We can’t talk about the Kimberley region without mentioning the resident crocodiles! The smaller freshwater crocodile is found in rivers, creeks and lakes and feed mainly on insects and fish. They generally grow to a maximum of 2.3 to 3 metres and are relatively harmless. On the other hand, you need to be very careful with saltwater crocodiles. Salties are the largest predators in the world and can grow up to 6 metres in length. Territorial and aggressive, they are found throughout the Kimberley.

Wallabies are widespread throughout the Kimberley and rock wallabies in particular call the region home. Like kangaroos, wallabies have strong hind legs for jumping but are much smaller than kangaroos – especially some of the tiny rock wallaby species in the Kimberley! Rock wallabies are nocturnal herbivores and eat mainly plants and grass. Rock wallabies are compact and agile to help them navigate the steep, rocky terrain.

Although not originally native to Australia, dingoes arrive some ten thousand years ago and have integrated into the ecosystem. There are very few places where dingoes can be found living in the wild and the Kimberley region is one of them. The dingo is important in Aboriginal culture and helps to keep balance in the ecosystem. Unfortunately, dingoes are often viewed as pests. It’s important to remember that despite appearances, dingoes aren’t dogs and shouldn’t be approached or fed.

The striking northern quoll is the smallest of the quoll species and has a distinctive appearance with a long tail and white spots on its back. They love the rocky areas of the Kimberley and it isn’t fussy when it comes to diet, eating insects, lizards, smaller mammals and fruit. During mating season, females can carry up to eight babies and find shelter in tree hollows or rock crevices.

With Ocean Dream Charters, you have your choice of eight or twelve day scheduled cruises which take in the many highlights of the region. Your every need is taken care of aboard our 80-foot twin hull catamaran and our crew will make sure you have an experience you never forget. For a personalised Kimberley holiday, you can also opt for a private charter with friends and family.

For Kimberley holiday packages aboard our luxury vessel, contact Ocean Dream Charters today on 1300 944 727.

The Kimberley area is well known for natural beauty and a diverse array of wildlife. However, it also has some of the greatest concentrations of Aboriginal rock art. The Kimberley is approximately three times the size of the United Kingdom and offers an incredible opportunity to explore Aboriginal history and culture.

The indigenous rock art in the area is so massive that it is thought it will take generations to fully record. Dating the rock art is a work in process, but experts believe it is likely to be thousands of years old, and could potentially be the oldest in the world.

Rock art is culturally and historically important, providing insight into an early Aboriginal culture, allowing us to understand human movement patterns in ancient times.

This artwork features elongated, graceful human forms and animal figures. The humans are depicted with accessories including boomerangs, spears and dilly bags. Also known as Djaeneka Djaeneka or Kiro Kiro depending on the language spoken and area, Gwion rock art was discovered in the 1890s and dates back approximately 17,000 years. This artwork often includes different colours including black, mulberry and red.

You can view Gwion rock art in a number of sites on the River Roe, Drysdale River and Mitchell Falls, which are popular spots for many Kimberley tours.

Wanjina or Wandjuna art was first recorded in 1837 by explorer George Grey and dates back 4,000 years. This type of art features spirit ancestors or creators in human form. They feature large, round eyes, mouthless faces and halos or headdresses. These figures are typically painted with outward pointing lines that resemble lightning and were thought to control the storms and rains of the wet season. Creator beings are said to reside in the rock or have left their bodies behind in the rocks.

Wanjina rock art can be viewed in the area around the Glenelg River, with well known sites at Eagle Rock, Donkey Creek, and the Drysdale River. Sites have also been documented in coastal caves off the coast of the Kimberley area on Bigge Island.

While significantly different, the remoteness of many rock art sites means that boat is the best way to travel to view them. The rock art depicts the lives of tribespeople who hunted and lived in the harsh terrain of the region.

If you are thinking about viewing Aboriginal rock art and contemplating Kimberley holiday packages, you should speak to us. We can help with planning your itinerary and recommend Kimberley tours that will allow you to fully explore the region. The Ocean Dreams team members are available to answer any queries about Kimberley cruises, 2018 availability and current packages.