Flexible Expedition Itineraries
Experience the freedom of a flexible expedition itinerary, where every adventure is shaped by the forces of nature. This journey is designed to adapt to tides and environmental conditions, offering a truly authentic exploration of some of the world’s most remote regions. Discover rich cultures, captivating history, and diverse biodiversity, all under the guidance of our expert team, who craft unforgettable experiences influenced by the natural environment.
The PASPALEY name is synonymous with the iconic Kimberley coast. Nearly 100 years ago, 19-year-old Nicholas Paspaley, MBE, purchased his first pearling lugger, establishing a legacy that would become integral to the region. During that era, Broome, Cossack, and Darwin were among the world’s foremost pearling ports. In the 1950s, Paspaley pioneered innovations in the Australian pearl cultivation industry, inspired by Japanese techniques. Today, Paspaley Pearls are renowned for their superior quality and are often simply referred to as ‘Paspaley Pearls.’
With nearly a century of navigating the remote Kimberley coast, Paspaley has developed an unparalleled collection of unique destinations and hidden gems. Join a select group of like-minded travelers aboard our boutique expedition motor yacht, PASPALEY PEARL, and explore a Kimberley coast shaped by over 100 years of discovery.
From the Dampier Peninsula in the south to the Bonaparte Archipelago in the north, the Southern Kimberley coast is one of Australia’s most remote areas. The Buccaneer Archipelago, considered one of Australia’s most spectacular island groups, offers a playground of unique experiences. Collier Bay and Camden Sound are known for the second-largest tides in the world, creating remarkable tidal phenomena such as the Horizontal Falls (Garaanngaddim) and Montgomery Reef (Yowjab). The nearby Prince Regent National Park, celebrated for its ‘outstanding scenic grandeur,’ is one of Australia’s key conservation areas, home to half of the known bird and animal species in the Kimberley.
Each Pearling Coast itinerary includes an exclusive visit to a working Paspaley Pearl farm, where guests can witness the meticulous craftsmanship involved in producing the world’s most beautiful pearls. These visits are uniquely coordinated with Paspaley operations to align with their activities at one of their Kimberley coast locations.
Expedition Highlights:
- Exclusive Pearl Farm Visit: Experience a rare, behind-the-scenes tour of a working Paspaley Pearl Farm.
- Pristine Kimberley Coastline: Explore the untouched coastlines, waterways, and islands that make up the Kimberley Coast.
- Secret Destinations: Discover hidden gems known only to a select few, revealed by our expert guides.
- Green Sea Turtle Rookery: Visit Western Australia’s largest Green Sea Turtle rookery.
- Buccaneer Archipelago: Journey through the stunning islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago.
- Horizontal Falls: Witness the extraordinary tidal phenomenon at Talbot Bay, known as the ‘Horizontal Falls.’
- Montgomery Reef: Experience the awe-inspiring tidal forces at Montgomery Reef, the world’s largest inshore reef system.
- Humpback Whale Migration: From July to September, observe the world’s largest population of migrating humpback whales.
- Biodiversity Hotspot: The Kimberley ranks among the top 3.7% of the world’s least impacted marine environments and is a national biodiversity hotspot.
Embark on a journey of discovery with us and uncover the pristine beauty and rich heritage of the Kimberley coast, a destination shaped by time and tides.
- 132028
- Ocean
- 08 Oct 24
- Broome
- Broome
- The Kimberley
- 14 May 25, 21 May 25, 14 Jul 25
- From 21 May 25 to 21 Jul 25
- 7 nights
- Ponant
- Multiple Cruiseships 6 stars
- Cruise Only
-
Broome, Gourdon Bay, Lacepedes, Paspaley Pearl Farm, Horizontal Falls, Montgomery Reef, Ruby Falls, Kuri Bay, Nares Point, Yampi Sound
Inclusions
- 7 nights' accommodation in the cabin of your choice
Important Terms
- * Rates quoted are in Australian dollars.
- Prices shown are fully inclusive of taxes unless otherwise stated.
- Advertised price includes any bonus nights, special offers or discounts listed in the inclusions.
- Surcharges may apply due to demand, Christmas & New Year's Eve, school or public holidays, trade shows, special events & other unforeseen circumstances.
- Prices may be based on Dynamic Rates and as such, may fluctuate at anytime without notice, due to matters outside our control, such as adverse currency fluctuations, fuel surcharges, taxes and airfare increases, or at the property's discretion.
Departures & Rates
| Start To End Date | Cabin Name/Category | From Price/person | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14May25 - 21May25 | The Ocean Twin Stateroom | $13,995 | Book Now |
| 14May25 - 21May25 | The Ocean Stateroom | $15,995 | Book Now |
| 14May25 - 21May25 | The Horizon Suite | $17,495 | Book Now |
| 14May25 - 21May25 | The Pearl Suite | $22,995 | Book Now |
| 21May25 - 28May25 | The Ocean Twin Stateroom | $13,995 | Book Now |
| 21May25 - 28May25 | The Ocean Stateroom | $15,995 | Book Now |
| 21May25 - 28May25 | The Horizon Suite | $17,495 | Book Now |
| 21May25 - 28May25 | The Pearl Suite | $22,995 | Book Now |
| 14Jul25 - 21Jul25 | The Ocean Twin Stateroom | $13,995 | Book Now |
| 14Jul25 - 21Jul25 | The Ocean Stateroom | $15,995 | Book Now |
| 14Jul25 - 21Jul25 | The Horizon Suite | $17,495 | Book Now |
| 14Jul25 - 21Jul25 | The Pearl Suite | $22,995 | Book Now |
Duration: 7 Nights
* Additional discounts may apply for Past Ponant guests, special airfares or hotel rates, please check with our cruise consultants.
Suites features:
- Elegantly and thoughtfully designed stateroom with large wardrobes.
- Spacious bathrooms with shower and heated floors, complemented by luxury amenities and hairdryer.
- Individually-controlled air conditioning.
- International 240V sockets , USB charging points and wall-mounted reading lamps.
- Flat screen TV with on-demand entertainment system
- Complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi (connectivity dependent on navigation and latitude)
The Pearl Suite: 22sqm, one king-size bed or two twin beds
*Rates are based on per person for two adults sharing. For solo travellers or single person occupancy rates, or other cabin types not listed, please contact our Travel Specialists for a quote.
Cabins
The Pearl Suite combines sophistication and meticulous design, providing a luxurious space with ample wardrobe storage. It features floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a private balcony, allowing guests to enjoy stunning views. The suite offers flexible bedding options, with a choice of twin or king-size beds. The spacious bathroom is equipped with a shower, heated floors, luxury toiletries, and a hairdryer. The suite includes individually controlled air conditioning, international 240V outlets, USB charging ports, and wall-mounted reading lights for added comfort. Guests can unwind with a flat-screen TV and an on-demand entertainment system. Complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi is also available, though connectivity may fluctuate based on the ship’s navigation and location.
20m², including balcony on the Horizon Deck
The Horizon Suite offers an elegant and spacious retreat with stunning views. It features a large wardrobe and flexible bedding options, with a choice of twin or king-size beds. The suite’s standout feature is the floor-to-ceiling glass doors that lead to a private balcony, providing breathtaking panoramic views. Inside, you’ll find a spacious bathroom complete with a shower, heated floors, luxury toiletries, and a hairdryer. The suite also includes individually controlled air conditioning, international 240V outlets, USB charging ports, and wall-mounted reading lights. For entertainment, guests can enjoy a flat-screen TV with an on-demand entertainment system. Complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi is available, although connectivity may vary based on the ship’s navigation and location.
The Horizon Suite offers an elegant and spacious retreat with stunning views. It features a large wardrobe and flexible bedding options, with a choice of twin or king-size beds. The suite’s standout feature is the floor-to-ceiling glass doors that lead to a private balcony, providing breathtaking panoramic views. Inside, you’ll find a spacious bathroom complete with a shower, heated floors, luxury toiletries, and a hairdryer. The suite also includes individually controlled air conditioning, international 240V outlets, USB charging ports, and wall-mounted reading lights. For entertainment, guests can enjoy a flat-screen TV with an on-demand entertainment system. Complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi is available, although connectivity may vary based on the ship’s navigation and location.
17.5 – 18m² on the Ocean Deck
The Ocean Stateroom offers a refined and comfortable stay with thoughtful amenities. It features a generous wardrobe and flexible bedding options, allowing guests to choose between twin beds or a king-size bed. The spacious bathroom is well-appointed with a shower, heated floors, luxury toiletries, and a hairdryer for added convenience. The stateroom is equipped with individually controlled air conditioning, international 240V outlets, USB charging ports, and wall-mounted reading lamps. For entertainment, there is a flat-screen TV with an on-demand entertainment system. Complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi is also provided, though signal strength may fluctuate depending on the ship’s navigation and location.
16m² on the Ocean Deck
The Ocean Twin Stateroom is designed with both elegance and functionality in mind. It features a spacious layout with a large wardrobe and flexible bedding options, allowing for either twin beds or a king-size bed. The stateroom boasts a well-appointed bathroom with a shower, heated floors, luxury toiletries, and a hairdryer. For added convenience, it is equipped with individually controlled air conditioning, international 240V outlets, USB charging ports, and wall-mounted reading lights. Guests can enjoy entertainment on a flat-screen TV with an on-demand entertainment system. Complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi is also available, though signal strength may vary depending on the ship’s location and navigation route.
Itinerary
DAY 1
Embarkation | Broome, Western Australia
Often referred to as the pearl of North West Australia, Broome is Western Australia’s coastal gateway to the magnificent wilderness region of the Kimberley. It’s also home to the world-famous white sands of Cable Beach, making it one of the State’s most popular holiday destinations. Situated 2,240 km (1,390 mi) north of Perth with a permanent population estimated at 14,436, growing to over 45,000 per month during the tourist season.
PASPALEY PEARL will be alongside the wharf in Broome.
Day 2-3
Buccaneer Archipelago
Extending from the Dampier Peninsula to the Southern edge of Collier Bay the 800 islands of the Dampier archipelago and adjacent mainland offer a veritable playground of unique experiences, ideal for exploration by boutique expedition motor yacht. Named after the English buccaneer and privateer William Dampier, the archipelago is regarded as one of the most spectacular island groups in Australia. There are islands listed as Important Bird Areas by Birdlife International, whilst others are home to Western Australia’s largest population of breeding Green Sea turtles. The pristine coastline contains secluded white sandy beaches, mangrove estuaries and spectacular tortured landscapes providing a geological insight into the formation of this remarkable land.
The region is best known for the iconic destinations of The Lacepede Islands, Yampi Sound, Adele Island and Cape Leveque.
With PASPALEY PEARL, we also have access to destinations inaccessible to larger vessels including Hidden Island, Whirlpool Pass, Sunday Island, Strickland Bay, Tallon Island, Hell’s gate, Edeline and Cascade Bay.
Day 4
Kuri Bay
Located 370km north of Broome and 460km west of Kununurra, Kuri Bay lies at the heart of the Lalang – Garram/Camden Sound Marine Park. It was the location of Australia’s first cultured pearl farm and is named after the company’s first principal, Tokuichi Kuribayashi. Today the clear pristine waters are the home of Paspaley, the world’s most important producer of cultured pearls. Such is the superior and widely recognised quality of the gems they are in their own category and recognised simply as ‘Paspaley Pearls’.
Guests will experience a behind the scenes guided walking tour of the Paspaley facilities and discover the intricate processes required to produce the most beautiful pearls in the world.
Day 5-7
Collier Bay and Camden Sound
Located in one of the remotest regions of Australia, with no road access and the nearest town over 250 kilometres away, the stunningly rugged Collier Bay and Camden Sound are home to the second largest tides in the world. This ebb and flow of the tide has shaped the ancient landscape into a breathtaking vista and created unique tidal phenomena such as Horizontal Falls (Garaanngaddim). The region is of cultural significance to the Dambeemangarddee, a saltwater people who have been living along the coast for many thousands of years. Their culture and connection to the environment has evolved with an inherent association to these tidal movements. The rich marine environment is also home to the world’s largest inshore reef system, Montgomery Reef (Yowjab) and each year the world’s largest population of migrating humpback whales visit the region.
The region is best known for the iconic destinations of Horizontal Falls (Garaanngaddim), Montgomery Reef (Yowjab), Raft Point (Ngumbree) and Freshwater Cove (Wijingarra Bard Bard).
With PASPALEY PEARL, we also have access to destinations inaccessible to larger vessels including Sampson Inlet, Hall Point, Red Cone Creek, Sapphire Falls, Ruby Falls, Sale River, Walcott Inlet, Prior Point and Langgi.
Day 8
Disembarkation | Broome, Western Australia
Often referred to as the pearl of North West Australia, Broome is Western Australia’s coastal gateway to the magnificent wilderness region of the Kimberley. It’s also home to the world-famous white sands of Cable Beach, making it one of the State’s most popular holiday destinations. Situated 2,240 km (1,390 mi) north of Perth with a permanent population estimated at 14,436, growing to over 45,000 per month during the tourist season.
Pre & Post Voyage Packages | Experience more in the Kimberley
Starting from $3,795
Speak to our Yacht Concierge for more information.
Ship Info
Paspaley Pearl
The perfect place to relax while exploring
Classic yet contemporary
Designed to feel like your home away from home
The PASPALEY PEARL blends PASPALEY’s 80-year Kimberley legacy with PONANT’s 35 years of luxury expedition travel expertise.
With 15 staterooms and suites, the PASPALEY PEARL blends a unique mix of comfort and adventure. Also accommodating up to 30 guests per voyage, it stands out as the newest boutique expedition motor yacht in the Kimberley, featuring private balconies.
PUBLIC AREAS
Main Dining, Lounge, and Bar
The Ocean Deck’s main dining area, lounge, and bar provide an elegant space for meals and relaxation. Start your evening with a pre-dinner drink while skilled chefs prepare a locally-inspired dinner using the finest Australian produce. For those interested in a unique keepsake, PASPALEY showcases some of the world’s most exquisite pearls, available for purchase.
Outdoor Dining, Lounge, and Bar
Embrace outdoor living while cruising through the tropics. Enjoy breakfast and lunch in a relaxed yet refined setting, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. With two spacious dining tables and ample lounge seating, it’s the perfect setting to unwind. After a day of exploration, visit the Outdoor Bar for a briefing with the expedition team for upcoming adventure preparedness.
Sun Deck Lounge and Jacuzzi
The Sun Deck is the ultimate place to relax, featuring comfortable sun beds, lounges, and an 8-person jacuzzi. The Sun Deck offers a peaceful space for reading in the shade or socialising while enjoying sunshine and ocean views.
Sunset Lounge
Situated in front of the ship’s bridge, the Sunset Lounge provides breathtaking panoramic views, similar to those enjoyed by the captain. Guests can order a drink from the nearby bar and relax while watching some of the most stunning sunsets imaginable.
ONBOARD DELIGHTS
Modern Locally-Inspired Cuisine
Without a doubt, you won’t want to miss the locally-inspired cuisine paired with Kimberley seafood, pearl meat, prawns, and barramundi. Our menus designed by the famed Serge Dansereau (formally of Bathers Pavilion) will be influenced by the daily catch of wild fish, ensuring a diverse culinary experience that also showcases premium Australian meats. Savour the artistry of simple, yet elegant, and skilfully prepared dishes, served with precision by our dedicated team of professionals.
YOU’RE IN GREAT HANDS
Your Crew
An impressive crew-to-guest ratio of 1:1.4 is maintained on board the Paspaley Pearl—this reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional service and personalized attention. Our highly skilled crew members, include four expert expedition guides, ensures unparalleled service for our 30 guests. From expertly curated excursions to bespoke dining experiences, every aspect of your journey is meticulously crafted. With an integrated expedition team and crew, highlights our dedication to enriching your voyage with educational and immersive experiences.
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
Safety and Sustainability
PASPALEY PEARL represents the pinnacle of boutique maritime luxury and innovation in expedition yacht cruising.
VARD, a Fincantieri Company, built the 53.5-metre-long yacht in October 2021, it underwent a meticulous refit in 2024 to enhance comfort and performance.
At 53.5 meters long, with a beam of 11.2 meters and a draft of 3.4 meters, PASPALEY PEARL offers an intimate superyacht experience, accommodating 30 guests with a dedicated crew of 22.
The yacht is equipped with two main aft Azimuth propellers, a forward tunnel thruster, a single rudder, and fin stabilizers, ensuring excellent maneuverability and stability.
Safety is a top priority, with two lifeboats and four custom-designed exploration vessels on board.
Moreover, PASPALEY PEARL is committed to environmental responsibility, with features like an advanced wastewater treatment system, SOLAS certification, and a fuel-efficient, quiet diesel-electric propulsion system. Catalytic inverters reduce NOX emissions by 90%, while a heat recovery system provides hot water for showers and the galley.
With a dynamic positioning system that allows operation in sensitive seabed areas without anchoring, PASPALEY PEARL sets a new standard in sustainability and technology. We invite travelers to embark on an unparalleled journey of exploration and comfort, where luxury meets responsible travel.
Cruise Line
Ponant
PONANT was founded in 1988 by officers of the French Merchant Navy who launched France’s first cruise ship company. For over 30 years PONANT has combined exceptional itineraries to take their guests on cruise voyages that are simultaneously authentic and sophisticated. Their luxurious ships are smaller in stature and as such are able to visit less-frequented ports and little-known anchorages to offer immersive cruise experiences.
