Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Adventure Cruise Vacations Rock!

By Willie Strongarm

Tourists have been enjoying the Kimberley Region of Australia's northwest for years, and the nearly one thousand rocky islands just off its coast. Their bays, secluded beaches, rainforests and mangroves are best explored by boat, and offer plenty of opportunities to see the sights and more.

This is why a cruise in this area is an excellent choice, with options available for interests from beach combing, birdwatching and photography to hiking and fishing. Take a longer trip to enjoy swimming in waters filled with beautiful wildlife and some island exploration, too.

You'll get the chance to see birds, sharks, whales, and saltwater crocodiles from a distance, as well as the incredible erosion of Strickland Bay, the pure white beach at Hidden island and the iron mine at Kooland Island.

You'll also have the chance to see Aboriginal art, waterfalls and pearl farms and to collect oysters or fish near the coral reef. Some cruises offer the day's catch as a meal choice to anglers.

Check out the Horizontal Falls at Talbot Bay, too - this real horizontal waterfall is caused by the way water flows through the narrow passage in the cliffs. With water building up in front of the gap faster than it goes through there's a difference of four to six meters in water level, creating a waterfall between bays.

These falls have been described as one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. However, it's important to see them on a cruise or under other safe circumstances, since extreme water conditions in this area have been responsible for many years of fatalities among pearl divers and sailors.

The good news is that if you're with a company that knows its stuff, you'll be completely safe, with boats passing through the waterfall for a thrill. Of course, if you'd like to see the falls and stay dry, you can do it from above in a seaplane or helicopter.

If you want to make sure you have plenty of time on the islands, choose cruises that do most of the distance travel at night. You should also pay close attention to what's included - you may have to pay extra for snacks, meals, snorkeling gear and fishing tackle on some cruises, while other include them in the basic fee.

Anyone going on an adventure cruise in Australia should take appropriate clothing, including light garments that will keep them cool, a wide brimmed hat, and good walking shoes that can get wet. Don't forget the sunscreen and insect repellent, either, and pack your camera.

The majority of tours travel between April and November - the dry season - but some also run during the wet season, due to the number of options for shelter in rough weather. Choose according to the sites you want to see and your interest in adventure.

If you'd love a real adventure, Kimberly adventure cruises on a quality ship are a good choice. Make sure you pick one that lasts long enough to allow you to see everything, and find out all the details about your cruise before you go. You'll have a great time and experience things you've never seen before. - 15359

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