Northern Australia

Northern Australia

 

Discover Northern Australia & Experience Traditions Unchanged for Centuries

Become immersed in the ancient Indigenous cultures and prehistoric landscapes of Australia’s Northern coastline on a small ship cruise that will take you far off the beaten track in Arnhem Land, to the very tip of Australia at Cape York, and into the Torres Strait. Become immersed in the rich cultures of the Tiwi and The Torres Strait. Journey into traditional lands from Cape York, and into Yolngu territory in Arnhem Land. Learn and understand the song-lines and lore that shaped this ancient culture, and allow your expert guides to interpret ancient rock art. See how generations have passed on artistic traditions, and how this important cultural legacy is being kept alive today at world-renowned art centres in Yirrkala and Nhulunbuy. Watch Elders tell their story through art in Maningrida.

Explore secluded Lizard Island. Hike to the summit of ‘Cook’s Look’, from where Lieut. James Cook was able to sight a navigable passage through reef strewn waters. Swim and snorkel over the giant clam gardens or stroll the white-sand beach of Watson’s Bay. Take a tour of the Lizard Island Research Station, recognised internationally as a major research facility on the Great Barrier Reef.

At Stanley Island, view contact-period rock art depicting sailing ships reminiscent of Chinese junks and Portuguese galleons, and hear stories from the Yiithuwarra people.

At Davie Reef, where a sand cay barely rises above the sea, snorkel over the fringing reef or go ashore on the sand cay, which is a significant seabird rookery.

The tiny Forbes Island has few human visitors so wildlife is prolific. Find the grave of beche-de-mer fisherman Frederick Lancaster, beachcomb on sweeping beaches and swim in the tropical waters.

Go ashore at the rocky northernmost point of Australia - Cape York, and experience a sunrise or sunset in this special place.

Thursday Island, or Waiben, is the hub of the Torres Strait and here we learn of the region’s pearling history. Have the privilege of visiting the remote islands of Badu or Moa, to experience cultural performances, a local meal and the remarkable art centres

Be welcomed to the country by the Yolgnu people at Galiwin’ku and Gawa communities. Gain insight into the Yolgnu culture, and meet local artists who have exhibited around the world. Cruise through the ‘Hole in the Wall’ between Raragala and Guluwuru Islands.

Maningrida is home to a remarkable art centre. This is a unique opportunity to purchase sought-after Indigenous artworks and textiles directly from the artists.

Garig Gunak Barlu National Park is an ideal location for birdwatchers and photographers. Enjoy a tour of the failed Victoria Settlement with a park ranger, and learn the history of the area.

Be welcomed to the Tiwi Islands with a smoking ceremony at Bathurst Island, dancing, and an afternoon tea of home-made damper and billy tea. Learn about the unique Tiwi culture and visit the art centre.

Discover historic Cooktown, with buildings dating back to the 1870s. Visit the James Cook Museum to see original artefacts from the HMB Endeavour. You may choose from a guided Indigenous cultural tour or Cooktown historic tour as well as taking the opportunity to explore Cooktown’s park-lined waterfront and Botanic Gardens. Hike to the top of Grassy Hill for a view over the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding mountain ranges.

If you’re after a small ship cruise or an expedition ship cruise to Northern Australia Wild Earth Travel can help you find a trip of a lifetime. We are ready to guide you through our range of different options with impartial advice so you can experience the very best of this unique destination. Our team are all passionate expedition & small cruise ship travellers and our knowledge and stories come from our own personal experiences.

 

Our Associates Include

Adventure Canada
Heritage Expeditions New Zealand
UnCruise Adventures
Hurtugruten
Ponant
Pandaw