FAQ

Will my cruise fare be guaranteed once my deposit is paid?
Absolutely! Extras including taxes and fuel surcharges are NOT passed on to our guests. The price you see is the price you pay.

Can Passengers do their own laundry? Are there laundry facilities onboard?
The True North’s cruise attendants will happily attend to your laundry needs. A nominal charge is applicable.

What is the standard of dress when cruising on the True North?
Generally ‘smart-casual’ however during the day casual t-shirts & shorts are recommended for activities & fishing. Bring a sturdy pair of walking shoes, and don’t forget your bathers!

Can I board the boat earlier than the embarkation time?
No, the crew are normally preparing the ship for your arrival. If you arrive prior to embarkation in Broome we would recommend you make your way to our office. You can leave your luggage and enjoy a wander around Chinatown before your transfer to the ship at 16:00. If you foresee a long wait time between your arrival in Kununurra and the 3.30pm transfer, please contact one of our Adventure Partners in our Broome Office to pre-book your in-transit package at the Freshwater Apartments.

Are the cruises BYO?
Generally BYO drinks are not permitted onboard as the True North operates a licensed bar. However, passengers may be permitted to BYO drinks in instances where the desired drink is not available from the ship’s bar but ONLY with prior written approval. Corkage will be applied to all BYO drinks. Contact our reservation staff at cruise@northstarcruises.com.au for our latest wine list.

What is included in the cruise cost?
Adventures on the True North include all expedition boat excursions & activities, superb fine dining and non-alcoholic refreshments throughout the day, all fishing & snorkeling equipment and cylinders & weight belts (on dive trips). Scenic helicopter flights & alcohol are additional.

What is the standard of cuisine?
Easy – simply expect the finest in fine dining! Special dietary requirements can be catered for with prior notice.

Why the ‘no shoes onboard’ policy?
This policy assists with safety and promoting a casual atmosphere onboard as well as keeping the magnificent True North in showroom condition. However footwear for shore excursions should be included.

Are there power points in each cabin?
Yes, each cabin is equipped with 110v and 240v power points.

What species of fish are commonly caught?
Only the highest quality in eating fish – mangrove jack, coral trout, finger-mark bream, monster golden snapper & the revered barramundi are caught in tropical waters. In ‘cooler climes’ West Australian jewfish, pink snapper, emperors and whiting are always popular.

Are transfers to & from the vessel included in the cruise cost?
Guests make their own way to the True North on the day of embarkation. Upon disembarkation in Dampier, you will be transferred to your post cruise accommodation or to the airport in Karratha, arriving at approximately 09:00.

Does SCUBA diving feature on this cruise?
Absolutely! Diving the Batavia wreck, Steep Point and the world famous Ningaloo Reef are just a few of the many diving opportunities on this cruise. Not a certified diver? Don’t worry, the snorkeling is just as good!

Is the heli onboard this cruise?
Yes. This cruise offers heli scenic flights, and land and water activities.

What other travel components can be arranged pre & post cruise?
North Star Cruises can provide valuable local advice and assistance when it comes to ‘getting around’ in the Kimberley and we are happy to help with accommodation as well as other tour arrangements. Broome & the surrounding Kimberley region has much to offer – make sure that you take full advantage of your visit to this remote destination – check out what’s happening on our Kimberley Calendar of Events or contact our adventure partners at cruise@northstarcruises.com.au to discover more recommended products & events.

How many optional ‘heli-flights’ are offered?
Heli-packages are a great way to maximise your enjoyment. We offer approximately 20 different flights on our 13 night Kimberley Wilderness cruises and around 8 flights on our 6 or 7 night cruises.

What time is embarkation & disembarkation?
Embarkation is at 1700hrs & disembarkation proceedings are normally completed by 0800hrs for our 13 night adventures. If you’re planning on joining us in the mighty Hunter River, you will need to arrive into Broome at least 1 day prior to the start of your cruise as we have an early start! (pick up’s will start from 05:30) If your cruise ends in the Hunter River we recommend booking an onward flight no earlier than 14:00, or why not stay a few nights and see what the East Kimberley has to offer. Our reservation staff can assist with pre and post cruise accommodation and sightseeing options.

Are transfers to & from the vessel included in the cruise cost?
Yes! If joining in Broome, you will be collected from your nominated accommodation, Broome airport or our office from 16:00. Collections from Kununurra (if joining the True North in Wyndham) will start from 15:30. Transfers for those starting their cruise in the Hunter River will commence with light aircraft transfer from Kununurra to Mitchell Plateau followed by a helicopter transfer onto the True North. On the day of disembarkation guests will be transferred by coach in Broome or Wyndham to accommodation/airport. If disembarking at the Hunter River guests will be transferred off the vessel via helicopter to Mitchell Plateau, then a light aircraft to Kununurra. It’s best to check embarkation and disembarkation times with our adventure partners as pick up and arrival times for split cruises are variable.

Does SCUBA diving feature on this cruise?
Crocodiles are a viewing highlight on our Kimberley Wilderness Cruises however they tend to be a little territorial when it comes to getting in the water! Diving is an option on our Southern Safari, West Coast Explorer, Coral Atoll, West Papua Discoverer, Adventures in Paradise and Archipelago Adventure cruises.

What other travel components can be arranged pre & post cruise?
North Star Cruises can provide valuable local advice and assistance when it comes to ‘getting around’ in the Kimberley and, we are happy to help with accommodation and other tour arrangements. Broome & the surrounding Kimberleys have much to offer – make sure that you take full advantage of your visit to this remote region! Contact our adventure partners at cruise@northstarcruises.com.au to find out more about recommended products and upcoming events.

What species of fish are commonly caught?
Pokadot cod are a real favourite but you can also do battle with mackerel, tuna and sailfish.

What time is embarkation & disembarkation?
Embarkation is at 1700hrs & disembarkation proceedings are normally completed by 0800hrs. If arriving into Broome on the day of embarkation feel free to visit our office (approximately 4 minutes from Broome airport) – we will happily store your luggage until your transfer to the True North.

Are transfers to & from the vessel included in the cruise cost?
Yes! A coach transfer from your nominated pre-cruise accommodation, Broome airport or our office is included in your cruise fare.

Does SCUBA diving feature on this cruise?
Absolutely! The Rowley Shoals are listed as one of the top dive sites in the world! Not a certified diver? Don’t worry, the snorkeling is spectacular!

Are heli flights available on this cruise?
Yes, there are a couple of optional heli-flights available. Why not fly to the Hunter Valley for some wine tasting. If enjoying nature is your preference, then join us on flight to the lovely Blue Mountains for lunch.

Are special meals organized for Christmas and New Years Eve dinner?
Certainly! Just wait and see what our chefs serve up to celebrate Christmas and New Years Eve!

Are transfers to & from the vessel included in the cruise cost?
No. Guests make their way to the wharf where the vessel is docked. Directions will be included with your cruise documents. Upon disembarkation we are happy to organise a taxi transfer if needed.

Are transfers to & from the vessel included in the cruise cost?
Guests are all collected from their central Adelaide locations via our arranged private charter, and we spend a lovely day enjoying the McLaren Vale Wine Region before making our way to the TRUE NORTH in the afternoon.  Upon disembarkation in Ceduna, you will be flown by private charter back to Adelaide, arriving at approximately 09:30.

Does SCUBA diving feature on this cruise?
There may be opportunity to dive the clear waters of the Pearson Islands. Please express your interest in diving when booking on this cruise.

Are all land based activities included in the cruise fare?
Yes! However there is the opportunity to purchase local produce whilst ashore on Kangaroo Island and when visiting the renowned Mclaren Vale. So if you want to take a taste of your Southern Safari home, be sure to take some money on your land based excursions.

Is a dive with the Great White Sharks included in my cruise fare?
Absolutely! There is no additional payment required to take part in this excursion and all equipment is supplied. Just bring your bathers!

What is the weather like in South Australia during January?
Our unique scheduling ensures that the True North is always in the right place at the right time. We expect warm conditions with not more than moderate winds. A light spray jacket is handy for the expedition boats but you can leave the ‘warm woolies’ at home.

Will the helicopter accompany this cruise?
No. The land based activities on this cruise do not require the use of a helicopter. You truly will feel like you are on a land & sea safari!

What other travel components can be arranged pre & post cruise?
North Star Cruises can provide valuable local advice and assistance when it comes to ‘getting around’ in Western Australia, we are happy to help with accommodation and other tour arrangements. Contact our adventure partners at cruise@northstarcruises.com.au to find out more about recommended products and upcoming events.

What species of fish are commonly caught?
Pokadot cod are a real favourite but you can also do battle with mackerel, tuna and sailfish.

What time is embarkation & disembarkation?
Embarkation is at 1700hrs & disembarkation proceedings are normally completed by 0800hrs.

Are transfers to & from the vessel included in the cruise cost?
Yes! A coach transfer from your nominated pre-cruise accommodation or Karratha airport is included in your cruise fare. Upon disembarkation in Dampier, you will be transferred to your post cruise accommodation or to the airport in Karratha, arriving at approximately 09:00.

Does SCUBA diving feature on this cruise?
Absolutely! The Monte Bello Islands are listed as a top dive site in Western Australia! Not a certified diver? Don’t worry, the snorkeling is spectacular!

Is the heli onboard this cruise?
Yes. Helicopter flights can be purchased as a package or individually.

How many optional ‘heli-flights’ are offered?
Heli-packages are a great way to maximise your enjoyment. We offer approximately 5 different flights on our Adventures in Paradise and Archipelago Adventure cruises. The Kokoda flight option on the Adventures in Paradise cruise has a limited amount of seats available. All heli flights are booked onboard.

What species of fish are commonly caught?
Spanish Mackerel, tuna, coral trout & sailfish. We’ve got all the fishing gear you need onboard!

What time is embarkation & disembarkation?
You will be collected in Cairns city centre at approximately 06:00 for a charter flight. It is HIGHLY recommended that you arrive in Cairns the night prior to the cruise date. Disembarkation proceedings are normally completed by 0800hrs. The charter flight back to Cairns will bring you back by 17:00 where you’ll need to clear customs and immigration.

Are transfers to & from the vessel included in the cruise cost?
From 0600 on the morning of embarkation you will be collected by coach from Cairns City centre hotels and transferred to Cairns International airport for check-in. Then you will board a private charter flight to PNG and coach transfer to the ship. On arrival back in Cairns (approximate arrival time 16:00) guests make their own way from the airport as the time it takes for each guest to clear customs and immigration varies greatly.

Does SCUBA diving feature on this cruise?
Absolutely! There are fantastic opportunities to explore the many coral reefs of these amazing islands. Not a certified diver? Don’t worry the snorkeling is just as good!

Do I need a passport for this cruise?
Yes. Please ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity on it after your return travel date. We will ask for this information 2-3 months prior to posting out your cruise documentation. General information concerning travel in PNG will be included with your documents.

How many optional ‘heli-flights’ are offered?
Heli-packages are a great way to maximise your enjoyment. We offer approximately 5 different flights on our West Papua and Cenderawashi Bay cruises. All heli flights are booked onboard.

What species of fish are commonly caught?
Spanish Mackerel, tuna, coral trout & sailfish. We’ve got all the fishing gear you need onboard!

What time is embarkation & disembarkation?
You will be collected in Darwin city centre at approximately 06:00 for a charter flight. It is HIGHLY recommended that you arrive in Darwin the night prior the cruise date. Disembarkation proceedings are normally completed by 0800hrs. The charter flight back to Darwin will bring you back by 17:00 where you’ll need to clear customs and immigration.

Are transfers to & from the vessel included in the cruise cost?
From 0600 on the morning of embarkation you will be collected by coach from Darwin City centre hotels and transferred to Darwin International airport for check-in. Then you will board a private charter flight to Ambon and coach transfer to the ship. On arrival back in Darwin (approximate arrival time 16:00) guests make their own way from the airport as the time it takes for each guest to clear customs and immigration varies greatly.

Does SCUBA diving feature on this cruise?
Absolutely! There are fantastic opportunities to explore the many coral reefs of these amazing islands. Not a certified diver? Don’t worry the snorkeling is just as good!

Do I need a passport for this cruise?
Yes. Please ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity on it after your return travel date. We will ask for this information prior to posting out your cruise documentation. General information concerning travel in West Papua will be included with your documents.