Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Adventure Cruises are Great Fun

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 check out jewel like fish, sea turtles, sharks, birds, whales and even saltwater crocodiles, as well as the unique erosions of Strickland Bay. Check out the pure white silica beach at Hidden Island and the iron mine on Kooland Island.

Other features you might see on one of these tours include majestic waterfalls, Aboriginal art, working pearl farms and more. You'll get the chance to fish near coral reefs and collect oysters, with some cruises offering the option of the day's catch for your meal.

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.

Described as one of the world's greatest natural wonders, these falls should be seen under safe circumstances, such as a cruise. Rough and extreme water conditions in this part of the world have caused many fatalities over the years among sailors and pearl divers.

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 get the most time on the islands, look for a cruise that does most of its distance traveling at night. Check out what you'll get on the tour, too - items like fishing and snorkeling gear or all your snacks and meals are sometimes provided, and sometimes cost extra.

The right clothing is vital to an Australian adventure cruise - bring light weight clothes to stay cool, a wide hat and good shoes for walking that will survive getting wet. Add in insect repellent, sunscreen, and don't forget the camera.

Most tours travel during the dry season, between April and November, but some run during the wet season, due to the many locations for shelter if the weather becomes rougher. Choose your cruise time according to what sights you want to see and the kind of weather you're willing to put up with.

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.

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