Across the Top of Australia

Explore Australia’s northern delights: the Great Barrier Reef, Cape York Peninsula and Arnhem Land.

April 4 - 15
Cost: From $8250 per person, twin share
Who: Coral Princess
Contact: 1800 079 545

Coral Princess Cruises’ Across the Top of Australia cruise is truly an unforgettable expedition experience like no other.  Combining the very best of Australia’s Top End, explore the pristine coral gardens of the northern reaches of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, experience the sunrise over the 'Tip of Australia' on the Cape York Peninsula and discover the interesting World War II history of the Torres Strait Islands.  Venture ashore aboard the specially designed excursion vessel 'Xplorer' and a fleet of Zodiacs to meet fabulous artisans in some of the most remote villages in Australia, cruise the Arnhem Land coast before experiencing the friendly welcome and warm hospitality of the Tiwi Islanders as they share with us their ancient culture and traditional lifestyles.

This outstanding itinerary offers the unique opportunity to discover the remarkable history, diverse natural beauty and magical cultures of these rugged frontier lands, and aboard our superb expedition small-ship, Oceanic Discoverer, you will discover it all in total comfort and unmatched style.

Don’t miss this unforgettable exploration of Australia’s northern delights: the Great Barrier Reef, Cape York Peninsula, Arnhem Land and the Cobourg Peninsula. Enjoy 11 nights on board Oceanic Discoverer, as you glide along the unique northern Australian coastline and the waters of the Great Barrier Reef, Torres Strait and Arafura Sea.

Day 1: Depart Cairns
3:00pm: Board Oceanic Discoverer at Trinity Wharf, Cairns for a 4:00pm departure. This evening meet your fellow travellers and friendly crew as we enjoy the Captain’s Welcome Aboard Cocktail Party.

Day 2: Lizard Island
We explore secluded Lizard Island, one of the most beautiful islands on the Queensland Coast. Enjoy swimming, snorkelling and a walk along the beautiful sandy beach. The energetic may join our guides on a walk to “Cook’s Look” on the island’s peak. It was from here, the highest lookout on this part of the reef, that Captain Cook was able to navigate a safe passage back through the treacherous waters after repairing the Endeavour near Cooktown over 200 years ago. A photographer’s delight, the views from the lookout over the World Heritage-listed reef and surrounding tropical islands are magnificent.

Day 3: Stanley Island and Davey Reef
Visit Stanley Island in the Flinders Group to view the Endaen Aboriginal rock art gallery that depicts sailing ships of the last century. This is a unique art site seldom visited due to its isolated location. At Davey Reef and Cay we enjoy swimming and snorkelling and observe the large seabird rookery.

Day 4: Forbes Island and Magra Island
Enjoy the day exploring historic Forbes Island, its reef provides some fantastic swimming and snorkelling opportunities. This afternoon we visit Magra Island for beachcombing, bird watching and to enjoy the tropical sunset.

Day 5: Cape York and Thursday Island
This morning we venture ashore at Cape York as the sun rises over the “Tip” on Australia’s northernmost point. Enjoy champagne and welcome the new day. Anchoring at Thursday Island, learn of the history of European settlement and the large pearling fleets. We have the opportunity to observe the distinctly different cultures of the Torres Strait Islanders and the Aboriginals whilst we enjoy a tour of the island. Following lunch we visit the Gab Titui Cultural Centre where the children perform traditional dances. Continuing on to Horn Island we discover the significance of the Torres Strait during World War II.

Day 6: Cruising the Gulf of Carpentaria
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea with presentations by our Guest Lecturers, who share with you the fascinating history of the Macassan traders and early explorers of the Arnhem Land coast.

Day 7: Hole in the Wall and Wessel Islands
Today we sail through the “Hole in the Wall” to the Wessel Islands. This evening we enjoy a gourmet Aussie Beach BBQ as the sun spectacularly sets over the Arafura Sea.

Day 8: Elcho Island Artists
The friendly locals of Elcho Island proudly welcome us to their community this morning. Enjoy an insight into their culture and meet some of the local artists who have their unique art exhibited in the famous art galleries of the world, including the Louvre. You may wish to attend the local church service to share in the local culture.

Day 9: Liverpool River and Maningrida
We anchor in the mighty Liverpool River before travelling ashore to explore the Maningrida Art Centre, Museum and local “boutique”, where hand painted clothing and fabrics are offered for sale. Later, join the Expedition Leader and guides on an Xplorer tour of the river before rejoining our small ship.

Day 10: Cobourg Peninsula
Enjoy a full day to discover the Cobourg Peninsula. Port Essington is famous for its failed Victoria Settlement, and we will be joined by the local National Park rangers who will guide and help us explore the ruins. We will also visit the Ranger’s Interpretation Centre at Black Point.

Day 11: Bathurst and Melville Islands
Today we enjoy a true highlight, visiting remote Bathurst and Melville Islands. With traditional Tiwi people as our guides we learn of the unique cultures and visit their fascinating art centre. Our Tiwi hosts will welcome us with a cultural performance and basket-weaving exhibition before we join them for a traditional afternoon tea of damper and billy tea. Tonight we farewell new-found friends as we enjoy the Captain’s Farewell Cocktail’s.

Day 12: Arrive in Darwin
8:00am: Arrive into Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory and gateway to the “Top End”.

This itinerary is an indication of the reef, islands and coastal areas we visit. While every effort will be made to follow this itinerary we do reserve the right to vary this itinerary to make allowances for weather, tidal conditions and any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel.