Kimberley Expedition Cruise Review 8/8
Watch the full review on YouTube by clicking here.
I’m sitting by the window as Silver Explorer’s anchor is hauled. She’s about to set sail for Darwin, our port of disembarkation, and all too soon this once in a lifetime experience is coming to an end.
Our final day of exploration began as we arrived in Swift Bay. Two excursions were offered, and of course we decided to do both.
The first was to Swirly Rock Beach, so called by Lea, the expedition leader. Located on the Australian mainland, the beach is home to an array of spectacular rocks that possess a unique circular pattern embedded within them. The cause, from what I could understand, is related to water and while I won’t be winning any pop quizzes about the rocks, I did enjoy the hike and rock scrambling, along with epic views across the bay.
After returning to Explorer and enjoying a light lunch from the room service menu (toasted panini with buffalo mozzarella, pesto and rocket - simple and delicious!) it was time to take off on our second and final excursion.
This one involved a 15 or so minute run in the zodiac to the bay opposite the ship, and the drawcard was none other than an incredible rock art gallery. The huge escarpment hid a massive number of rock art examples, with most of them a type known as Wandjina.
The paintings are certainly unique and almost haunting. Creatures or beings, without mouths but with pronounced circular patterns around their heads adorn the rock faces. Painted within the last 5000 years, these images are said to have ensured a wet season would come, and that natural fertility would continue.
We strolled through the entire gallery, getting down on all fours in certain areas and laying on our backs in others. We all enjoyed the opportunity to witness something so special in such open surrounds.
Soon enough, it was time for our final stint in the zodiacs as we cruised on back to the waiting Silver Explorer. We plowed through the wind and swell but relished in every bump and splash, knowing that it was the last time we would be onboard one of these versatile rubber boats. Tomorrow, we’ll get the chance to relax during a sea day (I think we all need it!) before bidding this entire experience farewell on Wednesday, when the ship arrives in Darwin.
Thank you for following along during this trip. I hope you’ve enjoyed reading these posts as much as I have enjoyed writing them. Please make sure you keep an eye out for my videos on my YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/thecruiseandtravelguy as these will follow soon!
