists Island.
- A minimum of 12 participants is required to confirm this tour. Helicopter type is determined by the local operator and varies from Jet Ranger (1 seat in front and 3 seats forward-facing in the back) or Long Ranger (1 seat in front and 2 forward facing + 2 rear facing in the back). Helicopter loading and seat position is determined on a weight basis by the pilots. For better photographic opportunities, the rear doors of the helicopters are removed for the flights. A good level of mobility and fitness is required to alight the aircraft and walk around the plateau to view the falls. Please note that you will be unaccompanied in a stunning yet rugged and very remote area, with uneven rocky surfaces and little shade from the sun. It is possible to take the scenic helicopter flight as well as the included zodiac tour organised by the ship.
Total : €555
According to availability, price per passenger.Le Jacques-Cartier
In keeping with the philosophy of PONANT and the PONANT EXPLORERS, Le Jacques-Cartier is a modern ship with slender, tapered lines, it is environmentally friendly and equipped with innovative technology.
Tastefully decorated, Le Jacques-Cartier reflects the universe so dear to PONANT, with its light tones and open-to-the-sea design providing soft light and luminosity at every instant of the day. Its ethnic chic ambiance pays homage to the destinations we visit.
Located below the waterline, the Blue Eye offers a unique experience: the opportunity to enjoy undersea views and the sounds of the marine world whilst sharing a glass together.
Decks
Transfer from the pier to Broome
For your serenity, PONANT organises your transfer between the port and the airport. This package is included in your cruise fare.
Disembarkation day - Broome
Disembarkation.
Meet and greet at the port by our local representative, and group transfer from the port to the airport or the hotel The Mangrove (or similar).
For guests who have an afternoon flight, enjoy time at leisure at the hotel The Mangrove (or similar) before your group transfer to the airport.
Please note:
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Local English-speaking assistance will be provided.
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To anticipate your group transfer upon disembarkation, please inform your travel agent about your departure flight details.
This programme is subject to change.
Tropical Expedition
Explore the planet’s most remote tropical regions during a PONANT expedition cruise. In the heart of Oceania’s archipelagos or the Indian Ocean atolls, along the wild coastlines of Central America or Australia, our luxury amenities and services will make your expedition cruise an unforgettable experience. Our expedition leaders and their teams of naturalist guides devise exceptional itineraries and organise daily outings, shore visits in Zodiac® dinghies, or snorkelling when the cruises are conducive to it, to take you as close as possible to nature. Aboard the ship, they share their knowledge during lectures on a variety of topics such as the fauna and flora, the history of the great explorations, geology and climatology. On land, using the local transport options or during hikes, discover the must-see natural sites and, for a few hours, partake in the life and ancestral customs of the local populations.
Book on Select Suites & Fly Business
Business Class Flights & Transfers In Select Suite Categories on 2024 Kimberley itineraries.*
For a limited time, book a Kimberley 2024 Luxury Expedition in select suite categories and and receive return business class flights and airport transfers.*
To benefit, simply mention the code AIRKIMBZ when making your reservation.
Offer valid from major Australian and New Zealand cities.*
*Conditions apply.
Flights & Transfers Included
Flights & Transfers Included on all 2024 Kimberley Expeditions.*
For a limited time, book a Kimberley 2024 Luxury Expedition and receive return flights and airport transfers.*
Offer valid from major Australian and New Zealand cities.*
To benefit, simply mention the code AIRKIM when making your reservation.
*Conditions apply.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
OVERNIGHT IN DARWIN (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Darwin
Meet at Darwin Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off your own flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Hilton Darwin 5*.
Official check-in time at the hotel Hilton is 3.00 pm.
Your luggage can be stored at the hotel before check-in.
The afternoon and dinner are at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Darwin
Day is at leisure.
Check-out is at 12.00 am.
You will depart the hotel by coach for a panoramic tour of Darwin. Located in Australia's Northern Territory, also known as the "Top End", Darwin is a beautiful tropical city, where over 50 different cultures live and work side by side.
Discover Darwin's rich history and culture and learn about Darwin's role during World War II as you see its many historic wartime landmarks. You will drive past St Marys Cathedral, travel up to and along the Esplanade, the Parliament House, the Old Court House, the Anglican Cathedral. Pass Bicentennial Park, and the Old Town hall ruins.
You will then be transferred to the port of Darwin, to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
The Hilton Darwin offers an ideal location in the heart of the city within walking distance of shopping and entertainment. The elegant rooms are light and equipped with contemporary furniture for a warm and comfortable ambience. The hotel features a 10th-floor outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, and a stylish bar and restaurant.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
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1-night accommodation in Standard room at Hilton Darwin 5*, local standards (or similar) including breakfast.
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Transfers as mentioned in the programme.
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The services of a local guide on the group transfer.
Your programme does not include:
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Dinner on Day 1.
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Lunch on Day 2.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
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It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
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Early check-in is available depending on availability and at a supplement. Contact your travel agent for further detail.
Contact of your hotel:
Hilton Darwin
B 32 Mitchell St
Darwin City NT 0800
Australia
Telephone: (+61) 8 8982 0000
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$480
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.UNIQUE GETAWAY IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORY (4 NIGHTS)
Set off to discover a region that is as little-known as it is extraordinary during four unforgettable days in the very heart of the bush and the colourful landscapes of Australia’s Northern Territory. In a refined haven, a lodge right in the heart of nature, you will be amazed by the history of this Aboriginal land and the mysteries of preserved nature during a hike, a river cruise or an airboat safari.
Day 1 - Darwin
Meet at Darwin Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Hilton Darwin 5*.
Official check-in in your room at 15:00.
Afternoon and dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Darwin/Bamurru Plains
After breakfast and check-out, you may enjoy free time until midday. You will have lunch at the hotel.
Your guide will be waiting for you in the lobby for your transfer to Darwin Airport and check-in to your flight to Bamurru Plains.
We advise you to bring only one piece of hand luggage (15 kg maximum luggage allowance). Your other luggage will be stored safely at the Hilton Darwin throughout your stay at Bamurru Plains.
During a 30-minute panoramic flight, contemplate the region’s luxuriant scenery and the meandering Adelaide River before landing at the Bamurru Plains private airstrip. From the sky, attempt to identify the black spots that pepper the decor. Buffalos hide behind these moving forms, or crocodiles, if you are lucky…
A guide will welcome you on arrival and accompany you to the Bamurru Plains lodge, a 20-minute journey. Enjoy a Wild Bush Luxury presentation, as well as an aperitif out in the wilderness, before your afternoon activity.
Dinner will provide you with an opportunity to share your first impressions outside the lodge’s open kitchen, which will prepare delicious Australian dishes.
Enjoy an exceptional night in a safari bungalow.
Day 3 - Bamurru Plains
Your day will begin with breakfast in the main lodge, early in the morning.
After a 20-minute journey to the airstrip, you will board your plane for an awe-inspiring 30-minute flight to the small town of Jabiru.
You will journey into the sumptuous Kakadu National Park between flood plains and rocky formations to Ubirr Rock, a 45-minute drive. This is where some of the region’s finest Aboriginal rock art galleries are to be found. The gigantic rocky escarpments that are characteristic of this territory explain the presence of numerous arts of work. Their cavities effectively provided the communities living in Kakadu with perfect shelter for accommodation. No fewer than four settlement periods are illustrated at Ubirr and could date back as far as 50,000 years! Following a path around 1.5 km (0.9 miles) long, you will walk between two cavities decorated with these magnificent paintings before climbing up towards the summit of the rock. Your efforts will be rewarded by an exceptional panorama, a 360° view over the Nadab flood plains. The relatively easy-going climb will be punctuated with photo stops and explanations of the history of the Aboriginal people.
You will be served a bucolic picnic, in the shade, in the bush, with delicious dishes provided by the hotel.
At the start of the afternoon, you will head for the East Alligator River for a cruise along its waters. An Aboriginal guide will share their culture, the local mythology, and their knowledge of the river’s thriving ecosystem. The plants and animals are used traditionally by this community and are integral to various survival techniques. Count the crocodiles lying peacefully on the banks, admire the myriad birds that inhabit the site… It is already time to stop in Arnhem Land, where you will learn more about traditional hunting and gathering tools.
The Bowali Visitor Centre will mark the end of your afternoon. Here you will be given information about this unique environment and will be able to buy local art work, books and gifts.
You will be driven back to Bamurru Plains in time to admire the sunset and have dinner in the main lodge.
This magnificent day will end with a night in a safari bungalow.
Day 4 - Bamurru Plains
A safari in the wilderness of Bamurru Plains is planned for your morning. The airboat ride will give you a unique viewpoint over the surrounding wetlands and enchanting paperbark forests. A guided quad bike adventure also guarantees an original way of exploring the Bamurru territory.
If you wish, your breakfast may be served in an idyllic setting, by the infinity pool that overlooks the flood plains, where agile wallabies roam.
Dive into the pool, discover the region’s history thanks to the lodge’s library or relax in your bungalow during your free time.
A little later, you will be able to go on a safari aboard an open-topped 4-wheel drive vehicle to spot buffalo, wallabies and the many birds of the tropical savannah or on a river cruise on the Sampan Creek, which is part of the Mary River System that forms the western boundary of Bamurru Plains.
The sun will set as you contemplate the local fauna while enjoying your aperitif on the observation platform.
Dinner in the main lodge.
Day 5 – Bamurru Plains/Darwin
The day will begin with a morning safari exploring the private property’s 300 km² (115.8 square miles). Aboard an airboat, marvel at the abundance of wild birds and animals as you move further away from your lodge.
You will be able to freshen up and then it will be time to leave Bamurru Plains: the journey to the airstrip will take 20 minutes.
Board your flight back to Darwin.
Upon arrival at Darwin Airport, you will be transferred to the hotel Hilton Darwin to collect your stored luggage.
After enjoying lunch at the hotel, you will be transferred to the port to board your ship.
Your hotels:
The Hilton Darwin is a five-star hotel with a great location just 15 minutes’ drive from the airport, near the city centre, and overlooking the harbour. All rooms are modern and fully-appointed. Relax on the rooftop or discover Australian cuisine at the restaurant.
Bamurru Plains is a unique spot to enjoy a wilderness experience in style and taste the true luxury of an exclusive stay in a rustic yet chic environment in perfect harmony with the surrounding country. The lodge has been built with a minimal impact on the environment, using native materials. The hot water is solar-generated. Providing exclusive access to nature, Bamurru Plains’ appeal lies in the birdlife and wilderness. All ten Safari Bungalows boast a supremely comfortable bed and high-quality 100% organic cotton linen, a spacious bathroom, an authentic decor. They are also equipped with overhead fans and mesh screen walls allowing the coastal breeze to naturally cool the interior.
Bamurru Plains is a ‘camp’. As such, it exposes guests to the sights and sounds of the surrounding bush. To keep this experience authentic, the Safari Bungalows are not equipped with televisions, CD players, minibars, telephones, or internet access. Hairdryers are available on request.
You will also connect with the bush through gourmet food and wine. Discover Bamurru’s wild secrets with excellent guiding and let nature come to you around the infinity pool.
Your programme includes:
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1-night accommodation in Standard Room at Hilton Darwin 5* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
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3-night accommodation in Safari Bungalow at Bamurru Plains Lodge, full-board included.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea).
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Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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The services of a local English-speaking guide.
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Flights Darwin/Bamurru Plains round-trip with a luggage allowance of one 15kg piece.
Your programme does not include:
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Dinner on day 1.
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Early check-in and late check-out.
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Personal expenses.
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Visa if necessary.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Optional activities.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
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It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
-
This programme has limited participation.
- The programme requires the ability to walk on uneven surfaces and up some inclines. It is thus open to reasonably healthy guests with moderate fitness. Guests in wheelchairs can join, but they must be able to stand up to step into vehicles and navigate some small steps in the bungalows. This programme would be unsuitable for anyone who is permanently wheelchair-bound.
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The luggage allowance on domestic flights between Darwin and Bamurru Plains is restricted to one small bag weighing no more than 15 kg (duffel or cabin bags are preferred, as they are easier to load in the luggage hold).
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Your main luggage will remain at the hotel Hilton Darwin until day 5 and will be collected on the way to the pier upon your return from Bamurru Plains.
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We advise you to bring sturdy shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and bush-appropriate clothing (nights can get very warm or cold depending on the season).
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At Bamurru Plains, a number of activities will be organised as part of the Wildlife Experience, such as airboat safaris, bird watching, bush walking, and river cruises, depending on the weather and local conditions. The programme described above was prepared to give you a good idea of what your Wild Bush Luxury experience at Bamurru Plains will look like, it can be adapted. The times, safari style and location across the 300-km2 private property are subject to local conditions, recommendations for wildlife viewing, and opportunities for maximising enjoyment on the day.
Contact of your hotels:
Hilton Darwin
32 Mitchell Street,
Darwin City NT 0800,
Australia
Telephone number: +61 8 8982 0000
Bamurru Plains
Mary River Floodplai,
Kakadu NT 0836,
Australia
Telephone number: +61 2 9571 6399
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$8,080
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Mitchell Falls Helicopter Flight and Landing
Total : €555
According to availability, price per passenger.Mitchell Falls helicopter flight & landing
This optional tour must be prebooked at least 90 days prior to your voyage, your shipboard account will be charged automatically. Cancellation made within 21 days are non-refundable. Any reservation made after this deadline will be confirmed on-board based on availability. A minimum of participants must be booked in order to operate this tour.
Today your ship will be anchored in Prince Frederick Harbour and our fleet of zodiac will be exploring the lower reaches of the Hunter River. The Mitchell Falls are on the Mitchell River and the only way to see them is to take the scenic helicopter flight and landing at the falls.
After a short zodiac ride to a wet landing on Naturalist Island you will be given a safety briefing by the helicopter pilot. The pilot will allocate each guest a seat in the helicopter.
After taking off from the beach enjoy a 20-minute flight to the stunning Mitchell Plateau. Your experienced pilots will keep you informed about one of the most scenic and biologically important areas of Western Australia.
You will land next to the falls where you will have approximately fifty minutes to explore the area before your return flight. You will be unaccompanied in a stunning yet rugged and very remote area, with uneven rocky surfaces and little shade from the sun. From the landing site, it is a short 10-minute walk to some great spots to photograph the quadruple drops of Mitchell Falls. You may even have time for a refreshing swim in the river, well above the saltwater crocodile habitats the Kimberley is renowned for.
After your time on the plateau you will have another opportunity to view the vast expanse of the Kimberley region from the air as the skilled pilots take you along a different route for the return 20-minute flight to Naturalists Island.
- A minimum of 12 participants is required to confirm this tour. Helicopter type is determined by the local operator and varies from Jet Ranger (1 seat in front and 3 seats forward-facing in the back) or Long Ranger (1 seat in front and 2 forward facing + 2 rear facing in the back). Helicopter loading and seat position is determined on a weight basis by the pilots. For better photographic opportunities, the rear doors of the helicopters are removed for the flights. A good level of mobility and fitness is required to alight the aircraft and walk around the plateau to view the falls. Please note that you will be unaccompanied in a stunning yet rugged and very remote area, with uneven rocky surfaces and little shade from the sun. It is possible to take the scenic helicopter flight as well as the included zodiac tour organised by the ship.
Total : €555
According to availability, price per passenger.