Australia travelers hike along the rocky, sandy top of an island at sunset with purple clouds above & blue sea below.
Woman traveler leans down to talk with a boy during a Cape York & Arnhem Land small ship cruise in northern Australia.
a small boat anchors on shore while adventure travelers board on the Cape York and Arnhem Land australia small ship cruise
Tropical brightly-colored fish swim amongst healthy reef in turquoise waters, seen on the Cape York & Arnhem Land cruise.
Man in dark cowboy hat, checkered shirt & jeans kneels down & smiles beneath indigenous rock art, seen in Arnhem Land.
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$8535USD
Starting At
12
Days
Mar
Apr
Sep
Oct
Asia / Pacific Australia Cruise

Cape York & Arnhem Land

On this 11- or 12-day Cape York-based expedition of the remote Northern Australian coastline, cruise between Cairns and either Horn Island or Darwin to experience traditions unchanged for centuries, sacred rock art and remote lands only permitted accessible by a fortunate few. Become immersed in the ancient indigenous cultures and prehistoric landscapes found along the northern reaches of Australia’s coastline. Land at the northernmost tip of Australia at Pajinka on Cape York for a champagne toast. Learn and understand the song-lines and lore that shaped this ancient culture, and allow your expert guide to interpret ancient rock art. This journey follows in the wake of Captain James Cook’s voyage of discovery into the communities and cultures of the people of this remarkable coast almost 250 years ago.

The 12-day Cape York & Arnhem Land itinerary (operating east- and westbound) features both northeastern and northern Australian coastline, visiting sites in both Queensland and the Northern Territories. This voyage of discovery takes you far off the beaten track with unique visits to Arnhem Land. An anthropologic journey, this Australian small ship cruise explores the rich cultures of the Tiwi and the Torres Strait, where guests are warmly welcomed to the country. Journey into traditional lands from Cape York and into Yolngu territory in Arnhem Land. See how generations have passed on artistic traditions and how this important cultural legacy is being kept alive today at world renowned art centers.

Passage is aboard the 72-guest Coral Discoverer, an expedition ship featuring a uniquely Australian onboard atmosphere with stylish furnishings, considerable deck space and modern facilities. While exploring Australia’s northernmost territory, appreciate your ship’s glass-bottom boat and Xplorer tender with a water-activity platform for easy entry into the water.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Australia cruises.



Itinerary

Cape York & Arnhem Land: Westbound Itinerary

The 12-day westbound Cape York & Arnhem Land cruise begins in Cairns, travels north to Cape York then west to Darwin, Australia. 

Route map of westbound Cape York & Arnhem Land cruise in Australia, operating between Darwin & Cairns with visits to Tiwi Islands, Cobourg Peninsula, Maningrida, Nhulunbuy (Gove) & the islands of Elcho, Wessel, Thursday, Forbes, Stanley & Lizard.
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Day 1
Embark Cairns, Australia

Arrive at Trinity Wharf (berth to be advised) at 4:00pm, where there is time to settle into your stateroom before your 5:00pm departure. Take the time to become acquainted with all the facilities on board before joining your fellow explorers on the Sun Deck for the captain’s welcome drinks, then sit down to the first of many delicious dinners.

Accommodations

Coral Discoverer

Meals

dinner

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Days 2 - 11
Exploration of Cape York & Arnhem Land

No two Cape York & Arnhem Land cruises are the same. Each expedition is crafted by experienced captains and expedition leaders around weather and community requirements. Below is a selection of the key destinations visited.

Lizard Island (Dyiigurra)
Explore secluded Lizard Island, one of the most beautiful islands on the Queensland coast. Venture into the crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkeling or take a walk along the sparkling white beach. An energetic guided walk leads to Cook’s Look—from this peak, Captain James Cook was able to sight a navigable passage through the treacherous reef after repairing the HMS Endeavour near Cooktown over 250 years ago. The views from the lookout over the reef and islands are magnificent. Later, snorkel over giant clam gardens in the lagoon.

Flinders Group (Yindayin) & Davie Cay
Visit Stanley Island (Yindayin) in the Flinders Group and view the isolated Endaen Aboriginal rock art depicting the first sailing ships to visit Queensland shores, and hear stories from a traditional owner of the Yiithuwarra people. At Davie Reef, enjoy swimming and snorkeling, and observe the large seabird rookery.

Forbes Island (Wuthara) & Piper Islands National Park
Enjoy a day exploring Forbes Island, an excellent spot for swimming or snorkeling from the pristine sandy beaches. Take a walk to the grave of beche-de-mer fisherman Frederick Lancaster. In the afternoon, visit the Piper Islands National Park for beach combing and wildlife viewing. The Piper group consists of five islands (Beesley, Baird, Farmer and Fisher Islands and Kay Islet) that lie off the northeast coast of the Cape York Peninsula.

Thursday Island (Waiben) & The Tip of Cape York
At Thursday Island embark on a coach tour to view the many sites of this historic and culturally diverse island. Disembark at the Japanese Pearl Divers Memorial, and at the monument to Bernard Namok Senior who designed the Torres Strait Islands Flag. Visit and purchase art from renowned art centers and view exciting cultural performances. Later in the afternoon, set foot on the northernmost point of Australia–the tip of Cape York. Celebrate with a glass of sparkling at this iconic location as you watch the sunset over the Gulf of Carpentaria.

Badu Island
Have the unique opportunity to visit Badu Island. Visit the fabulous art center and enjoy the hospitality of the Badu islanders.

Day at Sea: Cruising the Gulf of Carpentaria
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea with time to attend informative presentations by your guest lecturers.

Yirrkala & Hole in the Wall
Visit the spectacular Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Center at Yirrkala, outside of Nhulunbuy. Here, the Yirrkala Art Center represents Yolngu artists from around the region. Established in 1976 as an act of self-determination, the art center has forged a vibrant path for Yolngu contemporary art. The museum built in 1988 houses a collection of works detailing historical artifacts and important moments, including the Message Sticks from 1935 and the Yirrkala Church Panels from 1963. Late this afternoon, travel through the narrow channel between Raragala and Guluwuru Islands in the Wessels Group, known as the Hole in the Wall.

Elcho Island (Galiwin’ku)
The friendly locals of Elcho Island proudly welcome you to their community at Galiwin’ku. Visit the art center and meet some of the local artists, some of whom have their unique art exhibited in the famous art galleries of the world including the Louvre.

Cobourg Peninsula, Victoria Settlement
The Garig Gunak Barlu National Park is a pristine wilderness. Now it is virtually uninhabited, and here one can explore the ruins of historic Fort Victoria and hear the stories of the failed settlement. On a nature walk, learn about bush tukka plants, and look for monitor lizards and crocodiles.

Tiwi Islands
Be welcomed to the Tiwi Islands with a smoking ceremony and dancing. With local Tiwi guides, learn about the unique Tiwi culture and visit the art center. Enjoy a cultural performance and painting or basket-weaving demonstration before enjoying a traditional Australian morning tea of damper and billy tea.

Accommodations

Coral Discoverer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 12
Disembark Darwin, Australia

Arrive and disembark at Darwin’s Fort Hill Wharf at 8:30am. Post-cruise transfers to central business district hotels or the airport are included.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations as booked; cruise transportation; all meals on board; 24-hour coffee and tea; select wines and beers, house spirits, juices and soft drinks with lunch and dinner service; excursions and sightseeing, daily lectures and briefings, use of Xplorer and Zodiac tender vessels; use of all onboard facilities, including comprehensive range of library and video resources; use of snorkeling equipment such as masks, fins, flotation vests and wetsuits; standard WiFi on board; expedition diary, along with a photo and video gallery documenting the highlights of your voyage; tips and gratuities.

Exclusions

Pre- and post-flights and transfers; personal items such as telephone charges, WiFi upgrades, laundry, bar charges and travel insurance.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. A name change/transfer of the booking to another person is considered a cancellation and cancellation penalties will apply. An AUD200.00 per person fee may be charged for any amendments not requiring a date change after booking is confirmed. There is an AUD500.00 per person fee if a date change is made more than 90 days before departure. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 60 days – 50% of total trip cost
59 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The westbound Cape York & Arnhem Land cruise begins in Cairns, Queensland Australia (CNS), and ends in Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia (DRW). Plan flights to arrive to Cairns in time for a 4:00pm boarding and 5:00pm departure on Day 1 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart Darwin following the 8:30am disembarkation on the final day. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include land treks, historical visits, swimming, snorkeling, wildlife observation, beachcombing, cultural visits and Xplorer tours.

Room Configuration

Limited double occupancy cabins for solo use may be available at a sole use rate in the Promenade Deck B category. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Kids 12 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; exceptions for children 11 years and under may be allowed with special pre-approval.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

As a condition of travel, guests must provide evidence of travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage OR complete a credit card authorization form for expenses incurred during a medical evacuation. Proof of travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage OR a completed authorization form must be provided prior to boarding.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Cape York & Arnhem Land: - Art-Themed Itinerary

The 12-day eastbound Cape York & Arnhem Land – Art-Themed cruise begins in Darwin, travels east to Cape York then south to Cairns, Australia. 

Route map of eastbound Cape York & Arnhem Land cruise in Australia, operating between Cairns & Darwin with visits to Cooktown, Lizard Island, Bremer Island, Hole in the Wall & Cobourg Peninsula.
Read More
Day 1
Embark Darwin, Australia to Tiwi Islands

Arrive at Darwin Fort Hill Wharf at 7:00am, where there is time to settle into your stateroom before your 8:00am departure. Take the time to become acquainted with all the facilities onboard as you steam towards the Tiwi Islands. During your time in Bathurst Island with local guides, learn of the unique culture and visit the art center. Be welcomed with a cultural performance and basket-weaving exhibition before enjoying a traditional Australian afternoon tea of damper and billy tea. In the evening as you return to the ship, enjoy the captain’s welcome drinks before the first of many delicious dinners.

Accommodations

Coral Discoverer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 2 - 11
Exploration of Cape York & Arnhem Land

No two Cape York & Arnhem Land cruises are the same. Each expedition is crafted by experienced captains and expedition leaders around weather and community requirements. Below is a selection of the key destinations visited.

Cobourg Peninsula, Victoria Settlement
Discover Garig Gunak Barlu National Park on the Cobourg Peninsula. Walk through Port Essington, famous for the failed Victoria Settlement, and explore the ruins while learning about the fascinating history of this early colonial outpost.

Maningrida
Anchor in the mouth of the Liverpool River and travel ashore to explore the Maningrida Art Center, museum and the local boutique, where hand-painted textiles can be purchased.

Elcho Island (Galiwin’ku)
The friendly locals of Elcho Island proudly welcome you to their community at Galiwin’ku. Visit the art center and meet some of the local artists, some of whom have their unique art exhibited in the famous art galleries of the world including the Louvre. Later tides permitting, the ship will cruise through the Hole in the Wall–also known as Gugari Rip–a narrow channel in between Raragala and Guluwuru Islands that formed when one island was split into two in the last ice age.

Yirrkala Art Center & Bremer Island
Visit the spectacular Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Center at Yirrkala, outside of Nhulunbuy.  Here, the Yirrkala Art Center represents Yolŋu artists from around the region. Established in 1976 as an act of self-determination, the art center has forged a vibrant path for Yolŋu contemporary art. The museum built in 1988 houses a collection of works detailing historical artifacts and important moments, including the Message Sticks from 1935 and the Yirrkala Church Panels from 1963. This afternoon visit Bremer Island, or Dhambaliya as it is known by the traditional owners of the area. This island is home to an eco-sensitive beach retreat built in partnership with the Yolgnu people of the region. Spend the morning beachcombing, bird watching and taking in the scenic surrounds.

Day at Sea: Cruising the Gulf of Carpentaria
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea with time to attend informative presentations by your guest lecturers. You will hear about the fascinating history of the Makassan traders and early explorers of the Arnhem Land coast.

Badu Island
Have the unique opportunity to visit Badu Island. Visit the fabulous art center and enjoy the hospitality of the Badu islanders.

Thursday Island (Waiben) & The Tip of Cape York (Pajinka)
The Torres Strait is home to 200 strikingly beautiful islands, however only 17 are inhabited. At Thursday Island, embark on a coach tour to view the many sites of this historic and culturally diverse island. Disembark at the Japanese Pearl Divers Memorial, and at the monument to Bernard Namok Senior who designed the Torres Strait Islands Flag. Later experience ancient Torres Strait Islander culture with an unforgettable traditional dance, storytelling and musical show. Late afternoon, cruise to the Tip of Cape York and enjoy champagne while the sun sets. 

Piper Islands National Park & Restoration Island
Enjoy the morning exploring Forbes Island, an excellent spot for swimming or snorkeling from the pristine sandy beaches. Take a walk to the grave of beche-de-mer fisherman Frederick Lancaster. In the afternoon, visit the Piper Islands National Park for beachcombing and wildlife viewing. The Piper group consists of five islands (Beesley, Baird, Farmer and Fisher Islands and Kay Islet) that lie off the northeast coast of the Cape York Peninsula. These low and vegetated cays are home to many species of birds and are recognized by Bird Life International as an Important Bird Area.

Davie Reef & Flinders Group
Visit Stanley Island (Yindayin) in the Flinders Group and view the isolated Endaen Aboriginal rock art depicting the first sailing ships to visit Queensland shores, and hear stories from a traditional owner of the Yiithuwarra people. At Davie Reef, enjoy swimming and snorkeling, and observe the large seabird rookery.

Lizard Island (Dyiigurra)
Explore secluded Lizard Island, one of the most beautiful islands on the Queensland coast. Venture into the crystal clear waters for swimming and snorkeling, or take a walk along the sparkling white beach. An energetic guided walk leads to Cook’s Look–from this peak, Captain James Cook was able to sight a navigable passage through the treacherous reef after repairing the HMB Endeavour.

Accommodations

Coral Discoverer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 12
Disembark Cairns, Australia

Your Cape York Arnhem Land adventure concludes in Cairns this morning as you bid farewell to newfound friends, the Master and crew, disembarking at 8:00am.

A complimentary transfer is provided to central business district hotels or the airport. Transfers to the Northern Beaches or Port Douglas can be arranged on board with the Purser (at added cost), if not already arranged prior to embarkation.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations as booked; cruise transportation; all meals on board; 24-hour coffee and tea; select wines and beers, house spirits, juices and soft drinks with lunch and dinner service; excursions and sightseeing, daily lectures and briefings, use of Xplorer and Zodiac tender vessels; use of all onboard facilities, including comprehensive range of library and video resources; use of snorkeling equipment such as masks, fins, flotation vests and wetsuits; standard WiFi on board; expedition diary, along with a photo and video gallery documenting the highlights of your voyage; tips and gratuities.

Exclusions

Pre- and post-flights and transfers; personal items such as telephone charges, WiFi upgrades, laundry, bar charges and travel insurance.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. A name change/transfer of the booking to another person is considered a cancellation and cancellation penalties will apply. An AUD200.00 per person fee may be charged for any amendments not requiring a date change after booking is confirmed. There is an AUD500.00 per person fee if a date change is made more than 90 days before departure. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 60 days – 50% of total trip cost
59 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The eastbound Cape York & Arnhem Land cruise begins in Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia (DRW), and ends in Cairns, Queensland Australia (CNS). Plan flights to arrive to Darwin in time for a 7:00am boarding and 8:00am departure on Day 1 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart Cairns following the 8:00am disembarkation on the final day. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include land treks, historical visits, swimming, snorkeling, wildlife observation, beachcombing, cultural visits and Xplorer tours.

Room Configuration

Limited double occupancy cabins for solo use may be available at a sole use rate in the Promenade Deck B category (Coral Discoverer) or the Coral, Promenade and Explorer Deck categories (Coral Adventurer). Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Kids 12 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; exceptions for children 11 years and under may be allowed with special pre-approval.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

As a condition of travel, guests must provide evidence of travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage OR complete a credit card authorization form for expenses incurred during a medical evacuation. Proof of travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage OR a completed authorization form must be provided prior to boarding.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, National Park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Listed prices for this trip are based on foreign currency exchange rates and may vary. USD pricing will be calculated at the time of final payment based on the market conversion rate plus a 1% banking conversion fee of total invoiced amount. Please contact AdventureSmith for current pricing.

Mar 28 - Apr 08, 2026
Coral Discoverer • 12 days
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From $8535USD
Per Person
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Sep 21 - Oct 02, 2026
Coral Discoverer • 12 days
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Apr 12 - Apr 23, 2027
Coral Discoverer • 12 days
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From $8535USD
Per Person
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Sep 14 - Sep 25, 2027
Coral Discoverer • 12 days
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From $8535USD
Per Person
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Accommodation

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Expedition Ship
Coral Discoverer

The 72-guest Coral Discoverer maneuvers into special bays and inlets that are inaccessible to larger ships. Her bright outdoor spaces, authentic Australian hospitality and expedition-ready tools offer an elevated experience.

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