Xplorer Club Loyalty Voyage Recap

Coral Expeditions celebrated 40 years of expedition cruising with a special one-off edition of the Kimberley cruise in June. The voyage brought together several people who have been a huge part of Coral’s coastal adventures over the years including CEO Mark Fifield and several of our passionate lifetime and platinum explorer members. 

To make this celebration extra special, the legendary Dr Sandy Scott returned from retirement for one final adventure through the Kimberley. Renowned as a published author, academic, and educator, Scott captivated guests with his geological expertise of the region. He was joined by his peers, famed and long-standing Coral Guest Lecturers, Ian Morris and Goyma Gondarra, who shared their experience and insights into the region’s wildlife and rich cultural heritage. 

Guests were treated to 10 very full days jam-packed with unforgettable excursions. The Kimberley turned her iconic sunsets to full-volume, painting the evening skies in hues of orange and pink, providing the perfect backdrop for sunset beach drinks, canapes and surprise performance of the octopus dance by Goyma at Swift Bay. The evening schedule was also full of memorable moments including the 40th Anniversary Gala Dinner, and a late-night crocodile spotting expedition from the comfort of the Xplorer tenders. Nature also came out to play, and guests were rewarded with multiple sightings of rare snub-nosed dolphins. 

On board, Mark and Ian delivered captivating talks, sharing their passion for expedition cruising, and the remarkable discoveries and adventures shared over the past four decades. 

The voyage culminated in a breathtaking and rarely scheduled visit to the Berkeley River, a natural masterpiece that left guests in awe of the top end’s raw beauty. 

Stepping off the Coral Adventurer at the end of this ten-night odyssey was a bittersweet experience. The Kimberley had cast its spell on all of us as we walked ashore with unforgettable memories, and a deeper appreciation for Australia’s natural and cultural treasures.