Broome – Hunter River to Broome (Fly/Cruise)

The breathtaking southern region of the Kimberley is home to many iconic sights. This area is filled with islands, whirlpools, inlets, and lush pockets of rainforest that harbor diverse bird species and wildlife. You’ll explore a landscape of stunning contrasts and vibrant colors, steeped in history and adorned with ancient Aboriginal rock art. Highlights include the renowned Horizontal Waterfalls, Montgomery Reef, and the King Cascade—a spring-fed waterfall along the Prince Regent River—along with many other Kimberley landmarks. This eight-day cruise also features a helicopter flight over the magnificent Mitchell Falls.

DAY 1: Broome – Hunter River
Your Southern Quest kicks off in the morning with a scenic flight along the Kimberley coast to the Mitchell Plateau. Once you arrive, board a helicopter for an unforgettable aerial journey over the stunning Mitchell Falls, landing on the helipad of the Kimberley Quest II. Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch while anchored. In the late afternoon, embark on a scenic tender excursion to explore the remarkable high red escarpments and the diverse wildlife that make the Hunter River truly special.

DAY 2: Careening Bay, Prince Regent River, Camp Creek
This morning, we visit Careening Bay, home to an ancient carved boab tree first discovered in 1820 by Phillip Parker King during his hydrographic survey of the Australian coastline. We then cruise through St. George Basin, a stunning inland sea. Enjoy breathtaking views of mighty Mt. Trafalgar and Mt. Waterloo as we navigate the Prince Regent River, admiring the pristine waters that cut through sandstone cliffs and gorges. We’ll take an excursion to Camp Creek, a beautiful waterway lined with weeping paperbarks, where you can enjoy a walk to the top of the falls for a refreshing swim.

DAY 3: Prince Regent River, King Cascade, Cathedral Gorge
In the early morning, we cruise to the King Cascade waterfalls, where spring-fed waters cascade in breathtaking tiers, surrounded by lush ferns and abundant wildlife. Climb above the falls for an unforgettable swim in a large crystal-clear pool, offering stunning views of the magnificent Prince Regent River. In the late afternoon, join our guides for an excursion to Cathedral Falls, where you might spot crocodiles and flying foxes. Alternatively, try your luck fishing in the renowned waters of the Prince Regent River, known for its big Barramundi and Threadfin Salmon.

DAY 4: Camden Harbour, Kuri Bay, Langii
At Camden Harbour, we visit the forlorn graves of early settlers on Sheep Island and soak up the rich history of the first European settlement. Take a tender for some exploration, go fishing, or collect rock oysters, or simply relax on the sundeck and enjoy the beautiful scenery. We’ll then cruise between Augustus Island and the mainland, passing the remote pearling settlement of Kuri Bay. In the late afternoon, we visit the mysterious cove at Langii to witness the ‘Petrified Warriors’—remarkable sandstone pillars representing warriors killed in a Dreamtime battle. Afterwards, enjoy a swim in the pristine ocean.

DAY 5: Raft Point, Sale River, Doubtful Bay
This morning, we anchor below Raft Point and prepare to walk to the caves where some of the finest well-preserved Wandjina art in the Kimberley can be found. Enjoy stunning views of the Kimberley coast from the top. We then explore the Sale River, taking an excursion upstream for a dip in the spring-fed rainforest pools while viewing ancient rock art along the way. As the sun begins to set, we’ll fish the inlets of Doubtful Bay for the elusive Barramundi and Threadfin Salmon.

DAY 6: Red Cone Creek, Montgomery Reef, Collier Bay
Embark on a tender excursion to Red Cone Creek for a refreshing swim at Ruby Falls, or join our guides to try your hand at mud crabbing. Next, we cruise to the incredible Montgomery Reef, which spans over 300 km², making it Australia’s largest inshore reef. Watch as the tide recedes, creating a stunning waterfall effect as the reef rises out of the water. Enjoy a tender ride to observe diverse marine life, including turtles and seabirds. In the late afternoon, you can try your luck at Barramundi fishing in Collier Bay or relax on board, taking in the beautiful scenery.

DAY 7: Talbot Bay, Dugong Bay, Buccaneer Archipelago
Cruise to Talbot Bay, home to one of the Kimberley coast’s icons, the spectacular Horizontal Waterfalls. Take a tender for an exhilarating ride through this natural phenomenon, followed by a scenic excursion up Cyclone Creek to marvel at its stunning rock formations. Cool off with a refreshing swim in Dugong Bay before enjoying another scenic tender excursion. In the afternoon, we’ll cross the vast King Sound, cruising through the thousands of islands in the Buccaneer Archipelago. We’ll pass Cape Leveque at sunset and journey through the night towards Broome.

DAY 8: Cape Leveque – Broome
Arrive in Broome early in the morning. Enjoy your final breakfast on board before bidding farewell to the crew of the Kimberley Quest II. Disembarkation is at approximately 8:00 AM, where a courtesy vehicle will transfer you to your accommodation or the airport.

Note: These cruises include helicopter & light aircraft transfers