Cape York, Arnhem Land & Torres Strait

Expedition Cruises Of Cape York, Arnhem Land & The Torres Strait

Become immersed in the ancient Indigenous cultures and prehistoric landscapes of Australia’s northern coastline on a voyage of discovery that takes you far off the beaten track in Arnhem Land, to the very tip of Australia at Cape York, and into the Torres Strait. Experience traditions unchanged for centuries, sacred rock art and remote lands only permitted accessible by a fortunate few. 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. Coral Expeditions has had the privilege of introducing guests to this remarkable culture for over three decades, so guests receive personal experiences conducted with the utmost respect and cultural sensitivity.

REQUEST A PRINTED BROCHURE

Explore the remote Cape York & Arnhem Land, focusing on renowned Indigenous art centres. This themed expedition will be curated by a traditional artist who will provide an in-depth, immersive experience in these culturally rich areas. There will be hosted art classes onboard, giving you the opportunity to create your own unique pieces.

Departs October 2023 & 2024

Discover the Northern Australian coastline and experience rich culture and history. Explore the far reaches of Cape York, visit Indigenous rock art sites and spend time in the remote communities of Arnhem Land and the Torres Strait. Stand on the very tip of Australia and learn how the people of the Tiwi Islands keep their culture alive.

Departs 31 March 2024

With almost 300 islands dotted across the narrow stretch of water between Cape York and Papua New Guinea, the people of the Torres Strait have a distinct culture. A small ship expedition is the ideal way to access these remote regions and guests will have the opportunity to meet these island communities and share their culture in a sustainable environment.

Departs October 2024

Cape York, Arnhem Land & Torres Strait Voyage Logs

Cape York & Arnhem Land

Cairns to Darwin

4-15 April 2021, Coral Discoverer

“Everyone had their photos taken near the sign and then enjoyed a glass of champagne or orange juice, or both. The more relaxed headed back to the ship, while those ready for some more adventures continued with myself and Tom along the Cape York ridge and down into the moist monsoon forest. As it was the wet season and access was limited for 4WD’ers, and the tip had been closed recently, the area was unusually clean and very lush. So it was a good time to look for some wildlife.”

Cape York & Arnhem Land

2019, Darwin to Cairns, Coral Discoverer

Landing at the boat ramp we had an enjoyable stroll along the foreshore to Badu Art Centre. We had a special kai kai lunch that had been prepared by the island women. We piled our plates with crayfish, chilli fish, pork, fish curry, lamb curry, sop sop (sweet potato and cassava cooked in coconut milk), salads, fried scones and damper. But that wasn’t all because the ladies had prepared dessert, custard and tapioca and it was hard to resist. Luckily we had a long walk back along the shore to burn up some calories. Back on the ship we were treated to traditional dancing by people from Moa Island.

Cape York & Arnhem Land

Trip Excerpt from Forbes Island 23.03.16

Outside was Forbes Island, a delightful little granitic continental island (i.e. not a coral cay) and it was here that Xplorer brought us to her palm-fringed coral sand beach. High granite peaks could be seen on this island & its surrounds. Up through the saddle, we went across to the island’s south side and were rewarded by spectacular views. Wind-pruned beach tea-trees and grevilleas indicated the consistency of the south-easterly winds here.

Discover Australia’s Top End onboard Coral Discoverer

The nimble and manoeuvrable Coral Discoverer is ideally built for this region. Her shallow draught enables her to get up close to destinations. She also boasts ocean views from all public spaces, making Cape York, Arnhem Land & The Torres Strait come alive from onboard. Xplorer and Zodiac boats are ideal for exploring the incredible and remote waterways on these expeditions.

Cruising Australia’s Remote North

Our team of Expedition Leaders and regular Guest Lecturers have a wealth of knowledge of the unique landscapes, flora and fauna and Indigenous cultures of Australia’s north. Passionate explorers, marine biologists, and naturalists, they provide onboard lectures and interpretation. Meet the Tiwi people of Bathurst and Melville Islands, the Yolngu clans of Arnhem Land, and the Torres Strait Islanders of Thursday, Badu and Moa Islands. You’ll also discover a remote and captivating natural wilderness as you swim and snorkel over the colourful coral gardens of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, go ashore on rarely visited islands, and cruise through coastal rivers shaped by countless monsoon seasons.

Understanding the Remarkable Lands of Northern Australia with Ian Morris

2^nd March 2023

My involvement with this coastline began as a young boy, when members of my family were involved with rebuilding and developing the indigenous coastal communities which were bombed by the Japanese during WW2.

Indigenous Artist Painting in Cape York Arnhem Land Torres Strait Region

Connecting with Art, Culture & Community through Cape York, Arnhem Land & the Torres Strait

1^st September 2022

For thousands of years, Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have passed down their stories and spirituality through spoken word and art, creating an unbroken lineage connecting people to place, culture and community.