Sunsets, sea air and one of the world's last great wildernesses

There are journeys that tick along pleasantly, and then there are journeys that leave you wide-eyed at the rail. Catherine and Cathy's Australia's Iconic Kimberley expedition, with Ponant and Wild Earth Travel, has been very much the second kind. Aboard Ponant's Le Soleal, they've been enjoying the life of luxury at sea, with sunsets on deck and a remarkable coastline waiting around every bend. We've loved following along, and we'd like to share the highlights.

Broome, Freshwater Cove and Montgomery Reef

The adventure began in Broome, with a night at Cable Beach before boarding. The first stop at sea was Freshwater Cove, the traditional lands of the Dambimangari people, where the group discovered beautiful freshwater springs running down to the shoreline.

Then came Montgomery Reef, which has the greatest tidal range on Earth. As the tide recedes, torrents of water cascade from the surface of the world's largest inshore reef. As Catherine put it, "We experienced the most incredible phenomenon." She was equally full of praise for the Ponant expedition team, whom she described as exceptional.

Talbot Bay and the Horizontal Falls

One of their many highlights was the morning sunrise as Le Soleal cruised into Talbot Bay. Next came the Horizontal Falls, which Catherine says you have to see to believe: "Absolutely phenomenal." Guests had two chances to experience the coastline and the tides, with a morning and an afternoon outing in the ship's inflatable boats. It's a perfect cruise for travellers who enjoy a little extra activity and adventure alongside their luxury.

Coronation Islands, Hunter River and Mitchell Falls

At the Coronation Islands, the group learned how the land formations took shape, long before the dinosaurs. A Zodiac trip along Hunter River followed. It isn't a river at all but a large tidal inlet, which drops a metre an hour and changes by a total of nine metres. They spotted three crocodiles along the way. After every outing, the crew had a lovely array of refreshments waiting back on board.

Then it was time for a helicopter flight to Mitchell Falls. With Le Soleal moored near the coast, guests took Zodiacs to shore and then flew to the falls, where they enjoyed a dip in the swimming hole. Look closely at the river photos and see if you can spot the crocodiles.

Careening Bay and King George Falls

At Careening Bay, the group visited the historic Mermaid Tree, a boab engraved with "HMC Mermaid 1820" by the ship's carpenter. Back on board, some very special sunset entertainment was waiting.

The final stop was King George Falls. Le Soleal dropped anchor just off the coast, and guests spent four hours in the Zodiacs exploring tributaries, mangroves and towering rock walls. There was a Ponant Champagne surprise at the falls, more crocodile spotting, and a pod of juvenile humpback dolphins.

Plan your own Kimberley journey

Journeys like this one show what a well-planned expedition cruise can offer: remarkable access to remote country, wonderful guides and crew, and the comfort of a beautiful ship to return to each evening. Your YOU Travel & Cruise Consultant can design a tailored itinerary around how you like to travel, and will be your direct line before, during and after your trip.

Let's meet and start planning your next holiday or cruise together! Visit www.youtravelbethlehem.co.nz, phone us on 07 579 3431 or email bethlehem@youtravelbop.co.nz.