Chasing waterfalls: The Kimberley experienced by sea and air

Year-round, the unspoilt wilderness of the Kimberley in Western Australia is home to abundant bird, animal and marine life. But those who know it well say the end of the wet season is the time to visit for its emotive landscapes, spectacular summer storms and light shows, thundering waterfalls and swollen billabongs.

To truly experience the Kimberley is to immerse in its sounds, waterways, and landscapes. To connect with the land that has sustained traditional landowners for thousands of years and inspired their stories and dreaming. Not on a floating resort 10 storeys high, but on a boutique, small ship that can go places others can't.

True North does just that - taking small group luxury cruises to areas of the Kimberley's most wonderous environments, with curated itineraries offering gourmet dining and world-class wines, and unique activities you won't find anywhere else. It's the perfect combination of luxury and adventure.

Take a deep breath and join us as we dive into True North's Kimberley Waterfalls adventure, mapped out over 10 extraordinary days and nights from Broome to Kununnura.

You will be warmly welcomed onboard the bespoke-built vessel, the True North, in the pearling port of Broome. After settling into your luxuriously appointed cabin, enjoy a cocktail with your fellow adventurers before setting sail at 6.30pm or so. Dinner is served shortly after leaving port for the overnight steam to Yampi Sound.

Awaken to the Kimberley and a feast for the senses over breakfast as you glide past Cockatoo and Koolan Islands (the crew will fill you in on their storied pasts). Then it's time to get up close to your first waterfall – this one is of the horizontal kind caused by the region's tidal currents. Hop on a tender for an exhilarating ride through Horizontal Falls, then explore again from above via True North's on-board helicopter. Enjoy cocktails and dinner with spectacular views on route to Doubtful Bay.

Don't miss: A refreshing swim at Silica Beach and its squeaky white sand between your toes.

Early birds can try their hand at barramundi fishing at a spot known as Three Ways, with the experienced True North crew. Or enjoy a peaceful lie-in before breakfast and a walk to Ruby Falls for a life-affirming dip in the natural rock pool. Then, choose your own adventure: anglers can take off for a heli-fishing expedition in a secret spot, or you can relax with a good book while your chef prepares a gourmet lunch to enjoy on the way to the next iconic destination: Montgomery Reef, 140 square miles of stunning coral reef that emerges with the falling tide.

Don't miss: Dugong spotting from the helicopter, as well as turtles, crocodiles and other abundant sea life.

The scenery along the Prince Regent River is stunning. The early anglers will be chasing delicious local mangrove jack and fingermark bream, which may appear later as catch of the day. Hop on the tender boat to shore for a hike and a swim in another picture-perfect billabong. Or venture further upriver to visit the spectacular 'Amphitheatre' waterfall by helicopter.

Don't miss: Get up close and touch the magnificent Kings Cascade when the captain manoeuvres the True North right under the falls.

One of the things that makes a True North adventure cruise different is its expert and multitalented crew. Join the ship's naturalist in an adventure boat to learn about the unique ecosystem of the area and spot rare plants and animals you won't see anywhere else. For lunch, fly to a remote, crystal-clear billabong for an unforgettable gourmet picnic.

Don't miss: The stunning ancient rock art works of the region.

The remote Hunter River is lined with dense mangrove forests and surrounded by mountainous rainforest perfect for fishing, mud-crabbing, birdwatching or simply immersing yourself in a place few others have been. Explore from the adventure boats, on foot or by air. In the afternoon, cruise into Prince Frederick harbour and enjoy sunset drinks and hors d'oeuvres on picturesque Crystal Beach and watch the sun set over the Kimberley.

Don't miss: If you're up for a challenge, take a guided hike to magnificent Jackson Falls or see them from above by helicopter.

Enjoy breakfast surrounded by the stunning turquoise waters of Swift Bay. Then join the hunt for the black-lip oyster, which shouldn't be hard considering their generous proportions. Savour their incredible flavour direct from the rock – they don't come more 'au naturelle' than this. There are excellent Wandjina galleries nearby and the waters are alive with light game species such as queenfish, giant trevally and mackerel.

Don't miss: The pearl and diamond party. Enjoy a glass of bubbles while trying on exquisite, handcrafted pieces from expert jewellers from Allure, Jewels of the Kimberley and Kimberley Fine Diamonds.

Renowned for big barra and even bigger crocs, the Mitchell River is a favourite among anglers. Explore ancient lands from the helicopter, including spectacular Michell Falls and round out the day with the crew for cocktail hour and another unique dining experience.

Don't miss: Head upriver in the adventure boats for a refreshing swim in scenic Surveyors Creek – no crocs here!

See the "Bradshaws", ancient Aboriginal rock art and quite possibly the oldest 'paintings' in existence. Vansittart Bay has a reputation for producing monster mackerel, plus you can explore the local beaches and creeks by tender.

Don't miss: The sumptuous heli-picnic lunch amidst Eagle Falls' breathtaking scenery.

At high tide, the True North can cross the sand bar at the mouth of the mighty King George River for the picturesque journey upstream to the jewel in the crown, the King George Falls. Take a shower on the bow and then fly above the Twin Falls in a helicopter for yet another highlight. Then hear about the bombing of a state-ship during WWII and explore Tranquil Bay before heading to the frontier port of Wyndham.

Don't miss: A shower under the falls on the bow of the True North.

Your coach will transfer you to Kununurra for your homeward bound connection.

This itinerary can be taken from Broome to Kunnunurra and also in reverse. Use of the helicopter will incur additional cost. Speak to True North's friendly and experienced team for details.

From the Kimberley Waterfalls to the great coastal regions of Australia, Papua New Guinea and Indonesia, experience unspoilt nature in absolute luxury with the multi-awarded True North – experiences that redefine adventure.