As dawn broke through a myriad of pink and orange colors, the National Geographic Orion dropped anchor at the beautiful bay of Prince Frederick Harbour. We were surrounded by an impressive rugged sandstone landscape, dolerite intrusions, rainforest ravines and beautiful turquoise waters. This was the start of a magnificent day in one of the most stunning locations of the Kimberley region, the Hunter River. The river meanders downstream from its main tributaries of the Roe River before flowing into the Indian Ocean. It is home to a rich and diverse variety of wildlife, from top predators like the saltwater crocodiles and white bellied sea eagles to hoping mud skippers and sacred kingfishers flashing their iridescent feathers.
On board our Zodiacs, we explored the thriving and abundant mangrove ecosystems of Porosus creek, a favourite habitat of the Crocodylus porosus, commonly known as the saltwater crocodile. They are unquestionably one of the most feared and efficient estuarine predators known to man and many find residence in this area.
Cameras in hand, we had the opportunity to get up close and personal with one particular specimen, comfortably resting on a rock platform. We all got spectacular close up shots of this ancient predator that seemed unfazed by all the attention and clicking shutters.
Just before lunch, two mystery cruises were offered for the curious and adventurous guests, leading us to encounter a manta ray feeding on plankton, two different species of turtles – the green and the flatback – and an osprey couple, displaying skilled flight maneuvers as they protected their nesting ground.
For some lucky guests there was also an opportunity to fly on a helicopter to the impressive Mitchell Falls, located at Mitchell Plateau and the second highest in Western Australia with a combined height of 80 meters. The falls are indisputably a spectacular sight from the air.
To conclude our fabulous day at Hunter River, Ralph Lee Hopkins, naturalist and photo instructor, inspired all of us to dream about our future travel destinations, with his informative presentation entitled “Great Voyages –Exploring the Wild World.” Just before dinner, we were pleasantly surprised by the legendary Australian singer/songwriter John Williamson, performing some of his iconic songs in a private concert in the lounge. The breezy night ended with delighted guests enjoying a delicious and original Aussie BBQ dinner on deck.
