Each year, Eclipse travels nearly 900 nautical miles along Western Australia’s coastline, journeying between her Kimberley and South West seasons. In true Eclipse spirit — where freedom and discovery go hand in hand — Co-owner and Captain Ryan turned this year’s transit into an opportunity for exploration. He set off on a reconnaissance voyage to experience parts of the Ningaloo Coast he had only ever seen on charts or cruised through in passing.
Joining him were two eager crew members, a friend and local Ningaloo guide, and myself — Hannah, Eclipse’s lucky marketing and sales manager on my annual trip aboard. What we discovered exceeded all expectations, offering surprise and delight at every new anchorage.
A Natural Spectacle at the Montebello Islands
At the Montebello Islands, we were treated to a sight that many travel thousands of kilometres to witness, yet few are fortunate enough to experience in such abundance. Frolicking in the shallows as we sank our toes into the soft white sands of Pitt Point were dozens of Green and Loggerhead sea turtles, taking part in the annual nesting season.
After decades at sea, these magnificent creatures return to their birthplace to continue the life cycle. Watching them glide through the water, rest in the shallows and burrow up the beach was pure joy — a reminder of nature’s patience and persistence.
Fishing, Diving and Crystal Waters
As we ventured further south, ideal conditions and a rewarding trolling session saw the crew land mackerel and tuna to fill the freezer. Dropping anchor at the southern end of the island chain near the rocky outcrops of Varanus Island, we found ourselves surrounded by coral bombies and clear waters in every shade of blue.
Masks and fins on, we dove straight from Eclipse’s swim platform into a live-action aquarium, drifting among colourful coral gardens and curious fish.
Moments of Stillness at Long Island
Arriving at Long Island, we were greeted with glassy calm seas and soft, salt-scented air. The crew stretched out on the Sea Net, letting the water lap gently beneath us. The paddle board soon hit the water, and within minutes we were exploring the shoreline, collecting shells and taking in the silence of this untouched paradise.
A Kimberley Surprise in the Gulf
On our final afternoon, the coastline delivered one last surprise — a taste of home. Hidden in the lower reaches of the Gulf lies the Bay of Rest, where mangrove forests twist into intricate creek systems and tidal islands rise with the turning tide. It felt like a little pocket of the Kimberley, tucked within the Ningaloo.
With fish in the freezer, a golden glow on our skin and memories to last a lifetime, we sailed into Exmouth Marina. There, Eclipse begins her annual refit and readies for the next chapter — welcoming our guests aboard to experience a voyage just like this one.
Watch this coastline closely — there’s a new adventure on the horizon, and it’s one we can’t wait to share.
