11 Night Cape York & Arnhem Land CNS-DRW (Coral Discoverer)

Day 1: Depart Cairns
10:00 am: Board your Coral Expeditions ship at Trinity Wharf, Cairns. After departing Cairns we make our way across Trinity Bay before arriving at our exclusive mooring on the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy time to snorkel over the reef and view the many colourful corals and tropical fish that call the reef home. This evening meet your fellow travellers and friendly crew as we enjoy the Captain's Welcome Aboard Drinks.

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. As special guests of the Lizard Island Research Station, we have an opportunity to learn of the research being undertaken to help understand and preserve the Great Barrier Reef

Day 3: Stanley Island and Davey Reef
Visit Stanley Island in the Flinders Group to view the Eden 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 Islands during World War II. Overnight at Gateway Torres Strait Resort, Horn Island

Day 6: Nhulunbuy (Gove)
This morning we board our short charter flight across the Gulf of Carpentaria to Nhulunbuy (Gove). Upon arrival, we visit the Yirrkala Art Centre. Following a light lunch, we enjoy time to explore this frontier town before visiting Nambarra Art Centre to see some fine examples of local artwork. Overnight at Walkabout Lodge, Gove.

 

Day 7: Hole in the Wall and Beach BBQ
Rejoining Coral Expeditions, we cruise through the narrow 'Hole in the Wall". Our expert guides and lecturers will share with you the fascinating history of the Macassan traders and early discoverers to the Arnhem Land coast. This evening we enjoy 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 Explorer 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 newfound friends as we enjoy the Captain's Farewell Drinks

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

Note: 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 reasons whatsoever.