Discovery One Kimberley Cruises
Discovery One Kimberley Cruises
Discovery One Kimberley Cruises
4.5
Multi-day ToursBoat ToursHiking & Camping ToursNature & Wildlife Tours
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About
Discovery One Kimberley Cruises delivers a "once in a lifetime" holiday. We offer cruise packages between Darwin and Broome. Our Captain is passionate about the region & loves sharing the hidden gems & secret spots along the way. Our cruise itinerary is flexible to ensure you see waterfalls & reefs at their best given weather and tides. We cruise the gorgeous coastline between Derby and Wyndham to maximise your Kimberley experience and to minimise the likelihood of seasickness on the open ocean.
Derby, Western Australia, Australia
Why book with Discovery One Kimberley Cruises
- We have been cruising the Kimberley Coast for 20+ years with a friendly, professional crew
- 20+ years experience living in and touring the Kimberley
- English
- Professional tour guide
Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.
Discovery One Kimberley Cruises
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4.5
63 reviews
Excellent
55
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Terrible
4
Sharon A
1 contribution
Apr. 2023 • Couples
I have experienced the Kimberley cruise back in 2021 and it was one of the best experiences I have had (I went with Kimberley Pearl and it was amazing) We loved it so much we wanted to do it again, however this trip on the Discovery One was the worst expensive holiday we have had, such a disappointment from start to finish with conflicting crew or even rude and was obvious they did not get along. It was boring and all 17 of us couldnt wait to get off. We did not get what we were promised and missed so many places on the itinary as we were doing catch up after leaving 3 days late. Those 3 days we were left in a Derby hotel with paperbag lunches of stale food with very little communication from the company . We were all excited to get underway eventually, however the crew had never worked togehter and were not united. We were told that everything was dangerous and that the captian did not want us to get hurt so we were not allowed to do much. Lucky the group of bored travellers were nice people but we all wasted good money for a very disappointing holiday. The Kimberleys are amazing so I strongly recommend it, just choose carefully and I would suggest to use another company. Management had a no care attitude to our feedback and experience, and I feel staff are not easy to get on this boat and after living with our lot for 10 nights of a 14 day trip, I understand why they wouldnt or shouldnt be there. I can strongly recommend the Kimberley Pearl if you are considering a trip of a lifetime it was absolutely amazing with an active, young, adventrous and fun crew - makes the world of difference.
Written 1 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
discoveryonecruises
Unfortunately weather events do happen and this cruise was impacted by Cyclone Ilsa. The cruise was delayed by 3 days. The weather was wet, raining and the area was still impacted by the record 2023 Kimberley flooding - closed roads, fully booked accommodation, very limited eating options, limited food supplies and trucking access etc. The Company booked passengers into a Motel in Derby and provided accommodation, meals and tours. Local operators were already stretched and were preparing for a cyclone...
Apart from a daily communication with passengers via SMS - it was difficult to provide ongoing updates to passengers as no one knew exactly where the cyclone was headed and how long before we could safely load our supplies. The winds were strong and gusting - dangerous conditions for docking and loading.
Once underway the Captain had to make up 3 days of lost time which impacted on the itinerary.
The Company strongly recommends that you take out Travel Insurance for cover of such events.
We have since recruited some wonderful new crew who are committed and passionate about sharing the Kimberley and delivering an amazing experience to all passengers.
Written 14 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ChrisTaylerDarwinNT
Darwin, Australia613 contributions
Sep. 2023 • Couples
Sept 23 trip Derby to Wyndham
" rivers cruise" given itinerary start day bought back to 4,30 am to catch the tide. The Kimberley has some of the largest tide variations in the world. The captains voyage plan should be coordinated with the tides to facilitate access to the prominent features listed in our itinerary. When we boarded we were informed the boat was destined to Darwin for repairs!
Unfortunately captain Elge did little or no planning for this voyage, nor had he ever sailed to Wyndham before. He said he was tired after being at sea for excess of 100 days, wanted to get to Darwin so he could fly home!
Start: derby mudflat his anchor dragged and snagged an old mooring delaying our departure so we missed the tide to cross the and bar!
Then he notified us that the main attraction for most of us "horizontal falls" was to be cancelled because of the tides.
He reluctantly took us to Montgomery reef saying he thought the tides were again wrong (but they were fine!)
Sailed past prince regent inlet ca using passengers to become mutinous, so after he had a tantrum of foot stamping and accusing us of making him a robot without sleep at the helm! He reluctantly turned the boat around to prince regent causing extra 100kms steaming!
I could keep going here but forewarned is forearmed: buyer beware, get clear and confirmed itinerary before buying this trip.
FN: sent comprehensive letter to owners as above, their reply the captain has been terminated.
" NO COMPENSATION TO US" having paid $9990 plus flight and drinks bill for this experience!!! WOW!!!
" rivers cruise" given itinerary start day bought back to 4,30 am to catch the tide. The Kimberley has some of the largest tide variations in the world. The captains voyage plan should be coordinated with the tides to facilitate access to the prominent features listed in our itinerary. When we boarded we were informed the boat was destined to Darwin for repairs!
Unfortunately captain Elge did little or no planning for this voyage, nor had he ever sailed to Wyndham before. He said he was tired after being at sea for excess of 100 days, wanted to get to Darwin so he could fly home!
Start: derby mudflat his anchor dragged and snagged an old mooring delaying our departure so we missed the tide to cross the and bar!
Then he notified us that the main attraction for most of us "horizontal falls" was to be cancelled because of the tides.
He reluctantly took us to Montgomery reef saying he thought the tides were again wrong (but they were fine!)
Sailed past prince regent inlet ca using passengers to become mutinous, so after he had a tantrum of foot stamping and accusing us of making him a robot without sleep at the helm! He reluctantly turned the boat around to prince regent causing extra 100kms steaming!
I could keep going here but forewarned is forearmed: buyer beware, get clear and confirmed itinerary before buying this trip.
FN: sent comprehensive letter to owners as above, their reply the captain has been terminated.
" NO COMPENSATION TO US" having paid $9990 plus flight and drinks bill for this experience!!! WOW!!!
Written 29 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
discoveryonecruises
The Kimberley has the third largest tides in the world. The Captain schedules to depart port on a high tide in order to get over the bar at the entrance. Unfortunately one of the anchors got tangled on old disused moorings which resulted in us missing the high tide and needing to wait 12 hours for the returning high tide in order to leave port. This event was beyond our control. Safety is taken very seriously.
As the Kimberley is the only region we tour, prior to the wet season, at the close of our touring season, we relocate the boat to the 'duckpond' in Darwin where it i) is in a cyclone safe jetty and ii) undergoes annual routine maintenance prior to commencing the next season.
We agree, the Captain should've communicated the planned itinerary with passengers and checked in with them to gauge the locations and areas of key interest. We are sorry this did not happen. We have implemented further staff training with new and existing crew to ensure this doesn't happen again.
Written 14 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Annette
19 contributions
Aug. 2023 • Couples
Our experience on this tour was a once in a lifetime highlight. The places we saw you would never see from the road. Fantastic rock formations. Beautiful beaches and waterholes to swim in. Regular off boat excursions. Whale crocodile shark and turtle sightings.
The highlight for us was the Montgomery Reef - a natural wonder that is quite unique. That said there were just so many impressive places we visited.
Our Captain - Elge and crew - Melissa, Cheya and Jade were great people who took every opportunity to make our time on the boat a pleasure. The food was such a high quality and we thank Tracey for her expertise in this area. The boat was well looked after by Adjac the engineer.
Thank you Discovery One.
The highlight for us was the Montgomery Reef - a natural wonder that is quite unique. That said there were just so many impressive places we visited.
Our Captain - Elge and crew - Melissa, Cheya and Jade were great people who took every opportunity to make our time on the boat a pleasure. The food was such a high quality and we thank Tracey for her expertise in this area. The boat was well looked after by Adjac the engineer.
Thank you Discovery One.
Written 5 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review. We are delighted that your time with us in the Kimberley was a "once in a lifetime highlight" - we agree it is a magnificent and beautiful place and our crew work hard to ensure all guests are happy, well catered for and have a great experience. Happy adventures!
Written 26 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Neil P
1 contribution
Aug. 2023 • Couples
My wife and I could not have been happier with the experience we had with Discovery One. It exceeded our expectations in every regard. The crew were enthusiastic, lovely people who went out of their way to make our experience as enjoyable as possible. Our cabin was comfortable and we never had a problem with the shared facilities. The itinerary was exciting and gave us the best of what the Kimberley has to offer. The food was more than plentiful, varied and delicious. Our fellow travellers were lovely and we had lots of fun. Well done Discovery.
Written 4 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wonderful! Thank you Neil for your review and recommendation. Being on a small boat with a small group of like minded adventurers, with an enthusiastic crew in a gorgeous location is certainly the right recipe for creating wonderful memories. We are delighted to hear that your experience with Discovery One exceeded your expectations in every regard. Enjoy your next wilderness adventure!
Written 26 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Malcolm T
1 contribution
Jun. 2023 • Couples
Outstanding cruise at a low cost for such memories. Crew were excellent, with delicious dietary meals. Scenics beaut.
Written 22 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We agree. The Kimberley is truly Majestic.
Thank you Malcolm for your Number One - Discovery One vote of confidence in exploring the Kimberley.
Written 26 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Trudy C
Mosman, Australia1 contribution
Jun. 2023 • Couples
June best time to explore the Kimberleys calm 30o spectacular waterfalls. Crew brilliant food fab.
Written 22 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Trudy - we agree - sunset drinks each day, on the top deck, with a new view and dramatic sky, caps off a great day of Kimberley exploring. Cheers to more adventure!
Written 26 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tour282391
1 contribution
Apr. 2023 • Family
We had a fabulous trip with many highlights including exploring waterholes, islands with turtle tracks, wildlife spotting, rock art, Montgomery Reef & swimming in some of the most beautiful remote areas. The crew were fantastic and the other passengers, all like minded travellers who were lots of fun. I highly recommend Discovery One, & bonus that they are an Australian owned & operated. Did I mention the crocs!!
Written 21 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Delighted to hear that you had a fabulous Kimberley trip with so many highlights. The Kimberley certainly is a spectacular and remote location with surprises around each bend. Thank you for your recommendation and review. Happy adventures!
Written 26 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jennifer F
4 contributions
Apr. 2023
The 13 day cruise was reduced to 10 due to a cyclone -- management knew, but did not explain to us, that this would dramatically change our experience as it would require long hours - day and night - of speeding up the coast line so that the next group could have what we had been promised. Trips ashore and time to experience the grandeur of the Kimberley were always rushed and brief. The crew seemed to have been cobbled together at the last minute; they tried their best but did not work well as a team. None had in depth knowledge of the geography and geology of this magnificent region nor was anyone well versed in aboriginal art and culture. The management had to know that with a three day delay and an untested crew, they could not possibly deliver the trip they had sold us. Had they been forthright about the situation we might have been able agree on an amended cruise, but they decided instead to provide us with a second rate trip with no apologies. The test of good customer service is when things go wrong, Discovery One failed this test.
Written 18 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Unfortunately cyclones do happen from time to time and can negatively impact the cruise offering and resulting experience. We are sorry that your cruise was rushed and the crew were ill-prepared.
We do strongly recommend that all passengers take out (Domestic) Travel Insurance to provide cover in times of such events.
Management are not experts at cyclone operations (fortunately we haven't had to accommodate many in our 22 years of business) and each case is different. However, we do take feedback seriously and have reviewed the 2023 cyclone event, our handling of the situation and implemented some changes.
We have also tightened up our staff training and recruitment to ensure we are delivering a consistently excellent product, regardless of package or crew, across the entire season.
Written 26 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jenny B
Sydney2 contributions
Apr. 2023 • Friends
Looking forward to the trip of a lifetime we were incredibly disappointed with our experience. We know others who have enjoyed these cruises but this was not our experience. Delayed by the cyclone for three days, we were pushed along from early morning to late at night in rough seas so that the next group would not be delayed! Lots of time hanging on to seats and handrails and in our cabins. No fishing, missed excursions, no in depth knowledge of the geography or indigenous history and culture. No generous reimagining of the trip to compensate for the unfulfilled promises. Charmless, uncommunicative messages from head office and a compensation offer that meant ANOTHER trip THIS year at 2 for 1!! So very disappointing for a long planned for and expensive holiday. Thank goodness our fellow passengers were delightful and we all had a sense of humour. But no thanks to Discovery One!
Written 17 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
discoveryonecruises
Unfortunately unforeseen events do happen and this cruise was impacted by Cyclone Ilsa. With weather still windy and three days travel to make up, locations were rushed and conditions were far from idyllic sailing.
Written 14 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Julie K
Adelaide, Australia17 contributions
Jun. 2023 • Couples
We have just had an amazing 12 nights on board Discovery 1 in the Kimberleys. The landscape, the sunsets and sunrises were amazing. The crew were all great very caring and nothing too much trouble and the food was 12 out of 10. Not many crocs but plenty of bird life. Daily excursions on tenders to islands, rock art and beaches. Highly recommend
Written 11 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you Julie for your recommendation and review. We are pleased that your time with us in the Kimberley was amazing! The Kimberley is a gorgeous location to explore - couple that with a small group of like minded travelers /good company and excellent food and you have the makings of an amazing trip. Happy travels.
Written 26 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
reefaddictBallina
Ballina112 contributions
Hello,
we are not strangers to small vessel adventure cruises. We have been on boats with from 6- 151 passengers and from 1 to 5 star . We really enjoy them. This company was recommended to me by a past guest...she raved actually. I note from a review that the cabins are not en-suite. How many bathrooms are onboard please? Are they close to the cabins? The reason I don't like camping is the long walk at 3 am to the bathroom. Are they unisex? Any comments would be much appreciated. Thank you
DiscoveryOne
Derby, Australia23 contributions
Hello - thank you for your interest in exploring the Kimberley with Discovery One. Our cabins are modest but comfortable with pillow-top beds and air conditioning. The bathrooms are on the deck below the cabin deck, accessed via the back of the boat down 10 carpeted stairs. There are night lights to assist with the midnight dash. There is one shared female and one shared male bathroom. Let me know if any further queries. Discovery One - Paige
Willfish101
Batemans Bay, Australia377 contributions
Just curious that all the reviews on TripAdvisor were submitted in the last 4 weeks, mostly for cruises several months ago. Were you prompted to submit your review. I notice that there are no older reviews. Comments appreciated.
Layne
1 contribution
There is a competition at the moment with a free cruise for the lucky winner.
I am sure that many people, like me, were not on Trip Advisor and do not normally tell the world when they enjoy something.
What people are saying is absolutely true !
The top deck does not have a helicopter sitting there as some of the cruises do and has a free upper deck instead for 360 degrees off the incredible scenery!
It does have one obstruction - a spa to relax in and also enjoy the views.!
I am really looking forward to my 3rd trip in April !!