Great Australian Bight: 13-Night All-Inclusive Coral Expedition Cruise with Luxe Pre- & Post-Cruise Stays & Roundtrip Flights
Marvel at the spectacular beauty of the Great Australian Bight’s stunning coastline and sparkling waters on a 13-night expedition cruise onboard the purpose-built Coral Geographer (max. 120 guests) from Fremantle to Adelaide (or reverse). Begin your experience with a one-night pre-cruise stay at the historic and stylish Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges (or similar), before setting sail through soul-stirring landscapes steeped in legend. Witness magnificent coastal vistas, deepen your understanding of maritime history and gaze at remarkable wildlife along the way.
Prepare to be awe-struck throughout this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to cross the Great Australian Bight and visit hard-to-reach islands and iconic National Parks along the coast. Join guided walks along secluded beaches and snorkel untouched waters, swim with stingrays at Hamelin Bay and stroll through the vines in Margaret River while tasting some of the best drops in the region. Onboard Coral Geographer, you’ll be treated to all-inclusive dining, drinks including select wines, premium spirits and speciality coffee, and all shore excursions with an experienced guide and insightful lectures. To round out your experience, enjoy a two-night stay at the Hilton Adelaide (or similar) post-cruise and roundtrip flights from selected cities.
Your journey takes you to: Fremantle — Eagle Bay and Cape Naturaliste — Hamelin Bay — Margaret River — Augusta — Breaksea Island and Two Peoples Bay — Bremer Bay and Point Ann — Woody Island — Cape Le Grand National Park (Lucky Bay) — Yokinup Bay — Streaky Bay — Coffin Bay — Adelaide. (Please note this cruise also operates in reverse).
Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom: Upgrade to this stylish stateroom and admire the ever-changing landscape from your private furnished balcony.
Cruise with Confidence: We work directly with our trusted partners and provide 24/7 customer service to ensure that no matter what happens, we’re here to help. If your cruise is affected by Covid-19 restrictions, we will do our best to assist you within the restrictions of the individual cruise operator as outlined in the Fine Print.
The Coral Expedition Cruise — All-inclusive drinks and dining, spacious stateroom and expert-guided excursions
Step aboard Coral Geographer, the latest addition to Coral Expeditions’ sophisticated fleet. Purpose-built for expedition cruising, this magnificent vessel has the unique ability to access remote wilderness shores — taking you closer to unspoiled vistas in comfort, style and safety.
Share your yacht-like cruising experience with an intimate group of like-minded travellers (up to 120 guests) and relax across over a thousand square metres of open deck space, and well-appointed communal lounge and dining areas including a wrap-around promenade deck with panoramic views and the outdoor Explorer Bar, which offers the perfect spot for sunset drinks. The Geographer also features a curated wine cellar with an exceptional range of boutique wines and vintage Australian reds.
This small ship features six zodiacs and two trademark Xplorer tenders, specially designed for smaller remote sites and natural habitats. Your journey of discovery will be enhanced by expert guides, including a marine biologist, and directed by local crew members from Australia.
Indulge in freshly prepared cuisine featuring the best local ingredients, relax and enjoy quality local beers and wines at one of the multiple indoor and outdoor bars, discover a classic in the library, and take in a lecture in the lounge with daily expedition briefings and presentations… the choice is yours.
Important: Selected departures operate in reverse from Adelaide to Fremantle. Please select your package carefully.
Bridge Deck Balcony Suite: Upgrade to this stylish suite and admire the ever-changing landscape from your private furnished balcony.
Pre and Post-Cruise Stays – Relax with luxurious stays at Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges and Hilton Adelaide
Kick-off your stay in style at the stylish Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges (or similar) and discover the many charms of Fremantle. Originally built in 1850, the façade of the Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges is a truly iconic sight and a landmark building in Western Australia.
Post-cruise, escape to Hilton Adelaide (or similar). This stylish central stay is the perfect launchpad from which to discover South Australia.
The Coral Geographer:
- Bridge Deck Lounge
- Bridge Deck Bar
- Dining Room
- Wine cellar
- Gym
- Wi-Fi (in guest areas)
- Explorer Bar
- Navigator Lounge
- Library
- Engine room tours
- Lecture lounge
- Six Zodiac vessels
- Two Xplorer vessels
- Anchor-free technology
Surcharges may apply to select facilities and services
Your cruise begins with a one night stay in Fremantle and ends in Adelaide with a two-night stay. Important: Selected departures operate in reverse from Adelaide to Fremantle. Please select your package carefully.
Your cruise departs Fremantle at 5pm on Day 2 (boarding commences at 4pm) and ends in Adelaide at 2pm on Day 15. Please ensure you arrive in time for boarding.
Transfers to and from the ship are not included. You will need to make your own way to the cruise ship. Please plan accordingly.
Roundtrip economy-class flights are included from Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide. Departures from other cities are available for a surcharge. Please see the ‘Fine Print’ for details.
A transfer from the ship to your post-cruise accommodation is included on day 15 only. Transfers from the airport to your pre-cruise accommodation, and from your pre-cruise accommodation to the ship are not inlcuded. You will need to make your own way to the ship by 4pm on Day 2. Please plan accordingly.
When travelling within Australia, please check current state/territory border entry requirements to ensure you’re eligible to travel and have completed any required permits or passes.
Need flights? Australian customers can now purchase flights with or without accommodation packages. We are working hard to launch this functionality in other markets. For now, our dedicated flights concierge can assist with all your flight requirements. Contact sales@luxuryescapes.com.
Important: Selected departures operate in reverse from Adelaide to Fremantle. Please select your package carefully.
Day 1: Arrive in Perth, Western Australia
Your journey begins with an included flight from Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), Brisbane (BNE) or Adelaide (ADL) to Perth (PER). On arrival at the airport, make your own way to the stylish Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges (or similar) — a beautiful heritage hotel dating back to 1850 – and check into your pre-cruise accommodation. The day is all yours to explore this laidback corner of Western Australia. Perth may be one of the most isolated cities on earth, but there’s plenty to do in this bustling metropolis. Why not get a taste of the city on a gourmet walking tour, pop over to Rottnest Island to spot some quokkas or get a taste for local fare in Fremantle.
Want to know more about Perth? Our insider travel guide includes handpicked places to eat and drink, the best activities in the area, and special experiences to make your trip memorable.
Accommodation: Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges (or similar)
Day 2: Perth — Fremantle Embarkation
Rise and shine with a hearty breakfast and time to explore at your own pace. A SailSAFE check-in at the Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges will be conducted at 2pm before you make your way to the cruise terminal prior to boarding at 4pm. Board the Coral Geographer and settle into your stateroom. Take time to become acquainted with all the facilities onboard as you cruise east towards the Great Australian Bight. As dusk falls, meet your fellow travellers, the captain and crew for the Captain’s Welcome Drinks.
Accommodation: Coral Geographer
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Please Note: Each itinerary will include a mix of the following attractions, depending on prevailing conditions. The Captain and Expedition Team will make daily itinerary changes to maximise the guest experience and take advantage of opportunities opened up by the weather. There will be a daily briefing onboard to advise guests on the upcoming day’s activities.
Eagle Bay and Cape Naturaliste
Spend your day exploring the vast walking trails that cover this region, with options to suit all levels, then vsit the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse before spending some free time in the charming town of Dunsborough. In the afternoon, visit the stunning Meelup Beach for some sunbathing and swimming, followed by sunset drinks on the beach.
Hamelin Bay and Margaret River
Hamelin Bay is tucked away on the southwest coast and is famous for the abundance of stingrays that call this area home. Snorkel with these friendly giant rays or swim out further to one of the many shipwrecks in the area.
The afternoon will take you to the gorgeous wineries of the Margaret River region as you relax on a luxury coach tour of the wineries in this area with included tastings and cellar door visits sure to please wine-lovers and gourmands.
Augusta
Soaked in history, Augusta is an exciting port for adventurers and history buffs alike. Here, you’ll climb Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse on mainland Australia overlooking the point where the mighty Southern and Indian Oceans collide. You will also have the opportunity to explore Jewel Cave, an awe-inspiring cave containing a very large stalagmite called ‘The Karri Forest’, along with other natural wonders. During your time here, roam through the town that was charted by Matthew Flinders between 1801 and 1803 and soak up as much history as you can.
Breaksea Island and Two Peoples Bay
Venture to Breaksea Island, where you’ll observe the local seals in their natural habitat. The playful and curious fur seals and Australian sea lions have made their home on the north side of the island, and there will be ample opportunities for you to marvel as they laze on nearby rocks or glide gracefully through the water.
Later in the day, set your sights on Two Peoples Bay and enjoy the chance to spot rare birds including a Noisy Scrubbird, Red-Winged Fairywren, Southern Emu-Wren or New Holland Honeyeater, or you can dive into the refreshing waters for an invigorating dip.
Bremer Bay and Point Ann
Prepare to be impressed by Bremer Bay, home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Explore the variety of small and large beaches around the area, and spend your afternoon relaxing, swimming, or snorkelling in the clear blue waters.
Later, there may be time to visit Point Ann, located in the Fitzgerald National Park, where you can venture to the Point Ann platform to gaze across the ocean, while an easy 1.5-kilometre bush walk follows the site of the original rabbit proof fence and boasts exceptional views over Point Charles Bay.
Woody Island
Cruise through the Recherche Archipelago, a group of 105 islands and rocky outcrops. Look out across the dazzling blue water and admire the beautiful seascape before reaching Woody Island, just 15km off the coast of Esperance, where you can snorkel the pristine, clear waters.
Lucky Bay
This will be one for the memory books: a visit to Cape Le Grand National Park. Explore the massive granite peaks and sweeping white beaches, where you may be fortunate enough to spot kangaroos lazing on the white sand. The turquoise water is wonderful for a quick swim, and if time permits, you will enjoy a moderate hike on part of the Le Grand Coastal trail. The Cape Le Grande coastal trail passes through beautiful coastal scenery, and the national park is home to pygmy possums, western grey kangaroos and many colourful native wildflowers.
Yokinup Bay
Explore the pristine wilderness of Cape Arid National Park. Broad white beaches washed by blue seas create a beautiful vista at Yokinup Bay, an absolutely unmissable view. Discover the Thomas River estuary for birdwatching – you might spot honeyeaters, pied oystercatchers and hooded plovers, among many others.
Streaky Bay
Streaky Bay and the surrounding district are renowned for the great variety of landscapes, from largely untouched native scrubland and farming country to cliffs and extensive surf beaches, and including in your time is a guided walking tour of the town.
Coffin Bay
Bordered by ocean and national parks, Coffin Bay is a breathtaking destination. The pristine waters of the bays are home to numerous pods of dolphins, sea lions and seals, and an abundance of seabirds soaring above the picturesque landscape. Emus and kangaroos roam freely and the kaleidoscopic beauty of the turquoise sea, powder-white dunes and bright blue sky offer a wonderful, contrasting backdrop to unforgettable adventures.
Make the most of the opportunity to snorkel or kayak and keep an eye out for the colourful marine life before embarking on an unforgettable wild cuisine experience. Hop into some waterproof waders and take a seat at the Saltwater Pavilion to shuck and taste your own delicious Coffin Bay oysters.
Day 15: Adelaide Disembarkation
Disembark in Adelaide at 2pm and enjoy a transfer to Hilton Adelaide (or similar), your home-away-from-home for two nights.
Accommodation: Hilton Adelaide (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 16: Adelaide
Today is all yours to explore the trendy South Australian capital. Perhaps begin the day with a morning stroll through the breathtaking Adelaide Botanic Garden or immerse yourself in a visual masterpiece at the Art Gallery of South Australia. You might like to pre-book a city tour or get historic at Adelaide Gaol and the Old Treasury & Tunnels (additional costs apply). Or, why not pick out a new outfit at Rundle Mall, home to 700 retailers, before stopping for lunch at one of the city’s incredible restaurants?
Accommodation: Hilton Adelaide (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Day 17: Depart Adelaide.
Make your own way to Adelaide Airport (ADL) for your included flight to Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), Brisbane (BNE) or Perth (PER).
Meals: Breakfast
Update [7 July 2022, 1pm AEST]: Fine Print has been updated, please see below.
Booking summary: Purchasing this deal does not complete your booking. A booking form will be emailed to you after purchase. Please complete the Traveller’s Details within 48 hours.
IMPORTANT: Failure to complete your booking form may result in forfeiting your booking. Once your booking form has been finalised a member of the Luxury Escapes Cruise Team will process your booking and email the cruise line confirmation to your chosen email address. You will then be required to complete your online check-in and print your e-ticket and baggage tags; you will also be able to add beverage packages, specialty dining, shore excursions, spa treatments, etc.
This Cruise package is valid for the following departure dates:
- Fremantle to Adelaide – 23 October 2022 (pre-cruise stay 22 October 2022)
- Adelaide to Fremantle – 16 November 2022 (pre-cruise stay 14 November 2022)
Booking Process
- Select which package option you would like, taking care to choose the correct cabin option
- Click on the green ‘Check Availability’ tab
- Using the plus or minus adjust the number of people you would like to book then click the ‘View Available Dates & Prices’ tab
- Click the blue ‘Select’ button then the green ‘Review & Payment’ tab at the bottom right of the screen
- Fill out your preferred payment method and click the green ‘Pay Securely Now’ tab
- Once your order is complete, you will receive your Luxury Escapes automated booking summary email (this is not your cruise confirmation), and you will be prompted to complete your Traveller Details within 48 hours of purchase
- You will then be contacted by the Luxury Escapes Cruise Concierge team who will collect your Traveller Details
- The Luxury Escapes Cruise Concierge team will then also contact you to advise if your cruise is confirmed
- Should you require assistance with your cruise, please contact our Cruise Concierge team on cruises@luxuryescapes.com who will be happy to assist with any of your queries and who will support you right up until you return from your journey
IMPORTANT: The Twin-Share Package is valid for ONE PERSON (based on twin share). You must purchase TWO PACKAGES.
Solo Traveller Surcharge: Solo travellers must pay a surcharge and are subject to availability. Please contact Luxury Escapes to enquire.
Please note that packages cannot be split.
AMENDMENTS & CHANGES
Name Change or Corrections
- Name corrections may incur a fee.
- Name changes are not permitted.
48-Hour Change of Mind ‘No Questions Asked’ Refund Guarantee
- All cruise bookings have a 48-hour ‘Change of Mind Guarantee’ where any monies paid (less unrecoverable costs) within 48 hours of the initial purchase date will be refunded – no questions asked.
- Bookings outside the 48-hour ‘Change of Mind’ window will be non-refundable.
Cabin Sizes and Bedding Configuration
This cruise includes the following cabin types:
- Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom: Up to 21.4sqm. Twin beds or junior king bed.
- Promenade Deck Stateroom: Up to 17sqm. Twin beds or junior king bed.
- Coral Deck Stateroom: Up to 17sqm. Twin beds or junior king bed.
Pre-/Post-Cruise Accommodation:
- Fremantle — Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges(Superior Room) (or similar)
- Adelaide — Hilton Adelaide (Queen Room) (or similar)
IMPORTANT:
- Cabins are on a ‘guarantee’ basis and will be allocated by the cruise line closer to sailing. Specific cabin, deck and location requests cannot be accommodated.
- Some cabins may have obstructed views and/or porthole window.
- Maximum room capacity is one adult for solo travellers, two adults for twin-share cabins/suites/staterooms.
- Wheelchair accessible staterooms are available on request and subject to availability. Surcharges may apply.
Inclusions
- Pre and post-accommodation.
- Roundtrip flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide to either Perth or Adelaide
- 13 nights aboard the Coral Geographer in the stateroom of your choice
- Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner onboard, as well as morning and afternoon tea
- Selected wines, beers and spirits, soft drinks and juices with lunch and dinner
- Complimentary 24-hour tea and coffee
- All shore excursions with a highly experienced guide
- Complimentary onboard entertainment, including presentations, briefings and workshops
- All entrance fees to national parks and gratuities onboard
Exclusions
- Transfers to and from the airport or cruise ship (unless otherwise stated)
- Visas
- Single supplement
- Meals/drinks not stated in the itinerary/inclusions
- Speciality dining
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Dining inclusions do not include drinks (unless otherwise stated). Menus are subject to change without notice.
- Transfers to and from cruise ship
- City taxes or resort fees may apply and are payable directly to the hotel on arrival
Onboard Dining
- Dining times onboard can vary between sailings. We ask for your preference, however, your preferred dining time may not be available. We suggest that you speak with the maître d’ once onboard.
Age Restrictions
- No minimum age applies. Please note, that there are no child-minding facilities or dedicated children’s areas onboard. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied, in the same or connecting cabin, by a parent or other responsible adult over the age of 21 for the duration of the voyage.
- Children aged under 10 years and under must share a stateroom with an adult, parent or guardian.
Travel Insurance
- Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Luxury Escapes recommends purchasing travel insurance as soon as possible after purchasing this package.
Passports & Visas
- A valid passport or government-issued photo identification is required for all passengers. A current Medicare card can be used for guests under 18 years of age and must be presented upon embarkation.
- When travelling within Australia, please check current state/territory border entry requirements to ensure you’re eligible to travel and have completed any required permits or passes.
Health & Vaccinations
- Travellers are advised to check recommended vaccinations with their local health professional at least 45 days prior to departure, as some vaccinations require 30 days or more to be effective.
- Proof of vaccination is not usually required unless you are coming from an infected area.
- Proof of Yellow Fever vaccinations is required for entry into some countries, in particular in Africa. Please check with your health professional that you hold the appropriate vaccination entry requirements for your destination.
- Guests may be required to provide evidence of proof of vaccination against COVID 19 from our ground operator prior to embarkation. Please contact the Luxury Escapes Cruises Concierge team on cruises@luxuryescapes.com for further information.
- Important: The hotel, transportation and/or destination you are travelling to may have health, insurance and vaccination requirements in place. Please ensure you stay up to date with any requirements prior to your departure
Flights:
- Roundtrip economy-class airfares are included in your package, departing from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide to either Perth or Adelaide with Qantas, Virgin Australia or similar. Surcharges to depart from other cities will apply.
- Preferred airline seating is the responsibility of the passenger. For any specific airline seat reservations, contact the airline with the booking number included on your cruise summary email.
- Cabin upgrades are not available.
- Flight Change of Date: The change of date fee is A$200 per person plus any applicable additional airfare and taxes. After airline tickets have been issued, your package can only be changed by paying an additional A$350 per person airline change fee plus any applicable airfares and taxes.
- Flights are non-refundable. A credit can be obtained for future use with the same airline. Credit must be used within 12 months of the original ticket date. The new dates must be on the same airline and of equal or higher value. If a higher value, a fare and tax difference will be payable. A A$50 Luxury Escapes service fee will apply when using your airline credit.
Baggage Restrictions and Timings
- Passengers are permitted one piece of checked-in baggage with a maximum weight of 23kg.
- Passengers are permitted one carry-on piece with a maximum weight of 7kg.
- Timing provided on the itinerary is based on current schedules provided by airline and can change at any time without notice.
Currency Onboard and Tipping
- The currency onboard is A$.
- Tipping and gratuities are included in your package.
Fitness Requirements
- Travellers should have a good level of physical fitness and mobility and must be able to negotiate uneven surfaces and climb stairs.
- Disability access is limited during the cruise, please consider this when making your booking.
- Travellers acknowledge that they are required to have a good level of health and fitness to undertake any activities in this package. Further, travellers acknowledge and agree that neither Luxury Escapes nor the third-party provider will be able to provide medical or other assistance in the event that they are unable to complete any aspect of the tour as a result of their health or physical condition (nor is Luxury Escapes liable for any loss, damage, expense, injury or death arising from such).
Surcharges
Any prices quoted exclude specific costs/measures which may be introduced at a later stage as a result of Government changes due to COVID-19 health and safety restrictions. Our trusted third-party suppliers will inform guests of these changes as soon as possible.
Covid Safe Plan:
See the cruise’s policy here.
Prevention:
- Group transfers
Mitigation:
- Medical-grade sanitisation
- Safe food and drink practices
- Medic on board
- Physical distancing
Response:
- Quarantine and evacuation plan
PLEASE NOTE:
Luxury Escapes reserves the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Refer to website’s terms and conditions.
Cruise itineraries are not guaranteed and are subject to change. While the cruise line will make all reasonable efforts to provide a cruise in accordance with the published schedules and itineraries, factors such as weather, mechanical difficulties or other unforeseen circumstances may affect scheduled itineraries.
Package inclusions are correct at the time of purchase. Refer to your booking summary email for details.
Please note this cruise is operated by Coral Expeditions, one of our trusted partners. You will be contacted post-purchase with further details.