11 Night Across The Top Cruise departing from Cairns to Darwin sailing on board the Coral Princess.

An 11 night exploration of the unique and remote Northern Australian coastline that few have experienced.

Your expedition voyage of discovery begins from either Cairns - gateway to the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef, Cape York Peninsular and the fascinating islands of the Tomes Strait, or Darwin - gateway to the remote and mysterious Arnhem Land and the famous National Parks of Kakadu and Cobourg Peninsula, areas affectionately known as the "Top End".

Experienced and informative Expedition Leaders and Guest Lecturers will accompany you on all excursions. They will point out and interpret the myriad of wildlife you encounter and augment your experiences with on-board discussions and informal lectures. From our informative Guides you will discover the mysteries of the fascinating reef life and habitat.

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1: Depart Cairns
3:00pm: Board Coral Princess at Trinity Wharf, Cairns for a 4.00pm departure. This evening meet your fellow travellers and friendly crew as we enjoy the Captain's Welcome Aboard Cocktail Party.

Day 2: Lizard Island
We explore secluded Lizard Island, one of the most beautiful islands on the Queensland Coast. Enjoy swimming, snorkelling and a walk along the beautiful sandy beach. The energetic may join our guides on a walk to "Cook's Look" on the island's peak. It was from here, the highest lookout on this part of the reef, that Captain Cook was able to navigate a safe passage back through the treacherous waters after repairing the Endeavour near Cooktown over 200 years ago. A photographer's delight, the views from the lookout over the World Heritage-listed reef and surrounding tropical islands are magnificent.

Day 3: Stanley Island and Davey Reef
Visit Stanley Island in the Flinders Group to view the Endaen Aboriginal rock art gallery that depicts sailing ships of the last century. This is a unique art site seldom visited due to its isolated location. At Davey Reef and Cay we enjoy swimming and snorkelling and observe the large seabird rookery.

Day 4: Forbes Island and Magra Island
Enjoy the day exploring historic Forbes Island, its reef provides some fantastic swimming and snorkelling opportunities. This afternoon we visit Magra Island for beachcombing, bird watching and to enjoy the tropical sunset.

Day 5: Cape York and Thursday Island
This morning we venture ashore at Cape York as the sun rises over the "Tip" on Australia's northernmost point. Enjoy champagne and welcome the new day. Anchoring at Thursday Island, learn of the history of European settlement and the large pearling fleets. We have the opportunity to observe the distinctly different cultures of the Torres Strait Islanders and the Aboriginals whilst we enjoy a tour of the island (subject to weather conditions). Following lunch we visit the Gab Titui Cultural Centre where the children perform traditional dances. Continuing on to Horn Island we discover the significance of the Torres Strait during World War II. Tonight, we travel ashore on Horn Island and stay overnight at the Gateway Torres Strait Resort.

Day 6: Nhulunbuy (Gove)
This morning we board our short charter flight across the Gulf of Carpentaria to Nhulunbuy (Gove). Upon arrival, we visit the Yirrkala Art Centre. Following a light lunch, enjoy time to discover this frontier town before visiting Nambarra Art Centre to see some fine examples of local artwork. This evening we enjoy a relaxing stay at the Walkabout Lodge in Gove.

Day 7: Hole in the Wall and Beach BBQ
Rejoining Coral Princess we cruise through the narrow 'Hole in the Wall'. Our expert guides and lecturers will share with you the fascinating history of the Macassan traders and early discoverers to the Arnhem Land coast. This evening we enjoy a gourmet Aussie Beach BBQ as the sun spectacularly sets over the Arafura Sea.

Day 8: Elcho Island Artists
The friendly locals of Elcho Island proudly welcome us to their community this morning. Enjoy an insight into their culture and meet some of the local artists who have their unique art exhibited in the famous art galleries of the world, including the Louvre. You may wish to attend the local church service to share in the local culture.

Day 9: Liverpool River and Maningrida
We anchor in the mighty Liverpool River before travelling ashore to explore the Maningrida Art Centre, Museum and local "boutique", where hand painted clothing and fabrics are offered for sale. Later, join the Expedition Leader and guides on an Explorer tour of the river before rejoining our small ship.

Day 10: Cobourg Peninsula
Enjoy a full day to discover the Cobourg Peninsula. Port Essington is famous for its failed Victoria Settlement, and we will be joined by the local National Park rangers who will guide and help us explore the ruins. We will also visit the Ranger's Interpretation Centre at Black Point.

Day 11: Bathurst and Melville Islands
Today we enjoy a true highlight, visiting remote Bathurst and Melville Islands. With traditional Tiwi people as our guides we learn of the unique cultures and visit their fascinating art centre. Our Tiwi hosts will welcome us with a cultural performance and basket-weaving exhibition before we join them for a traditional afternoon tea of damper and billy tea. Tonight we farewell new-found friends as we enjoy the Captain's Farewell Cocktails.

Day 12: Arrive in Darwin
8:00am: Arrive into Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory and gateway to the "Top End"

NOTE: This itinerary is an indication of the reef, islands and coastal areas we visit. While every effort will be made to follow this itinerary we do reserve the right to vary this itinerary to make allowances for weather, tidal conditions and any other reasons whatsoever.