12 Day Cape York & Arnhem Land Darwin to Cairns Cruise CEC11CYALDC

Best Available Price From
$13,480 Per Person
Deposit From Only
$674 Per Person
Departs Darwin
Returns Cairns
Difficulty Moderate
Group Size 72

12 Day / 11 Night Cape York & Arnhem Land Darwin – Cairns Cruise or in Reverse

8th August 2025 – Darwin to Cairns Itinerary

19th August 2025 – Cairns to Darwin Itinerary

28th March 2026 – Cairns to Darwin Itinerary

This expedition will have an Indigenous art focus and is led by an Indigenous or Torres Strait Islander artist. Onboard, you will create your own unique pieces with art workshops in totem carving, weaving, lino-cutting and printmaking, and weaving. Visit several remote island communities, with permission from local elders.  At the very tip of Australia, enjoy champagne as you look south toward the Great Barrier Reef.  As we approach the end of our Cape York expedition, see rock art from the contact period at rugged Stanley Island, and have an opportunity to snorkel at vibrant Davie Reef

  • Be immersed in the world’s oldest surviving culture in Arnhem Land
  • Spend a full day exploring the rugged Cobourg Peninsula for historical ruins and fascinating wildlife
  • With a local guide, visit the remote and culturally rich Tiwi Islands
  • Learn about Indigenous art at Elcho Island and Maningrida Art Centres
  • Stand on the very tip of Australia at Cape York for a champagne sunset
  • Visit Thursday Island and learn about the cultures of the Torres Strait
  • Explore Lizard Island and the northern reaches of the Great Barrier Reef
  • Discover the Arnhem Land coast, once the trading ground of the Macassan people
For Questions or Support (07) 4051 1120
Would you like us to call you?
Great! One of our friendly team will call you.
Enter your number below and one of our friendly support staff will call you back.
Name(Required)

Highlights

  • Cairns
  • Torres Strait Islands
  • Elcho Island
  • Maningrida
  • Djomi Museum
  • Babbarra Women’s Centre
  • Tiwi Designs
  • Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Centre
  • Yirrkala

Inclusions

  • All excursions with our Expedition Team
  • Use of Xplorer, Zodiacs and Kayaks
  • Snorkelling equipment
  • Daily lectures and briefings with Guest Lecturers
  • All meals, chef-prepared on board
  • Captain’s welcome and farewell events, and open bridge access
  • Selected wines, selected beers and house spirits, juices, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner
  • 24-hour barista-style coffee and tea station
  • All entrance fees to National Parks, ports, traditional owner fees and charges imposed by governing authorities
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Use of all onboard facilities, incl. a reference library
  • Expedition diary, along with a photo and video gallery documenting the highlights of your voyage
  • Post-cruise transfers
  • Wifi Access – Standard speed connectivity enabling email, social image sharing, web browsing and messaging

Tour Pricing

2025 Departure - All prices are per person in AUD.

Twin ShareSole Use
Bridge Deck Balcony Stateroom$21,110n/a
Promenade Deck Cat A$16,690n/a
Promenade Deck Cat Bn/a$22,860
Main Deck Cat A$14,650n/a
Main Deck Cat B$13,480n/a

PLEASE NOTE 5/10/2022 departure is Coral Adventure which is why the price is different

Itineraries are subject to change. Travel insurance is highly recommended for all Cape York Tours as it is a remote location. Prices are per person, listed in Australian Dollars (AUD) and include GST. *Limited sole use occupancy available.

Prices & Dates

Tour Options  
Other Dates

    Itinerary

    Embark: Board at Darwin’s Fort Hill Wharf at 7:00am for 8:00am departure.
    Disembark: Arrive and disembark at Cairns’ Trinity Wharf at 08:00am.

    • 1 DAY 1 Depart Cairns (L, D)

      Arrive at Trinity Wharf (berth to be advised) at 4:00pm, where there is time to settle into your stateroom before our 5:00pm departure. Take the time to become acquainted with all the facilities onboard before joining your fellow explorers on the Sun Deck for Captains Welcome Drinks and sit down to the first of many delicious dinners.

    • 2 DAY 2 Lizard Island (BLD)

      Explore secluded Lizard Island, one of the most beautiful islands on the Queensland Coast, and venture into the crystal clear waters for swimming and snorkelling or take a walk along the white sand beach.  The more energetic may join our guides on a walk to ‘Cook’s Look’ on the island’s peak and the highest lookout on this part of the reef.  From this high point, Captain Cook was able to navigate a safe passage back through the treacherous waters after repairing the HMB Endeavour near Cooktown over 250 years ago. A photographer’s delight, the views from the lookout over the World Heritage-listed reef and surrounding tropical islands are magnificent. Later, snorkel over giant clam gardens in the lagoon.

    • 3 DAY 3 Flinders Group and Davie Reef (BLD)

      Visit Stanley Island (Yindayin) in the Flinders Group and view the isolated Endaen Aboriginal rock art depicting the first sailing ships to visit Queensland shores, and hear stories from a traditional owner of the Yiithuwarra people. At Davie Reef, enjoy swimming and snorkelling and observe the large seabird rookery.

       

    • 4 Day 4 Forbes Island (Wuthara) (BLD)

      Enjoy a day exploring Forbes Island, an excellent spot for swimming or snorkelling from the pristine sandy beaches. Take a walk to the grave of beche-de-mer fisherman Frederick Lancaster. This tiny island has few human visitors so wildlife is prolific.

       

    • 5 Day 5 Northernmost Point: Cape York (Pajinka) (BLD)

      Set foot on the northernmost point of Australia – the tip of Cape York. Celebrate with a glass of sparkling at this iconic location as you watch the sunset over the Gulf of Carpentaria. We will also visit historical sites at Somerset, Possession Island and Albany Island.

    • 6 Day 6 Thursday Island (Waiben) & The Torres Strait Islands (BLD)

      The Torres Strait is home to 200 strikingly beautiful islands, however only 17 are inhabited. Have the privilege of spending 1-2 days exploring this remote region. At Thursday Island embark on a coach tour to view the many sites of this historic and culturally diverse island. Disembark at the Japanese Pearl Divers Memorial, and at the monument to Bernard Namok Senior who designed the Torres Strait Islands Flag. Visit and purchase art from renowned art centres and view exciting cultural performances. We may also visit another island in the Torres Strait, such as Badu or Hammond Island, subject to approval by the local communities/councils.

    • 7 Day 7 Cruising the Gulf of Carpentaria (BLD)

      Enjoy a relaxing day at sea with time to attend informative presentations by our guest lecturers.

    • 8 Day 8 Hole in the Wall and Wessel Islands (BLD)

      We travel through the narrow channel between Raragala and Guluwuru Islands, known as the ‘Hole in the Wall’.

    • 9 Day 9 Maningrida (BLD)

      Travel ashore to explore the Djomi museum and the Babbarra Women’s Centre. Maningrida is home to a remarkable art centre and this is a unique opportunity to purchase sought-after Indigenous artworks and textiles directly from the community.

    • 10 Day 10 Cobourg Peninsula, Victoria Settlement (BLD)

      The Garig Gunak Barlu National Park is a pristine wilderness. Now it is virtually uninhabited and here we will explore the ruins of historic Fort Victoria and hear the stories of the failed settlement. On a nature walk, learn about bush tukka plants and look for monitor lizards and crocodiles.

    • 11 Day 11 Tiwi Islands (BLD)

      Be welcomed to the Tiwi Islands with a smoking ceremony, dancing and an afternoon tea of home-made damper and billy tea. With local Tiwi guides, learn about the unique Tiwi culture and visit the art centre. Enjoy a cultural performance and painting or basket-weaving demonstration before enjoying a traditional Australian afternoon tea of damper and billy tea.

    • 12 Day 12 Arrive Darwin (B)

      Arrive and disembark at Darwin’s Fort Hill Wharf at 08:30am. Post cruise transfers to CBD hotels or the airport are included. If you’re not transferring directly to the airport why not spend the day enjoying the tropical city of Darwin with its landscaped waterfront and harbourside Wave Pool.

    Cape York Arnhem Land Map Cape York Tours Cruise

    Additional Information

    Travel Insurance
    As a valued customer we are pleased to offer you the opportunity to purchase discounted travel insurance. It is HIGHLY recommended that passengers take out travel insurance. As a valued customer we are pleased to offer you the opportunity to get a free no-obligation quote from Cover-More Travel Insurance.

    Credit Card Payments
    Credit Card Customer Payment Link enter this link into your browser: pay.travelpay.com.au/AUSTC

    If paying via the Customer Payment Link, please ensure you complete all fields and ensure you enter the correct Trip Reference Number, so we can identify your payment.

    Credit card surcharges will apply when paying by credit card. We accept all credit cards and relevant credit card fee is applied when processing: Mastercard – 1.30%, Visa – 1.50%, American Express – 2.20%, Diners Card – 2.75%, International Credit Cards – 3.25%

    Direct Deposit
    Direct Deposit payments take up to 3 business days to process. Please notify your consultant of your payment once it has been processed.

    Commonwealth Bank: Australian Tours and Cruises
    Reference: Your Trip Number
    BSB: 062-504 Account: 1066 1268
    Branch Address: Shop 1/80-84 William St, Bathurst NSW 2795
    In Bank Payment of Cash Or Cheque: Add $5 for bank fees
    International Direct Deposit: Add $25 for bank fees
    SWIFT or BIC CODE: CTBAAU2S

    TRAVEL INSURANCE: Comprehensive Travel Insurance is strongly recommended for all travellers as protection against any unforeseen events that may necessitate the cancellation or interruption of your holiday and should be purchased at the same time as you purchase your cruise.

    Please note and share the following facts when considering insurance coverage and speaking with suppliers:

    Our senior crew are trained and qualified in remote area first aid. If a passenger has injured themselves or is having a medical issue onboard, the crew will make contact with doctors on land to determine whether a medical evacuation is necessary. For this reason, it is advisable that passengers obtain a policy with remote area evacuation and repatriation coverage.

    Our domestic cruises on the Great Barrier Reef, Kimberley, Cape York and Arnhem land and Tasmania do not leave domestic waters, however, our locations are considered remote.

    Our ships are Australian flagged.

    Travel Insurance is required by each travelling guest and if an urgent medical event or situation occurred that required medical evacuation or offload from the ship, it is mandatory that this is financially covered by insurance or by guest payment at the time.

    Please refer to the cruise ticket terms and conditions for details of our travel policy.

    MEDICAL ASSISTANCE ON BOARD: As our itineraries cover remote regions, they are not suitable for those with serious medical conditions. Any ongoing medical issues should be disclosed to reservations staff at the time of booking.

    Please refer to ask if you require further information regarding health practices and doctors on board.

    SCUBA DIVING: Yes, please there is specific information for Snorkelling & Scuba Diving Information.

    VISAS AND PASSPORTS: Please ensure your passport has 6 months’ validity from the time the expedition commences plus two free pages. It is the responsibility of all guests to ensure they meet visa requirements prior to travel. At least 4-6 weeks prior to departure, guests should contact the relevant country’s local Embassy / High Commission / Consulate with entry/exit details to confirm visa requirements based on their nationality. Entry and exit dates/points will be noted on your cruise itinerary.

    DOMESTIC SHIPS REMAINS IN AUSTRALIAN WATERS OFR VISAS: All our ships are Australian flagged, therefore when doing a domestic cruise our ships do not leave domestic waters.

    PACKING ADVICE: We recommend that you pack simply and lightly. Clothing that you can layer will prepare you for all kinds of weather. More specific information regarding clothing and the weather conditions in your destination are included in your Cruise Documentation which you will receive prior to your cruise.

    SPENDING MONEY: Upon embarkation, we will automatically open your personal shipboard account. We operate a chit system and for your security, ask that you sign each chit as you order from our bar, shop or make any other onboard purchases. At the end of the voyage your account may be settled in Australian dollars cash, and by American Express; Visa; MasterCard or Diners Club. On International cruises, it is often not possible to obtain cash at the villages and towns we visit. We suggest you bring enough local currency with you for the duration of your cruise.

    TIPPING: Other cruise lines automatically add gratuities to your account and service charges to your bar invoices. On Coral Discoverer, our crew has no other agenda than your delight.

    LAUNDRY SERVICES: Laundry services are available onboard, however, the service is limited. Laundry bags and forms are stored in your wardrobe for collection by your cruise attendants. Charges for this service will be posted to your onboard account. As the service is for laundering only, please ask the hospitality staff if you require an iron and ironing board.

    USE OF A DRONE: Prior written permission to fly Remotely Piloted Aircrafts (Drones) from or near a Coral Expeditions vessel (includes tenders and explorer vessels) for photography or other uses, must be obtained by the General Manager. Please speak with our reservations team to discuss.

    WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED: Travel insurance, Alcoholic drinks including beer and wine outside of lunch and dinner service, Internet services (available at a cost), Laundry service (available at a cost), Australian entry visas or travel permits, Items of a personal nature including but not limited to phone and internet communications and bar charges (outside of the included drinks package as highlighted) laundry charges and souvenir purchases.

    Booking Terms and Conditions

    Be aware that some confirmed bookings are not refundable if cancelled, and also may not be transferable to another date or otherwise changed. Alternatively, a change may only be permissible subject to payment of an additional fee or charge. Your entitlement to a refund for cancelled bookings is subject to the relevant Supplier’s terms and conditions. Please note that if we are entitled to a service fee for placing a booking, we will remain entitled to this fee if you cancel the booking or the Supplier fails to provide you with the Product for any reason (other than our default), including in an event of Force Majeure. We will be entitled to deduct our service fee from any refund we receive on your behalf before remitting the balance to you. Suppliers’ fees are outlined in their relevant terms and conditions.

    Please review the full Terms and Conditions and Schedule of Fees prior to making a booking.

    Supplier Terms and Conditions Summary:

    Notification of cancellation must be received in writing. At the time we receive your cancellation the following penalties will apply:

    • Up to 90 days prior to departure – forfeit your deposit of 20% of the fare.
    • 60 to 89 days prior to departure – forfeit 50% of the fare.
    • No-show to 59 days prior to departure – forfeit 100% of the fare. Transfer Fees
    • Date change fee made more than 90 days before departure – $500pp fee.
    • Date change within 90 days of departure is considered a cancellation and standard Cancellation Policy applies.
    • A name change/transfer of the booking to another person is considered a cancellation and Cancellation Penalties (as above) will apply.
    • A $200 per person fee is applicable for any amendments not requiring a date change after booking is confirmed.

    TRIP CANCELLATION AND INTERRUPTION INSURANCE: We strongly recommend that all passengers purchase cruise cancellation and interruption insurance as protection against any circumstance which may force you to cancel or leave an expedition whilst it is in progress.

    SHARE POLICY: Accommodation on the Ship is based on twin share occupancy. If you are travelling alone and wish to share accommodation, a room mate will be assigned to your cabin whenever possible. When pairing room mates we always pair participants of the same sex. In the event of a share partner not being found, standard twin share stateroom rate will be applied.

    FAQs

    • Is there phone service in Far North Queensland?

      In most towns you will get phone service, but there are large stretches between towns that may not have service. Satellite phones are carried on tours for emergency use. Phone service will be possible in Cairns, Laura, Seisia, Roko Island, Thursday Island, Horn Island, Weipa, Cooktown and Coen. There may be other locations and all service will depend on the phone carrier used.

    • How can I pay for my tour?
      We use TravelPay to process credit cards as it is recommended by AFTA (The Australian Federation of Travel Agents) as it provides protection in the event of supplier insolvency.

      Credit Card Customer Payment Link enter this link into your browser: pay.travelpay.com.au/AUSTC

      If paying via the Customer Payment Link, please ensure you complete all fields and ensure you enter the correct Trip Reference Number, so we can identify your payment. Remember that ‘TravelPay’ will appear on your credit card statement.

      Credit card surcharges will apply when paying by credit card. We accept all credit cards and relevant credit card fee is applied when processing: Mastercard – 1.30%, Visa – 1.50%, American Express – 2.20%, Diners Card – 2.75%, International Credit Cards – 3.25%

      Direct Deposit payments take up to 3 business days to process. Please notify your consultant of your payment once it has been processed.

      Commonwealth Bank – Australian Tours and Cruises

      Reference: Trip Number

      BSB: 062-504    Account: 1066 1268

      International Direct Deposit: Add $25 for bank fees

      SWIFT or BIC CODE: CTBAAU2S

    • What medical clearance form do I use for the cargo boat?
      MV Trinity Bay Passengers

      IMPORTANT: Please note that MV “Trinity Bay” requires passengers to complete a Passenger Medical Information Form to advise the crew of any medical issues they may need to be aware of. This information will also be used by medical attendants in the event of a medical emergency or accident.

      If required by Part 1 of the Sea Swift Passenger Medical Form, a GP Fit-to-Travel Clearance is available to print and take to your GP for signature.
      Please email a copy back to reservations@capeyorktours.com.au to complete your booking, please include your booking reference number in the email.

      Bookings are not confirmed until all forms are completed and returned.

    • Is there mobile phone reception and internet cafe access on the tour?
      Digital mobile telephones only operate in Cooktown. Telstra NEXT G telephones work in Cooktown, Laura, Coen, Weipa and Thursday Island. Email access via internet cafes is generally not available. Most phones these days can recieve emails.
    • Is it possible to recharge phones, cameras etc on the tour?
      Telephones, cameras and other electrical devises can be charged using mains power in Cooktown, Musgrave, Coen, Weipa, Bramwell Station and Cape York.
    • What is the policy on alcohol on the tour?
      The Government has imposed very strict alcohol regulations throughout Cape York Peninsula and our company has a permit to carry certain quantities of alcohol and complies with all regulations and laws. Please contact our office for further, more recent information.
    • What is the policy on smoking on the tour?
      As per Government regulations, smoking is not permitted in vehicles. Ample stops provide time for smoking breaks.
    • Where can I store my car and caravan?
      There are a number of places to store your vehicle or caravan. We can give you the details to book directly once your tour dates are confirmed.
    • Are special dietary requirements catered for on the tour?
      If a passenger is on a medically prescribed diet, we will do our absolute utmost to cater suitable meals for that person. Please contact our office to discuss any diet needs.
    • What are the meals provided on the tour?
      Your Guides / Chefs work extremely hard to provide passengers with excellent, wholesome meals. Breakfast consists of a choice of at least 3 cereals, toast and spreads. Lunch has a variety of cold meats and an abundant selection of salad vegetables on rolls or sandwiches. Evening meals begin with happy hour followed by a 2 course meal which could be a grill, roast, casserole, BBQ, fresh fish and appropriate selection of vegetables followed by a tasty dessert.
    • What type of toilet and shower facilities should be expected on the tour?
      Toilets are either flushing or National Park composting type and showers are available most nights and if not, a long, soaking soap free swim in a shallow, safe stream is available.
    • How far do we travel each day?
      These tours are designed to show the very best of Cape York Peninsula. The day normally starts around 8.00am ending approximately 4.00pm covering 300 kilometers per day. During the normal course of the day you will stop for morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea. The tour also stops at places of interest, towns, communities and any notable flora or fauna features.
    • How many people will be on the tour?
      The maximum number of passengers depends on the seating in the 4WD vehicles which range from 4 to 22 seats.
    • How does the tour run?
      All tours are conducted on a partial participation basis, it generates friendship and conversation. The Tour Leader does all cooking however assistance with vegetable peeling, firewood collection and filling water buckets is greatly appreciated. Passengers assist with washing and wiping and erect their own tents (unless on pre-erected tent camping tour or on accommodated tour) after a demonstration, those less agile will be given assistance.
    • How much luggage am I allowed?
      Baggage space is limited. One soft sided sausage style bag per person measuring approximately 600mm x 500mm x 300mm with a maximum weight of about 10kgs plus one small day pack per person for inside the vehicle. Excess luggage may be stored at your accommodation.
    • What clothing should I bring?
      4 tee shirts

      4 shorts or skirts

      Swimmers/Towel

      Water bottle

      A spray jacket/warm jacket

      1 pair of sandals

      Shady hat

      Torch

      Toiletries

      Laundry powder

      Insect repellent

      Small day pack

      Track suit pants/jeans

      NB: clothes line & pegs are supplied by us (campers only) PLEASE AVOID ARTICLES OF WHITE/LIGHT CLOTHING AS DUST MAY STAIN

    • How comfortable are the 4WD vehicles and seating used on the tour?
      Vehicle seats are individual, padded bucket seats with lap and sash seat belts. Vehicle suspensions are modified to ride as comfortably as possible to Cape York. A seat rotation is normally done each day.
    • What kind of boats are used on the tour?
      M.V Trinity Bay carries 38 passengers stopping at Horn Island, Thursday Island and Bamaga. The trip normally takes 2.5 days and you will sleep on the boat for 2 nights. Accommodation is in either twin cabins or 3-4 passengers per cabin, all cabins have share bathroom facilities. A licensed bar is on the ship and your trip includes meals as indicated in the tour itinerary.
    • What kind of air planes are used on the tour?
      Generally medium sized air planes with a capacity of 20 to 50 passengers are used. During peak season when services are in demand we occasionally use smaller aircraft carrying 8 or less passengers.
    • Should travel insurance be organised before going on the tour?
      Travel Insurance

      As a valued customer of Cape York Tours, we are pleased to offer you the opportunity to purchase discounted travel insurance. It is HIGHLY recommended that passengers take out travel insurance. As a valued customer we are pleased to offer you the opportunity get a quote from Cover-More Travel Insurance.

    • Should I bring extra spending money for incidentals?
      We suggest about $300 per person. Credit cards and EFTPOS machines are accessible in most places throughout Cape York.
    • What is excluded from the price of your Cape York tour?
      Any costs incurred before or after departure. Meals not specifically mentioned in the itinerary. Any personal items such as newspapers, telephone, alcohol and drinks, laundry, personal and travel insurance. It is HIGHLY recommended that passengers take out travel insurance which specifically covers cancellation fees, most claims arise from either personnel or close-family illness before departure resulting in cancellation charges. We suggest you talk to your car, home or life insurer and purchase a policy that will cover you for cancellation fees in the unlikely event that you need to cancel your Cape York tour.
    • What is included in the price of your Cape York Tours from Cairns?
      If on a camping tour – all camping equipment including tents with a floor built into them, mattresses, National Park fees, land access and usage fees to local communities, all camping fees. If on an accommodated tour – all accommodation costs whilst on tour. Meals as indicated: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D).