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West Coast Explorer – From Fremantle to Dampier

West Coast Explorer – From Fremantle to Dampier

From AUD $18,995

Description

Experience the untamed beauty of Australia’s West Coast
See Australia differently after you experience the magnificent beauty of the West Coast. From the deep blue waters of the Indian Ocean, to the marine life of Ningaloo, to the magnificent Montebello Islands, this truly is an expedition for those with adventure in their heart.
The deep blue waters of the Indian Ocean lap the red sands of the ‘north’ as the West Coast Explorer winds its way north from Fremantle to Dampier. The Abrolhos are steeped in history; Ningaloo boasts world-acclaimed marine life and the Montes offer fishing paradise – a must for snorkelers and divers, a must for fishers, a must for the adventurer at heart!
Please note: This itinerary is provided as example only – prevailing conditions, local arrangements and indeed, what we discover on the day, may cause variation. Helicopter flights can be purchased additional to the indicated tariff as a package or individually.

Trip Name
West Coast Explorer - From Fremantle to Dampier
Days
11
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition Length: True North - 50 metres/True North II - 35 meters Passenger Capacity: 36/22 Built/Refurbished: 2005/2023 TRUE NORTH The TRUE NORTH allows discerning adventurers to experience wilderness in surroundings more akin to one of the world’s most exclusive hotels. Guests are able to take advantage of a number of lavish vantage points including a sundeck, a forward observation lounge, a ship’s lounge and an alfresco bar. The ship’s naturalist presents interpretative information on plasma screens and, an internet café enables convenient communication with the outside world. A popular venue on any North Star cruise, the lower deck dining room offers the ultimate in comfort and uninterrupted vista – large panoramic windows ensure that guests never miss any of the action, even when they are enjoying the ‘finest in fine dining’. All cabins feature stylish décor, en-suite facilities, in-house entertainment and satellite telephones. The Explorer Class staterooms and the River Class cabins offer king size beds that can be converted to singles and the Ocean Class twins feature roomy single beds. Multiple expedition boats provide guests with greater opportunity to do “what they want, when they want” and, to add yet another dimension to adventure, most cruise options feature an onboard helicopter!The purpose built TRUE NORTH is able to explore the upper reaches of shallow river systems – guests need only step out of their cabins to experience wilderness and, the latest in computer controlled motion stabilizers ensures a comfortable ride. TRUE NORTH II TRUE NORTH II features a more intimate experience with just 22 guests and a combined saloon/lounge. The dining salon features a stunning ‘boardroom’ setting and the revered True North dining experience. There is also a sundeck, outdoor bar deck and a dedicated sports deck. All cabins feature ensuite or private facilities with in-house entertainment and satellite telephones. The Explorer Class staterooms and River Class cabins offer queen-size bedsand the Ocean Class cabins feature roomy bunk-configured singles. Just like the TRUE NORTH – TRUE NORTH II is purpose-built to explore coastal areas including the upper reaches of shallow river systems – guests need only step out of their cabins to experience wilderness. But the adventure doesn't stop there! Multiple adventure boats provide guests with greater opportunity to do “what they want, when they want” and, to add yet another dimension to adventure, most itineraries feature an onboard helicopter! And again, just like they are on TRUE NORTH, the crew of the TRUE NORTH II are generally young Australians who create a truly authentic onboard experience. Our crew are always very much part of onboard life - you may even feel as though they are having just as much fun as you are! That’s because they are – every day is an adventure for the crew as well and you will not be able to resist their enthusiasm and passion! Unlike more conventional cruise experiences – True North crew are encouraged to interact with our guests. They will uniquely chaperone your every experience providing assistance, interpretation and genuine company. They will bait your hook and carry your SCUBA tank but they will also join you for dinner and entertain in the ship’s lounge. And not forgetting that they will also prepare fine meals of distinction, maintain your cabins with our renowned degree of attention and safely navigate ship, boat and helicopter to each destination. Guests on a True North adventure cruise never fail to recognize the outstanding involvement of the crew - they are one of the reasons that an adventure on the TRUE NORTH is not just another expedition cruise!

Itinerary



Day 1 - Night 01 Welcome Aboard
Your adventure begins in Perth where you’ll join your fellow adventurers onboard the mighty True North for a welcome aboard cocktail party and the first of many fine dining experiences as we begin the overnight cruise to the Abrolhos Islands.
Day 2 - Day 01 The Houtman Abrolhos
Spend two days exploring the beautiful Houtman Abrolhos, a chain of 122 islands and is home to the southernmost true coral reef in the Indian Ocean. Wake up early and join a hell-flight to see stunning reef formations and island communities from the sky. Snorkel in shallow inshore lagoons to see breathtaking colourful coral, a myriad of fish species and curious sea lions. Or, take a scenic cruise in one of our adventure boats and step ashore to find a bird-watching paradise. Additionally, as well as being the home of Western Australia’s delectable rock lobster, the Abrolhos is also renowned for its crayfish. You’ll also be able to fish for Westralian dhufish, groper, snapper and coral trout to be cooked back on board the true North by our chefs. You’ll also make a visit to Post Office Island. Here the Liddon family will set up a long table lunch for us to enjoy fresh crayfish and other local produce. We then learn about the local crayfish & pearling industry before having the opportunity to shop at the local jewellery shop on the island.
Day 3 - Day 02 The Houtman Abrolhos
Wake up for another day in the Houtman Abrolhos where you’ll snorkel and dive in the crystal clear waters of the Batavia wreck site and learn about its fascinating history. Then we’ll go ashore at Beacon Island and see a remarkably preserved cannon lying in shallow water. Finally visiting Long Island where mutineers were hanged.
Day 4 - Day 03 Fish Point
Join the adventure boats for a day of fishing, snorkeling and diving. Here we’ll show you some spots that are known to produce coral trout and dhufish if you’re a fisher. Otherwise Fish Point and the Turtle Bay shallows are also perfect for a snorkel, and divers can explore ‘Planet Channel’ and other spots that are home to some excellent overhangs and caves. Then step ashore at West Wallabi Island for a glimpse of the reclusive tamar wallaby and join our guides for a scenic walk amongst the ruins of Wiebbe Hayes’ rudimentary forts.
Day 5 - Day 04 Steep Point
Start the day with an exhilarating hike to Steep Point the westernmost edge of the Australian continent and part of the Shark Bay World Heritage area. It’s regarded as one of the finest land-based game fishing locations in the world and is surrounded by some of the most breathtaking Western Australian scenery. Head onto the helicopter for a flight over the Zuytdorps to see stunning views of this spectacular coast or visit Dirk Hartog, a spot not accessible by foot. Fishers can wet their lines at South Passage and divers might be able to see the giant gropers that frequent ‘Monkey Rock’.
Day 6 - Day 05 Cape Inscription
This morning the True North will cruise to Cape Inscription on the northern tip of Dirk Hartog Island. Here you’ll be able to head off on the tenders for a fish, snorkel, dive on the western side of the Cape or explore Hartog from the air in the helicopter. Then we’ll head to the sheltered waters off Turtle Bay for another dive or an island swim.
Day 7 - Day 06 Ningaloo Reef
Famous for its brilliant white beaches and stunning coral reefs just metres from the shoreline, it’s not hard to see why Ningaloo Reef is one of Western Australia’s most popular tourist destinations. Here just pop on a mask and swim in the swimming pool like conditions to meet whale sharks and possibly dolphins, dugongs, manta rays, humpback whales along with hundreds of species of fish, coral and molluscs. The adjacent beaches are also home to loggerhead, green and hawksbill turtles. In 2006, researchers discovered gardens of sponges that are thought to be species completely new to science. So today will be spent discovering the many bays and shallow reef areas of this acclaimed coral paradise. We’ll also squeeze in some leisure fishing for the mackerel and visit the settlement at Coral Bay to meet local marine biologist Frazer McGregor.
Day 8 - Day 07 Montebello Islands
Wake this morning for three magnificent days in the Montebello Islands. An archipelago of 174 small islands lying 130 kilometres off the Pilbara coast of north western Australia, the islands have a rich and interesting history. The two main islands, Hermite and Trimouille were discovered by the French explorer Nicholas Baudin in 1801 before gaining an infamous history with nuclear weapons testing in the 50’s. However today the Montebello Islands are now just a paradise, so we’ll spend the day enjoying endless opportunities for fishing, snorkelling and diving.
Day 9 - Day 08 Montebello Islands
Start the day with an early morning fish or join the ship’s naturalist and head ashore to beachcomb and bird-watch. Identified by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area (IBA) the islands support over 1% of the world populations of Fairy Terns, Roseate Terns, Sooty Oystercatchers. Here you could also spot Greater Crested Terns, ospreys, white-bellied sea-eagles, pied oystercatchers, caspian terns, bridled terns and beach stone-curlews. You’ll also be able to take to the skies in the helicopter or snorkel and dive for giant crayfish. After lunch stalk the mangroves for a Monte mud crab and whiting. Finally, spend the afternoon on the beach or head out for another dive or fish.
Day 10 - Day 09 Montebello Islands
Spend another day in paradise fishing, snorkeling, diving, beach combing and heading out on a scenic tender ride. Then, depending on the helicopter’s schedule, fly over the Dampier Archipelago for your final breathtaking view from the sky.
Day 11 - Day 10 Transfer to the Karratha
With a vast and remarkable coast now discovered, it’s time for your early morning disembarkation and transfer to Karratha.
Day 12 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
03-03-202613-03-2026AUD $0Ocean Class - Twin
03-03-202613-03-2026AUD $0River Class - Double
03-03-202613-03-2026AUD $0Ocean/River Premium Cabin
03-03-202613-03-2026AUD $0Explorer Class - Stateroom
07-03-202617-03-2026AUD $0Ocean Class - Twin
07-03-202617-03-2026AUD $0Ocean/River Premium Cabin
07-03-202617-03-2026AUD $0River Class - Double
07-03-202617-03-2026AUD $0Explorer Class - Stateroom

Inclusions

    • Explore the Houtman Abrolhos’ coral reefs, snorkeling at the Batavia wreck site and enjoying a crayfish lunch on Post Office Island.
    • Snorkel at Ningaloo Reef, encountering whale sharks, dolphins, and vibrant marine life in crystal-clear waters.
    • Fish and dive in the Montebello Islands, with opportunities to spot rare birds, catch giant crayfish, and fly over the Dampier Archipelago.

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