Eclipse Expeditions: Montebello Islands Journey

Wakeup in your island paradise, the Montebello Islands. This untouched archipelago comprises of over 170 islands, endless beaches, sheltered bays, and excellent coral reef. Breakfast will be served in the outdoor alfresco area on the doorstep to your new island home. Then let the adventure begin with exploring the north-eastern islands of the Montebellos. Experience the history and beauty of Trimouille Island, and the many beaches and bays of the Stevenson Channel. The eastern reefs offer protected waters, amazing reef systems for snorkelling and action-packed fishing.

Located on the eastern coastline of the archipelago Pitt Point is another unique and protected anchorage with brilliant white sand beaches and close access to reef and fishing. Explore the shallow waters teeming with marine life around Primrose Island in the northern section of the Montebello’s archipelago. Fish the northern shelf of the archipelago from our custom fishing tender or comb the rocks and beaches casting as you go. An action-packed day will be remembered over sunset beach drinks and a scrumptious seafood dinner prepared by our onboard chef.

Claret Bay is on the Southern end of the archipelago and is a unique sheltered anchorage. From this anchorage we can access Sherry Lagoon and the inner ecosystem of the Montebello Islands. Explore the crystal-clear inner mangrove systems of Willy Nilly Lagoon and why not harvest some delicious fresh oysters or a crayfish or two along the way. The Montes have been identified as an internationally important bird area and support's a significant populations of fairy terns, roseate terns, and sooty oystercatchers. Other common species include greater crested terns, ospreys, white-bellied sea-eagles, pied oystercatchers, caspian terns and bridled terns. You also might be lucky enough to see beach stone-curlews. After lunch the snorkellers and explorers will head off again. You may prefer to join our experienced fishing guides in search of fine table fish such as Spanish mackerel, red emperor, coral trout, trevally, and spangled emperor.

Turtle Lagoon on the western side of the Archipelago is another very sheltered anchorage. The lagoon offers access to the amazing western fringing reefs for fishing, surfing, and snorkelling. From here there are opportunity for bill fishing, trolling for Sailfish, Marlin, and mackerel off the western shelf. Unique coastal mangroves and nutrient rich waters provide a favoured foraging spot for dugongs. The surrounding sandy beaches are popular nesting sites for green, hawksbill and flatback turtles. Explore Chartreuse Bay and Alpha Island to see the nuclear crater, testing site and historical plaques.

A short cruise this morning reaches the southeast corner of the islands and the stunning anchorage at Vodka Beach. Go ashore to savour this idyllic setting. Swim in crystal-clear waters, relax beneath colourful umbrellas, or take a stand-up paddleboard to explore the coastline. Experienced fishing guides are available for those seeking prized catches such as Spanish mackerel, red emperor, rankin cod, coral trout, trevally and spangled emperor. Others may prefer to relax onboard or swim over the white sand anchorage. Spend the afternoon unwinding on the beach or head out for fishing or snorkelling adventures before enjoying a final sunset and beachside cocktail with the Eclipse crew. In the evening, return onboard for a farewell dining experience under the stars in the coach roof. Enjoy a sumptuous degustation dinner paired with fine West Australian wines for a truly memorable finale to the journey.

Wake up on your arrival back in the Dampier Harbour. Breakfast and farewells onboard before disembarking from Eclipse mid morning ahead of your short private van transfer back to your accommodation or the airport in Karratha.

The cost for this flight is additional to your tour, we can book this flight for you.