Your cruise
Sapphire Princess · 14-night Australia & South Pacific round trip from Fremantle
Jan 29 – Feb 12 · 14 nights ·
Day 1 Fremantle (board) · Day 2–4 at sea · Day 5 Lombok · Day 6–7 Benoa (Bali) · Day 8 at sea · Day 9 Kimberley Coast · Day 10–11 Broome · Day 12 at sea · Day 13 Exmouth · Day 14 at sea · Day 15 Fremantle (step off)
What you do Stand on the smouldering crater rim of Indonesia's second-highest volcano at dawn, gazing over a turquoise crater lake with Bali's Agung on the horizon. A once-in-a-lifetime high-altitude spectacle.
What to expect Your private guide and personal porter collect you from Gili Mas Port before dawn and drive to the Senaru trailhead. You trek through ancient montane forest, emerging onto the breathtaking crater rim above 2,600 m as the sun ignites the caldera lake below. Camp overnight in comfort — porter-carried sleeping gear, hot meals cooked at altitude — before a triumphant descent the next morning.
Good to know This is a 2-day/1-night commitment — confirm your ship's schedule allows an overnight ashore. Book at least 4–6 weeks ahead; porter and camping slots fill fast. Moderate fitness required; trekking poles and rain layers recommended.
Versus the ship tour Green Rinjani is Lombok's most respected specialist trekking house — private guides, dedicated porters, and premium campsite equipment ensure a rarefied, unhurried summit experience with zero crowds at first light.
book direct with Green Rinjani (local specialist since 2011) → · the full guide →
What you do Drift over psychedelic coral gardens teeming with sea turtles and reef sharks on a fully crewed private charter between the Gili Islands, finishing with sundowners on the open sea.
What to expect A traditional wooden phinisi or speedboat departs Bangsal Harbour directly for the Gili Islands. You snorkel three premium sites — turtle-rich shallows off Gili Meno, the vibrant coral bommies of Gili Air, and the famous underwater sculptures off Gili T — with a freshly prepared seafood lunch served on board. As the afternoon softens, the skipper anchors for a golden-hour swim before returning you to port in time for all-aboard.
Good to know Gili Mas Port to Bangsal Harbour is ~45 minutes by private car. Depart by 08:00 to fit three snorkel stops and be back by 16:30. Pre-book the car transfer with your guide the same day for a seamless experience.
Versus the ship tour A fully private vessel means you set the pace — linger at your favourite reef, dive again, or simply float. No shared decks, no timed rotations; just your group, a skipper, and Indonesia's most iconic island trio.
book direct with Lombok Private Tour (local guide specialist) → · the full guide →
What you do Weave through traditional Sasak walled villages where hand-loom weaving and ancient animist-Islamic rituals endure, then ascend the emerald staircase of Bukit Selong's rice terraces for Lombok's most photographed vista.
What to expect Your guide escorts you through the earthen lanes of Sade or Ende village, where conical thatched bale houses and hand-woven ikat textiles paint a vivid picture of Sasak life. A scenic drive into the Sembalun highlands rewards you with the jaw-dropping terraced rice fields of Bukit Selong, backdropped by the flanks of Rinjani. A farm-to-table lunch at a hillside warung completes the immersion before a comfortable return to port.
Good to know Full day; aim to depart port by 08:00. Sade village entrance is a modest donation (~IDR 20,000). Light, modest clothing (shoulders & knees covered) is respectful and practical. Book 1–2 weeks ahead for private vehicle availability.
Versus the ship tour A private local guide opens doors — and conversations — that group tours simply cannot. Sit with a master weaver in her home, taste palm sugar fresh from the press, and witness the living traditions of Lombok's indigenous Sasak people at an unhurried, respectful pace.
book direct with Lombok Private Tour (local guide specialist) → · the full guide →
What you do Plunge into North Lombok's ancient rainforest to discover two of Southeast Asia's most spectacular waterfalls — one with a legendary healing mist, the other a sheer 45-metre curtain of ice-cold water.
What to expect The drive to Senaru village winds past clove and vanilla plantations before you enter the national park on foot. Sendang Gile's thunderous cascade greets you first — mist-drenched and magnificent. A 20-minute jungle trail then reveals Tiu Kelep, where local legend promises a year subtracted from your age for every swim beneath its fall. Your guide picnics you on a riverside boulder before a relaxed return drive.
Good to know North Lombok waterfalls are 1.5 hours from Gili Mas Port; depart by 08:00 to be safely back by 16:00. Wear water shoes or sturdy sandals — the river-crossing approach involves slippery rocks. Park entrance ~IDR 20,000 per person.
Versus the ship tour Green Rinjani's expert naturalist guides share the ecology, folklore and geology of the Rinjani foothills en route, transforming a waterfall visit into a richly layered rainforest education — all at your own pace with no other groups.
book direct with Green Rinjani (local specialist since 2011) → · the full guide →
What you do Thunder across volcanic hillsides and remote coastal tracks on a private ATV before arriving at Lombok's blush-pink beach — one of only seven pink-sand beaches on Earth — for a private swim and picnic.
What to expect Kitted out in helmet and gloves, you pilot your own ATV along rugged dirt tracks through tobacco fields and over volcanic ridges with panoramic coastal views. The trail deposits you at the secluded blush sands of Pink Beach (Pantai Merah), where the crimson fragments of Foraminifera coral tint the shoreline a warm rose. Snorkel the fringing reef, feast on a private beach picnic, and take your time before the drive back to Gili Mas.
Good to know East Lombok is approximately 1.5–2 hours from port; this is a full-day commitment — depart by 07:30. No prior ATV experience needed; a brief safety briefing is given. Confirm all-aboard time with ship before booking.
Versus the ship tour The combination of off-road adrenaline and one of the world's rarest beaches — reached before day-trippers arrive — is simply unavailable on any standard group itinerary. Your guide chooses routes and timing to guarantee solitude.
book direct with Green Rinjani (local specialist since 2011) → · the full guide →
What you do Harvest vanilla, clove and turmeric from a working spice plantation, then cook a lavish Sasak feast from scratch under a master chef's guidance — Indonesia's most flavour-forward cultural half-day.
What to expect Your guide drives you to a fragrant working spice garden outside Mataram, where the owner walks you through dozens of spices that once made these islands the most coveted on Earth. You then move to a traditional family compound where a gifted home cook guides you through three Sasak dishes — ayam taliwang, plecing kangkung and pelecing — using a wood-fire stove and hand-ground pastes. The meal is served open-air, paired with fresh coconut water and palm-sugar sweets.
Good to know Half-day experience (~4–5 hours); can be combined with an afternoon beach or cultural stop. Suitable for all fitness levels. Inform your guide of any dietary restrictions at booking. Located ~30 minutes from Gili Mas Port — perfect for ships with earlier all-aboard times.
Versus the ship tour Led by a Sasak family matriarch in her own home kitchen, this is a genuine cultural exchange — not a resort demo. You grind spices on volcanic stone, learn the sacred balance of Lombok's legendary plecing kangkung, and eat what you cook in a setting of extraordinary intimacy.
book direct with Lombok Private Tour (local guide specialist) → · the full guide →
What you do Escape to Rottnest Island — a car-free paradise where turquoise bays, limestone cliffs, and the world-famous quokka await. Cycle at your own pace through pristine scenery that feels utterly untouched.
What to expect Board a high-speed catamaran from Fremantle's B-Shed Ferry Terminal — a short stroll from the cruise berth — and arrive on Rottnest in under 30 minutes. Collect a premium hired bike and set off on the island's 26 km circuit, dipping into sheltered coves like The Basin and Little Salmon Bay, snorkelling gin-clear water over reef. Encounter the legendary quokka, one of the world's happiest-looking animals, entirely at your leisure. Return with golden-hour cocktails aboard the ferry as the sun drops over the Indian Ocean.
Good to know Ferries depart from B-Shed, Fremantle Harbour — approximately 10 minutes' walk from the cruise terminal. First sailing typically 07:30; last return 17:30. Pre-book your preferred departure online to secure a bike; peak season (Oct–Apr) sells out fast. Allow ample time: last return ferry should be at least 2 hours before all-aboard.
Versus the ship tour Rottnest is entirely car-free, meaning your bike IS your luxury vehicle — no traffic, no queues, just 63 pristine beaches discovered at a pace that suits you. The island's 20 nominated bays each feel like a private resort beach.
book direct with Rottnest Express (official Rottnest Island ferry & bike operator) → · the full guide →
What you do Descend into the underground water tunnels hand-carved by convict labour beneath Fremantle's UNESCO World Heritage–listed prison. This is one of Australia's most visceral and awe-inspiring heritage experiences.
What to expect Your expert guide leads you into a labyrinth of 19th-century water tunnels that snake beneath the prison grounds, illuminated only by candlelight — an atmosphere of extraordinary drama. Above ground, the main cell blocks and gallows tell the stories of Western Australia's most notorious convicts with unflinching detail. The Triple Package adds the Great Escape (WWII escape history) and the Prison Tour for a complete immersion. Tours run rain or shine — the sandstone walls keep temperatures cool and atmospheric year-round.
Good to know Fremantle Prison is a 10-minute taxi or rideshare from the cruise terminal (The Terrace, Fremantle). Book tickets directly online in advance — Tunnels Tours sell out on port days. Comfortable walking shoes essential; portions of the tunnel require crouching. Allow 2–3 hours for the full package.
Versus the ship tour The Tunnels Tour is strictly limited in group size and ventures into candlelit convict-hewn passages inaccessible to standard visitors — a genuinely rare, subterranean world where Australia's brutal colonial history is felt in every chisel mark.
book direct with Fremantle Prison (official) → · the full guide →
What you do Plunge from 15,000 ft in tandem with a master skydiving instructor over the impossibly blue Indian Ocean and white sands of Rottnest Island. This is arguably Australia's most spectacular skydive backdrop.
What to expect Transfer by high-speed ferry to Rottnest Island where your licensed tandem master briefs you in full before you board a dedicated jump aircraft. At 15,000 ft, the turquoise geometry of Rottnest's 63 bays spreads beneath you before 60 seconds of pure freefall at 200 km/h. The parachute deploys for a graceful 5-minute canopy glide over white beaches and reef — a panorama that few ever witness. Touch down on the island, catch your breath, and enjoy the rest of the afternoon exploring before the return ferry.
Good to know Book as early as possible — spaces are strictly limited and port days fill fast. Weight limit 110 kg; must be 16+. Jump is weather-dependent; check forecast before booking and confirm with operator. Total time on island approximately 4–5 hours; ensure return ferry aligns with all-aboard. Ferry departs from B-Shed, Fremantle.
Versus the ship tour The jump altitude, the island setting, and the inclusion of ferry transfer make this a seamlessly packaged once-in-a-lifetime adventure — the aerial panorama of Rottnest's bays, reefs, and the distant Perth skyline is unmatched anywhere in Western Australia.
book direct with Skydive Geronimo Rottnest → · the full guide →
What you do Glide along the Swan River on a premium lunch cruise framed by Perth's gleaming skyline, riverside parklands, and the gentle hills of the Swan Valley — Western Australia's oldest wine region.
What to expect Board at Barrack Street Jetty in Perth city (or connect from Fremantle) for a leisurely 2.5-hour lunch cruise along the iconic Swan River. A two-course menu showcases Western Australian seafood and seasonal produce paired with local wines and craft beers. Floor-to-ceiling windows and open-air decks offer uninterrupted views of Kings Park, the city skyline, and elegant riverside mansions. Expert commentary weaves in the river's Indigenous Noongar history and Perth's colonial past throughout.
Good to know Barrack Street Jetty in Perth CBD is approximately 25 minutes from the Fremantle cruise terminal by train (Fremantle Line, AUD 5.30 one-way) or 30 minutes by taxi. Advance booking essential; confirm departure times align with all-aboard. Smart-casual dress recommended. Some departures run directly from Fremantle — confirm at time of booking.
Versus the ship tour A true sense of place: floating through the heart of the Swan River with a curated menu of local Western Australian produce and wines, the perspective of Perth from the water is one the city's own residents consider unmissable.
book direct with Captain Cook Cruises Perth → · the full guide →
What you do A bespoke private day tour pairing hands-on wildlife encounters at Caversham Wildlife Park — kangaroos, koalas, wombats — with curated tastings at boutique Swan Valley wineries and gourmet producers.
What to expect Your private guide and luxury vehicle collect you directly from the cruise terminal. First stop: Caversham Wildlife Park, where you hand-feed kangaroos, hold koalas for photographs, and encounter wombats and Tasmanian devils — all at a relaxed, unhurried pace. The afternoon shifts to the Swan Valley, Western Australia's oldest wine region just 30 minutes from Perth, for private tastings at award-winning boutique wineries and artisan providores specialising in local honey, chocolate, and nougat. Your guide curates the stops around your preferences and dietary requirements throughout.
Good to know Pickup directly from Fremantle cruise terminal by arrangement — confirm pickup point when booking. Full-day tours typically run 08:00–17:00; align with all-aboard time when booking. Caversham Wildlife Park is in Whiteman Park, approximately 35 minutes from Fremantle. Book in advance as private vehicles are limited on peak port days.
Versus the ship tour An entirely private vehicle and dedicated local expert means your itinerary, pace, and lunch stops are yours to shape — no fixed group schedule. Private access to the Swan Valley's finest small producers, unavailable to coach tours, elevates this well beyond a standard wildlife visit.
What you do Explore Rottnest Island's breathtaking underwater world — living coral gardens, shipwrecks, and resident sea lions — guided by a marine expert on a small-group snorkel boat built for this reef.
What to expect A purpose-built snorkel vessel departs from Thomson Bay settlement, weaving between Rottnest's sheltered bays and reef systems to find the calmest, clearest conditions on the day. Your marine guide briefs you on the reef ecosystem before you slip into water of startling clarity — visibility frequently exceeds 15 metres. Sites may include the historic Shark Alley, Little Salmon Bay coral gardens, and sections of WWII-era wrecks colonised by marine life. High-quality snorkel sets, stinger suits, and flotation aids are provided.
Good to know Combine with the Rottnest Express ferry from Fremantle's B-Shed (see ferry details above) and book the snorkel tour independently on the island. Pre-booking strongly recommended in peak season (Oct–Apr). Tour duration approximately 2–2.5 hours; allow a full day on the island. Suitable for confident swimmers; no diving certification needed.
Versus the ship tour Small groups (typically 10–12 maximum) and a dedicated marine naturalist guide transform what could be a simple swim into an immersive reef ecology lesson — pointing out nudibranchs, wobbegong sharks, and the unique seagrass meadows that distinguish Rottnest's marine park.
book direct with Rottnest Island Snorkelling (Rottnest Island Authority — official experiences) → · the full guide →
What you do Stand on the smouldering crater rim of Indonesia's second-highest volcano at dawn, gazing over a turquoise crater lake with Bali's Agung on the horizon. A once-in-a-lifetime high-altitude spectacle.
What to expect Your private guide and personal porter collect you from Gili Mas Port before dawn and drive to the Senaru trailhead. You trek through ancient montane forest, emerging onto the breathtaking crater rim above 2,600 m as the sun ignites the caldera lake below. Camp overnight in comfort — porter-carried sleeping gear, hot meals cooked at altitude — before a triumphant descent the next morning.
Good to know This is a 2-day/1-night commitment — confirm your ship's schedule allows an overnight ashore. Book at least 4–6 weeks ahead; porter and camping slots fill fast. Moderate fitness required; trekking poles and rain layers recommended.
Versus the ship tour Green Rinjani is Lombok's most respected specialist trekking house — private guides, dedicated porters, and premium campsite equipment ensure a rarefied, unhurried summit experience with zero crowds at first light.
book direct with Green Rinjani (local specialist since 2011) → · the full guide →
What you do Drift over psychedelic coral gardens teeming with sea turtles and reef sharks on a fully crewed private charter between the Gili Islands, finishing with sundowners on the open sea.
What to expect A traditional wooden phinisi or speedboat departs Bangsal Harbour directly for the Gili Islands. You snorkel three premium sites — turtle-rich shallows off Gili Meno, the vibrant coral bommies of Gili Air, and the famous underwater sculptures off Gili T — with a freshly prepared seafood lunch served on board. As the afternoon softens, the skipper anchors for a golden-hour swim before returning you to port in time for all-aboard.
Good to know Gili Mas Port to Bangsal Harbour is ~45 minutes by private car. Depart by 08:00 to fit three snorkel stops and be back by 16:30. Pre-book the car transfer with your guide the same day for a seamless experience.
Versus the ship tour A fully private vessel means you set the pace — linger at your favourite reef, dive again, or simply float. No shared decks, no timed rotations; just your group, a skipper, and Indonesia's most iconic island trio.
book direct with Lombok Private Tour (local guide specialist) → · the full guide →
What you do Weave through traditional Sasak walled villages where hand-loom weaving and ancient animist-Islamic rituals endure, then ascend the emerald staircase of Bukit Selong's rice terraces for Lombok's most photographed vista.
What to expect Your guide escorts you through the earthen lanes of Sade or Ende village, where conical thatched bale houses and hand-woven ikat textiles paint a vivid picture of Sasak life. A scenic drive into the Sembalun highlands rewards you with the jaw-dropping terraced rice fields of Bukit Selong, backdropped by the flanks of Rinjani. A farm-to-table lunch at a hillside warung completes the immersion before a comfortable return to port.
Good to know Full day; aim to depart port by 08:00. Sade village entrance is a modest donation (~IDR 20,000). Light, modest clothing (shoulders & knees covered) is respectful and practical. Book 1–2 weeks ahead for private vehicle availability.
Versus the ship tour A private local guide opens doors — and conversations — that group tours simply cannot. Sit with a master weaver in her home, taste palm sugar fresh from the press, and witness the living traditions of Lombok's indigenous Sasak people at an unhurried, respectful pace.
book direct with Lombok Private Tour (local guide specialist) → · the full guide →
What you do Plunge into North Lombok's ancient rainforest to discover two of Southeast Asia's most spectacular waterfalls — one with a legendary healing mist, the other a sheer 45-metre curtain of ice-cold water.
What to expect The drive to Senaru village winds past clove and vanilla plantations before you enter the national park on foot. Sendang Gile's thunderous cascade greets you first — mist-drenched and magnificent. A 20-minute jungle trail then reveals Tiu Kelep, where local legend promises a year subtracted from your age for every swim beneath its fall. Your guide picnics you on a riverside boulder before a relaxed return drive.
Good to know North Lombok waterfalls are 1.5 hours from Gili Mas Port; depart by 08:00 to be safely back by 16:00. Wear water shoes or sturdy sandals — the river-crossing approach involves slippery rocks. Park entrance ~IDR 20,000 per person.
Versus the ship tour Green Rinjani's expert naturalist guides share the ecology, folklore and geology of the Rinjani foothills en route, transforming a waterfall visit into a richly layered rainforest education — all at your own pace with no other groups.
book direct with Green Rinjani (local specialist since 2011) → · the full guide →
What you do Thunder across volcanic hillsides and remote coastal tracks on a private ATV before arriving at Lombok's blush-pink beach — one of only seven pink-sand beaches on Earth — for a private swim and picnic.
What to expect Kitted out in helmet and gloves, you pilot your own ATV along rugged dirt tracks through tobacco fields and over volcanic ridges with panoramic coastal views. The trail deposits you at the secluded blush sands of Pink Beach (Pantai Merah), where the crimson fragments of Foraminifera coral tint the shoreline a warm rose. Snorkel the fringing reef, feast on a private beach picnic, and take your time before the drive back to Gili Mas.
Good to know East Lombok is approximately 1.5–2 hours from port; this is a full-day commitment — depart by 07:30. No prior ATV experience needed; a brief safety briefing is given. Confirm all-aboard time with ship before booking.
Versus the ship tour The combination of off-road adrenaline and one of the world's rarest beaches — reached before day-trippers arrive — is simply unavailable on any standard group itinerary. Your guide chooses routes and timing to guarantee solitude.
book direct with Green Rinjani (local specialist since 2011) → · the full guide →
What you do Harvest vanilla, clove and turmeric from a working spice plantation, then cook a lavish Sasak feast from scratch under a master chef's guidance — Indonesia's most flavour-forward cultural half-day.
What to expect Your guide drives you to a fragrant working spice garden outside Mataram, where the owner walks you through dozens of spices that once made these islands the most coveted on Earth. You then move to a traditional family compound where a gifted home cook guides you through three Sasak dishes — ayam taliwang, plecing kangkung and pelecing — using a wood-fire stove and hand-ground pastes. The meal is served open-air, paired with fresh coconut water and palm-sugar sweets.
Good to know Half-day experience (~4–5 hours); can be combined with an afternoon beach or cultural stop. Suitable for all fitness levels. Inform your guide of any dietary restrictions at booking. Located ~30 minutes from Gili Mas Port — perfect for ships with earlier all-aboard times.
Versus the ship tour Led by a Sasak family matriarch in her own home kitchen, this is a genuine cultural exchange — not a resort demo. You grind spices on volcanic stone, learn the sacred balance of Lombok's legendary plecing kangkung, and eat what you cook in a setting of extraordinary intimacy.
book direct with Lombok Private Tour (local guide specialist) → · the full guide →
What you do Perch on the edge of a 70-metre Indian Ocean cliff at Bali's most dramatic temple as the sun melts into the sea, then watch 50 bare-chested men chant the hypnotic Kecak fire dance by torchlight. Pure, goosebump Bali — utterly unmissable.
What to expect Your private car collects you at Benoa port and winds south along the Bukit Peninsula to Uluwatu. You walk the forest path — home to playful macaque monkeys — to the temple's outer terraces with your guide contextualising Balinese Hindu ritual. At dusk you take your reserved seats for the open-air Kecak performance, the chanting chorus building to a fire-leaping crescendo against a blazing sky. The return journey is relaxed, timed carefully around your all-aboard.
Good to know Performance begins at 18:00; allow ~90 min drive each way. Best for overnight or late all-aboard calls. Temple sarong rental included on-site. Book at least 48 hrs ahead as private slots fill fast in high season (Jul–Aug).
Versus the ship tour A private vehicle and English-speaking local guide means you arrive at the clifftop BEFORE the crowds, secure the prime sunset-facing stone terrace, and enjoy a seamless return — no coach queue, no rushed bundling.
book direct with Venture Ashore Bali (Benoa-based local expert) → · the full guide →
What you do Witness Balinese Hindus performing centuries-old purification rituals in the holy spring pools of Tirta Empul, then glide through the Instagramically iconic emerald-green Tegallalang rice terraces with a private expert guide. Bali's spiritual and agricultural soul, back to back.
What to expect Your guide meets you at the port and drives north through the cultural heartland of Bali to Tirta Empul near Tampaksiring, a royal water temple dating to 962 AD. You observe (or join, if you wish) the sacred melukat bathing ritual in crystalline spring pools. Next comes Tegallalang: terraced paddies cascading down a valley, alive with the sound of traditional subak irrigation water channels. A riverside warung lunch and a stop at an artisan silversmith round out the day. Expect to be back at the port with comfortable time to spare.
Good to know Modest dress required at Tirta Empul — sarong and sash provided free at the temple gate. Full day runs ~8 hrs; confirm your all-aboard time when booking so the guide plans accordingly. Advance booking essential.
Versus the ship tour Entirely private — no strangers, your own vetted local guide, your own air-conditioned vehicle. You set the pace, linger as long as you wish at each site, and bypass the tour-bus bottlenecks that form by mid-morning.
book direct with ToursByLocals Bali Private Guides → · the full guide →
What you do Board a private traditional jukung outrigger and cruise to Padang Bai's luminous Blue Lagoon, where a kaleidoscope of coral gardens and tropical fish thrives in gin-clear water. One of Bali's best-kept snorkel secrets — serene, uncrowded, breathtaking.
What to expect A private air-conditioned vehicle transfers you east along the coast to Padang Bai harbour, where your dedicated jukung crew and certified snorkel guide await. You glide over shallow coral bommies teeming with parrotfish, lionfish, and resident sea turtles. The guide shadows every swimmer, pointing out hidden reef life with underwater signals. A fresh tropical fruit spread is served on the boat between dips. The return transfer is timed to your all-aboard, with zero rushing.
Good to know Allow ~45–60 min transfer each way from Benoa port. Best in morning when visibility peaks. Full snorkel kit (mask, fins, wetsuit vest, life jacket) provided. Non-swimmers can ride the boat and glass-view from the surface. Book 48 hrs in advance minimum.
Versus the ship tour A fully private boat departure means you snorkel the reef before the day-tripper flotillas arrive — calm, uncrowded water and expert marine guides who know exactly where the turtles and reef sharks patrol.
book direct with Shore Excursions Group — Private Balinese Blue Lagoon Snorkel → · the full guide →
What you do Come face to face with Sumatran tigers, white lions, and Komodo dragons in one of Southeast Asia's premier conservation parks, then enjoy a private elephant interaction with a certified mahout. Wildlife conservation and luxury, perfectly combined.
What to expect Set in 40 hectares of landscaped savannah, the park is home to over 60 animal species from Indonesia, Africa, and India — many in open free-range paddocks you traverse by safari tram. The Bali Agung cultural show fuses Balinese dance, live animals, and theatrical spectacle in an amphitheatre seating 1,200. The highlight: a private mahout-led elephant interaction — feeding, bathing, and a brief ride — conducted with genuine welfare standards. An on-site restaurant with river views handles a leisurely lunch.
Good to know Located ~25 min from Benoa port by private vehicle. Book the VIP Jungle Hopper directly on the park website and add the elephant experience at the same time — slots are strictly limited. Comfortable walking shoes and light layers recommended.
Versus the ship tour The VIP Jungle Hopper tier gives you priority tram boarding, reserved seating at the Bali Agung show, and a private elephant back-ride — experiences that require pre-booking and are unavailable as walk-up add-ons once inside.
What you do Wander a sacred monkey forest where wild macaques roam free, then reach Bali's most photographed sea temple — Tanah Lot — perched on a wave-lashed coastal rock, before unwinding with a signature Balinese massage at a clifftop spa. The island's iconic triad in one elegant half-day.
What to expect Your licensed guide escorts you through the shaded groves of Alas Kedaton, where grey long-tailed macaques lounge in the canopy above a centuries-old temple. You then head west to Tanah Lot at precisely low tide, descending the steps to the sea-temple base for close-up views and a blessing from the resident Hindu priest. The afternoon concludes at a clifftop wellness retreat for a 60-minute traditional Balinese massage using volcanic stone and lemongrass oil — the perfect antidote to a day on the road.
Good to know Morning departure recommended to catch low tide at Tanah Lot (check tidal windows when booking). Sarong required at both temples — provided free. Total duration ~6–7 hours. Advance booking essential, especially in peak season.
Versus the ship tour A private itinerary means the temple at Tanah Lot at the optimal low-tide window when you can walk the rock causeway — a moment simply not possible on a fixed-schedule group coach.
book direct with Shore Excursions Asia — Bali Private Tours → · the full guide →
What you do Don a pressurised helmet and stroll the seabed 5 metres below the surface in Bali's water-sports capital — no diving certification needed — then board a glass-bottom boat to the Turtle Islands conservation sanctuary. The ultimate port-adjacent aquatic double-header.
What to expect You descend a submerged platform in a specially engineered Kirby Morgan-style helmet that keeps your head completely dry while air is pumped continuously from above — no swimming ability required. Marine guides walk alongside you as you feed reef fish from your hand on the sandy seabed. Next, a traditional jukung carries you across turquoise shallows to the Turtle Island sanctuary, where rescued green and hawksbill turtles of every size are rehabilitated before release; you can hold a hatchling under keeper supervision. Back on shore, fresh coconut water and tropical fruit round off the morning.
Good to know Sea-walking suits all fitness levels; minimum age typically 10 years. Not suitable for those with heart conditions or recent ear surgery. Book the combo package directly to guarantee both the sea-walk slot and the Turtle Island boat — they operate on timed rotations. Transfer from port is under 10 min.
Versus the ship tour Tanjung Benoa is a 10-minute drive from Benoa port, making this the highest-impact, lowest-transit excursion available — ideal for passengers who want maximum experience with minimum travel time.
book direct with AAA TripCanvas — Sea Walking Experience at Tanjung Benoa → · the full guide →
What you do Fly over the Buccaneer Archipelago by seaplane, then shoot through the world's only horizontal waterfalls by high-speed boat — David Attenborough called them 'one of the world's greatest natural wonders.'
What to expect Your seaplane skims low over the jaw-dropping tidal labyrinth of the Buccaneer Archipelago before touching down on the pontoon. A seasoned skipper then rockets you — twice — through the thundering 4-metre gap between cliffs where tidal surges create a roaring, churning waterfall effect unlike anything else on Earth. Back on the pontoon, a seafood lunch and optional reef fishing round out the day in style.
Good to know Pre-book well in advance — seaplane seats sell out months ahead, especially June–September peak season. The full day tour fits comfortably within a typical all-aboard window; confirm departure time with operator. Wear enclosed shoes and secure any loose items for the boat run.
Versus the ship tour A small-group seaplane departure means you arrive ahead of crowds, with a private pontoon base camp, expert naturalist commentary, and exclusive close-up boat runs through both sets of falls — an intensity impossible to replicate from any larger vessel.
book direct with Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures → · the full guide →
What you do Zodiac into the base of Australia's tallest twin falls, then swim the emerald plunge pool ringed by 80m sandstone cliffs — remote, wild, and accessible only from the water.
What to expect Australia's tallest twin waterfalls plunge 80 metres in twin curtains of white into a cathedral gorge accessible only by sea. Most expedition vessels offer a Zodiac approach right to the base, where the mist and roar are overwhelming. A guided swim in the plunge pool — surrounded by ancient red cliff walls — is one of the Kimberley's defining physical thrills. Your naturalist guide provides geological and Indigenous cultural context throughout the journey upriver.
Good to know King George Falls is deep in the Kimberley and reached only by expedition vessel — book an expedition cruise itinerary that specifically includes this stop. Bring a dry bag, water shoes, and a change of clothes. The Zodiac ride can be wet and exhilarating.
Versus the ship tour APT's expert expedition team includes dedicated marine biologists and Indigenous cultural guides who bring the gorge's Wunambal Gaambera heritage to life — a depth of interpretation far beyond a standard landing.
book direct with APT Touring (Kimberley Expedition Cruises) → · the full guide →
What you do Hike through ancient Kimberley savanna to a four-tiered waterfall sacred to the Wunambal Gaambera people, then helicopter back over the cascade for an aerial view that redefines scale.
What to expect A fixed-wing flight from Broome or a short transfer from the plateau brings you to the trailhead. The 8 km return trail winds through pandanus palms, across weathered sandstone and past swimming holes before opening onto the breathtaking four-tier falls. An Indigenous Wunambal Gaambera ranger shares cultural meaning at each landing. The helicopter lift home — banking low over each tier — is a fitting, spectacular finale.
Good to know The walk is moderately strenuous (approx. 3–4 hours return) over uneven sandstone; sturdy enclosed footwear essential. Departs from Mitchell Plateau airstrip — co-ordinate transfer timing with your vessel. Pre-booking the helicopter return is strongly advised as seats are limited.
Versus the ship tour The guided walk-in with an Indigenous ranger reveals rock art, medicinal plants and Dreamtime stories that no self-guided visit can replicate, and the return helicopter flight frames the four-tier cascade in a way that permanently imprints itself on memory.
book direct with Aviair Kimberley (HeliSpirit / Aviair) → · the full guide →
What you do Witness one of Earth's most dramatic tidal spectacles as one of the world's largest inshore reefs dramatically 'rises' from the ocean, waterfalls streaming from its edges — then drift among sea turtles, rays and dugongs.
What to expect As the tide ebbs, the vast Montgomery Reef — spanning 400 square kilometres — literally appears to rise from beneath the ocean surface, rivers of seawater cascading off its edges. A Zodiac positions you trackside for this theatrical moment. Guides then navigate the newly exposed reef flat among basking sea turtles, leopard sharks, and feeding rays. An optional helicopter overflight transforms the scale into something truly comprehensible.
Good to know Montgomery Reef is only accessible during specific tidal windows — timing is everything and only expedition vessels with experienced local captains can reliably position guests for the emergence. No sunscreen in the water; reef-safe clothing recommended. Bring polarised sunglasses for optimal wildlife spotting.
Versus the ship tour True North operates its own fleet of stabilised tender boats and a helicopter, giving guests low-level aerial views of the reef emerging from the sea and then surface-level Zodiac drifts across the living reef table — an extraordinary dual perspective unavailable any other way.
book direct with True North Adventure Cruises → · the full guide →
What you do Stand before 5,000-year-old Wandjina spirit figures and the earlier Gwion Gwion galleries in their original remote cliff settings, guided by a Worrorra or Ngarinyin elder whose ancestors painted them.
What to expect A 4WD transfer takes you deep into ancient sandstone country to cliff galleries rarely visited by outsiders. Your guide — a custodian of this Country — reads the figures aloud: the halo-headed Wandjina rain spirits, the fine-line Gwion Gwion figures predating them by millennia. You may be invited to sit in silence and simply absorb the sacred space. The intimacy and privilege of the experience are profound and lasting.
Good to know Some sites require prior permission from Traditional Owners — your operator handles all cultural protocols. Wear neutral-coloured, lightweight clothing and sun protection. Photography may be restricted at certain panels; always follow guide directions. Best combined with a morning visit before afternoon all-aboard.
Versus the ship tour An elder-led private group means you receive oral traditions and cosmological interpretation — the living story behind the art — that a generic guided group simply cannot access. These sites are on Country and the cultural relationship is everything.
book direct with Kimberley Custom Tours → · the full guide →
What you do Ride a camel train into a legendary Broome sunset on 22 km of ivory sand, then visit a working pearl atelier to select and set a South Sea pearl — the rarest gem in Australian waters.
What to expect Your camel swings gently along the waterline as the Broome sun melts into the Indian Ocean in shades of amber and violet — one of Australia's most photographed moments, experienced from the best possible vantage point. The following morning, a boat transfer to Willie Creek Pearl Farm reveals the extraordinarily painstaking craft of South Sea pearl cultivation; your guide opens oysters and explains how nacre builds the gem over years. The jewellery studio allows you to commission a bespoke setting on the spot.
Good to know Cable Beach camel rides run at sunset — confirm timing relative to all-aboard time when berthed in Broome. Willie Creek Pearl Farm is approx. 38 km north of Broome; transfers available from town. Book the pearl farm well ahead in peak season (June–August). Combine both into a full Broome port day for maximum luxury impact.
Versus the ship tour The combination of a sensory cable beach sunset — fire-orange sky, Indian Ocean lapping, camels swaying — followed by an expert-guided pearl farm tour where you hold living pearl oysters and handpick a pearl from the shell is an only-in-Broome pairing that is genuinely irreplaceable.
book direct with Willie Creek Pearl Farm & Red Sun Camels → · the full guide →
What you do Sway atop a camel along 22km of pristine white sand as the Indian Ocean blazes crimson — Broome's most iconic, bucket-list moment. No sunset in Australia rivals Cable Beach at dusk, and there is only one way to experience it properly.
What to expect You are fitted to your own camel by a handler who takes the time to introduce you to your animal by name. The procession moves south along the shoreline as the light turns gold, then copper, then deep rose — guides pause the train at the best vantage points for photography. The return leg is timed precisely so you watch the last sliver of sun drop below the horizon before being helped to dismount. The whole experience feels ceremonial rather than touristy.
Good to know Sunset rides operate seasonally (April–October) and sell out weeks in advance — pre-book online. Cable Beach is a 10-minute taxi ride from Broome Port; taxis and rideshares meet ships on arrival. Confirm your ship's all-aboard time against the ride's finish time, allowing 30 minutes to return to port.
Versus the ship tour Small camel trains of just 8–10 guests ensure a genuinely intimate, unhurried pace along the waterline — guides narrate the Kimberley's tidal drama and the pearling history that shaped the town as the sun melts into the sea.
book direct with Red Sun Camels (Cable Beach) → · the full guide →
What you do On select full-moon nights, the receding tidal flats of Roebuck Bay reflect the rising moon into a shimmering golden staircase — one of Australia's most extraordinary natural phenomena. It is fleeting, it is tidal, and it is utterly unforgettable.
What to expect Your guide collects you from the port and drives to Town Beach, where local stalls and food vendors create a festive but intimate atmosphere. As the full moon crests the horizon over Roebuck Bay's mudflats, the golden reflection cascades across the ripples in a staircase formation that climbs all the way to the shore. The guide points out the best vantage positions and handles timing so you never miss the peak. You return to the ship with the night still warm and the image burned into memory.
Good to know This phenomenon occurs on only 3 nights per month (March–October) — check the official Broome Staircase to the Moon calendar before sailing. If your port day aligns, this excursion must be the absolute priority. Private pick-up from the ship dock is available; confirm your ship's late all-aboard time in advance.
Versus the ship tour Broome and Around runs dedicated, small-group evening tours timed precisely to the moon's rise, with a guide who explains the tidal science and Yawuru cultural significance of this event — context that transforms a pretty light-show into something deeply meaningful.
What you do Australia's most celebrated pearl farm opens its working tidal creek exclusively to guided groups — watch master pearl farmers 'seed' live oysters, then select and try on South Sea pearls worth tens of thousands of dollars. Broome built its soul on this industry.
What to expect A scenic 38km drive north of Broome through pindan scrub brings you to a working pearl lease on a pristine tidal creek. A guide explains the 2–3 year life cycle of Pinctada maxima oysters aboard a flat-bottomed boat as you drift past rows of submerged cages. On shore, a pearl farmer performs a live nucleation, inserting a nucleus into an oyster with surgical precision. You then enter the showroom, where finished pearls — from pale rose to deep gold — are laid out, and guides help you understand lustre, shape, and value. There is no pressure to purchase, though many guests do.
Good to know The tour departs from central Broome (hotel/port transfers available — confirm at booking). Allow 4–5 hours total including transfers. The farm is a designated Heritage site; photography of the live seeding is warmly encouraged. Book directly to secure preferred departure times.
Versus the ship tour The experience is run entirely by the farming family's own expert guides — people who seed and harvest these pearls year-round. The intimate boat cruise on Willie Creek, the live seeding demonstration, and the chance to handle finished South Sea strands worth a fortune make this intellectually and aesthetically thrilling.
What you do A full-day 4WD journey up the Dampier Peninsula to Cape Leveque — where rust-red pindan cliffs plunge into water so turquoise it looks digitally enhanced. This remote, sacred landscape at the very tip of the peninsula is Broome's greatest full-day escape.
What to expect Departing port early, your guide navigates the corrugated red-dirt Broome-Cape Leveque Road through monsoon vine thickets and paperbark flats. Stops at Lombadina or Kooljaman reveal Indigenous community art, handcrafted jewellery, and seafood smoked over mangrove wood. At Cape Leveque itself the view is staggering: a narrow headland with the Timor Sea on one side and the Indian Ocean on the other, fringed by sand the colour of icing sugar. A beach picnic lunch is included before the return journey south. Guides tailor stops to wildlife sightings — sea eagles, monitor lizards, and dugong are all possible.
Good to know This is a full-day commitment — depart by 7:30am and return by 4:30–5:00pm. Confirm your ship's all-aboard time is 5:30pm or later. Wear light, breathable clothing; the Kimberley heat is intense. Bring a hat, reef-safe sunscreen, and water shoes for beach wading. Book well ahead as departures are limited.
Versus the ship tour A small-group 4WD format means access to tracks sealed vehicles cannot reach, with a guide who holds relationships with the Bardi Jawi Traditional Owners — lending cultural depth and access that a large bus tour simply cannot replicate.
What you do At Gantheaume Point, 130-million-year-old sauropod and theropod footprints are embedded in the tidal platform — among the oldest and best-preserved dinosaur tracks on Earth. A knowledgeable local guide brings the Cretaceous drama to vivid, spine-tingling life.
What to expect The short walk from the carpark descends through dramatic red sandstone formations streaked with ochre and cream, arriving at a wave-cut platform that stretches into the Indian Ocean. At the right tidal moment, the footprints — some over 60cm across — emerge from the rock, perfectly three-dimensional. Your guide crouches beside each print, reconstructing the animal's gait and the shallow coastal forest that surrounded it. Nearby, concrete casts placed higher on the rocks allow close-up inspection regardless of tide. The scenery — cliffs, turquoise water, white sand — is extraordinary in its own right.
Good to know The natural tracks are only visible at very low tide (less than 0.5m); the concrete casts are always accessible. Check tide tables before confirming your timing — guides do this automatically. Gantheaume Point is 7km from the port; transfers are included in the Broome and Around tour. Wear sturdy shoes suitable for uneven rock.
Versus the ship tour A specialist local guide interprets the tracks in their geological and Yawuru cultural context — explaining which species made them, how they were preserved, and what the landscape looked like when dinosaurs waded here. Visiting only at the correct low-tide window is essential, and guides time this perfectly.
What you do Roebuck Bay is one of the world's great shorebird staging posts — up to 300,000 migratory waders from Siberia and Alaska pause here each year. The Broome Bird Observatory's expert guides reveal this astonishing, under-the-radar wildlife spectacle in intimate detail.
What to expect Your guide meets you at the Observatory, a serene research station surrounded by mangroves 25km from Broome, and sets the scene with a brief introduction to the East Asian-Australasian Flyway and the epic journeys these birds have made. Walking the shoreline, telescopes are trained on roosting flocks of Great Knot, Red-necked Stint, and Bar-tailed Godwit — the last of which makes a non-stop 12,000km flight from Alaska. As the tide pushes the birds off the flats, the sky erupts in a coordinated murmuration of shorebirds that is, by any measure, one of nature's great sights. The guide identifies species, explains conservation pressures, and answers every question with infectious expertise.
Good to know Peak season is August–October when northward migration is underway; visits outside this window still offer rich birdlife. Tours must be pre-booked directly with the Observatory. A 4WD transfer from port to the Observatory (25km of partly unsealed road) should be arranged in advance — ask the Observatory for recommended local transfer operators. Wear neutral colours and bring binoculars if you own them.
Versus the ship tour The Observatory's resident ornithologists — some of Australia's foremost shorebird experts — lead tours in groups of rarely more than 8, with high-powered telescopes set up at precisely the right tidal moment when tens of thousands of birds lift off the flats in coordinated, rolling flocks that darken the sky.
book direct with Broome Bird Observatory → · the full guide →
What you do Slip into the warm, crystalline waters of Ningaloo Reef and glide alongside the world's largest fish — the gentle, magnificent whale shark. A spotter aircraft locates the animals; you simply drop in and swim. Utterly bucket-list.
What to expect Depart the marina aboard a purpose-built, shade-decked vessel while a spotter plane flies ahead scanning for whale sharks. Once located, a marine biologist briefs you on approach technique, then small groups of six slip quietly into the water alongside animals that can reach 12 metres. Between encounters, world-class snorkelling over the Ningaloo lagoon fills the hours. A freshly catered lunch is served on deck with cold drinks.
Good to know Seasonal: March–July (peak) with some encounters possible to August. Departs Exmouth Marina — approximately 10 minutes from the cruise tender dock. Book well in advance as whale-shark season coincides with peak cruise calls. Confirm all-aboard time with your ship; full-day tours run roughly 7 am–3:30 pm, comfortably within a standard port day.
Versus the ship tour Boutique boat numbers are strictly capped, ensuring each guest has genuine, unhurried time in the water with the shark — no crowded splashing. A dedicated marine biologist guides every encounter, and an aircraft spotter maximises your time swimming rather than searching.
book direct with Ningaloo Whale Sharks (Three Islands Whale Shark Dive) → · the full guide →
What you do Board a premium sailing catamaran for an exclusive guided snorkel through Ningaloo Reef's UNESCO-listed coral gardens — manta rays, sea turtles, and reef sharks beneath glass-clear water. The finest reef experience in Australia outside the Barrier Reef.
What to expect Sail out of the sheltered Exmouth lagoon with the Ningaloo fringing reef visible beneath the hull. Your guide leads you through bommies alive with Maori wrasse, hawksbill turtles, and squadrons of batfish. Scuba divers can explore the outer reef wall while snorkellers float the coral garden above. Premium grazing platters, chilled Western Australian wines, and reef-safe sunscreen are provided.
Good to know Half-day morning departures (approx. 7:30 am–12:30 pm) suit most cruise schedules. Full-day options available; confirm all-aboard time. Wetsuit hire and all snorkel/dive gear included. Private charter option guarantees the boat exclusively for your group. Book direct at least 4–6 weeks ahead for cruise-season dates.
Versus the ship tour Guests are limited to a maximum of 16 aboard a sleek sailing catamaran, delivering a genuinely intimate reef experience with no resort-boat crowds. Certified dive guides provide personalised attention, and the vessel anchors at sites chosen for conditions on the day rather than fixed moorings.
What you do A private 4WD guide whisks you through the rugged red gorges of Cape Range National Park to legendary Turquoise Bay — consistently ranked among Australia's most beautiful beaches. Snorkel the drift, walk the gorges, see rock wallabies.
What to expect Wind through the pale limestone ranges of Cape Range in an air-conditioned 4WD, stopping at Charles Knife Gorge for panoramic views over Exmouth Gulf. At Turquoise Bay your guide marks the drift-snorkel entry point and accompanies you as you're carried over iridescent coral by a gentle current. A packed gourmet lunch is enjoyed in the shade of the dunes. The return drive passes Yardie Creek gorge, where you scan for rare black-footed rock wallabies on the ochre cliffs.
Good to know Cape Range is 50 km from the marina — plan for a full morning and early-afternoon return. National park entry fees (AUD 17 per person) apply and are typically included by operators. Confirm vehicle pick-up at the cruise tender dock. Low-tide timing at Turquoise Bay is critical — your guide will plan accordingly.
Versus the ship tour A licensed local guide reveals the park's hidden gorge walks, wildlife spots, and secret lookouts that self-drivers routinely miss. Departures are timed to reach Turquoise Bay at low tide — the only window for the famous drift snorkel — something fixed group tours cannot always guarantee.
What you do Between August and October, Ningaloo hosts migrating humpback whales and permits the world's rarest tourism activity: in-water encounters with these 40-tonne giants. A marine biologist guides you into the blue alongside mothers and calves.
What to expect A spotter plane tracks the humpbacks across the deep-blue Ningaloo waters while your expert crew prepares the small group. When conditions align, you roll into the water in groups of four, meeting a whale eye-to-eye — an experience most marine biologists describe as life-changing. The operator's naturalist provides a full briefing on humpback behaviour. Luxury refreshments and a freshly prepared lunch are served on deck between encounters.
Good to know Seasonal: August–October only. This is one of Australia's most rapidly selling-out wildlife experiences — book 3–6 months in advance. Departs Exmouth Marina. Check your cruise call date against the season window carefully; if dates align, prioritise this over almost anything else.
Versus the ship tour Exmouth holds one of only two permits in the world allowing guests to swim with humpback whales. Strict government regulations cap group entries at four swimmers per whale — making this arguably the most exclusive wildlife encounter on Earth.
book direct with Ningaloo Whale Sharks (Three Islands Whale Shark Dive) → · the full guide →
What you do Paddle a sit-on-top sea kayak across the mirror-flat Ningaloo lagoon, trailing your fingers above coral gardens and dropping anchor — quite literally — to snorkel with turtles and reef fish in waters of impossible blue.
What to expect Your guide leads you across the sheltered inner lagoon, reading the tide and light to find the best coral for the day. Turtles are an almost-daily sighting; on calm mornings, dugongs graze the seagrass beds below your hull. Multiple snorkel stops reveal parrotfish, giant clams, and reef sharks in the shallows. The session concludes with cold tropical refreshments on a secluded sandbar — your own private slice of Ningaloo.
Good to know Departs directly from Exmouth's Tantabiddi boat ramp (approx. 40 minutes from the marina) or from the town beach by arrangement. Half-day morning tours (7 am–noon) fit comfortably within a cruise port call. All equipment, wetsuit rash guards, and reef-safe sunscreen provided. Suitable for all fitness levels — no kayaking experience needed.
Versus the ship tour Maximum 10 guests per departure means the reef feels entirely yours. Kayaks access shallow, protected bommies that larger vessels cannot reach — putting you snorkelling over pristine coral untouched by resort-boat anchors. The pace is entirely unhurried.
What you do Drift by flat-bottomed boat through the stunning, vertically walled Yardie Creek gorge — the only permanent freshwater creek in Cape Range — then walk its ochre rim in search of the critically rare black-footed rock wallaby.
What to expect Board a small, canopied boat at the creek mouth where turquoise salt water meets fresh, and glide between 30-metre canyon walls stained in layers of red, ochre and gold. Your guide narrates the geology and Malgana Aboriginal heritage of the gorge while sharp-eyed passengers spot fairy martins nesting in cliff-face hollows. After the boat tour, take the easy 2 km rim walk for elevated gorge views and almost-certain sightings of the endearing black-footed rock wallabies bounding across the rocks below.
Good to know Yardie Creek is at the southern end of Cape Range, approximately 65 km from Exmouth Marina — combine with a Cape Range 4WD tour (see above) for efficiency. Boat tours depart at set times daily; the 10 am departure suits most cruise schedules. Wear sturdy footwear for the gorge rim walk. Bring sun protection — shade is limited on the walk.
Versus the ship tour The gorge is accessible only by this permitted boat — there is no other way to see the full canyon walls and their ancient rock art. Numbers are naturally limited by the small vessel, and the wildlife sightings here, particularly the wallabies, are near-guaranteed.
The same trip, elevated
The same gateway on a more luxurious line — lead-in fare per person, same fare as booking direct.