The Hunter River was named in 1820 by the explorer Philip Parker King aboard the Mermaid Cutter, while making charts in the area. The river was named after the surgeon on Mermaid, James Hunter. The river is home to a large mangrove estuary, that forms part of Porosus Creek (Crocodile Creek) and home to several bird species, Osprey, Brahminy Kite, and White-tailed Sea eagles.
Mitchell River National Park is one of Kimberley's two national parks. The park lies in some of the most remote and inaccessible country in Australia. It is about 350 km north-east of Derby, and 270 km north-west of Wyndham. The park of 115,300 hectares lies in a remote part of the Kimberley and contains some of the region's scenic jewels. The Mitchell Plateau is one of the most scenic and biologically important areas of the State. Small patches of rainforest grow around the margins of the plateau, where they are protected from fire and receive additional moisture.
INCLUDED EXPEDITION--NO BOOKING REQUIRED*
Zodiac Cruise
Leaving the ship from its anchorage position, we will start our Zodiac tour of Hunter River, passing first Naturalist Island and then Indian Head. (a sandstone headland depicting the head of an Indian) You then start to enter the mouth of the Hunter River. Near the end of Hunter River, we turn left down Porosus Creek named aptly after the many saltwater crocodiles that call the area home. Depending on the tide, we will have the opportunity to head into the mangroves and explore this unique environment, coupled with detailed interpretation of the area. Keep a look out, as sightings of saltwater crocodiles, osprey, White Bellied Sea Eagles and Brahminy Kites are quite common. This is a magnificent Zodiac cruise show casing one of the Kimberley highlights.
*Please note this expedition experience is exclusively available on our expedition ships, Seabourn Venture or Seabourn Pursuit. All shore excursions shared here are subject to availability and are weather and conditions permitting.
