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Few places on earth combine raw wilderness, towering gorges, and pristine waters quite like the Kimberley Coast. For those lucky enough to explore it aboard a boutique catamaran like Ocean Dream, the journey is as much about the scenery as it is about the captain at the helm. We sat down with Captain Cat, one of the captains of our intimate catamaran, to get her perspective on what it takes to navigate this remote and breathtaking region.
Q. What makes navigating the Kimberley Coast so unique?
I’ve captained boats in Europe, The Mediterranean, Asia, and the South Pacific, but with the Kimberley, it’s the rugged, untouched wilderness side of it that makes it so unique. No people, you’re just there to see Mother Nature in all her glory.
Q: How does a smaller boat, like your catamaran, enhance the experience?
Your larger ships are restricted because of their size, so they have to anchor further offshore and see the Kimberley at a distance so to speak. Because we are a small boat, we can cruise up those intricate creeks and river systems and see the towering cliffs a few metres off either side of the boat, so you get that really immersive experience.
Q: How do the northern and southern Kimberley differ in terms of navigation?
The North and South Kimberley each have their own distinct character. The North is all about dramatic, iconic Kimberley scenery—towering cliffs, majestic gorges, and powerful waterfalls like King George Falls, which you can cruise right up to aboard the boat.
The South, on the other hand, is more about discovery. Here, you’ll explore hidden waterfalls and secluded spots that require a bit more adventure. You often leave the boat to hike or hop into the tenders, uncovering the region’s secret gems along rivers and tucked-away waterways.
Q: How do seasonal changes affect your journeys?
At the start of the year, you’re contending with dramatic wet-season storms that can appear and pass within minutes. As the season progresses, conditions become more predictable—and some would say more favourable—though there’s always an element of the unexpected. The changing season also brings different sights, from shifting wildlife patterns to the arrival of migrating whales, which adds variety and requires a flexible approach to planning your adventure.
Q: What does being a captain of a boutique vessel mean to you personally?
You get that more personal interaction with your guests—some of the guests I’ve had on board years ago I still keep in contact with now. Everyone is not just a number. My favourite part about being on Ocean Dream is the ability to really cater each trip to each individual on board, and I get to see people have those experiences—watching adults come on and act like kids. When people start to trust us, we start to push them, and they’re always surprised at what they can achieve.
Q: Any advice for those wanting to explore the Kimberley by boat?
Do it while you’re still fit and able and can get the most out of the experience. That’s one of the main reasons we sell it—smaller numbers, more personal experiences, and the freedom to truly enjoy every moment.
Your Kimberley cruise awaits—click HERE to download our 2027 brochure.