In the early hours this morning a small band ventures ashore at Com, East Timor, to satiate their intrigue while National Geographic Orion completes its foreign flag requirements for disembarkation on return to Darwin. Most, however, take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy the comfort of their cabins and have a sleep in to awake to another calm day at sea – a pleasant end to an amazing expedition in that such weather isn’t always assured!
In the air this morning there is a sense that what has been a fantastic experience is coming to a close. This sense of closing opportunity sees people take the time to download photos they wish to submit to the shared expedition portfolio through the image kiosk computers. Photo instructor David Cothran spends time taking us through some main steps and concepts of photography post-production which doesn’t seem too difficult for the impressive results in return.
The chance to learn and exchange ideas about some of the many interesting facets of the Kimberley also continues across our final day aboard. Naturalists present information regarding Australian Aboriginal society, land management and their use of bush tucker and medicine in addition to the intriguing sub-plots and detail surrounding the incident of the World War II bombing of the supply ship, S.S. Koolama, in what came to be renamed Koolama Bay at the mouth of King George River. The incident is an interesting part of the region’s modern history in that it occurred at the same time as the ditching of the C-53 Skytrooper by Vansittart Bay and is a story of sagas that, for the ship, ended at the port of Wyndham – all places we visited during our memorable expedition.
All the while we enjoy the relaxed pace aboard National Geographic Orion, realizing today is the last day we have to indulge in the incredible food produced by Executive Chef Rannie’s team and fun afternoon entertainment by Glenn. Naturally, there is also time to chat and exchange shared experiences while gazing over a peaceful ocean. Whilst doing so, some are lucky enough to catch of glimpse of flying fish skipping across the ocean and even a pod of dolphins pay a visit. As the day winds out with farewell cocktails and dinner with Captain Vincent Taillard, we reflect on what has truly been an amazing engagement with Australia’s Kimberley coast, a true marine wilderness of the world.
