“My soul is full of longing for the secrets of the sea, and the heart of the great ocean sends a thrilling pulse through me." ~ Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
After a memorable trip around the stunning Kimberley coast and spectacular attractions, we ventured into the deeper waters of the Timor Sea. National Geographic Orion steadily sailed into calm and pleasant seas. We were heading to Com, East Timor and happily welcomed a magnificent sunny morning and slow start of the day, with a delicious brunch served on deck.
Our first day at sea was especially informative as presentations were given in the theater. National Geographic photographer Michael Melford introduced us to amazing and inviting destinations, expedition leader Adam Cropp spoke about the new discoveries and scientific evidence of human migrations and also enlightened us about drone technology. Naturalist Harry Christensen shared his knowledge about East Timor history.
Discovery isn’t made by keeping both feet on the beach and Captain Vincent welcomed us on to the bridge, explaining the high-tech equipment that enables Orion to circle the globe, exploring both tropical and polar waters. In the comfort of our spetacular ship, we can only wonder about the Macassan traders who set sail in their small seaworthy vessels (perahu or prau), regularly visiting and trading around the Australian coast. Originally from the southwest Sulawesi region, these voyagers revisited places from The Kimberley to Arnhem Land, for hundreds of years contributing to the language, art, economy and genetics of the northern Aboriginals, significantlly affecting their culture. These seafarers were known as Macassans trepangers. They came to Australia to collect trepang (sea cucumber or bêche-de-mer), naming The Kimberley, Kayu Jawa (“Wood of Java”).
We also had the opportunity to visit the busy galley where we had an insight about the magic creation of our most delicious and enjoyable meals.
Captain’s farewell cocktails were served in the lounge, where the guest slideshow was displayed, a special moment where the memories and images that were captured through our lenses, eyes, hearts were shared.
After a stunning sunset over the sea, we bid farewell to a great adventure with the certainty that The Kimberley touched something in each one of us who has been lucky enough to experience the vast grandeur of this remote place featuring some of the most extraordinary landscapes, cultural treasures and wildlife in Australia.
