Western Australia’s Kimberley Coast is one of those places that feels almost mythic – vast, ancient, untamed. And while Pearl Expeditions may be one of the newer names sailing this remote coastline, the people behind the scenes are anything but new to the region.
This exciting venture reunites Sarina Bratton AM with Australia’s iconic Paspaley pearling family, a partnership that once brought the much-loved Orion Expedition Cruises to life. Their latest chapter is Paspaley Pearl, a beautifully styled, 30-passenger expedition ship that’s already turning heads among travellers seeking an intimate, elevated way to experience the Kimberley.
With the release of Paspaley Pearl’s 2027 Kimberley season, now is the perfect time to secure a place on what’s fast becoming one of the region’s most sought-after small ship cruises.
Where Adventure meets Elegance
While the Kimberley’s landscapes steal the show on this ten-night expedition, life onboard Paspaley Pearl is a highlight in its own right. This is expedition cruising done with style – where rugged adventure and refined comfort coexist effortlessly.
The ship features just 15 beautifully appointed staterooms and suites, each designed as a calm retreat after days spent exploring waterfalls, gorges and remote coastlines. Expect thoughtful storage, plush linens, soft furnishings and Aesop toiletries, all wrapped in a warm, relaxed aesthetic.
The interior design pays homage to the golden age of grand touring, with a modern palette of rattan, linen and copper tones that feels both timeless and welcoming. It’s the kind of space you genuinely look forward to returning to after a day ashore.
Life aboard flows naturally between intimate, well-designed spaces that encourage connection. Evenings often unfold in the Ocean Restaurant, where elegant indoor dining sets the stage for unhurried meals and shared stories. Afterwards, the lounge and bar beckon for a nightcap under Kimberley stars.
By day, the Horizon outdoor restaurant becomes the heart of the ship – buzzing with conversation over breakfast as plans take shape, and again at lunch as the morning’s discoveries are relived. Come sunset, many guests gravitate to the Sun Deck, soaking in the jacuzzi or lounging back as the sky ignites in colour.
Each evening wraps up with a relaxed expedition recap in the outdoor lounge, complete with photo highlights from the day. For quieter moments, the Sunset Lounge forward of the bridge offers a peaceful sanctuary – perfect for reflection as the ship glides through some of the world’s most pristine waters.
A Culinary Journey in Its Own Right
Food is a central part of the Paspaley Pearl experience. Over the past two decades, the team has worked closely with acclaimed chef Serge Dansereau of Sydney’s Bathers’ Pavilion. Leading the onboard kitchen is Alex Bentley, delivering modern Australian cuisine at an impressively high standard.
The philosophy is simple: fresh ingredients, regional flavours, and quality over quantity. Guests regularly see and interact with Alex and his team, adding a personal touch to every meal.
Evenings begin with drinks and canapés in the Horizon Lounge and Bar as the expedition team recaps the day and teases what’s to come. Dinner then unfolds à la carte in the Ocean Restaurant, where daily menus showcase local produce and Southeast Asian influences that echo the cultures and regions explored along the way.
An excellent selection of premium Australian wines accompanies each dish, with vegetarian and alternative options always available. Dining here isn’t just sustenance – it’s part of the adventure.
Paspaley Pearl Sample Menus
See Paspaley Pearl Breakfast Menu
Exploring the Kimberley Coast Up Close
When it’s time to head ashore on the Kimberley Coast, Paspaley Pearl truly comes into her own. Designed for boutique expedition cruising, the ship accesses remote locations that larger vessels simply can’t reach, allowing for deeper, more meaningful exploration.
Two custom-built aluminium expedition boats provide comfortable, shaded access to beaches, fishing spots and swimming locations, all operated by professional drivers. Two Mark V Zodiacs further expand exploration possibilities – perfect for mangrove cruising, beach landings, heli-flight transfers, hikes, sunset cocktails and beach barbecues.
Kayaks, paddle boards and fishing equipment are all onboard, with expert guidance available. These shared experiences – set in untouched wilderness and experienced alongside like-minded travellers – often become the most memorable moments of the journey.
2027 Paspaley Pearl Kimberley Dates & Fares
Paspaley Pearl’s ten-night Kimberley cruises sail between Broome and Kununurra (Wyndham) throughout the 2027 season, with multiple departures in both directions.
Paspaley Pearl 2027 Kimberley Schedule
10 Nights Broome to Kununurra (Wyndham)
07 to 17 April 2027
04 to 14 May 2027
15 to 25 July 2027
11 to 21 August 2027
05 to 15 September 2027
10 Nights Kununurra (Wyndham) to Broome
28 March to 07 April 2027
17 to 27 April 2027
14 to 24 May 2027
07 to 17 June 2027
25 July to 05 August 2027
21 to 31 August 2027
Cruise Fares
Ocean Double – $19,995 per person, twin share
Ocean Twin Stateroom – $21,495 per person, twin share
Ocean Stateroom – $22,495 per person, twin share
Horizon Suite (Balcony) – $27,995 per person, twin share
Pearl Suite (Balcony) – $32,995 per person, twin share.
Cruise fares range from Ocean Doubles to expansive Balcony Suites, with all prices including accommodation, exceptional dining, premium beverages (including French champagne), shore excursions (excluding select third-party activities), the expert expedition team, port taxes, fees and gratuities.
Ready to Sail?
For those dreaming of experiencing the Kimberley in comfort, style and true expedition spirit, Paspaley Pearl offers something genuinely special. With limited capacity and strong demand, securing your place early is essential.
Now is the time to plan an unforgettable Kimberley adventure – one that balances raw wilderness with refined luxury, and leaves you with stories you’ll be telling for years to come. Call our team of Kimberley cruise experts today on 1800 90 20 80 to find out more, or book your place.
Don’t forget to ask us about our booking bonus offers, adding extra value and exclusive bonuses to your trip at no additional cost!
