Coral Atoll Cruise

Overview

The Rowley Shoals feature exaggerated corals, mind-blowing fish life and stunning underwater clarity; but perhaps more important than anything else – even today they are visited by only a fortunate few.  Guided by a marine biologist and a team of underwater naturalists; divers and snorkelers alike will revel in a diverse wonderland of coral habitats including maze-like lagoons, surging tidal canyons and breathtaking walls. And the keen anglers will match wits with big blue-water pelagics such as black marlin, sailfish, wahoo and yellow-fin tuna. Wander the enticing shores of Bedwell Island, see the rookeries of the red-tailed tropicbird and indulge in a True North favourite – sunset drinks on the beach – 300 kilometres from the shore.  The Rowley Shoals are Western Australia’s premiere coral playground.

Your “welcome aboard” the luxurious True North is in the frontier pearling port of Broome. Embarkation is at 1700 – time for a cocktail with your fellow adventurers before departing at approximately 1800. Dinner is served shortly after leaving port and then it’s an overnight steam to the Rowley Shoals.

Please Note: that True North Adventure Cruises visits the Rowley Shoals only during the months of September, October and November. These months are normally associated with “the doldrums” – a period of light winds and calm seas. In addition, the True North is fitted with computer controlled motion stabilisers that minimise vessel movement. Passengers can therefore anticipate comfortable conditions when cruising to the Shoals – however observing the normal precautions associated with the prevention of seasickness is always recommended.

We arrive early at Clerke Reef. enjoy a sumptuous breakfast before exploring the atoll’s huge lagoon. You will marvel at crystal clear waters teaming with life – clouds of fish and corals of every imaginable colour and shape. There will be plenty of opportunity for beach combing on Bedwell Island, relaxed snorkelling in tropical waist deep water or perhaps some “catch and release” lagoon fishing using eco-friendly tackle. our qualified and experienced crew will be on-hand to personally introduce everyone to the delights of this pristine environment.

When you’re not on excursion, relax onboard TRUE NORTH and enjoy our renowned cuisine in air-conditioned comfort. The licensed open-air bar will definitely be the spot to witness your first spectacular ‘Rowley’s Sunset’.

Start the day with a visit to the Aquarium! Forget the Great Barrier Reef – this is world-class snorkelling at its very best! even if you’ve never put your head under water before – this is an absolute must. The water is only waist deep however the experience is literally “out of this world”! More brilliantly coloured corals, giant clams and more than 600 of the world’s most beautiful fish species at your fingertips! Don’t forget your underwater camera!

In the afternoon we’ll “crank up the action” with something very unique – high-speed snorkel drifts through the outer reef! Again our friendly crew members will be on hand to ensure that everyone gets to try this once-in-a lifetime experience – as many times as you like! our anchorage tonight is in the “swimming pool like” waters of Clerke Lagoon – 300 kilometres off the coast of Australia!

Another day in paradise – perhaps an early morning swim and breakfast on the deck before the adventure boats set off to explore the outer reef! outer reef snorkelling is a totally different experience – the sheer coral walls teeming with life will take your breath away. The fishing boats will troll the deep blue in search of pelagic species such as Spanish mackerel, giant dog toothed tuna, wahoo and of course the fastest fish in the sea – the prized sailfish! Close encounters with humpback whales and manta rays are also on the agenda. Finish the day with sunset drinks on the beach and one of our famous Island Parties. Then it’s back to the ultimate comfort of TRUE NORTH and another perfect night in Clerke Lagoon – 360° stars reflected in a glassy ocean!

By now you will be addicted to snorkelling and diving amongst the untouched corals of Clerke Reef and your wish is our command! Spend the day exploring the outer reef, or perhaps ‘The Maze’ – an assortment of coral bombies inside the lagoon. Stroll along your very own sand cay, enjoy a swim at the beach or relax in the shade of one of our colourful umbrellas! Take a stand-up board for a paddle or circumnavigate the island in one of our twin kayaks. The dedicated fishers will be out again – one last chance to win the ‘Fish hat’!

Then all too soon it’s time for our overnight steam to Broome. Join the crew in the bar lounge and reflect on our shared adventures. Re-live what is guaranteed to be an experience of a lifetime as the Rowleys merge into a blazing western sky!

Early morning arrival in Broome in time to disembark at 8am. Transfer to the airport or your accommodation.