These hike themed expeditions combine an expedition voyage with hikes on some of Tasmania’s best coastal tracks. Guests will enjoy a variety of shore excursions, and less strenuous walks will be available at each destination. The imposing cliffs, sandy beaches and sapphire waters of the rugged coast of Tasmania offer an experience of spectacular beauty. These special departures combine an expedition voyage with coastal treks on some of Tasmania’s best walking tracks – a uniquely Australian back-to-nature experience. Guided by experienced bush-walkers, explore breathtaking coastal hikes along with insights into the region’s unique eco-system. The ship’s itinerary has been designed to seamlessly enable extensive shore excursions, however guests who wish to simply stay on-board during the day and enjoy the scenery are welcome to do so. After the day’s exertions, retire to the Coral Discoverer’s panoramic Explorer bar and recharge with a Tasmanian single malt or two. Surely there isn’t a better way to explore Tasmania’s coast!
Some of the hikes we aim to do on these expeditions include Cape Hauy (4hrs, Gr 3), Bishop & Clerk (7hrs Gr 4), Fluted Cape (2.5hrs Gr 4), Mt Beattie (3 hrs, Gr 2), and Wineglass Bay (1-2hrs, Gr 3). Learn more about each hike under the Itinerary section.
- Spend two full days exploring Port Davey and Bathurst Harbour, with kayaking, bird-watching, and hiking revealing the secrets of this stunning wilderness
- Explore the beautiful Freycinet National Park: stroll the sweeping white sand of Wineglass Bay and hike to the lookout for a spectacular view
- Visit the Noah’s Ark of Tasmania, Maria Island, and spot wombat, wallabies, endemic birds, and other wildlife
- Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour at World Heritage-listed Port Arthur to gain a deep insight into the convict history
- From the sea, have a breath-taking view of the 300 metre high dolerite columns of the Tasman Peninsula, the highest sea cliffs in the southern hemisphere
- Taste Tasmania’s remarkable fresh produce, cool-climate wines, and artisanal spirits throughout your expedition and at special wine-tastings and events
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or [email protected]) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Coral Discoverer
| Length | 63 metres |
|---|---|
| Launched/refurbished | 2005/2018 |
| Max capacity | 72 Passengers |
Yacht-like Coral Discoverer set a new benchmark standard of sophistication in expedition cruising when she was constructed by us in 2005. Coral Discoverer sailed on pioneering expeditions through Papua New Guinea, the islands of the South Pacific, Vanuatu, New Zealand, West Papua, and the Spice Islands. She led explorations into remote areas, focusing on destinations that were largely inaccessible to larger cruise ships.
Coral Discoverer is exceptionally nimble and maneuverable, with a shallow draught to get up close to destinations, ocean views from all public spaces, an expansive open-air sun deck, all outside-facing staterooms, and state-of-the-art tools for exploration including the Xplorer, zodiacs, a glass-bottom boat, and kayaks. A full refurbishment in 2018 saw the addition of private balconies, the much-loved Xplorer sundeck bar, and all new furnishings throughout the ship.
Comfortable, reliable, and intimately scaled, Coral Discoverer now conducts expeditions across Australia’s coast – Tasmania, Cape York and Arnhem Land and the Kimberley. Australian flagged and staffed by an Australian and New Zealand crew, your experience aboard Coral Discoverer will be memorable.
Onboard Accommodation
Onboard accommodation comprises 36 spacious modern staterooms. You can select from Bridge, Promenade or Main Deck staterooms offering a choice of twin through to junior king-size doubles. All staterooms have an ocean view, en-suite facilities, settee, large wardrobe, desk, luggage storage, individual air-conditioning control, and are serviced daily.
Onboard Facilities
What you would expect of a much larger cruise ship:
- Large sundeck
- Spa Pool
- Guest computer
- Comprehensive reference library
- Phone and fax facilities
- Lecture lounge with large plasma screen
- Limited laundry facilities
- Two fully stocked cocktail bars
- Boutique and dive shop
- Air-conditioned public areas
Coral Discoverer is equipped with the latest technology active stabilizers and is fitted with state-of-the-art safety and navigational equipment and is the only Australian passenger ship registered with full SOLAS compliance allowing opportunities to explore a multitude of international voyages.
Dining
All meals during the cruise are included. Breakfast and lunch are served in the Dining Room located on the Main Deck and are buffet-style while dinner is table d’hote. Coffee and tea is available 24 hours. Standard hours are breakfast from 7:00-8:30am, lunch at 12:30pm and dinner at 7:30pm however meal times may vary according to the day's activities. Meal times will be advised in the onboard daily bulletins.
Excursion Boats And Zodiacs
The "Xplorer" is a specially designed aluminium excursion vessel used for the majority of our excursions. This vessel has high horsepower engines and will accommodate all passengers at one time. The "Xplorer" will be used for landings and for extensive exploration of rivers and tributaries. For your added convenience and comfort, the "Xplorer" is equipped with an awning and toilet.
We also carry two inflatable landing craft (Zodiacs). Designed for expedition work, these large and heavy-duty inflatables are extremely safe. Separate air compartments retain a large reserve of buoyancy even if the boats damaged. The flat bottom design permits these crafts to land directly onto the beaches. Expect nonetheless to wade through shallow water to reach the shore. See photo below (right)
