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beauty of these landscapes and the unique ways of the Aboriginal, Torres Strait and Tiwi
people who call them home. Here, nature is an all-powerful force: monsoon rains rejuvenate the rivers and floodplains, bringing wealth to the cattle ranchers of the savannah lands and providing the lifeblood to the inhabitants of the sleepy coastal frontier towns. The mighty estuarine or saltwater crocodile is indeed King of the Wild and the waters of the Arafura Sea are alive with a profusion of marine and bird life.
Enjoy the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the warm tropical waters of the Great Barrier
Reef. Explore the pristine coral gardens of the northern reaches of the reef and come face
to face with an abundance of strikingly coloured fish and marine life. Savour a glass of
champagne as the sun rises over the 'Tip of Australia' on the Cape York Peninsula and
discover the interesting World War II history of the Torres Strait Islands. Venture ashore to meet fabulous artisans in some of the most remote villages in Australia and learn of the fascinating Macassan traders of the 17 century as we cruise the Arnhem Land coast before experiencing the friendly welcome and warm hospitality of the Tiwi Islanders as they share with us their ancient
culture and traditional lifestyles.
This outstanding itinerary offers the unique opportunity to discover the remarkable history, diverse natural beauty and magical cultures of these rugged frontier lands, and aboard our superb expedition small-ships you will discover it all in total comfort and unmatched style.
Across the Top of Australia itinerary:
swimming, snorkelling and a walk along the beautiful sandy beach. As special guests of the Lizard Island Research Station we have an opportunity to learn of the research being undertaken to help understand and preserve the Great Barrier Reef.
provides some fantastic swimming and snorkelling
opportunities. This afternoon we visit Magra Island
for beachcombing, bird watching and to enjoy the
tropical sunset.
Aussie Beach BBQ as the sun spectacularly sets over the Arafura Sea.
museum and local 'boutique', where hand painted clothing and fabrics are offered for sale. Later, join the Expedition Leader and guides on an Xplorer tour of the river before rejoining our small ship.
people as our guides we learn of their unique cultures and visit the fascinating art centre. Our Tiwi hosts will welcome us with a cultural performance and basketweaving demonstration before we join them for a traditional Australian afternoon tea of damper and billy tea. Tonight we farewell new-found friends as we enjoy the Captain's Farewell Cocktails.
Oceanic Discoverer
Onboard Accommodation
Onboard accommodation comprises 36 spacious modern staterooms. You can select from Bridge, Promenade or Main Deck staterooms offering a choice of twin through to junior king-size doubles. All staterooms have an ocean view, en-suite facilities, settee, large wardrobe, desk, luggage storage, individual air-conditioning control, and are serviced daily.
Onboard Facilities
What you would expect of a much larger cruise ship:
- Large sundeck
- Spa Pool
- Guest computer
- Comprehensive reference library
- Phone and fax facilities
- Lecture lounge with large plasma screen
- Limited laundry facilities
- Two fully stocked cocktail bars
- Boutique and dive shop
- Air-conditioned public areas
Oceanic Discoverer is equipped with the latest technology active stabilizers and is fitted with state-of-the-art safety and navigational equipment and is the only Australian passenger ship registered with full SOLAS compliance allowing opportunities to explore a multitude of international voyages.
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Dining
All meals during the cruise are included. Breakfast and lunch are served in the Dining Room located on the Main Deck and are buffet-style while dinner is table d’hote. Coffee and tea is available 24 hours. Standard hours are breakfast from 7:00-8:30am, lunch at 12:30pm and dinner at 7:30pm however meal times may vary according to the day's activities. Meal times will be advised in the onboard daily bulletins.
Excursion Boats And Zodiacs
The "Xplorer" is a specially designed aluminium excursion vessel used for the majority of our excursions. This vessel has high horsepower engines and will accommodate all passengers at one time. The "Xplorer" will be used for landings and for extensive exploration of rivers and tributaries. For your added convenience and comfort, the "Xplorer" is equipped with an awning and toilet.
We also carry two inflatable landing craft (Zodiacs). Designed for expedition work, these large and heavy-duty inflatables are extremely safe. Separate air compartments retain a large reserve of buoyancy even if the boats damaged. The flat bottom design permits these crafts to land directly onto the beaches. Expect nonetheless to wade through shallow water to reach the shore.
