MELBOURNE TO DARWIN

Welcome to our fabulous 25 day tour of the

West Coast! With chauffeured pickup from home, we travel to Melbourne Airport. Here we will be greeted by an O’Shannessy’s Quality Tours representative, who will assist us with check-in and see us onto the plane for our flight to Darwin. Arriving at Darwin Airport, we will be welcomed by our O’Shannessy’s coach crew who will help us with our luggage, before we board the coach for our transfer to the hotel.

Lunch at own expense and arrangement / Refreshments on flight

OVERNIGHT:  Double Tree by Hilton Esplanade, DARWIN

DARWIN SIGHTSEEING

Many people aren’t aware of the importance of Darwin during World War II so we look at the city as it is today and also learn from a local expert of the involvement and history of the bombings of Darwin. We conclude the tour at Stokes Hill Wharf where we can purchase lunch before our visit to the Royal Flying Doctors Service Tourist Facility. This unique facility highlights the magnificent service provided to Outback Australia by the RFDS and also showcases the Bombing of Darwin through Virtual Reality headsets – an amazing experience!  This evening we transfer to back Stokes Hill Wharf for our fantastic dinner cruise on Darwin Harbour.  What a wonderful way to start our tour as we see the Darwin skyline at sunset.

Lunch own expense and arrangement

OVERNIGHT:  Double Tree by Hilton Esplanade, DARWIN

LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK

This morning, we travel south to the small township of Adelaide River - about 110kms from Darwin. We make a brief stop at Adelaide River War Cemetery, where 432 servicemen and 63 civilians, all of whom died as a result of Japanese bombing raids, are buried. From here we enter Litchfield National Park. The 65,000-ha National Park with its untouched rainforests, hot springs, magnificent waterfalls and stunning scenery has gained a reputation as the jewel of the Northern Territory’s crown. We stop to see the Magnetic Anthills and the magnificent Florence Falls from the lookout platform. We enjoy lunch at the Litchfield Cafe and visit nearby Wangi Falls where there is time for a refreshing dip - so bring your togs! This evening we watch another sunset as we enjoy dinner at Cullen Bay. Then we can have a browse through the Mindil Beach Markets. It won’t be a late night as we begin our road journey tomorrow.

OVERNIGHT:  Double Tree by Hilton Esplanade, DARWIN

DARWIN TO KAKADU

With an early start, we say farewell to Darwin and travel the Arnhem Land Highway to World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park. On our way to Kakadu we join the amazing Jumping Croc Cruise - don’t forget to bring your camera! Continuing our journey, we enter the wonderland of Kakadu National Park. This afternoon we spend time at the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre before we board our magical and memorable two-hour Yellow Water Sunset Cruise. Nowhere else will you see such a concentration of so many species of diverse wildlife than here, including Brolgas, Egrets, Jabiru, and hopefully some crocs!

OVERNIGHT: Cooinda Lodge Kakadu, KAKADU

KAKADU TO KATHERINE

We begin our day’s touring with a visit to Nourlangie Rock and its ancient Aboriginal rock art. Here we have the opportunity to take an optional scenic flight over the incredible escarpment and Kakadu National Park. (These flights can be booked with your Tour Director who will have further details. Optional flights are subject to availability and at your own expense.) On leaving the National Park, we stop for lunch at Pine Creek before our journey south to Katherine. We have plenty of time to settle into our accommodation - perhaps a swim in the pool is called for!

OVERNIGHT: Knotts Crossing Resort, KATHERINE

KATHERINE GORGE

A visit to Katherine would not be complete without a cruise through Katherine Gorge. This morning, we take the two-hour, two gorge cruise through the southern edge of 

Nitmiluk National Park. Sheer walls of sandstone dotted with ancient Aboriginal rock art surround the crystal waters of the Katherine River where freshwater crocodiles can be seen along the banks. After our cruise, we stop at the Visitors Centre where we have time to look at their displays. Back in Katherine, there’s time to purchase lunch and take a look at the township. This afternoon we have a choice - relax at the resort or come with us to unwind in the therapeutic crystal clear waters of the Katherine Hot Springs (32C). The main pool has wheelchair access and stainless-steel rails, the walls have been formed out of rock.

Lunch own expense and arrangement.

OVERNIGHT: Knotts Crossing Resort, KATHERINE

KATHERINE TO KUNUNURRA

Today we travel west calling at Victoria River and Timber Creek, before crossing into Western Australia to arrive at Kununurra. The town was established as the residential and administrative centre of the Ord River Scheme - a huge irrigation scheme that was developed in the 1970s. Before checking into our next three night’s accommodation, we take a look at the town centre, the Diversion Dam and Ivanhoe Crossing.

OVERNIGHT: Kimberley Grande Resort, KUNUNURRA

ORD RIVER CRUISE

We make our way to Lake Argyle, the largest man-made lake in the Southern Hemisphere. We stop at the historic Argyle Homestead Museum, constructed as a replica of the original family homestead including the original stone. We then continue to Lake Argyle Resort for lunch before one of the highlights of the region – a cruise from Lake Argyle to Kununurra. Marvel at the spectacular scenery and abundance of Australian native wildlife in their natural habitat. Take in the untamed landscape of the lesser-known but equally incredible Carr Boyd Ranges before enjoying an East Kimberley sunset as we arrive back in Kununurra.

OVERNIGHT: Kimberley Grande Resort, KUNUNURRA

MORE OF KUNUNURRA

For those of us who have booked an optional flight over the Purnululu National Park (the Bungle Bungles), we will be collected early morning. For those of us not wanting to fly, this is the perfect opportunity for a sleep-in!  After a slightly later breakfast, we take a tour of Kununurra. First is a visit to Kimberley Ornamental Stonecraft, it’s here we can see stone art and jewellery skilfully handcrafted from gemstones and the unique Zebra rock. Next is a visit to Mount Romance – The Sandalwood Factory featuring a wide range of Australian Sandalwood products. This afternoon, we visit The Hoochery Rum Distillery for a tour and tasting of the distillery’s spirits. What a perfect way to end our day.

OVERNIGHT:  Kimberley Grande Resort, KUNUNURRA

KUNUNURRA TO HALLS CREEK

Before leaving Kununurra, we visit Mirima National Park, often called Hidden Valley. The sandstone formations here resemble the domes of the famous Bungle Bungles (Purnululu National Park), which is why they are sometimes called Mini Bungle Bungles - it’s a perfect opportunity to get an “on-ground” experience!  Now we’re on the road again as we travel  to Halls Creek on the edge of the Great Sandy Desert.  The town is full of stories and relics as it was the site of Western Australia’s first gold rush. One of the more famous stories is of Russian Jack, a man who carried his injured mate in a wheelbarrow for over 300 kilometres to get medical attention. A statue is dedicated to his amazing feat here in town. Just outside of Halls Creek is the China Wall. The amazing natural white stone formations rise high out of the ground and then disappear back into the earth again, making it look like a miniature Great Wall of China.

OVERNIGHT:  Kimberley Hotel, HALLS CREEK

HALLS CREEK TO DERBY 

As we continue west through the magnificent red mountain scenery of the Kimberleys, we  make a brief stop at the Yiyili Aboriginal Community to view their gallery. After our break, we continue to Fitzroy Crossing where we enjoy lunch at the Lodge. After lunch we continue on to Derby for the night.

OVERNIGHT:  Spinifex Lodge, DERBY

DERBY TO BROOME

This morning we have a look around this town that sits at the edge of King Sound. Derby is the main base for the RFDS in the Kimberley and from her long wharf Australia’s highest tides, up to 12 metres, can be visualised. The area is also home to the famous Boab Prison tree. Said to be 1500 years old, it has an entrance about one metre wide and two metres high and apparently used as an overnight lock up for prisoners. We have time here for a group photo before continuing to our early lunch stop at Willare Bridge. As we get closer to Broome our anticipation will grow on finally seeing the Indian Ocean! Broome is situated on the coast at the southern tip of the Kimberley region. It is bounded by wide sandy beaches and turquoise water and enjoys a warm climate with plenty of sunshine. The discovery of rich pearling grounds off the coast in the 1880s led to the foundation of Broome township in 1883. By 1910 Broome was the world’s leading pearling centre. On arrival, we check into our accommodation for the next three nights.

Lunch own expense and arrangement.

OVERNIGHT:  Oaks Broome Hotel, BROOME

BROOME SIGHTSEEING

We visit the Pearl Luggers Museum this morning followed by a tour of this fascinating town. We’ll see historic Gantheume Point, the Broome Wharf, and of course China Town. After an interesting morning, our next stop is Matso’s Brewery, the Kimberley’s award-winning microbrewery. After a relaxed lunch, we have some time to take a swim, do some shopping or just kick back before we make our way to Cable Beach for dinner at Zanders, overlooking the beach.  We arrive just before sunset for a unique photo opportunity.

OVERNIGHT: Oaks Broome Hotel, BROOME

WILLIE CREEK PEARL FARM

We’re off to visit the Willie Creek Pearl Farm to learn about pearling techniques and view the pearl panels suspended in the creek.  We can gain a comprehensive insight into how the world’s finest pearls are produced with the process of cultured pearling, including the seeding of a live oyster shell. Lunch is included and we also enjoy a cruise aboard the Willie Wanderer. This afternoon enjoy time to relax at the hotel before dinner this evening.

OVERNIGHT: Oaks Broome Hotel, BROOME

BROOME TO PORT HEDLAND

After breakfast, we depart the Roebuck Bay district and travel down the West Coast along the Great Sandy Desert to Port Hedland, the seaboard outlet for the giant Newman Mine. We drive via Sandfire and deviate to the coast for a view and a walk on Eighty Mile Beach, maybe even a swim.

OVERNIGHT:  Hospitality Inn, PORT HEDLAND

PORT HEDLAND TO KARRATHA

This morning, we have a look at Port Hedland with the help of a local guide. Tracing the cultural heritage and history of this most unusual town, our tour will follow in the footsteps of the first European settlers by visiting the town’s heritage sites. We then have time to buy lunch before our afternoon journey to Karratha.

Lunch at own expense and arrangement.

OVERNIGHT:  Ibis Styles Karratha, KARRATHA

KARRATHA TO EXMOUTH 

We depart for Exmouth, our drive taking us over the Fortescue River to the Nanaturra Roadhouse before we detour west towards the range along the Exmouth Gulf. Exmouth is the “Northern Gateway” to the Coral Coast, an area of world-heritage significance and a microcosm of everything that is rare, beautiful and special on our planet. This region includes the spectacular rocky gorges and beautiful coastline of the Cape Range National Park and the pristine Ningaloo Marine Park.

OVERNIGHT: Potshot Hotel Resort, EXMOUTH

EXMOUTH AND CAPE RANGE NATIONAL PARK

We have an easy day planned today. We tour Exmouth and its surrounds and view the Harold Holt Base, the Vlaming Lighthouse (where we usually spot some whales), Exmouth Beach and the Communications Towers (one taller than the Empire State Building).  Also, today we visit Yardie Creek Station which is now a part of the rich and diverse Cape Range National Park. We enjoy a unique and informative cruise with the park ranger on Yardie Creek. We return to the Potshot Resort this afternoon for some free time to swim or relax.

OVERNIGHT:  Potshot Hotel Resort, EXMOUTH

EXMOUTH TO CARNARVON 

We travel down to Coral Bay for a one-hour cruise on the beautiful Ningaloo Coral Reef aboard Coral Bay Eco Tours glass bottomed boat providing stunning underwater views of the reef! This afternoon we continue south over the Gascoyne River, or the ‘Upside Down River’ and across rich agricultural country to Carnarvon. We will also pause at the Tropic of Capricorn to walk among the wildflowers.

OVERNIGHT: Carnarvon Motel, CARNARVON

CARNARVON TO MONKEY MIA

Today’s travels take us onto the Peron Peninsula and Hamelin Pool. Here, we may be able to catch a glimpse of a colony of Stromatolites (fossil micro-organisms) that date back to the beginning of life on earth, as well as a visit to the Telegraph Station.  We have lunch here then continue to our overnight accommodation in Monkey Mia.

OVERNIGHT:  Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, MONKEY MIA

MONKEY MIA TO KALBARRI

Hopefully this morning we can experience some close encounters with the dolphins as we stand in the clear waters and entertain them. This is one of the few places in the world where wild dolphins come to shore regularly to be hand fed. Later this morning, we drive to Denham before re-joining the North West Coastal Highway to travel south over the Murchison River. We divert from the highway through Kalbarri National Park to picturesque Kalbarri, our home for two nights.

Lunch at own expense and arrangement.

OVERNIGHT: Kalbarri Edge Resort, KALBARRI

KALBARRI NATIONAL PARK 

Wake up with sand between the toes and the smell of fresh sea air as we have time for a leisurely walk on the beach after breakfast. Mid-morning, we join Kalbarri Wilderness Cruises to experience the wilderness of Murchison River. Relax and take in the tranquillity of the river while spotting a native bird or two. Back on dry land, have your camera ready as we see Natures Window, a natural rock arch which frames the river perfectly.

OVERNIGHT:  Kalbarri Edge Resort, KALBARRI

KALBARRI TO CERVANTES 

An early start this morning, taking the coastal road south where we stop for magnificent views along the cliffs before re-joining the highway. On our arrival in Geraldton, we look at the local sights including the port area and the St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, followed by the moving HMAS Sydney Memorial. We continue south through Dongara stopping briefly for a photo opportunity of the Greenough Trees - this area is characterised by river red gums which have given up defying the prevailing winds and bent themselves almost parallel to the earth in an attempt to escape the salt and the wind blowing off the Indian Ocean. From here, we travel along the coast to the town of Cervantes. Cervantes is the access point to the truly remarkable Nambung National Park. This afternoon, we visit the Park - home to Western Australia’s Pinnacles. Like a moon scene, strange-looking limestone pillars stand in a sand desert, some two metres tall.  We then return to Cervantes for dinner and our overnight accommodation.

OVERNIGHT: Cervantes Pinnacles Motel, CERVANTES

CERVANTES TO FREMANTLE

Today’s highlight is our detour to New Norcia, a settlement established and still owned by the Benedictine Monks. The incongruity of majestic Spanish architecture set in the midst of the Australian bush has to be seen to be appreciated. We visit the New Norcia Museum and Art Gallery that contains a fascinating array of artefacts that trace New Norcia’s time as an Aboriginal mission and as a place of education and culture. After lunch, we  make our way to beautiful Fremantle for our last night together.

OVERNIGHT:  Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges, FREMANTLE

HOMEWARD BOUND 

Completing our memorable tour of the naturally beautiful West Coast of Australia, we are transferred to Perth Airport for our return flight to Melbourne. Upon arrival, our chauffeurs will be waiting to transport us safely home with many wonderful memories of our West Australian adventure.

Lunch at own expense and arrangement / Refreshments on flight