CALL US TODAY
Are you thinking about ticking a Kimberley cruise off your bucket list? We’ll explore the best time of year to experience the natural beauty of the region.
Experiencing The Kimberley Coast
The Kimberley region is one of the most picturesque destinations, not only in Australia but worldwide, with untouched wilderness and natural wonders to marvel at. With rugged coastlines, extraordinary rock formations and an array of wildlife, the Kimberley offers its visitors an unforgettable cruising experience.
The cruise season in the Kimberely operates from March through November, with guests able to choose a date which appeals to them or their itinerary. The waterfalls of the Kimberley are most dramatic from March to May, while the climate is most liveable from June through August. For those hoping to catch a glimpse of the wildlife of the region, whales can be spotted from June to late September and you can try to catch elusive Barramundi when the water temperatures are warmer – March & April, as well as late August and September.
The Kimberley Climate
A majority of the region’s climate and weather data comes from the town of Broome, known as the gateway to the Kimberley. Temperatures from October to April average at approximately 33 degrees, while July temperatures are generally around 27 degrees. The region’s tropical climate produces a steady pattern of yearly temperatures – following wet and dry seasons rather than the typical summer and winter.
From November to April, which is the wet season, daytime temperatures generally exceed 30 degrees and humidity levels are extremely high. Monsoon season is from January to March, where the Kimberley receives heavy rainfall, possible cyclones and unreal thunderstorms. Dry season is from May to October and the weather is predominantly sunny and clear, with temperatures between 20-30 degrees, cooling off at night.
The Seasons of The Kimberley
While the two predominant seasons of the Kimberley’s tropical monsoonal climate are the wet and dry seasons – there are a few alternatives you can go by depending on what you’d like to experience on your Kimberley adventure.
Waterfall Season
The waterfall season in the Kimberley occurs throughout March and April, and it is one of the region’s main drawcards. The towering 80-100 metre King George Falls and the four-tiered Mitchell Falls are both worth visiting. The falls are fed from the drenching rains of the wet season, so the earlier you visit, the more spectacular the showcase will be. Regenerated vegetation gives the entire landscape a green covering that adds a different feel to the region. During this period, it is not unusual for the occasional rainy day, and humidity can still play a role making walking around on the shore more taxing. However all this is offset by seeing and hearing the full force of the regions waterfalls up close.
Peak Season
The peak season is the most popular time for travellers to visit the Kimberley region, primarily due to the weather conditions – clear blue skies and balmy days. Depending on the volume of rain throughout the wet season, the Northern falls may still be in action – but it will be a trickle at best. An exception to this is the King Cascades on the Prince Regent River, a spring fed falls with flow year round. If you’re looking to leave the chilly winter behind, June, July and August are the prime months to visit the Kimberley region and experience the natural beauty of the coast.
Wildflower & Whale Season
From roughly August through to early October each year, the Kimberley Coast is the epicentre for whale watching globally. Up to 30,000 humpback whales make their way from the feeding grounds of the Antarctic, to the tropical waters of the Western Australian coast for the breeding season. A Kimberley cruise aboard Ocean Dream will give you the best seat in the house as the whales put on playful displays in the region. At this point in the year, it’s likely the towering waterfalls will be dry (beside the Horizontal Falls at Talbot Bay), but you’re likely to encounter more of the region’s wildlife as they travel further into the open in search of water. The wildflowers of the region will also be in bloom, covering the ground in a stunning carpet of native flora.
Explore The Kimberley Aboard Ocean Dream
Aboard a luxury cruise with Ocean Dream Charters, you’ll experience the ancient landscape of the Kimberley coast in unmatched style and comfort. Our team of professional, experienced and friendly crew work diligently to ensure your Kimberley adventure is an unforgettable experience.
Our 86 foot twin hull catamaran is the perfect vessel for luxuriously experiencing one of the last untapped natural wildernesses on the planet. Built in 2005, Ocean Dream underwent extensive refurbishments in 2015, and again in 2023, to transform it into the epitome of elegance and sophistication. Ocean Dream can comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests, in six staterooms, each of which provide you with unrivalled views of the breathtaking scenery. To embark on the adventure of a lifetime, get in touch with our friendly team today!