Deal

Welcome to East Arnhem Land!

You will begin your adventures by flying into Gove (flight not included). Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to the colourful M/Y Wildcard where you will meet the crew before setting off on an afternoon cruise.

Lunch will be served on board as you cruise towards Cape Wilberforce, located at the top of Arnhem Land before running the gap between Wigram and Cotton Island. Weave between virgin islands spotted throughout the turquoise waters.

Depending on the tides, there may be an opportunity to go for a walk along one of the remote beaches for sunset. If not, you can enjoy the sunset from the deck.

After breakfast, you will cruise past Sphinx Head, an impressive 120m high cliff showcasing how wild, rugged, yet beautiful, this landscape really is. Jump into the zodiac and cruise north whilst trying your hand at fishing in these abundant waters as you explore the cliff faces with a few surprises along the way. Explore hidden caves (tide dependent), tucked away waterfalls and tread on what feels like virgin beaches.

Return to the Wildcard for lunch. This afternoon, you have some hiking options to choose from. There are many incredible walking tracks ranging from easy to hard. You may wish to try your hand further at some blue water fishing or simply put your feet up on the bow and enjoy the view.

This morning following breakfast, you will set off on a scenic voyage towards Mystery Bay through a scattering of islands and islets.

Venture into a gorgeous bay tucked away between three large islands. A long, pristine white sand beach will greet you, an almost secretive tidal lagoon will lure you. Cruise into the lagoon where you will be dropped off at the entrance to an underwater cave system. Swim through the caves and walk through caverns as you weave between ancient limestone gorges, millennia-old Indigenous art galleries and significant ceremonial places. You will emerge at the top and be greeted with a spectacular panoramic view over the entire island. Following on, you will be lead across to a beautiful set of caves all influenced by a nearby freshwater spring. During the wet season, this is a spectacular waterfall. Admire the wild gallery, with timeless art etched into cave walls. Take a dip in the fresh spring water lagoon which also enters the mouth of the cave. Enjoy a mini wildlife experience where you can find yabbies and fish you won’t see anywhere else in the world. Before setting off, enjoy a delicious meal served on the beach.

Now you start entering the Wessel Islands. Learn from your crew about the fascinating history of the area you will spend the next few days exploring.

This morning following breakfast, steam along following the cliff line. You edge closer towards the tropical tidal rivers which are only accessible to non-Indigenous people carrying appropriate entry permits. Spend time fishing, beach walking and try your hand at spear fishing. Hunting for crayfish is also on the agenda. You only take what you need and the rest is released back into the wilderness.

Today, cruise to Picture Bay. Explore on foot as you follow a locally etched island track to reach a secret and private lagoon. Witness a picturesque waterfall flowing into the bay. The surrounding escarpment is influenced by rainforest – the backdrop is unexpected, yet spectacular. Follow the edge trail along the side of the cliffs leading to another waterfall and freshwater lagoon, where you can take a refreshing dip. Please note to reach the swimming hole, it is steep in parts and a high level of fitness is required. Spend the afternoon relaxing on board Wildcard, cruising through the beautiful sapphire waters.

Enjoy breakfast on board before heading to the unique Finger Falls, which tumbles directly into the ocean. Follow a steep track to the top of the falls where you will be surprised with a scattering of natural infinity pools. For those feeling like a buzz, you may sit in the pools as the water rushes over you and falls into the ocean below. Continue across Cumberland Strait, a tidal split between two islands, and over to Hopeful Bay which opens out into the Arafura Sea, part of the Indian Ocean. Visit Australia Bay and learn about the significant historical moment which took place here.

Weave around Raragala Island, home to the highest point in the Wessel Islands at 130m above sea level. Dock offshore as you stop off at Raragala Island for an early morning stroll among the dunes just back from the untouched beach. Witness an array of seabirds squabbling among the hindered bush scrub. Back on board, breathe in as you squeeze through the Gulgari Rip, also known as ‘Hole in the Wall’. Gape at the narrowness of the passage, the birdlife and the large white paint graffiti on the rock walls which has been left by previous ships.

The sky this evening will be unlike anything you have ever seen. A true blanket of stars, more vivid than anywhere else you may have been. Take the time to stargaze and reflect upon the incredible journey you have experienced.