Sunrise in The Kimberley is predictably spectacular. Today was no exception. A marvelous mix of pinks, peaches and reds ushered in the day as we entered Yampi Sound, an extension of the Indian Ocean that cuts into the Kimberley coast.
National Geographic Orion anchored in Yampi Sound, amid the islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago. Two islands, Cockatoo and Koolan have substantial iron mines, extracting rich ore. Evidence of the iron is readily evident when looking at the ancient sandstone, much of which has a patina of rust. Laid down as a series of sedimentary deposits, the sandstone is sometimes replaced by a layer of much softer, gray siltstone. This entire rock formation has been bent and buckled over great spans of time, forming synclines and anticlines. Much of the rock has been turned on its side, and stands vertically.
Exploring by Zodiacs, we poked into inlets and scoured the shoreline for wildlife, scenic surprises and photo opportunities. An osprey sitting on a nest was a highlight. Unlike most birds, ospreys use the same nest year after year. Their nests can become huge. Ospreys are fish eaters. Once a fish is caught, the birds carry their prey to a tree or to their nest, where they consume their meal. Ospreys have uniquely adapted feet, covered with sharp spicules that help them from dropping their often slippery prey. Ospreys virtually always carry their prey head first, making for the most aerodynamic transport.
This afternoon was a completely different experience. Setting out in Zodiacs, we headed to Crocodile Creek for a swim! No, we didn’t swim with crocodiles. It is said that the rock formation as one approaches the creek looks like a crocodile. But, as our expedition leader Darrin says, you need to drink at least four beers to see a crocodile in the rock formation. Crocodile Creek cascades into a large pool that, when above the high tide line, is cut off from the ocean and thus from crocodiles. After carefully inspecting the pool for crocodiles (none were found), we were happy to take a refreshing plunge in the cool fresh water. Adding to the fun was a great refreshment station set up by our hotel crew.
Captain’s welcome cocktail party and Glenn’s always enjoyable after dinner music capped off a great beginning day for our exploration of the Kimberley.
