VANSITTART BAY KIMBERLEY CRUISES

Discover Vansittart Bay in the Kimberley. Explore ancient Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) rock art, WWII history, scenic landscapes and cultural heritage on Kimberley cruises.

Our Vansittart Bay Kimberley Cruises give you access to one of the Kimberley's most fascinating destinations, combining ancient Indigenous rock art, dramatic coastal scenery and a surprising connection to World War II history.

Located on the remote northern Kimberley coast, Vansittart Bay is best known for its remarkable Gwion Gwion rock art galleries (often referred to as Bradshaw rock art), which are believed to be among the oldest and most sophisticated figurative artworks in Australia.

For many Kimberley cruise guests, a visit to Vansittart Bay offers a rare opportunity to step ashore and explore thousands of years of Kimberley history while surrounded by some of the region's most spectacular landscapes.

WHERE IS FRESHWATER COVE?

Finding Freshwater Cover on the map

Finding Vansittart Bay

Vansittart Bay lies on the remote north Kimberley coastline between the Mitchell Plateau and Napier Broome Bay.

Accessible only by sea or air, the bay forms part of many expedition cruise itineraries travelling between Broome and Wyndham.

The area is renowned for its rugged sandstone landscapes, secluded beaches, ancient cultural sites and rich maritime history.

WHY VISIT VANSITTART BAY

A journey through a cultural past

Unlike destinations focused on waterfalls, wildlife or tidal phenomena, Vansittart Bay offers visitors a journey through the Kimberley's cultural and historical past.

Highlights

Ancient Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) rock art

Guided shore excursions

WWII aircraft wreckage

Scenic coastal landscapes

Remote beaches and coves

Indigenous cultural significance

Excellent photography opportunities

For travellers interested in history, archaeology and culture, Vansittart Bay is one of the most rewarding destinations in the Kimberley.

GWION GWION (BRADSHAW) ROCK ART

Famous Kimberley rock art

The primary attraction at Vansittart Bay is its collection of Gwion Gwion rock art.

These elegant figures depict human forms adorned with intricate clothing, headdresses and ceremonial objects. The artworks differ significantly from Wandjina imagery found elsewhere in the Kimberley and are regarded as some of Australia's most significant archaeological treasures.

During guided excursions, guests learn about:

The history of Kimberley rock art

Traditional interpretations of the paintings

The significance of preserving cultural heritage

The differences between Gwion Gwion and Wandjina art

For many visitors, seeing these ancient artworks in their natural setting becomes a highlight of the entire Kimberley cruise.

THE WWII AIRCRAFT WRECK

Wreckage of a Douglas DC-3 plane

One of the lesser-known attractions at Vansittart Bay is the wreckage of a Douglas DC-3 aircraft.

The aircraft crashed during World War II and remains remarkably preserved. Many cruise operators include a short walk to the wreck site, providing a fascinating contrast between modern history and the much older Indigenous heritage found throughout the region.

The wreck has become an iconic Kimberley landmark and a popular photography stop.

Crocodile POnant

WILDLIFE AT VANSITTART BAY

Expected wildlife encounters at Vansittart Bay

While Vansittart Bay is primarily known for its cultural and historical attractions, visitors regularly encounter Kimberley wildlife throughout the area.

Common Wildlife Sightings

Wildlife Likelihood of Sighting
Sea Eagles ★★★★
Osprey ★★★★
Saltwater Crocodiles ★★★
Shorebirds ★★★★
Dolphins ★★★

Although wildlife is not the primary reason visitors come to Vansittart Bay, the surrounding coastline supports a diverse range of birdlife and marine species.

VANSITTART BAY vs OTHER KIMBERLEY DESTINATIONS

How do customers rate Vansittart Bay among other Kimberley cruise destinations.

Destination Signature Experience Wildlife Waterfalls Cultural Significance
Vansittart Bay Gwion Gwion Rock Art ★★ ★★ ★★★★★
Freshwater Cove Indigenous Culture ★★★ ★★★★★
Raft Point Wandjina Rock Art ★★ ★★ ★★★★★
Hunter River Wildlife & Mangroves ★★★★★ ★★★ ★★
King George Falls Twin Waterfalls ★★★ ★★★★★ ★★

Vansittart Bay stands apart as one of the Kimberley's most significant archaeological and cultural destinations.

WHICH KIMBERLEY CRUISES VISIT VANSITTART BAY

Cruise vessels that visi Vansittart Bay

Vansittart Bay is featured on many expedition-style Kimberley itineraries because it combines Indigenous heritage, coastal scenery and wartime history in a single destination.

Kimberley Cruise Operators That Commonly Visit Vansittart Bay

Coral Expeditions - Coral Discoverer, Coral Geographer, Coral Adventurer

APT Kimberley Cruises - with the Seabourn Pursuit

Travel Marvel - with the Heritage Adventurer

Ponant Kimberley Cruises - Le Soleal and Le Jacques Cartier

Seabourn Kimberley Cruises - Seabourn Pursuit

Scenic Eclipse Kimberley Cruises - Scenic Eclipse II

Silversea Kimberley Cruises - Silver Cloud

Freshwater Cove is particularly popular on expedition-style itineraries because it offers guests a deeper understanding of the Kimberley's cultural heritage alongside the region's spectacular landscapes and wildlife.

Vansittart Bay On Luxury Yacht & Charter Cruises

Luxury Yacht  and Charter Boat operators often include Vansittart Bay as part of northern Kimberley itineraries visiting the Mitchell Plateau, King George River and other remote destinations.

These smaller vessels allow guests greater flexibility for shore excursions, photography opportunities and exploration of the bay's secluded anchorages. 

Visits remain subject to weather, sea conditions and individual cruise itineraries.

Many luxury yacht and charter itineraries operating from Broome include:

Broome to Mitchell Plateau cruise itineraries

Broome to Hunter River expeditions

Fly/Cruise combinations

Cruise/Fly itineraries

Private charter experiences tailored to guest interests

Because these itineraries typically operate with fewer passengers, they can offer a more personalised exploration of the Kimberley's cultural and natural attractions.

Please note that visits to Freshwater Cove are subject to Traditional Owner access arrangements, cultural permissions, weather conditions and individual cruise itineraries.

BEST TIME TO VISIT VANSITTART BAY

Best months of the year for cruising Vansittart Bay

April – June

Lush post-wet season landscapes (April - June)

Pleasant walking conditions

Excellent photography

July – August

Cooler temperqatures

Peak Kimberley cruise season

Ideal conditions for shore excursions

September – October

Warm weather

Great coastal scenery and viewing (photography conditions)

Clear skies

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQs about Vansittart Bay

Vansittart Bay is best known for its ancient Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) rock art galleries and its World War II DC-3 aircraft wreck.

Yes. The area contains some of the Kimberley's most important Indigenous rock art sites and is highly significant culturally and historically.

Many cruise excursions include a walk to the well-preserved DC-3 wreck, one of the Kimberley's most unusual historical attractions.

Absolutely. The combination of rock art, rugged landscapes, beaches and historic relics provides outstanding photographic opportunities.

No. While many expedition itineraries include the destination, individual routes vary between operators and departures.

EXPLORE MORE DESTINATIONS

Check out the other Kimberley Highlights

ICONIC KIMBERLEY CRUISE DESTINATIONS

Montgomery Reef Guide – Witness an entire reef emerge from the ocean.

Horizontal Falls Guide – Experience one of Australia's most famous tidal phenomena.

Hunter River -  Famed for its outstanding beauty and wildlife.

Mitchell Falls -  One of the must-see waterfalls in the Kimberley.

Prince Frederick Harbour -  Mangrove-lined rivers and sandstone escarpments.

 Prince Regent River Guide – Explore the Kimberley's great wilderness waterway.

King George Falls Guide – Discover one of Western Australia's tallest waterfalls.

Raft Point Guide -  Aboriginal cave art.


ESSENTIAL KIMBERLEY CRUISE GUIDES

 Kimberley Cruise Types – View all cruise ships and boats by category.

 Luxury Ships - Most stylish small ships in the Kimberley.

 Expedition Ships - Designed for exploration more than luxury.

 Luxury Yachts - Smaller and more upmarket, boutique vessels.

 Charter Boats - For more action, adventure and destination immersion.

 Kimberley Cruise Routes & Itineraries – See where Kimberley cruises travel.

 Best Time to Cruise the Kimberley – Find the ideal month for your journey.

 Kimberley Cruise Wildlife Guide – Learn about crocodiles, whales, turtles and more.

 Kimberley Cruise Costs – What you should expect to pay.

 Travel Insurance – Taking out Kimberley travel insurance

BOOKING WITH BLUESUN

Your personal travel consultants and experts - 7 days a week.

You have come to the right team of experts to help you plan your cruise. With this Cruise Guide, we hope to have helped a lot already, but our personal touches are what make the difference evey day.

At BlueSun Travel, we specialise in expedition cruises, and in particular, Australia's expedition and coastal cruise market. This naturally includes a particular focus on Kimberley cruising. Our team has spent nearly 30 years comparing vessels, itineraries, cabin categories and cruise operators to help travellers find the cruise that best matches their interests, expectations and budget. We have been nominated for mulitple business and travel industry awards.

Unlike booking directly with a cruise line, we provide independent advice across multiple operators, giving you access to a broader range of options and expert guidance throughout the booking process.

Available - 7 days a week!

WHY TRAVELLERS CHOOSE BLUESUN TRAVEL

Independent Advice
We compare multiple Kimberley cruise operators and vessels to help you find the right fit, not just a single cruise line. More importantly, all our cruise advisors are accredited Cruise Masters with the CLIA, the highest attainable ranking you can have in the industry.

Kimberley Cruise Specialists
Our team understands the differences between luxury ships, expedition ships, luxury yachts and charter boats, helping you navigate a complex market with confidence.

Access To Leading Kimberley Cruise Lines
Compare departures, itineraries, cabin categories and pricing across the Kimberley's most respected operators.

Expert Vessel Comparisons
From Scenic Eclipse II and Seabourn Pursuit through to Silver Cloud and Le Jacques Cartier, we help you understand the strengths of each vessel before you book.

Personalised Service
Every traveller is different. We take the time to understand your travel style, interests and budget before making recommendations.

One Point Of Contact
From your initial enquiry through to final documentation, our team is available to assist every step of the way.

Exclusive Offers & Cruise Deals
Where available, we can advise on special offers, early booking incentives and selected cruise promotions.


OUR KIMBERLEY CRUISE EXPERTISE

The Kimberley is unlike any other cruise destination in Australia.

With more than 30 vessels operating across luxury ships, expedition ships, luxury yachts and charter boats, selecting the right cruise can be challenging.

Our role is simple: to help you compare your options, understand the differences and choose the Kimberley cruise that best suits your travel style.

Whether you're looking for six-star luxury aboard Scenic Eclipse II, the refined elegance of Le Soléal, or the ultra-luxury expedition experience of Seabourn Pursuit, we're here to help.


BOOK MORE ADVENTURES THROUGH BLUESUN TRAVEL

BlueSun Travel is a multi-award nominated expedition cruise specialist. Our divisions are world famous and include:

Antarctica Boat Cruises - Every expedition cruise ship sailing to Antarctica

Galapagos Islands cruises  - South America's most exotic wildlife destination

BlueSun Cruises - The most authoritative place to find ocean, river and expedition cruise itineraries worldwide.

Best Sri Lanka Holidays - Every ocean, river and expedition cruise with over 60,480 itineraries to look at!

BlueSun Travel - Holidays to Bali, Maldives, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam.

Feel free to call us any time if you are looking for more advice on cruising to other parts of the world. 

READY TO EXPERIENCE THE HUNTER RIVER

Speak to our Hunter River and Kimberley Cruise experts now.

Experience The Cultural Heart of the Kimberley

From the mysterious Gwion Gwion rock art galleries to the historic WWII aircraft wreck, Vansittart Bay offers a unique glimpse into the Kimberley's rich cultural and historical heritage. Combined with stunning coastal scenery and remote wilderness, it remains one of the most rewarding destinations on a Kimberley cruise.

Compare Kimberley cruise itineraries, vessels and departure dates to discover which voyages include a visit to Vansittart Bay and its remarkable ancient treasures.

Optional stronger booking-focused version

Discover Vansittart Bay On A Kimberley Cruise

Few Kimberley destinations combine ancient Indigenous rock art, wartime history and spectacular coastal scenery quite like Vansittart Bay. Whether you're fascinated by archaeology, photography, history or culture, this remote destination delivers one of the most memorable shore excursions in the Kimberley.

 

 

Ready to explore our Vansittart Bay Kimbeley Cruises? Compare Kimberley cruise ships, luxury yachts and expedition itineraries to find the perfect Kimberley adventure. Call us now:

1300 799 758

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