Discovering Ningaloo
Australian Geographic Society director Kerry Morrow reports on her voyage aboard Coral Discoverer to the pristine waters of World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia.
LIKE SO many adventurous, natureloving Aussies, I’ve long wanted to see and experience the legendary coastal location of Ningaloo. So, when I was asked to represent the Society on the 12-night Ningaloo and the Bluewater Wonders of Australia’s West cruise with Coral Expeditions, I jumped at the chance. I’m just back from this 12-night experience and let me get straight to the point: what a superb trip!
We set out from the pearling and tourist town of Broome, on the Kimberley coast, and cruised north-west to the spectacular Rowley Shoals Marine Park and then the Dampier Archipelago. There, on a visit to Dolphin Island, we saw ancient petroglyphs and explored the area’s fascinating geology.
In the crystal clear water we saw rays, turtles and sharks. Further south we snorkelled with beautiful fish over enormous plate corals at the Muiron Islands.
Next stop, Exmouth, and more swimming in spectacularly clear blue water with extraordinary marine life, this time with huge and graceful mantra rays. Wow! Visits to the mainland on the Coral Coast included a picnic at picturesque Yardie Creek.
At the Montebello Islands we went ashore to search for the elusive rufous hare-wallaby and I’m pleased to say we spotted one of the gorgeous russet-coloured beauties.
Oh, and did I mention the whales? So many! I think we saw them every evening while having sunset drinks.
The locations and wildlife were, without question, spectacular. But what really made this trip was travelling with such interesting and interested people. It highlighted for me the connection and parallels between the AG Society and Coral Expeditions, with crew and passengers alike engaging in adventure and fostering a love for Australia’s environment and natural heritage.
To top it all off, the level of service was outstanding from a crew that included onboard marine biologists and other experts.
Join AG’s Dr Dean Miller aboard Coral Discover to explore Ningaloo and other Coral Coast bluewater wonders.
WHO: Coral Expeditions
DATE: 7–19 September 2020
COST: From $11,590pp (twin share) BOOKINGS: Call Coral Expeditions on 1800 079 545 or email explore@coralexpeditions.com