My wife and I have just completed a most memorable and enjoyable trip on the Oceanic Discoverer.

We had looked forward to a trip of the Kimberley for more than a decade. As such we had many pre-conceived ideas of what we would see on this cruise.

Nothing had prepared us for this fantastic trip. Apart from the magnificent scenery, we were given a vast amount of information about all aspects of the Kimberley from historical, environmental and cultural aspects in an adventure styled manner.

In the first instance all the crew were friendly and inviting, and nothing was too much trouble. The catering was superb and all meals were first class.

The guest lecturers were brilliant, supplying and extremely interesting comments during the day, and often with after-dinner slide shows and lecturers in the evening.

I have been to many organized events in my time, but I have never seen a more well organized event than this cruise. Jamie Anderson (Expedition Leader) is a credit to your company, he made the trip for us. His ability to ensure that we were able to access all the major viewing points through his knowledge of the tides was exceptional. The manner in which he was able to direct the whole operation and to supply such interesting commentary for each expedition was brilliant. Above all he showed great passion for the environment and culture of the area.

All-in-all an absolutely wonderful trip, and we hope to go again in a few years.

Congratulations.
With thanks
Peter and Ann

Great Barrier Reef Cruise, March 2008

Dear Coral Princess Cruises

We would like to thank you so much for a spectacular three-night cruise through the Barrier Reef from Cairns to Townsville. Booked from the UK, on the basis of very little information and as part of an extensive tour of Australia, we didn't quite know what to expect. But the cruise exceeded our wildest dreams and became the most memorable highlight of our tour.

From the time we boarded the cruise to the moment we reluctantly had to leave it, everything was done to ensure our comfort and satisfaction. The relatively small size of the ship allowed a degree of personal attention which places Coral Princess in a class of its own, while the closely-knit and dedicated crew worked tirelessly to attend to our every need. The quality of food, which always seemed to be in abundant supply, was exceptional, and it seemed quite miraculous how the chef, from such a small galley, managed to consistently produce such sumptuous and varied meals. The cabins were spacious, clean and tidy, with windows cleaned frequently during the day. The morning 'newsletters' and regular announcements kept us up-to-date with events as they were about to happen, and the glass-bottomed boats offered superb views of the reef and its wildlife. Despite rather choppy seas there was plenty of opportunity for snorkelling and diving for those that wanted them.

In fact, everything was perfect.

We would like to congratulate you on such a superbly organised cruise which should stand as the model for other operators to follow.

With best wishes for the continued success of your company
Ray and Pat
Surrey, UK

Great Barrier Reef Cruise, December 2007

We have just returned from our 3 night trip aboard Coral Princess. It was absolutely delightful. We had a most enjoyable trip. We are bursting with good food and feel warmed by the good nature of all the crew.

Thank you for the opportunity of sailing with you.

Sincerely,
Kay and Andy
Queensland, Australia

Great Barrier Reef Cruise, November 2007

We took the 7 day cruise from Cairns to Lizard Island to Cairns and then to Townsville from November 20 - 27, 2007 and we wanted to send a glowing testimonial to Captain Gary and all of his crew who looked after us so well. Without exception, everyone was always cheerful, hardworking, and proactive in doing whatever they could to make our experience most enjoyable.

We found the entire cruise to be both fun and educational. Captain Gary took advantage of the wonderful weather to take us to wonderful reef sites and each snorkelling spot seemed better than the last. Brad, our marine biologist, went out of his way to tell us all about the different kinds of fish, coral, and reefs and we also enjoyed learning about the mangrove systems. Brooke, our purser, anticipated our every desire in a warm and friendly way.

The food was also spectacular throughout the cruise. We are recommending this experience and your cruise line to all our family and friends. Thank you for a fabulous week; it was the highlight of our memorable month in Australia as Captain Gary promised us it would be.

Sincerely
Liz & Mel
Vancouver, Canada

Great Barrier Reef Cruise, October 2007

My husband and I just came back from our cruise to Lizard Island (Cairns-Lizard Island-Cairns) last 30 Oct 2007. We really had a great time and we would like to commend Captain Gary and his crew (Stephen, Ben, Paul, Michelle, Simone, Brendan, Angus, Joanna, Vicki, Lauren, Eva and Damien... I hope I didn't miss anybody out) for a job well done! We took the cruise to celebrate our anniversary and you've made it a real memorable one. Not only was it memorable, it was also extraordinary because we (my husband and I) had our very first SCUBA diving experience on our anniversary day itself, 28 Oct... What a perfect timing! We couldn't have celebrated it any better.

Thank you so much and all the best to the staff and crew of Coral Princess Cruises.

Warm regards
Sam and Noemi
Australia

Great Barrier Reef Cruise, August 2007 

Although I filled out the customer service card enclosed in our cabin, I wanted to get this off to you as soon as I returned before the magic wore off.

My husband, 8 year old son, dear friends and myself spent a mere 5 days aboard your Coral Princess II with Skipper Misha at the helm.

We have been on over 12 cruises in our young lives and we have never experienced such an eclectically rewarding time!  The itinerary and preparation that Glen, Matt and Bob gave us were so tailored to our liking and provided us with the adventure we were looking for.  Beat, our dive instructor, handed my best friends and my husband, (avid divers,) underwater experiences they only dreamed of up until now!  And as for me, a most timid swimmer, Beat gave me the confidence to snorkel and held my hand while I took my first dive!!  I cried with fear as I donned my b.c. however, I cried with amazement and pride when I surfaced...a dream come true!

Brent, our chef, prepared scrumptious and unique meals unlike the ordinary food on cruise ships.  He and Ashley, Vicki, Chez and Simone always had smiles on their faces whether they were getting us a cold drink in the middle of the night or preparing tempting fresh salads during the day, or chatting it up with us after dinner.  I celebrated my birthday while on board, the crew decorated my cabin door and celebrated me all day, including Brent's yummy chocolate layer cake!!!

Dave, our engineer, was so much fun to talk to with his many interesting tales of his life at sea.  Brooke, was our purser....there couldn't have been a more kind, concerned, available and genuine guardian of the passengers on board. 

Together, these jewels of the Coral Princess Cruise staff, made our discovery of The Great Barrier Reef a truly magical and meaningful journey!!

Hoping to sail with Coral Princess again.

Yours Truly
J Hayden - USA

Oceanic Discoverer Kimberley Cruise, July 2007

We were aboard the Oceanic Discoverer travelling from Broome to Darwin from 02 July 2007 until 12 July 2007.

At the outset, we must say that it gives us great pleasure to make the following remarks. We had a feeling from the moment we boarded Oceanic Discoverer that this was going to be a most enjoyable experience given the warmth of the welcome by all the crew members. We were not to be disappointed.

Without exception each was always proactive in their desire to assist guests with nothing ever being too much trouble and with duties always performed with a naturally smiling face. All of us had previously done a substantial amount of cruising but never before had we encountered such a superb and sustained treatment from every member of a crew.

It was interesting to observe a very hands on Captain who was not averse to loading and unloading luggage and performing other duties not usually associated with those of a Captain. This type of leadership obviously has a flow on effect to other crew members.

This was particularly active cruise, with some of the activities not that easy for some of the more elderly guests. Nevertheless, the entire program ran like clockwork with every consideration given to those who were a little slower than others.

The six of us started planning for this cruise more than 15 months ago. We had a very good look at what was available before deciding somewhat sight unseen, to go with your company. We are so pleased we did.

Yours sincerely
Mr and Mrs Lees
Sydney

Coral Princess Kimberley Cruise, July 2007

My wife Merrilee and myself have recently had a most enjoyable voyage on Coral Princess (Darwin 6 July to Broome). The itinerary, vessel and staff/crew were first class.

In particular Captain Gary, Purser Michelle, Tour Director Adam and especially guest lecturers Craig and Greg really made the trip.

It was "standing room" only in the lounge for the briefings and the lectures. The itinerary reflected the expeditionary nature of the voyage. It was great to be able to access so many places in the Explorer which was very ably captained by Rob. At all times we felt quite safe under the careful supervision of the staff.

We very much appreciated the thoughtful champagne awaiting us in our cabin on arrival, acknowledging our previous trip with the Coral Princess.

All the best to yourselves and Coral Princess Cruises.

Kind Regards
Graham and Merrilee

Great Barrier Reef Cruise, March 2007

We would like to thank Captain Gary and his amazing crew for a wonderful Great Barrier Reef experience. Hats off to each of the crew for all their hard work and dedication to making our time so incredibly special. We would like to thank Tiffany for her attention to every detail, Damien for his awesome cooking and coaching, Brendan for his very fine understanding and interpretation of marine life and especially Sam for taking such good care of us underwater and making us feel safe and comfortable. We cannot say enough about your cruise and your crew and wish you every success in the years ahead. You offer a very unique and delightful way of experiencing the Great Barrier Reef. We look forward to coming down under in the future and exploring more of your beautiful and awe inspiring country.

Yours truly,
The Balcom Family - Wolfville, CANADA

Great Barrier Reef Cruise, August 2006

It has been a spectacular 3 days. I assure you we are slightly heavier coming off than we were coming on! We just completed the feedback/ survey and honestly, I hope it portrays how much my family and I have enjoyed the Coral Princess II, it's crew, the meals, the snorkelling, scuba diving. Everything was absolutely perfect, even the weather has been amazing. We especially enjoyed Pelorus Island, it has left us with the feeling we aren't done, we want more!

Thank you so much for this incredible experience.

Regards
Flemming and family (Canada)

Oceanic Discoverer Kimberley Cruise August 2006

My husband and I had such a marvelous time on the Oceanic Discoverer from Broome to Darwin last month, I had to say thank you. The ship is just right for this itinerary...very comfortable and roomy, a good library, excellent deck space,and best of all, that wonderful Xplorer boat. We loved the excursions it made possible. It is a perfect design, and the way it fits snugly against the mother ship when not in use made every launch and return a fascinating spectator experience. The meals were delicious, beds very comfortable, and excursions were organized very efficiently.

The staff was exceptional. Jessica, the purser, is a very warm, welcoming person with a winning smile and gracious manner. And she does everything, serving in the dining room and all manner of other tasks. I've never seen a person work so fast and efficiently, and make the work look like it's fun.

Craig, the excursion leader, is outstanding. His enthusiasm for each excursion was boundless. He is almost wide-eyed with wonder about the nature around him, he knows it well, yet finds beauty in each scene and each bit of wildlife he sees. And he's a marvelous photographer. The pictures he took of birds in flight, small crabs, huge rock formations, and all manner of sights were beautiful. He never seemed to get tired, was always friendly, and was full of interesting information.

And Allan Fox, our lecturer, is in a class by himself. We were fortunate to have had a naturalist of his experience and knowledge with us. He knows so much, and is so willing to share. He brought life to the stories of the aboriginal people, of the origins of the rock formations, upheavals of the earth....it is all the story of continuing life to him, and he helped us to see the living wonder of our surroundings.

Please send our special thanks to each of these three people if you can. They contributed so much to our pleasure in this very special excursion. My husband and I have been to Australia many times, and this was the one part of the country that we had not visited at all. We had thought of doing this for some time, and this year the timing was right for us. And the experience was better than we had ever dreamed it would be.

So, thank you, thank you all for contributing to our most enjoyable trip.

With warm regards
Carolyn (Reston, USA)

Oceanic Discoverer Kimberley Cruise, August 2005

I am home in Sydney after an amazing time travelling from Broome to Darwin on the new Oceanic Discoverer.

Would you please extend my thanks to the owners, administrators and everyone involved in all the detail that is required to provide this world class travelling experience.

The crew on board worked with a happy, friendly, caring attitude to ensure all passengers were catered for no matter how large or small their needs.

The enjoyment, comfort, safety, good health, satisfaction, knowledge and new discoveries for the passengers were the first priority of the crew every day and every evening. To all of the Crew, a great big Thank you!

I shall be telling everyone I know "Dream - Explore - Discover" with Coral Princess Cruises.

With best wishes
Janette from Sydney

Oceanic Discoverer Kimberley Cruise, July 2005

We were fortunate enough to have been on The Oceanic Discoverer from Darwin to Broome starting on the 22nd July.

First we would like to thank Vicki and Tony for the coffee table book on the Kimberleys that was waiting for us in the cabin, a lovely gift.

We had, what was probably the best holiday we have ever had any where for the 10days we were on board.

The 100% effort that was given to by the crew everyday to make sure we saw and explored all the things that were possible, was just wonderful. The crew, at all times were, helpful, happy, polite and just a pleasure to be around and we hope the company is very proud of them.

We have recommended this cruise to all our friends that we have so far spoken to and will continue to do so.

Yours sincerely,
Vivien and Nick

Coral Princess II Cruise, Townsville-Cairns, July 2005

I have just returned from a two week holiday in far north Queensland - one of these weeks (21 June to 28 June) was spent cruising between Townsville-Lizard Island-Cairns onboard Coral Princess II.

I thought I would write and let you know how great the trip was. This was my second cruise with Coral Princess (the first being the 'Across the Top' expedition voyage in Aug/Sept 2003) and I have to say this Great Barrier Reef cruise was equally wonderful. I had the best time! I travelled on my own but was welcomed by all on board and made many friends. The itinerary was perfect and the activities were excellent. I'm a snorkelling addict and managed to get my fill from the magnificent Ribbon reefs (3, 5 and 9), Thetford reef and my personal favourite - Lizard Island.

The food was out of this world. Every day, three times a day, we were fed the most amazing buffet that was impossible to say no to. I kept vowing that I wasn't going to eat so much but alas, it was not to be. Temptation got the better of me. Thankfully, the snorkelling managed to hold back the kilos so that I didn't have to be rolled off the boat when the cruise ended.

The crew were the best. Friendly, fun, knowledgeable, helpful and they worked very hard to make sure our time on board was perfect. Two that stood out were Mick the Marine Biologist and Daniel the Purser. I felt at home in their company and they made me laugh - this was of course on top of them doing a first class job. Please pass on my thanks as I don't think I said as much to them when we said our goodbyes.

Lastly, I would like to thank you for making me feel special as a return passenger and giving me the gift of Champagne in my room! I managed to have a glass or two at pre-dinner drinks the last three nights of the cruise. A fitting end to a perfect day!

I will definitely be travelling with Coral Princess again one day.

Many thanks
Judy O'Neill

Oceanic Discoverer Kimberley Cruise, June 2005

As I write this sitting by my fire, in cold Victoria, I keep thinking of “Oceanic Discoverer” cruising in the warmth of the Kimberley. My friend and I had a great time cruising with you again; it seems to me you go that extra yard to make the trip a pleasure for your passengers. Brilliant attention and service from your wonderful crew, not to mention the fact that the owner and the captain washed the passengers’ feet and the owner’s wife wiped down tables - I may be wrong, but I can’t imagine all that happening with any other cruise company! I love the informality of Coral Princess Cruises.

Oceanic Discoverer is a beautiful ship and you must and should be very proud of her. She was our home for eleven nights and we take great pride in having that connection with her.

I wish you much success with your new itineraries and continued success with your original ones.

Good Sailing!
Barbara, Victoria

Oceanic Discoverer Kimberley Cruise, June 2005

We have just completed the cruise on Oceanic Discoverer which left Broome on 30 May and we wish to say how delighted we were. We could have just completed the questionnaire, but this would not have done justice to expressing our pleasure at being on the cruise.

Thinking back on all the aspects, the thing that we remember best, apart from the incredible Kimberley coastline, was the lecturers and the crew, all of them. What a wonderful bunch you have recruited. They were all so happy and friendly and were so much an integral part of the atmosphere on board.

Please never think of replacing your staff with non-Australians, especially as you are expanding your destinations so rapidly. Everyone, from the two Captains to the crew were the highlights of the cruise.

Thank you for giving us a wonderful experience.

Jean and Ian Hooper, New South Wales

Coral Princess Cruise, Townsville-Cairns, Oct 2004

My husband & I have recently returned from a wonderful holiday in Singapore, New Zealand and Australia. The final part of our holiday was spent aboard the Coral Princess. We planned to finish with this cruise to coincide with my 50th birthday. We thought this would be a particularly enjoyable way of celebrating. The cruise was everything that we had hoped for and much more.

I have completed the onboard questionnaire with our feedback. However, we felt that our experience was so good, that we should congratulate the company once more. The accommodation and facilities were very good, the food was superb and the atmosphere just great. We had a superb time and much of this was down to the dedication, helpfulness, experience and friendliness demonstrated by all your crew.

There was so much to do and to learn. One of the reasons we chose the Coral Princess was the fact that you have a marine biologist on board. Mark was a fountain of knowledge and he always put everything across in a fun manner. We enjoyed the island walks, the talks, the fish feeding, the glass bottom boat trips, the snorkelling tour etc, etc, etc. One of the benefits of your cruise, which caters for a smaller number of passengers, is the fact that we all had the opportunity to take part in each activity and felt that there was plenty of time for us to do so.

It was our first experience of sub-aqua diving. Joel was fantastic. His briefing was excellent and when it came to the dive, he managed to reassure us. I was fairly nervous, but he guided me through the dive so well and I am very grateful for his care and guidance. It was a wonderful start to a birthday.

I have notified our travel agent of our delight with the cruise and I shall certainly recommend it to anyone who is considering a visit to the Barrier Reef. It was the perfect end to a fabulous holiday.

Many thanks,
Joani Adkins

Coral Princess II Cruise, Townsville-Cairns, Aug 2004

My wife, Jacqueline, my children, Grace, Hud & Rossetti and I took the cruise from Townsville to Cairns on the above dates.

We cannot stress enough how much we enjoyed this cruise. We had never before considered cruising, but found it really well suited to a family with varied ages and interests. The nature of cruising, where there is a clear itinerary eliminated all the discussions and disagreements that arise when organising holidays. Coupling this with perfectly smooth organisation of literally every aspect of day to day holiday and recreation meant that we had a holiday that suited us all, and was universally enjoyed. We really noted that several families, ranging from couples with babies in arms, through groups with children of similar ages to ours, and encompassing grandparents were present, and all catered for and enjoying themselves. We also got the impression that everyone else who was on this cruise thoroughly enjoyed it, so would be surprised if you receive anything other than similar feedback from everyone present.

We didn’t mention anyone in particular in our feedback form, because frankly everybody played such a part in making the cruise so enjoyable. We couldn’t help noticing that what was a holiday for us meant crewmembers working before we even got up (expecting breakfast to be laid out and ready), and still working as we headed to bed exhausted, after what we thought was a full day. Working hard, long hours, but continually cheery, (they seemed to enjoy themselves although working non-stop) your staff made the holiday for us, and we hope that you as a company appreciate how important they are. There is a tour operator in Queensland with the slogan ‘our people make the difference’, and arguably you could disagree with them. It is clearly YOUR people who make the difference ! What is so impressive is that the crew could name every member of the cruise and know their preferences so quickly, given that we outnumbered them and considering the amount of turnover of visitors you must have on the ships.

I really can’t think of a better start to the day than diving off Pelorus Island at 0745, followed by a barbecue breakfast on the beach cooked by the Captain, returning to the ship to find our cabins are fresh, and all the cogs are turning to ensure the day runs smoothly. It is so easy to forget that it was your crew that got everything ready for Pelorus while we were sleeping, that made the beds while we were diving and dining, and who cleaned up behind us as we returned to the boat.

We want you, the proprietors and management of Coral Princess Cruises, to understand our appreciation of this small part, but undoubted highlight of our holiday, but also to understand how important the crew were to making this a real pleasure. They really made the difference, and we truly appreciated it.

I think it is inconceivable that we will not be returning for another, certainly longer cruise, at least within a couple of years … we all really hope that we will encounter at least some of the crew from this last cruise - it is enough to make us hurry back !

Our thanks and best wishes to everyone at Coral Princess cruises and I hope that at some stage you all experience a holiday as enjoyable as ours was - you all deserve it !

Peter, Jackie, Grace, Hud and Rosie Rogers