Embark on a spectacular 21-day sailing adventure from Exmouth to Darwin, journeying through Australia’s untamed northwest coast—where remote anchorages, ancient cultures, and thriving marine sanctuaries await.
Begin at the Montebello Islands, a former nuclear test site turned marine haven, perfect for snorkelling and wildlife spotting. Continue past Dampier’s coastline to Depuch Island, home to striking Indigenous rock art, before dropping anchor in Broome, where red desert meets the Indian Ocean.
As you sail through the Kimberley coast, daily life on board blends open-water sailing, watch rotations, and shared meals with opportunities to kayak, fish, snorkel, and enjoy quiet moments on deck. Explore the King George and Berkeley Rivers, swim in freshwater pools, and hike to waterfalls like Glycosmis Falls. At Bigge Island, view ancient Aboriginal art, while Vansittart Bay reveals WWII relics hidden along the shore.
Uncover the tidal wonders of Montgomery Reef, feel the rush of the Horizontal Falls, and enjoy starlit evenings anchored in tranquil coves like Sheep Island and Pangali Cove. Each anchorage brings a new chance to connect—with the landscape, the ocean, and fellow travellers.
Snorkel vibrant coral at Ashmore and Scott Reefs, before sailing into Darwin, where a warm welcome marks the end of an unforgettable passage through one of the world’s last great coastal frontiers.
Kimberley Coast Exploration
Cruise into iconic rivers like the King George and Berkeley, hike to waterfalls, swim in freshwater pools, and marvel at towering red cliffs.
Bigge Island & Vansittart Bay
View ancient Aboriginal rock art and WWII plane wrecks hidden in the landscape—powerful windows into Australia’s past.
Montgomery Reef & Horizontal Falls
Witness the reef emerge at low tide, then experience the exhilarating tidal rush of one of the world’s most unique natural wonders.
Snorkelling & Marine Life
Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Ashmore and Scott Reefs for unforgettable encounters with colourful fish, rays, and reef sharks.
Montebello Islands
Snorkel pristine coral reefs and explore a remote marine sanctuary once used for nuclear testing—now rich with birdlife and sea turtles.
Depuch Island
Wander among ancient Indigenous petroglyphs etched into volcanic rock and learn about the area’s deep cultural significance.
Life at Sea
Experience watch rotations, sail handling, and camaraderie onboard. Enjoy daily ocean views, fresh meals, and sunset dinners at anchor under starlit skies.
Final Landfall in Darwin
Conclude your journey in Australia’s tropical north—rich in Indigenous culture, wartime history, and laid-back charm.
Acting as watch captain (day and night), helming, navigating, checking weather and monitoring AIS and radar and for both traffic and rain squalls. View gallery
Downloading and analysing the latest weather forecasts and calculating best route to destination. View gallery
Navigating, hazard identification, entering waypoints and calculating updated ETA’s. View gallery
Watch roster planning, matching responsibility to experience, crew management and communication. View gallery
Familiarisation of all safety procedures, sail planning, storm preparation planning and abandon ship procedures. View gallery
Advice on how to take responsibility for managing clothing, hydration, sleep and nutrition to maintain your health and well being aboard. View gallery
Planning our arrival and route to safe harbour including timing with daylight (if required), weather factors, navigational hazards, communications / customs and sail/motor arrival plan. View gallery
Hoisting, trimming and reefing both upwind (main, genoas, and jibs) and downwind sails (poled out headsails, spinnakers, gennakers and code 0’s (subject to weather). View gallery
Use of PDF’s (Personal Flotation Devices), PLB’s (Personal Locator Beacons), safety tethers, dan buoy’s, storm drogue, liferaft and any other equipment required to ensure you remain safe in all conditions. View gallery
Onshore activities include hiking and bushwalking to scenic lookouts, exploring local towns, and discovering the unique charm of each destination. Enjoy cultural immersion through local traditions, relax with games, or uncover hidden gems as you explore islands. View gallery
Coastal exploring offers the thrill of venturing to remote places using a RIB, uncovering hidden gems like pristine reefs, secluded beaches, and winding rivers. Discover shipwrecks teeming with history, indulge in beach combing for unique treasures, and experience the untouched beauty of coastal landscapes. View gallery
Dining out offers the chance to enjoy local flavours, explore regional specialties, and experience unique culinary traditions. From seaside cafes to hidden gems, each meal is an opportunity to savour the culture and cuisine of the destination. View gallery
Fishing provides an opportunity to connect with nature, whether casting a line from the shore or exploring deeper waters. Enjoy the thrill of the catch, the serenity of the surroundings, and the chance to bring home a fresh, rewarding meal. View gallery
Exploring historic places offers a glimpse into the past through ancient sites, architectural landmarks, and local stories. These visits bring history to life, connecting you with the culture, traditions, and events that shaped each destination. View gallery
Kayaking allows you to glide through serene waterways, explore hidden coves, and get up close to nature. It’s a peaceful yet adventurous way to discover rivers, coastlines, and marine life from a unique perspective. View gallery
Snorkelling offers an up-close view of vibrant underwater ecosystems, from colourful coral reefs to fascinating marine life. It's a relaxing and immersive way to explore the wonders beneath the surface of the water. View gallery
Swimming offers refreshing escapes in stunning settings, from crystal-clear bays and tranquil rivers to diving off the back of the boat into azure waters. It's a perfect way to relax and be rejuvenated by nature. View gallery
Wildlife watching offers unforgettable encounters with nature, from observing birds and dolphins to spotting whales, turtles, and sharks. Discover diverse marine life, from playful fish to delicate starfish, in their natural habitats. View gallery
Step aboard Te Kaihopara, a purpose-built South Pacific cruising ketch designed for modern explorers seeking connection, challenge, and discovery at sea. From remote coastlines to open ocean passages, Te Kaihopara delivers comfort, capability, and adventure in equal measure. With a strong, ocean-tested build, hands-on sailing opportunities, and space to relax and reflect, every voyage is a chance to immerse yourself in the rhythm of the ocean and the raw beauty of the natural world.
With $1m spent on a refit, new electronics, a full rewire and the latest safety equipment in 2023, the yacht meets the highest safety standards.
With a generous galley, 4 fridges and a freezer, the yacht is able to be well provisioned for long distance cruising.
With a saloon and wheelhouse that seat up to 16 people, there are ample indoor and outdoor seating choices.
Berth and Cabin and options
Moana Stateroom: Booking option for couple or up to 3 singles. Private ensuite. 240v and 12v power outlets. 4 large and 2 small port hole windows. Private ensuite.
Tiritiri Suite: Booking option for couple or up to 3 singles. Private ensuite. 240v and 12v power outlets. 1 small port hole window. Private ensuite.
Mokohinau Cabin: Booking option for up to 4 occupants with private ensuite. 240v and 12v power outlets. 2 small port hole windows. Private ensuite.
5 Sep 2026
Fly into Learmonth (Exmouth) Airport
Arrive in Exmouth at boat by 11am
Crew training and safety familiarisation
Depart Exmouth around 1pm
6 - 24 Sep 2026
Sail along North-Western Australia’s remote coastline to Broome and finally Darwin, adjusting the route for weather and sea conditions. Explore iconic anchorages, coral reefs, rivers and pristine islands along the way.
25 Sep 2026
Arrive in Darwin by 3pm
Crew farewell dinner
26 Sep 2026
Depart Darwin via Darwin Airport
Inclusions
Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, crew meals ashore and at various stopover islands and ports, accommodation onboard, your Ocean Sailing Expeditions crew shirt, marina fees, the use of a PFD (personal floatation device), PLB (personal locator beacon), and a safety tether. Your bedding, a pillow and towel are also included along with suncream.
Exclusions
Your crew package excludes; accommodation ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports, alcohol, toiletries, clothing and wet weather gear. Its always recommended that you book flights with date flexibility incase of unforeseen changes due to weather or schedules. Accommodation options if you want to stay ashore either side of trip: AirBNB, Booking.com, Wotif & HomeAway.
Book and pay
Click Book Now button above to secure your place. Choose from Pay in Full or deposit options. Direct debit from bank account, debit card or credit card options available. Pay in the currency of your choice.
Personalise your payment plan
If you want to set up a payment plan, contact us here and let us know your desired deposit (minimum 10% required) and your preferred payment. You can make up to 18 payments, for the balance. You can choose the frequency and customise each payment amount.
Not ready to pay, but want to secure your place?
Reserve your place onboard today, with no obligation. We’ll send the confirmation details, itinerary, deposit invoice and be sure to answer all your questions, while you finalise your plans before confirming. Reserve here.
100% cancellation guarantee
If you book and then cancel prior to an event, for any reason, 100% of your payment will be issued as a credit, that you can apply to any future event/s. For a full refund of sailing trip, flights and hotel costs, we recommend travel insurance. View Terms & Conditions.
Members
Check for Member's availability here before booking this event, using Members Benefits. When you book Reserve your place here.