Kimberley Explorer
Kimberley Explorer
Kimberley Explorer
11 Days Starting in Darwin and ending in Broome
Visiting: Australia
Tour operator:
Ship Name:
Heritage AdventurerGuide Type:
Fully Guided
Ship Capacity:
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Join pioneering small ship expedition cruise company Heritage Expeditions on a thrilling in- depth exploration of Australia's world-famous Kimberley Coast, one of the world's most pristine and untouched wildernesses, aboard our luxurious, 140-guest expedition ship Heritage Adventurer.
Forged by nature and spanning more than 400,000 square kilometres, Western Australia's wild and remote coastline marries a treasure trove of towering, fractured iron-tinged red cliffs, torrential waterfalls, azure waters, hidden coves and caves, secluded white sand beaches, magnificent reefs and rare and endangered wildlife with indigenous customs and connections to an ancient land, and rich history.
Best explored by expedition vessel, our Kimberley cruises allow an up close and intimate exploration and immersion of this rugged wilderness dwarfed by nature on an unfathomable scale. Highlights of our voyage include the unforgettable spectacle of King George Falls cascading 80-metres down 2,000 million-year-old towering cliffs, the outdoor galleries showcasing the ancient Aboriginal rock art of the Gwion Gwion and Wandjina people, World War II relics, early explorer history and an optional helicopter excursion to Mitchell Falls.
At Talbot Bay we will experience the power of the region's massive tidal movements and the world's only Horizontal Falls described by David Attenborough as "one of the greatest wonders of the natural world", and marvel as the world's largest inshore reef system at nearby Montgomery Reef 'rises' out of the water with the falling tide.
Hidden among jagged sandstone monoliths, the final resting place of the remarkably preserved skeleton of a WWII Douglas C-53 Skytrooper (DC-3) awaits discovery at Vansittart Bay, while a glimpse into Australian colonial history can be found carved into the trunk of the centuries old Mermaid Boab Tree at Careening Bay. Enjoy astounding wildlife encounters and observations from the region's iconic saltwater crocodiles through to the birding paradise of the Lacepede Islands and one of the world's largest and most pristine mangrove systems along the Hunter River home to White-bellied Sea Eagle, Osprey, Red-headed Honeyeater, Blue- spotted Mudskippers, Fiddler Crabs and more.
Discover an ancient landscape like no other as we expedition cruise the untouched beauty of Australia's iconic Kimberley and experience the truly epic scale of this magnificent region by ship and Zodiac on this unforgettable Australian adventure.
Our 27 June 2025 departure offers guests the opportunity to join award-winning Australian travel photographer and author of ReIMAGINE: Change your Photography by Changing your Perspective Ewen Bell on one of his bespoke, small group photography workshops. Ewen has been mentoring, writing and teaching about photography for nearly two decades and his workshops include a dedicated series of presentations and interactive sessions on board the comfort of Heritage Adventurer and excursions out in the field to capture the light, wildlife, wilderness and culture.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Darwin
Join Heritage Adventurer this afternoon at Darwin Port, Australia’s ‘northern gateway’ famous for its glittering harbour, World War II history and enviable tropical outdoor lifestyle. The captain and expedition team will be waiting to greet you on arrival and show you to your cabin. You will have time to settle in and familiarise yourself with the ship; we will also take the opportunity to introduce you to your expedition team and our voyage plans. You are invited to join the expedition team in the Observation Lounge and up on the Observation Deck as we set sail for the Kimberley. Note: some voyages operate in reverse.
Day 2: King George River
Our approach to King George River gorge is not to be missed and best experienced out on the Observation Deck as the towering 2,000 million-year-old Warton sandstone cliffs dwarf our vessel. Navigating this scenic stretch of water by Zodiac there’s much to take in passing the ever-changing eroded rockfaces as we cruise deeper into the gorge marvelling at the untouched beauty of this iconic waterway. As we reach the end of the gorge nothing will prepare you for the grand scale spectacle of the Kimberley’s highest single-drop falls as the King George River plummets 80 metres over the edge of towering of ancient red sandstone cliffs into tidal waters. Undoubtedly one of Australia’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders, the twin falls known as male and female Rainbow Serpents or Wunkurr by the Balanggarra people, are fed by wet season rains and rightly hold a special place in indigenous lore. While here we will learn about how this natural wonder was created and enjoy a closer look.
Day 3: Vansittart Bay
Beautiful islands, pristine white beaches lapped by turquoise waters, secluded coves and stunning scenery abound in Vansittart Bay which is also the location of a historical World War II site and incredible ancient Aboriginal rock art. Named after the Chancellor of Exchequer by early explorer Rear Admiral Philip Parker King, this striking, naturally protected bay is framed by scattered jagged sandstone monoliths and the final resting place of the preserved skeleton of a WWII Douglas C-53 Skytrooper (DC-3) which crash landed onto the saltpan after running out of fuel during a mercy mission to evacuate four Dutch citizens from Java. On Jar Island, the location of ancient outdoor Aboriginal Gwion Gwion art galleries set among fascinating caves and rock formations, much of the rock art tucked under ledges and featured on cave walls is estimated to be up to 40,000 years old and remarkably
preserved, protected from the elements. The island is also home to some interesting flora and fauna
including the Golden-backed Tree Rat, echidnas and birdlife. Discover a bounty of anthropological and
historical wonders in Vansittart Bay.
Day 4: Ashmore Reef
Closer to Indonesia than mainland Australia, Ashmore Reef is Australia’s most remote marine park. Its three tropical islands are surrounded by coral reefs and home to more than 500 species of fish, 225 reef-building coral species and 100,000 nesting sea birds. A designated important bird area (IBA) and mostly Sanctuary Zoned, access to Ashmore Reef is strictly controlled. Our visit is in compliance with Australian Government regulations, however there may be an opportunity for a Zodiac cruise near West Island.
Day 5: Bigge Island & Careening Bay
Today we explore the sites of ancient Aboriginal rock art on Bigge Island and the historic Mermaid Boab Tree, which bears the name of the HMC Mermaid which was famously carved into it while the ship was beached there undergoing emergency repairs during Philip Parker King’s third voyage of discovery of the region in 1820. Now measuring some 3 metres wide and National Heritage listed, the tree offers a glimpse into Australian colonial history, while an old Makassan Islamic prayer alcove can be found behind the tree. While here we will also explore the jaw-slackening, otherworldly sandstone coastline of York Sound with its incredible sea caves and fascinating wildlife.
Day 6: Swift Bay
Our intrepid Kimberley voyage sees us today navigating the scattered islands, known as the Bonaparte Archipelago, which stretching almost 150 kilometres along the dramatic coastline. Our destination today is the remote and unspoiled inlet of T-shaped Swift Bay with its sandy beaches, ominous sea-worn caves and mangroves. A Zodiac cruise here allows a closer look at this incredible coastline where we will also likely observe salt-water crocodiles. On land a number of rock art galleries display the unique Wandjina and Gwion Gwion styles on a large scale, denoting the region’s cultural importance.
Day 7: Hunter River
During our explorations of the Hunter River today it will quickly become apparent why this winding, 30-kilometre stretch of water is widely considered to be one of the highlights of the Kimberley coast. Tucked into the north-east corner of Prince Frederick Harbour, an enormous bay which puts the Kimberley’s epic scale into perspective, this scenic wonderland is dotted with islands and flanked with wildlife-filled mangrove-lined rivers, savanna woodlands and patches of lush monsoon rainforest, courtesy of receiving the lion’s share of the region’s rainfall, and soaring red cliffs. At the river’s mouth the unrestrained grandeur of 200-metre-high sandstone escarpment Kampamantiya keeps silent sentry, welcoming us into this otherworldly realm we will be exploring today. Fed by two 90-metre waterfalls, the Hunter and the Donkin, Hunter River is home to one of the largest and most pristine mangrove systems in the world. Zodiac cruising the coastline could see us spotting diverse wildlife including White-bellied Sea Eagles, Osprey, Great-billed Heron, Eastern Reef Egrets, Red-headed Honeyeater, Blue-spotted Mudskippers, Fiddler Crabs and more, as well as the iconic saltwater crocodile, of which the Hunter River boasts the Kimberley’s largest population. While here we will also explore Naturaliste Island/Wunumpurramarra and its remarkable, 300-metre-long beach strewn with marine snail shells. There is also the opportunity to experience the granduer of the iconic Mitchell Falls on a thrilling scenic heli-flight (optional extra). This is the only way to experience Kimberley’s famous four-tiered falls and includes a landing on the stunning Mitchell Plateau, one of the most scenic and biologically important areas in Australia. Here we will explore this incredible sandstone landscape carved by the Mitchell River.
Day 8 : Days 8 & 9: Collier Bay
Located at the eastern end of the Buccaneer Archipelago, and only accessible by sea, we have two days to explore the ancient land- and sea-scapes of Collier Bay and its astounding natural attractions. At Talbot Bay we will experience the power of the region’s massive tidal movements which have shaped the landscape, most famously at the world’s only Horizontal Falls. Here we will witness what David Attenborough described as “one of the greatest wonders of the natural world” as trapped water in an inland bay thunders between two narrow chasms as the tide drops more than 14 metres on the other side creating spectacular falls, whirlpools and boiling white water. At nearby Cyclone Creek we will explore the twisted geological folds of the ancient seabed and hope to see the inquisitive Tawny Nurse Sharks among the incredible marine life on display, while another tidal spectacle awaits at Montgomery Reef at the bay’s centre. The world’s largest inshore reef system, we hope to capture the magic of observing this enormous reef ‘rise’ from the ocean as the tide falls creating torrents and waterfalls up to 3-metres high, and displacing marine life igniting a feeding frenzy as predators above and below the water descend. At Freshwater Cove shoreline explorations of the caves and grottos reveal a multitude of ancient rock art galleries.
Day 10: Lacepede Islands
Today we explore the incredible wildlife reserve and birding paradise of the Lacepede Islands. Designated a nature reserve in 1970 and rat free since 1986, this collection of four unassuming islands off the north-west coast of Western Australia are recognised as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International with what is thought to be the largest breeding colony of Brown Boobies, up to 18,000 pairs, in the world. These small, low-lying spits of coarse sand and coral rubble atop a platform reef are also the state’s most important breeding grounds for Green Turtles. Other wildlife which call these remarkable islands home include Roseate Terns, Masked Boobies, Australian Pelicans, Bridled, Crested and Lesser Crested Terns, Eastern Reef Egrets, Silver Gulls, Common Noddies, Lesser Frigatebirds, and Pied and Sooty Oystercatchers, while Grey-tailed Tattlers, Whimbrels, Bar-Tailed Godwits, Ruddy Turnstones and Great Knots are among the visiting vagrant species. While landings are not permitted, we plan to explore the islands’ incredible shores by Zodiac and, if lucky, we may also see some Humpback Whales which frequent this coastline during their northern migration in winter and early spring.
Day 11: Broome
This morning we arrive in Broome, a former wild frontier now relaxed tropical beach resort and gateway to the Kimberley. After breakfast there will be a complimentary coach to a central hotel or to Broome International Airport. To allow time for disembarkation procedures and travel from Broome, we do not recommend booking flights departing before 1300 hours.
During our voyage circumstances may make it necessary or desirable to deviate from the proposed itinerary. This can include poor weather and opportunities for making unplanned excursions. Your Expedition Leader will keep you fully informed. Please note: Voyages are planned and scheduled pending final regulatory approval.
Ship Details
Heritage Adventurer
Ship Overview
Heritage Adventurer is a true pioneering expedition vessel of exceptional pedigree. Often referred to as the 'Grande Dame of Expedition Cruising' due to her celebrated history and refined design, she was purpose-built for adventure in 1991 at Finland's Rauma shipyard and specifically designed for Polar exploration.
Setting a peerless standard in authentic expedition travel, Heritage Adventurer (formerly known as MS Hanseatic) combines the highest passenger ship iceclass rating (1A Super) with an impressive history of Polar exploration. Having held records for the most northern and southern Arctic and Antarctic navigations, and for traversing both the Northwest and Northeast Passages, makes Heritage Adventurer perfect for pioneering New Zealand-based Heritage Expeditions signature experiential expedition travel.
Originally designed to accommodate 184 guests, Heritage Adventurer now welcomes just 140 expeditioners ensuring spacious, stylish and comfortable voyages, while a fleet of 14 Zodiacs ensures all guests are able to maximise their expedition adventure. Heritage Adventurer proudly continues our traditions of exceptional, personalised expedition experiences as Heritage Expeditions flagship.
Ship Details
Ship Name:
Heritage Adventurer
Draft:
4.97 metres
Shipyard:
Rauma, Finland
Year Built:
1991
Maximum Speed:
15 knots
Gross Tonnage:
8,378gt
Engines:
3,940 horsepower (x2)
Length:
124 metres
Zodiacs:
14
Beam:
18 metres
Classification:
Lloyds 1AS, GL E4
Cruising Speed:
12 knots
Accommodation:
140 guests
Range:
8,600 nautical miles
Deck Plans
Deck Plan
Deck Plan
Cabins
Deck 5 Superior
Superior Cabins on Deck 5 are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
Worsley Suite
Located on Deck 6, Worsley Suites are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, comfortable chaise-style lounge suite, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system. Receive complimentary in-room dining, minibar replenished daily, Heritage Expeditions keep cup, notebook and pen.
Main Deck Triple
Main Deck Triple Cabins on Deck 3 are a spacious 22m2 and feature two porthole windows, two single beds and one Pullman bed which folds down from the wall, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
Superior Single
Superior Single Cabins on Deck 5 are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king bed, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
Superior Triple
Superior Triple Cabins on Deck 5 are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, two single beds and one Pullman bed which folds down from the wall, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
Deck 4 Superior
Superior Cabins on Deck 4 are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
Heritage Suite
Located on Deck 6, Heritage Suites are an expansive 44m2 and feature large double panoramic windows, king bed, large living area with a sofa, coffee table and chairs and grand marble bathroom with a double basin, bathtub and shower, large writing desk, floor to ceiling cabinetry for storage and a flat screen entertainment system. Receive complimentary in-room dining, minibar replenished daily, free laundry, US$100.00 per person SPA credit, Heritage Expeditions keep cup, notebook and pen.
Main Deck Single
Main Deck Single Cabins on Deck 3 are a spacious 22m2 and feature two porthole windows, king bed, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
What's Included
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Landing fees
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Post cruise transfers
Post cruise transfers are included in the tour package.
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All on board ship accommodation with meals
All on board ship accommodation with meals is included in the tour package.
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House beer
House beer is included in the tour package.
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Wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner and all expedition shore excursions
Wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, and all expedition shore excursions are included in the tour package.
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Programme of lectures by noted naturalists
A programme of lectures by noted naturalists is included in the tour package.
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post cruise transfers
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all on board ship accommodation with meals
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house beer
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wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner and all expedition shore excursions. Programme of lectures by noted naturalists.
What's Not Included
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All items of a personal nature
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Laundry
Laundry services are not included in the tour package.
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Drinks
Drinks other than house beer, wine, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner are not included in the tour package.
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Gratuities
Gratuities are not included in the tour package.
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International/domestic flights
International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
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Helicopter excursion
Helicopter excursions are not included in the tour package.
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Visas and travel insurance
Visas and travel insurance are not included in the tour package.
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laundry
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drinks
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gratuities. International/domestic flights
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helicopter excursion
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visas and travel insurance.
Mode of Transport
Travel aboard the Heritage Adventurer, a 140-guest expedition ship, and explore the Kimberley Coast. The tour includes Zodiac cruises for closer exploration of scenic waterways and remote islands.
Accommodation
Enjoy luxurious on-board ship accommodation with all meals included, featuring house beer, wine, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. The 140-guest expedition ship Heritage Adventurer offers a comfortable and elegant stay throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the Kimberley Explorer tour?
During the Kimberley Explorer tour, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including saltwater crocodiles, White-bellied Sea Eagles, Osprey, Great-billed Heron, Eastern Reef Egrets, Red-headed Honeyeater, Blue-spotted Mudskippers, Fiddler Crabs, and more. Additionally, the Lacepede Islands are home to the largest breeding colony of Brown Boobies, Green Turtles, and other bird species such as Roseate Terns, Masked Boobies, Australian Pelicans, and Lesser Frigatebirds.
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Are there any opportunities for learning about the indigenous culture during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes opportunities to learn about indigenous culture. For example, at King George River, you will learn about the twin falls known as male and female Rainbow Serpents or Wunkurr by the Balanggarra people. Additionally, at Vansittart Bay, you will explore ancient Aboriginal Gwion Gwion art galleries, and at Bigge Island, you will see ancient Aboriginal rock art.
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What kind of activities are included in the Kimberley Explorer tour?
The Kimberley Explorer tour includes a variety of activities such as Zodiac cruises, exploring ancient Aboriginal rock art sites, visiting historical World War II sites, and observing wildlife. You will also have the opportunity to experience the Horizontal Falls, explore the twisted geological folds of Cyclone Creek, and witness the tidal spectacle at Montgomery Reef. Additionally, there is an optional scenic heli-flight to experience the iconic Mitchell Falls.
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Is there any special equipment or clothing I should bring for the tour?
While the tour description does not specify special equipment or clothing, it is advisable to bring comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy footwear for excursions, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), and possibly a waterproof jacket for Zodiac cruises. Binoculars and a camera would also be useful for wildlife observation and capturing the stunning landscapes.
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What are the accommodation and meal arrangements on the Kimberley Explorer tour?
All on-board ship accommodation with meals is included in the Kimberley Explorer tour. You will also have house beer, wine, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. The tour provides a luxurious experience aboard the 140-guest expedition ship Heritage Adventurer.
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Are there any additional costs not included in the tour price?
Yes, there are additional costs not included in the tour price. These include all items of a personal nature, laundry, drinks, gratuities, international/domestic flights, helicopter excursions, visas, and travel insurance.
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What is the starting and ending point of the Kimberley Explorer tour?
The Kimberley Explorer tour starts in Darwin and ends in Broome. Upon arrival in Broome, there will be a complimentary coach to a central hotel or to Broome International Airport.
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Is there any flexibility in the itinerary of the Kimberley Explorer tour?
Yes, there is some flexibility in the itinerary. Circumstances such as poor weather or opportunities for making unplanned excursions may make it necessary or desirable to deviate from the proposed itinerary. The Expedition Leader will keep you fully informed of any changes.
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What fitness level is required?
Guests are required to have a reasonable level of fitness in order to participate in landings. While not strenuous, travellers who participate on excursions must be able to climb a ship-side gangway, get in and out of Zodiacs and be able to stand unaided. Each landing and excursion caters to all fitness levels ranging from easy to challenging, ultimately each guest is able to decide how active or relaxing their voyage is.
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Is any clothing included?
Thermally-insulated Muck Boots are provided for use on all our Southern Ocean voyages while guests travelling to the Ross Sea are supplied with an Antarctic grade jacket during their time in Antarctica.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for our latest Covid-19 policies
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Is there a doctor on board?
Yes, on Heritage Adventurer there is an on board doctor with a small infirmary and on many voyages a First Responder will travel with guests on excursions. Heritage Explorer does not have a doctor on board, however our crew are trained in first aid.
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Are drinks included?
Yes, house wine, beer and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner on all Heritage Expeditions voyages. Complimentary drinks can also be enjoyed during special events on board while bar purchases can also be charged to your stateroom.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Travelling with Heritage Expeditions is to travel responsibly. As biologists and ornithologists, we are intimately aware of the many issues that confront animals and their habitats, the world's oceans and isolated ethnic groups. We also take action: we actively contribute to the conservation of the places we visit in several ways; we 'buy local' and employ locally; we make sure that travellers are respectful of local customs and traditions; and we dispose of waste responsibly.
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Is there a gym on board?
Yes, Heritage Adventurer has a gym, pool, sauna, Jacuzzi and Spa on Deck 7. While there is no gym on Heritage Explorer, guests have plenty of opportunity to stretch their legs on shore or take the kayaks out, weather permitting.
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What is the onboard currency?
Heritage Adventurer operates in US$ while Heritage Explorer is NZ$.
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Does a single supplement apply?
Heritage Adventurer has 20 dedicated single cabins (12 x Main Deck Single Staterooms on Deck 3 and 8 x Superior Single Staterooms on Deck 5). Heritage Adventurer also has the option of guests sharing in our Main Deck Triple (Deck 3) and Superior Triple (Deck 5) Staterooms. There may also be the option to share a Deck 4 or Deck 5 Superior Stateroom with another solo-travelling guest of the same gender. Heritage Explorer has 2 dedicated single cabins, Wandering, and if these are booked there may be availability to book a Salvin’s Twin/Double or Buller’s as a single at 1.8 times the published per person rate.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Heritage Expeditions was formed in 1985.
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Is there Wi-Fi on board?
Yes, there is Wi-Fi available on both ships. Heritage Adventurer has a connection via satellite and vouchers can be purchased from reception. Wi-Fi is included on Heritage Explorer.
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Are all excursions included?
Yes, all standard excursions are included in the voyage cost. All you will need to pay for on board is anything of a personal nature, laundry, drinks and gratuities.
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Low Deposit
Heritage Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of heritage expeditions charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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