Coral Expeditions has announced it will resume cruise operations in Western Australia this month (February).

The line’s full programme features 45 departures, with passenger numbers expected to exceed 4,000 guests. Voyages include itineraries exploring the coastline and islands of the region, as well as the Kimberley voyage between Broome and Darwin.

Coral Expeditions has operated in the Great Barrier Reef and Tasmania since October 2020. The line recently completed an inaugural voyage in South Australian waters.

As with other domestic itineraries, Coral will only permit guests from the Australian market and cruises will be capped at under 100 per departure.

Coral Adventurer is currently en route from Adelaide to Fremantle, the line confirmed. On 10 March 2021, the ship will sail from Fremantle to Broome, calling on the Houtman Abrolhos group, Ningaloo and Shark Bay, among other destinations.

In addition, Coral’s new ship, Coral Geographer, will depart on its maiden voyage on 31 March. The 19-night expedition will explore remote regions of Western Australia, including Ashmore Reef, Scott Reef, Adele Island and the Lacepedes.

Commercial director Jeff Gilles said: “Our sailing schedule celebrates the vast magnificence of Australia’s coastal shores and we are privileged to be able to take guests on adventures to places that simply cannot be accessed by road, rail, or even air.”

Cruise Broome chairman Shayne Murray added: “The region extends the warmest welcome and greatly anticipates the return of one of the pioneers of the Kimberley for the 2021 season.

“Coral Expeditions will be one of the first to resume operations since last April and the expedition cruise industry provides significant tourism dollars to business throughout the Kimberley.

“Despite the seasons closure last year, local cruising contributed some $13 million dollars and with their three-vessel fleet approved and operating this year, Coral Expeditions will be a very significant contributor once again.”

Coral Expeditions recently appointed former Azamara UK & Ireland boss Richard Twynam as non-executive director.