Thursday, January 1, 2009

Adventure Cruise Vacations Rock!

By Willie Strongarm

For years, tourists have been enjoying northwest Australia's Kimberley Region, as well as the almost a thousand islands just off the coast. They offer secluded beaches, beautiful bays, mangroves and rainforests, and they're best seen by boat.

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.

See whales, sharks, birds and saltwater crocodiles from a distance, check out Strickland Bay's amazing eroded rocks, Hidden Island's fantastic pure white beach, and Kooland Island's iron mine.

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 - a real horizontal waterfall that's caused by the way the tide goes through a passage in the cliffs. The gap is so narrow that the water builds up faster on one side than it can pass through, making a difference of four to six meters in the water level, and causing a waterfall to flow between the bays.

Some have described these falls as one of the world's greatest natural wonders. However, you should remember to see them under the safe circumstances of a cruise, since extreme water conditions have caused many fatalities among sailors and pearl divers through the years.

Fortunately, it's safe if you travel with someone who knows what they're doing, and boats even pass through the horizontal waterfall, if you're looking for a thrill. Want to see the spectacular sight without getting wet? Consider a helicopter or seaplane ride instead.

Look for cruises that do most of their distance travel at night if you want to be sure to have the most time on the islands themselves. In addition, look at what's included in the tour - some include fishing and snorkeling gear as well as meals and snacks, while on others, these things cost extra.

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. - 15485

About the Author: