Did this cruise two years ago on L'Austral. It was so good we re-booked and took our adult children on with us this time on Le Laperouse. This trip was even better! The new ship is beautiful. Love the cabins and public areas. The new Zodiac landing arm is amazing. When not in use for this purpose we had a champagne cocktail party on it as well as a concert by an opera singer as the sun was setting over the Indian Ocean. Magical. The expedition team were fantastic. Very knowledgeable and likable. Wonderful Captain and crew on board and sensational food. An incredible itinerary in such a beautiful remote area. We felt very privileged to be able to hike to some of the Aboriginal rock art sites. We are quite well traveled and cruise a lot and hands down this was the best trip we have ever done. Could not fault a thing. If you haven't been to the Kimberley be sea, I would highly recommend it with Ponant. Read Less

We chose the cruise because while we have travelled to many other parts of the world we really need to see more of our own land. We combined the cruise with self drive land content before and after and were overwhelmed by the beauty of the north of Australia. There was a bit of a mess embarking as the papers were late arriving and the meeting point had changed but the Visitors' Centre in Broome was very accommodating. All was soon forgotten when we boarded, greeted by senior staff and with a glass of bubbles, we were escorted to our cabin where our bags were waiting. Our cabin, 508, was very comfortable, with plenty of space for our belongings, and the screen in the bathroom giving a view of the outside from the shower was exciting, as well as acting as a source of light. Our attendant kept everything very clean and was helpful in a range of small ways. I have never had such a thorough lifeboat drill, leaving the theatre to fetch our life jackets, donning them, being checked off and then shown row by row to the lifeboat boarding area. This attention to safety was also shown by the zodiac with the doctor, and a senior officer accompanying all excursions, people on hand to assist with difficult parts of walks and a briefing each evening on how rigorous the next day would be. There always seemed to be entertainment in the main lounge, a singer, classical pianist or a mood music, and on the only sea day there were two short documentaries related to the area. The main lounge and the observation lounge as well as the outdoor areas gave plenty of places to relax, read, talk, play games or just watch the passing views. Even at night it was very pleasant to take the air and look at the stars. The main entertainment however was the excursion program, and what a program. After the evening briefing we looked forward tot he sights of the next day and weren't disappointed. The zodiacs were manned by mainly young, but always very enthusiastic and informative members of the expedition team. We saw whales, turtles, rays, many varieties of birds, crocodiles, dolphins, and some lucky passengers saw a dugong. On shore we visited rock art sites from different periods, and a beach with strange shaped rocks of significance to indigenous Australians, as well as venturing up rivers and gorges. The sunsets were amazing, and the sunrises were probably also spectacular judging by the light I saw early one morning! It was the most wonderful experience to go out on a zodiac and then return to a ship with excellent French food and wine, good company and a warm ambiance. Read Less

We wanted to visit the Kimberley region from the sea and experience rock art and geographic features. We were not particularly interested in the birdlife but found it fascinating nevertheless. The hotels before and after were all we expected - very pleasant stays. The ship was impressive with plenty to keep us occupied on board. Service was very good. The excursions and explanatory talks before and after and the commentary during them were excellent. The cabin was well laid out and comfortable and in a great position. The balcony was a great spot to relax. Food, drinks and service were very good and nothing seemed to be too much to ask the staff, who were very helpful and courteous. We only partook of a little of the entertainment, but what we did experience was enjoyable. Both embarkation and disembarkation were handled quickly and efficiently. All in all it was a great experience and we thoroughly enjoyed very aspect of it. Read Less

We booked this cruise 18 months earlier and we are so glad we did. To begin with, the Kimberley area is stunning! The scenery, the wildlife and the indigenous rock art is all wonderfully beautiful. We saw an abundance of the most beautiful birds, crocodiles, whales and sea turtles, all in their natural environment. The physical scenery was absolutely stunning. The geological features are incredibly special and places like Talbot Bay with the Horizontal Waterfalls, Raft Point, Prince Frederick Harbour with the amazing Mitchell Falls seen by helicopter will live in our memories forever. Seeing Montgomery Reef rise out of the water as the tide fell was an incredible experience. We were literally metres away from this. We visited several sites with ancient aboriginal rock art that were just amazing. Added to this, was the expertise of our guiding naturalists. They combined a sense of fun with incredible knowledge and made the daily excursions in the zodiacs something to really look forward to. The evening recap meetings led by Sandrine and the naturalists ensured we all knew exactly what was happening the next day as well as reliving that day's experiences. We couldn't have asked for more. The ship itself was quite beautiful. It was stylish and modern with more than a touch of class. Our cabin was 431 and it suited us perfectly. We loved sitting on the private balcony, particularly while whales frolicked nearby. Our room was kept spotlessly clean and the bar fridge constantly restocked. There was also no shortage of fabulous entertainment on board with various musicians, singers and a great dance group. I also used the library to get through a couple of relaxing books. We found the food to be beautiful and it was complemented by a never ending supply of fine wines. We ate in both the formal restaurant and also in the more casual buffet and found them to be outstanding. Finally a word about the staff. They were incredibly good, quick with a smile and always helpful. The service was far and away the best we have experienced. This was a really special holiday and we couldn't have been happier. Thank you Ponant! Read Less

Cabins too small, temperature too cold throughout the ship including in cabins, food very disappointing for what is expected from the French, meat tough, food too salty even the doctor on board told the chefs this but they refused to change. Little to no service poolside, pool only a plunge pool. Ponant office in Sydney much too slow at sending documents, many passengers did not receive prior to leaving their homes to travel. Pick-up from hotels in Broome organised by Ponant was a debarkle, some passengers not informed of pickup location and time and then when we arrived at ship we were informed that we were an hour too early and would have to wait an hour in hot sun with no shade or seating. Australian expedition crew excellent! Ponant Sydney office are not organised— we 3 will never travel Ponant again— back to Silver Sea and Seabourn for future cruises. Read Less

We went on the Explorer last year in May 2016 to Scotland and Norway and was the first time with Silver sea. We have traveled Seabourn and was happy, but friends had mentioned to try Silversea. There were 2 days at sea due to canceling beach party in Timor Indonesia saying the country would not allow cruise ships there any longer. Then we arrived in Dawrin docked a day early, so 3 days lost. They tried to get a couple tours on land at the end. One a city drive and the other a wildlife park/aquarium tour. Food fair, but r redundant. The rooms were worn and outdated. Lots of crickets in our cabin and balcony. They said they probable hitched a ride back in Darwin. Yikes! The cabin attendants were top notch. Most of the waiter staff were good, but seemed frustrated at times. Less luxury and more of a working ship for exploration tours. Price was 30K for Veranda Suite....and not worth that to see a few rock carvings and the hikes were very hot and humid. Be in good shape and hold the bladder for 2-3 hours. Rod river cruise had a bathroom on the boat. It was a fun tour and the zodiacs getting you wet under the waterfalls were the best 2 things out of 11 days. Kind of boring. Should have been more activities. No bathroom provisions on most the tours. No photographer as he had visa issue and there was not a cruise coordinator to help with other trips. Reception was overworked. Piano player was excellent. Read Less

What a trip, unless you actually see it yourself you wouldn't believe it. Every day started off beautifully weather wise, company, staff and guides. Our cabins were very comfortable with plenty of room for both of us. Dinning room and lounges around our ship were comfortable and documentaries, screenings, videos, charades, hat making and talks were a treat and must say a little nap time for some after another wonderful day. Christoph, what a wonderful and pleasant chef, always with a smile on his face and what meals he provided us, and must say my steak was perfect. Now what a beautiful country we have, we had no idea just how beautiful an area we were sailing into, every single day was an eye opener and we were blessed with perfect weather. Going out in the explorer every day was an absolute treat, and having beautiful waterfall showers, and fresh water swim wow. Exploring everthing on a whole was more than we imagined possible and seeing is believing. One very exciting treat was going fishing in the explorer with Josh out of the 12 persons who fished almost all caught fish and quite a bit of excitement was had especially by me. Finishing our trip was sad as our trip was over but how bitter sweet it was to have all the crew there for our final farewell, and hugs as well. Home again and we have let our agent and everyone who has asked that telling them about our trip is never enough, and they should do the trip and see for themselves. Thankyou so very very much. Read Less

We chose this cruise as we had wanted to explore the Kimberley and this one offered great accommodation too - all around my birthday. The ship itself is rather tired and the water system needs a total overhaul as the water is an unpleasant yellow colour - rather off-putting but totally harmless! The only other hitch was the lack of outside seating on the shade - 106 passengers were competing for about 10 seats - the best ones being on the smoking deck - not good for the non-smokers. However, having said that the cruise was amazing - the staff were cheerful and extremely willing to grant one's every wish. The excursions/tours were amazing - every one was a unique experience for us both. The expedition staff were the most generous and knowledgeable people you could wish to meet. They made every trip out a feast of learning and an adventure. Malcolm Turner was always a highlight with his informative but humorous lecturers. The dining room was always willing to accommodate our preference for a table for two. The wait staff remembered us and our wine tastes avery evening, going out of their way to please us all. The Kimberley is a wild and exciting place with everything from Montgomery Reef and the Horizontal Falls to the Bungle Bungles and croc-infested rivers. We were lucky to be there when the tides had a variation of 10 metres - spectacular natural wonders of this area. Everywhere you looked there were birds, crocodile, jellyfish, dugongs - amazing rock formations, Aboriginal art - never short of something phenomenal to see - we would go again in a heartbeat! Read Less

Overall, very good cruise - very different from any others and would definitely go again. Embarkation was slow, suitcases took ages to come and in no particular cabin order. Cabin is reviewed below - not sure extra money for balcony is worth it. Ship is ok; ceilings very low, problem with toilets (see cabin review), very hot, top deck 7 was wasted space - no shade at all. Area round pool was too sunny - lack of shade a big issue. Pool small but fine for a cooling dip - some guests jumped in fully clothed when coming back from trips. The lounge was poorly seated - sit to right or middle for talks. Dining - breakfast slightly shambolic due to many guests asking for specially cooked items, but good selection. Lunch - good; one day there was an exceptional ratatouille: I raved about it so much they made me a portion on the final night's dinner. Dinner choices not vast but well presented. Fabulous sommelier knew her wines! very good selection and happy to bring other varieties/bottles for us to try. No entertainment other than a pianist. No room for dancing. Daily lectures very informative and interesting. We went to the spa and it wasn't busy and massages were great. Activities - where to start! Every day we were out on the Zodiacs exploring. So wonderful. Each boat took a max of either 8 or 12 plus a member of expedition staff. Two extra trips offered: many guests took the $70 fast boat through the Horizontal Falls. We didn't and I'm sorry about that. It was described as not for those with a bad back but those who went on it said it was fine. We did do the helicopter trip to the Mitchell Falls - over $500, and it was absolutely amazing! There was an included choice of a flight over the Bungle Bungles or a River Ord cruise. We did the flight. very good, but try to sit on the pilot's side. Those who took the cruise said it was marvellous. Trip to Jaco Island was a highlight. Expedition staff were exceptional. Ship staff very, very good. Can't fault anyone. I did have to consult the doctor for a problem with my eye and he was efficient. bar staff lovely. We saw crocodiles, turtles, eagles, millions of birds, dolphins, sea snakes and a whale! Plus lots of other beasties. Don't go if you are not prepared to get wet, jump on boats, hang on tight, laugh when kissed by a waterfall and mix well with the other guests! There were 89 guests on our voyage (instead of usual 120). Read Less

We have just finished the trip of a lifetime. We knew what to expect by the information provided beforehand, and our expectations exceeded by an un-describable experience. The crew, the Explorer Guides and the guests made the trip a journey not to forget. The Master (Captain) let his crew with a sincere wish to please the passengers. Nothing was too hard for them to put into place. Tours of the vessel were available and the bridge was open for anytime visits. There was every opportunity to participate in all events provided on board and on the daily and sometimes bi-daily cruises in the zodiacs and the Explorer. Those providing the guided tours had a wealth of knowledge to pass on to those who participated in the ventures and nearly all did. It was a mark of how much the trip and ventures were enjoyed when on the last day prior to the departure for Darwin every passenger was up for early breakfasts and out on the water for a final tour of one of the gorges. i have to say again, put this on your bucket list - and do it. Read Less

My husband and I have just returned from a cruise on the Coral Discoverer from Broome to Darwin. It was much more than we could ever have expected. The ship was clean, the suites cleaned daily, laundry facilities excellent. The food on board was plentiful and beautiful. Thank you Chef Grant. The young staff on duty were always cheerful, helpful and very professional. Expedition Leader Steve, Lecturers Tom and Maureen were a wealth of knowledge, gave very interesting and informative lectures and always happy to answer questions. The Explorer is a terrific way to get off the "Mother Ship" and see different sites and the Zodiacs are a lot of fun. Both of these vessels were used daily to transport passengers to different activities. There are a variety of activities organised daily as well so you always have a choice. We spotted whales, crocodiles, sea snakes, sharks, many different species of birds, possums etc. The ride through the Horizontal Falls on the Zodiac was fantastic as was the helicopter flight over Mitchell Falls The open bridge policy was really appreciated as you have a birdseye view of what's around you. Captain Garry is such an integral part of the journey as he is such a nice, accommodating person. Thank you Garry for all the funny conversations and whale chasing!! A big thank you also to Purser Amy for organising some tables to be put together so the friends we made on the cruise were able to take part in my birthday celebrations. The cake made by Chef Grant was appreciated Anyone thinking of doing this cruise, we could not recommend it any higher! It will stay in our memories for the rest of our lives and we are now considering doing another cruise with the Coral Discoverer. Definitely value for money. Read Less

This was a very expensive trip, and the experience on the Oceanic Discoverer was truly awful. Boarded in Broome and disembarked in Darwin for Australia Kimberly cruise. My cabin, C07, was noisy because of the way the water drainage in the ship is configured (this is confirmed by the ship engineer, Frank). Gray water collects, about 7 liters, then releases, through sections in the wall, every "x" number of cabins. A truly awful experience, and I had to wear earplugs to sleep. The staff is very small, about 20-25 for a passenger list of 65+. They work very hard, but it doesn't make for a good passenger experience. Even the largest commercial cruise line (for example, Carnival) has a better staff to passenger ratio. First they are cleaning your cabin, then trying to serve food. Poor training, especially when I see the staff putting a glass in the ice bin to get the ice. A scoop should be used in case the glass breaks. The poor guy in the kitchen is overwhelmed, dinner service is very slow and the food is rarely hot. Breakfast and lunch were buffets. The food was cooked to death sometimes (gray beef - totally unrecognizable, only the menu gave a clue), other items were raw - fish. Some items, lamb, were inedible, they were so tough. The menu is limited and you see the same items often on a 10 day cruise. Ice tea and water were left on the bars for us to have at our pleasure. Problem was the pitchers were uncovered and the liquids were warm. Laminated dinner menus made their appearance at lunch time, sticking up in the middle of the tables. You had to pre-order your dinner. Breakfast eggs, etc were always cold. The 'tinnie' the Explorer is a horrible way to travel. It felt like being on a boat ride from the old folks home. Couples split up to grab all the window seats. If you didn't have a window seat you couldn't see, or take a picture. As a single and wanting a window seat, I had to get out on deck early and be at the head of the line. The staff hated that. We had an engine malfunction and the tool kit on board was inadequate. They had to send our security zodiac back to the mother ship for more tools. We were fortunate in that one of our passengers was an experience boatman, and made a fix out of 'chewing gum and spit'. There were only 2 zodiacs and were rarely used. The microphone system on the Explore rarely worked, so not only did you need a window seat, but you needed a front seat! Raising and lowering the Explorer felt like a 'klugy' experience at best. The lounge was used for presentations. No one ever did figure out the audio/video workings in that room. Truly exasperating. I was never so glad for a trip to end. It was a really bad experience. I've traveled a lot (over 90 countries by land, sea and air) and this trip rates as one of the worst I have ever had. Read Less