Over two days, immerse yourself in the stunning Shark Bay World Heritage Area, Western Australia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised in 1991. This extraordinary region is known for its colourful landscapes, rare flora and fauna, and is home to an impressive 35% of all Australia’s bird species.
Discover the beauty of Francois Peron National Park, named after the naturalist who accompanied explorer Nicholas Baudin. Cruise past the historic Cape Inscription, where Dirk Hartog landed in 1616, and, conditions permitting, take a refreshing swim off a pristine, remote beach. The region’s rich natural and historical significance offers a memorable experience.
Today, explore the captivating Abrolhos Islands, a group of 122 islands divided into the Wallabi, Easter, and Pelsaert Groups. Situated in the path of the Leeuwin Current, the islands are a meeting point for tropical and temperate marine life, including Australian sea lions, bottlenose dolphins, and over 90 species of seabirds.
Spend your day exploring the Wallabi Group, where you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Turtle Bay, home to vibrant marine life. As you explore the bay, you’ll encounter a rich variety of species including colourful soft corals, reef fish, and the curious Australian sea lions. The waters are also home to juvenile green and loggerhead turtles, which are often spotted gliding gracefully through the shallow waters. Take a leisurely walk along the beach, keeping an eye out for tamar wallabies, skinks, and the endemic Abrolhos dwarf bearded dragons.
Cruise past the Pidgeon Islands, known for their crayfishing industry, and enjoy birdwatching for ospreys, white-bellied sea eagles, and Caspian terns. Conditions permitting, visit Beacon Island, also known as the Island of Angry Ghosts, where a tragic history unfolds. See the Batavia Memorial cairn and the coral pits where mutineer leader Jeronimus Cornelisz was held before his trial.
Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10 Day at Sea
On board the Coral Adventurer, enjoy a leisurely day at sea, where Guest Lecturers will offer insightful talks and presentations about the regions you have explored. With a selection of workshops and demonstrations, there’s plenty to keep you engaged. You also may like to catch up on your reading in the onboard library, enjoy a drink or two at the bar, or even peruse the onboard gift shop in between enjoying the ocean views up on deck.
Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11 Fremantle, Disembark Ship, Depart Perth
After a memorable journey, your cruise concludes in Fremantle where you will disembark your ship. From here, you will be transferred to Perth Airport for your onward flight, or to your chosen Perth hotel if you are opting to extend your APT adventure.
Daily: Breakfast