You are suspended in turquoise shallows surrounded by delicate lace coral fronds of vivid pink, orange and yellow. Darting in and out is a metallic rainbow of attendants. The coralscape about you is starting to move swiftly past. Faster & faster the disgorging tide is propelling you out of the lagoon and to the very edge of a plunging midnight blue abyss…

A treasure trove of riches...
Just over 180 nautical miles west of Broome, through some of the worlds richest game fishing waters, lie the three atolls of Mermaid Reef, Clerke Reef and Imperious Reef that comprise the Rowley Shoals. Perched on the edge of Australia’s continental shelf - at one of its widest and deepest points - the Rowley Shoals are near perfect examples of atoll geomorphology.

Due to their remoteness, their pristine condition has been impeccably preserved. So precious and unique are they, that they enjoy marine wilderness status and are being considered for world heritage listing.

Rowley Shoals are among the few reefs in the world affected by a high tidal range. The dramatic five metre tides pouring massive volumes in and out of the coral framework have created unearthly and enchanting coralscapes. The turquoise lagoons are filled with coral bommies brimming with exotic tropical fish and unbelievably colourful formations. Drift diving in and out of the atolls sweeps you through pristine coralscapes peppered with remarkable structures like the incredibly intricate and flamboyant gorgonia coral. When plunging off the wall don’t be surprised if you look around and find yourself in the company of half a dozen curious potato cod

Rowley Shoals are home to over 600 species of fish and two thirds of Australia’s tropical species are found here. Maori wrasse, barracuda, coral trout, angelfish, morays and turtles are in abundance. Our cave and night dives add an extraordinary dimension to a surreal coralscape.

When we are not diving there are opportunities to explore the sweeping stretches of pristine beaches and maybe even wind down with a sunset barbecue.

About Us
The True North allows passengers to experience wilderness in surroundings more akin to one of the worlds most exclusive hotels! Passengers are able to take advantage of a number of lavish vantage points including a sundeck, a forward observation lounge, a Ships Lounge, and an indoor and outdoor bar. The ships naturalist presents interpretative information on 2 huge plasma screens and, an internet cafe enables convenient communication with the outside world. A popular venue on any North Star Cruise, the dining room offers the ultimate in comfort and uninterrupted vista - large panoramic windows ensure that passengers never miss any of the action, even whilst they are enjoying the finest in fine dining.

All cabins feature enhanced decor, en-suite facilities, in-house entertainment and satellite phones. The Explorer Class Staterooms and River Class Doubles offer king size beds that can be converted into singles, and large viewing windows, whilst the Ocean Class twins featuring king size singles and two large portholes that provide a bright airy feel.

Multiple expedition boats allow passengers to do "what they want, when they want" and, to add yet another dimension to adventure, the True North is the only Kimberley adventure-cruise ship that carries its own helicopter!

The 'purpose built' True North is also able to explore the upper reaches of shallow river systems which means that the passengers need only step out of their cabins to experience the destination and, the latest technology in computer controlled motion stabilizers ensure a comfortable ride. The True North - one of the finest adventure-cruise ships in the world.

Trip Dates and Costs for 2005 and 2006

• 2005
  Cruise 1: 01 October 2005 - 06 October 2005
  Cruise 2: 06 October 2005 - 11 October 2005
  Cost:
  Au$ 2,995 per person Ocean Class Twin
  Au$ 3,995 per person River Class Double
  Au$ 4,995 per person Explorer Class Stateroom
  
• 2006
  Cruise 1: 30 September 2006 - 05 October 2006
  Cruise 2: 05 October 2006 - 10 October 2006
  Cost:
  Au$ 2,995 per person Ocean Class Twin
  Au$ 3,995 per person River Class Double
  Au$ 4,995 per person Explorer Class Stateroom
  
• Maximum 36 passengers
  GST included in all prices
  All prices quoted in Australian dollars
  

Diver Requirements:

What We Supply:

What You Must Bring:

Price Does Not Include:
Equipment rental, tips, laundry, phone calls or bar drinks.

Photographs reprinted with North Star Cruises' permission
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