Coral Adventurer in the Coffin Bay region on the southern tip of the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia. Photos: Supplied.
The clock is ticking as departure draws near for the highly anticipated ‘’coastal legend’’ circumnavigation of Australia by Coral Expeditions. This epic 60-day expedition around Australia on Coral Adventurer leaves Cairns on 17 October.
The 2025 voyage is designed to offer a unique and immersive experience of Australia’s coastal landscapes and cultural heritage. Be one of only 112 holidaymakers as they embark on a journey to discover the “legendary people and places of our island home, girt by sea”.
This rare itinerary ventures deeply into the remote coastal shores of Australia to savour rare wildlife encounters and visit significant heritage sites that tell the story of this nation’s unique history.
Master of Coral Adventurer, Captain Matthew Fryer, is eager to communicate his enthusiasm for this significant voyage.
“I invite you to join me on this extraordinary journey as we explore the hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes of our great land, from remote shores to vibrant marine life,” he said.
”Together, we’ll share in the spirit of adventure, creating memories that will last a lifetime.”
With 48 days of curated excursions and three signature events, including a cultural festival in the Torres Strait, a winemaker’s lunch at Leeuwin Estate and an outback adventure in Longreach, this expedition offers an in-depth, immersive experience guided by expert crew and local specialists.
Snorkelling at Ashmore Reef in the Indian Ocean, about 630 kilometres north of Broome, Western Australia.
It will be a remarkable expedition of a lifetime as connections are made with remote natural places, significant historical sites, amazing natural encounters, and small cultural communities of Australia. This is said to be a unique and pioneering expedition to discover the legend of Terra Australis Incognita.
Look at the variations: the voyage can be booked as a full circumnavigation or as two shorter segments: ‘’Across the Top of Australia’’ (Cairns to Fremantle) and ‘’Great Southern Shores’’ (Fremantle to Sydney).
Highlights of the trip departing Cairns and running from 17 October – 16 December are:
- Remote islands and coastal regions.
- Cape York and Arnhem Land.
- Torres Strait and Tiwi Islands.
- Kimberley region.
- Three signature events designed to immerse guests in Australian culture, food and history.
- 48 excursion days to explore various locations.
Scott Reef is 270 kilometres off Western Australia’s Kimberley Coast.
The Australian circumnavigation includes a rich onboard program and excursions spanning Australia’s iconic coastline, from the Torres Strait islands to the Great Southern Ocean and the Great Barrier Reef. This voyage offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Australia’s diverse landscapes and coastal communities, making it a true adventure for those seeking an intimate connection with the country.
The features of these expeditions make them distinctive, but highlights are too many to mention briefly. Even so, here are some insights.
Special guest lecturers Ian Morris and Goyma Gondarra will be featured in the sector under ‘’Across the Top: Cairns, Cape York, the Kimberley and Ashmore Reef’’. Snorkel and dive in the pristine marine environs of Lizard Island, Rowley Shoals and the remote and untouched Ashmore Reef.
Natural and human historian Howard Gray will be a special guest on the ‘’Island Outposts of Western Australia: Rowley Shoals to Albany’’ section. Experience ranger-guided wildlife excursions to discover rare seabirds and marine mammals at island outposts of the Lacepedes, Montebello and Muiron islands.
Guest lecturers Quentin Chester and Dale Arnott will be on the ‘’Crossing the Great Southern Ocean: Albany to Launceston’’ course. Sail past the striking Bunda Cliffs and the 12 Apostles and share the waters with abundant colonies of seals, sea lions, dolphins and migratory seabirds.
Marine biologist and zoologist Sandra Reimer will be the lecturer on the ‘’Homeward bound East Coast and Great Barrier Reef: Launceston to Cairns’ route. Snorkel and kayak among the shipwrecks at Tangalooma, discover pristine World Heritage wilderness and culture on K’gari (Fraser Island) and sail through the stunning Whitsunday Islands in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
It will be time soon to set sail for thrilling sea escapades!
