Wyndham to Mitchell River – Broome (Cruise/Fly)

The northern Kimberley is renowned for its towering gorges, expansive river systems, stunning waterfalls, World War II relics, and remarkable Bradshaw rock art sites—an experience not to be missed. This cruise takes you between Wyndham and the Mitchell River, visiting iconic Kimberley landmarks such as King George Falls, Berkeley River, and the Drysdale River, among others. Enjoy refreshing swims in pristine freshwater holes, explore historic Aboriginal art sites, and try your luck fishing for the elusive barramundi and other local specialties while taking in the breathtaking gorges. Operating just after the wet season, this eight-day northern Kimberley cruise showcases the spectacular waterfalls at their peak! Additionally, the journey includes a thrilling helicopter flight over the magnificent Mitchell Falls.

DAY 1: KUNUNURRA, WYNDHAM PORT
Your Northern Quest begins with a courtesy vehicle picking you up from Kununurra at approximately 3:30 PM. You’ll be transferred to the Kimberley Quest II in Wyndham port, where the captain and crew will welcome you aboard. Enjoy a relaxing drink as you cruise out of the Cambridge Gulf, watching the sun set over the horizon.

DAY 2: BERKELEY RIVER
In the early morning, we cruise up the Berkeley River, taking in numerous waterfalls and ancient sandstone escarpments. Experience your first taste of fishing for barramundi or join a tender excursion with our knowledgeable guides for crocodile-spotting and birdwatching. Marvel at the amphitheatre waterfalls, then cool off in beautiful freshwater pools. In the late afternoon, we’ll head up to where the saltwater meets the freshwater, fishing off the flat rocks for barramundi or walking to a freshwater pool for a relaxing dip. Tonight, we anchor near a secluded waterfall, soaking in the tranquil surroundings.

DAY 3: KING GEORGE RIVER
At high tide, we cross the sandbars of the King George River for a breathtaking cruise through its majestic, cathedral-like gorge. This stunning scenery leads us to King George Falls, which features a dramatic vertical drop of over 80 meters, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Western Australia. The Kimberley Quest II can cruise to the base of the twin falls for a refreshing “shower,” Kimberley style! Adventurous guests may choose to climb to the top for breathtaking views of the river below, followed by a refreshing swim. We’ll anchor overnight just meters from the falls, enjoying the tranquil sounds and extraordinary views.

DAY 4: KOOLAMA BAY, PANGALI COVE, GLYCOSMIS FALLS
Today, we visit Koolama Bay, the site where the vessel ‘Koolama’ was beached in February 1942 after a Japanese attack during World War II. Passengers were ordered ashore, many embarking on a challenging cross-country trek. After exploring the survivor’s camp at Pangali Cove, enjoy a freshwater dip beneath a waterfall. In the afternoon, we’ll visit Glycosmis Falls, another stunning Kimberley waterfall, before cruising around Cape Londonderry, the most northerly point of Western Australia.

DAY 5: DRYSDALE RIVER
We’ll spend the day exploring the Drysdale River, one of the longest rivers in the Kimberley at 432 km. Discover the spectacular palm-studded landscape and the rapids of the Drysdale area. Join our guides for a scenic tender excursion to observe crocodiles, flying foxes, and a variety of bird species thriving in the delta islands. Enjoy a swim in secluded rock pools, then take a late afternoon walk on a deserted beach or try to catch a barramundi among the many great fishing spots.

DAY 6: NAPIER BROOME BAY
Relax on board as we cruise across Napier Broome Bay. Mid-morning, enjoy a beach walk to a historic Indonesian Trepang site, gaining insight into the lives of early Macassan fishermen and their interactions with Aboriginal tribes. In the late afternoon, we’ll fish the inlets and estuaries for barramundi, mangrove jack, and even try our luck at mud crabbing.

DAY 7: VANSITTART BAY, WWII DC3 CRASH SITE
Today, we explore various coves within Vansittart Bay, rich in fascinating Bradshaw or Gwion Gwion art—some of which has been dated at over 17,000 years old. You’ll also have the opportunity to walk to the crash site of a WWII DC3 aircraft located on the eastern side of Vansittart Bay. Later, we’ll cruise along the Bougainville Peninsula, where dramatic black basalt cliffs contrast with lush green rainforests.

DAY 8: MITCHELL RIVER, BROOME
In the morning, we explore the estuary and gorge of the lower Mitchell River, marveling at crocodiles, birdlife, rock art, and the unique flora and fauna for the last time. Depart the Kimberley Quest II via helicopter for a scenic flight over the stunning Mitchell Falls. Upon landing at the Mitchell Plateau airstrip, board a light aircraft to discover the vastness of the Kimberley. You’ll return to Broome by mid-afternoon, where our team will assist you with your accommodation transfer.

Note: These cruises include helicopter & light aircraft transfers