Whales & Trails of Western Australia

Arrive at Fremantle Berth C for boarding at 4:00pm, with time to settle into your stateroom. Take the time to become acquainted with all the facilities onboard. As dusk falls join guests and the friendly crew as we enjoy the Captain’s Welcome Drinks and sit down to the first of many delicious dinners.

Meet the Whadjuk Noongar people, who have been on this land for over 30,000 years and join a guided walk to learn about seasonal life, culture, and welcome ceremony. Join a guided walk on the Wadjemup Bidi trails. Whale-watching hotspots on this stop include Cape Vlamingh and West End (conditions permitting). Enjoy free time to explore the various beaches, trails, museums and spot the iconic Quokkas that inhabit this island.

Enjoy flexible exploration of Eagle Bay with two full days to walk Cape-to-Cape trail, with several opportunities to walk short, medium and long trails. In the afternoon, relax with sunset drinks as we cruise past Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse.

Optional Extra: Whale-watching charter from Dunsborough (additional cost) offers closer and additional encounters.

Unwind after busy days ashore with time to relax on deck or in your stateroom. Join guest lectures from regional experts, enjoy a hosted wine tasting, and watch for whales from the ship as we cruise along the coast. Evenings bring good company, fine food, and the chance to slow down.

Discover Western Australia’s oldest colonial town, rich with Minang Noongar heritage and maritime history. Learn how whaling shaped Albany’s past, then in free time explore bicentenary exhibitions, galleries, and cultural events. Stroll through wildflower displays and uncover stories linking land, sea, and community.

Walk the Point Ann Heritage Trail, or hike Mamang Trail and watch for whales from ashore and Xplorer tenders. Southern right whales are known to frequent in the area due to the sheltered bay. Enjoy snorkelling or kayak if conditions allow.

Cheynes Beach is another hub for southern right whales, as well as various other marine species from early winter to late spring. Here, learn about groundbreaking whale migration research and the Mirnong Maat tagging project. On land, search for rare birdlife like the elusive noisy scrub-bird and join a coastal walk into the Arpenteur Nature Reserve.

Wander beneath towering karri trees, the third tallest in the world on a guided loop walk through the Boranup Forest. During Kambarang, the ‘season of rebirth’, the forest bursts to life with wildflowers.

As one of Western Australia’s oldest settlements, Busselton is a hub for food, wines and spirits. Ride the small train or walk the iconic 1.8km jetty, explore heritage trails, art, and markets, or enjoy local produce at a cafe. With free time to wander, discover a vibrant coastal hub rich in culture and history.