OTHER INFORMATION

Oceanic Discoverer is a luxury expedition cruise vessel designed by Coral Princess Cruises to provide maximum stability and guest comfort. Launched in Cairns in January 2005, Oceanic Discoverer carries a maximum of 76 guests and offers the relaxed atmosphere of a private yacht.

The following information has been prepared to answer your questions about life aboard ship and to help you enjoy your cruise.

Alcohol:

The ship carries an excellent selection of Australian wines to accompany your meals. Wines and spirits will be automatically billed to your shipboard account. Licensing laws prohibit guests bringing alcohol on board.

Air Conditioning Chits/Shipboard Account:

The ship is air conditioned throughout. Upon embarkation, a shipboard account is automatically opened for your convenience. The Luggage "chit" system is used. A "chit" will be signed and the amount debited to your shipboard account for bar, shop and other purchases. An account will be presented for purchases at the end of your voyage. Australian dollar Travellers Cheques, American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard, and VISA are accepted in payment of your account. You can request a "running total" at any time during the cruise.

Bars:

There are two fully stocked bars on board with an excellent selection of wines, beers and spirits. Bar hours are 9:00am to 12:00 midnight. The laws governing our liquor licence prohibit alcohol being brought on board by guests.

Bridge:

There is an "open bridge" policy on board. All passengers are welcome on the bridge at any time unless otherwise advised by one of the officers.

Climate and Clothing:

Dress is informal and light clothing is advisable. Very casual attire is appropriate for the entire program. Our expeditions are scheduled to operate during our winter months when there will be a minimal chance of rainfall and temperatures will be most pleasant. The average daily temperature will range between 25 C - 35 C ( 70 F - 90 F).

Some basic knowledge about the climate and range of activities planned for this trip will help you decide what to bring along. We recommend that you select a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Sporty, summer-weight clothing is a good basis for your wardrobe. Because wet landings are common, pants you can roll-up, shorts, or a cotton skirt or dress are ideal at times. A bathing suit is good for beach visits and for swimming. Please note that during the Kimberley cruise there are no opportunities for snorkelling. However for our Across the Top of Australia cruise there will be opportunities and all snorkelling equipment is provided.

As we regularly have "wet landings" where you may be required to walk on sharp rocks and stony beaches it is important you pack a pair of closed protective footwear such as "river walkers" or "aqua soles" which you are prepared to get wet each day. You should also bring a pair of walking shoes.

Come prepared for the sun. A t-shirt to slip over a swimsuit while swimming is a good idea. We recommend sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and a sufficient supply of sunblock for protection against the sun and glare. Also include insect repellent, preferably tropical strength and a canteen to carry water. Prepare yourself for possible rain showers by packing a lightweight rain jacket. Sun block and insect repellent are available on board.

You should also pack a pair of long lightweight close-weave pants, such as King Gee, for walking in spinifex country.

When making landings, place any gear to be brought ashore inside a waterproof backpack. Also commonly used are inflatable, waterproof yellow sport pouches available in camera stores. Silica gel is recommended for protecting equipment against high humidity, and ziplock plastic bags are useful for protecting your camera gear. Binoculars are handy for close-up views of the wildlife.

The atmosphere on board is casual and there are no dress rules. There will be a Captain's Welcome and Farewell Cocktail Party. These, although slightly more dressy, are still informal.

Communications:

Oceanic Discoverer is equipped with a satellite communication system. Facilities are available for incoming/outgoing worldwide telephone and fax services. An Internet booth is also available. Communications made through the satellite to be expensive. Due to the remote location, satellite communication can be difficult at times.

The following are Oceanic Princess telephone and fax numbers:

Telephone # 881 6214 64808

Facsimile # 872 7641 45990

When calling the ship, it may be necessary to try several times (and possibly at different times of the day) before the connection is made.

Currency on Board:

Once aboard ship the currency used is Australian Dollars. Bankcard, VISA, MasterCard, Diners Club and American Express are the credit cards accepted aboard ship for settlement of shipboard accounts.

Daily Program:

A daily program, the "Kimberley News", listing the day's activities on board and ashore will be published.

Dietary Needs:

Special dietary foods can be provided, but we must be notified in writing of specific requirements at least three weeks prior to sailing.

Electricity:

All cabins are fitted with international power outlets for shavers, hair dryers and other electrical appliances.

Excursion Boats:

In addition to our two Zodiacs, we will have on board a specially designed aluminium excursion vessel, the " Xplorer". This vessel has high horsepower engines and will accommodate all passengers at one time. The "Xplorer" will be used for landings and for extensive exploration of rivers and tributaries. For your added convenience and comfort, the "Xplorer" is equipped with an awning and toilet.

Although the "Xplorer" is used for the majority of our excursions, we do carry two inflatable landing craft (Zodiacs). Designed for expedition work, these large and heavy-duty inflatables are extremely safe. Separate air compartments retain a large reserve of buoyancy even if the boats are damaged. The flat bottom design permits these crafts to land directly onto the beaches. Expect nonetheless to wade through shallow water to reach the shore.

Gift Shop:

A small gift shop offering a limited selection of toiletries and sundries is located in the Purser's Office on the Main Deck. However, we suggest you bring your own supply of personal toiletries. Oceanic Princess souvenirs including poloshirts, hats and caps, towels and postcards are also available.

Hairdryer:

Hairdryers are installed in all cabins.

Insurance:

It is recommended that all passengers have appropriate travel insurance upon making their reservation and prior to their departure.

Laundry:

There is a limited laundry service on board Oceanic Princess. Drip-dry, wash and wear clothing is recommended.

Lecture Program/Films:

A series of lectures will be presented during the trip. These presentations are an integral part of the trip and are designed to lend greater depth and understanding to your experience.

The lecture series, films and slide-shows will be presented in the Cocktail Lounge on the Bridge Deck. In addition the Expedition Leader will conduct a "recap" of the day's activities, an overview of the next day's program and other interesting topics each evening prior to dinner.

Library:

There is a comprehensive resource library on board with an excellent supply of books including natural history books of the area, and some novels and paperbacks.

Lounges:

Oceanic Discoverer has a cocktail bar/lounge located on the Bridge Deck. In addition the aft areas of the Main, Promenade and Bridge Decks are shaded areas with comfortable seating.

Luggage:

Luggage is restricted to 1 to 2 pieces only, as per airline regulations. However, we do  recommend that you keep your luggage to a minimum, as storage space aboard the ship is limited. Please ensure that your luggage is clearly labelled with your name. 

When flying from your home to join the Kimberley departure, please ensure the airline correctly tags your luggage through to the correct destination and that you have all your luggage receipts with your ticket. If your luggage is lost enroute, there will be no opportunity during this itinerary for it to be forwarded to you.

Mail:

There are no opportunities for mail to be posted during the cruise.

Meals:

All meals during the cruise are included. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are usually served in the Dining Room located on the Main Deck and are buffet-style. Coffee and tea is available 24 hours. Meal times may vary according to the day's activities. Standard hours are breakfast from 7:00 - 8:30am, lunch at 12:30pm and dinner at 7:30pm. Meal times will be advised in the "Kimberley News" and on the Across the Top of Australia cruise, the "Cape Chronicle".

Smoking:

Smoking is permitted on the outer decks only. There is a "no smoking" policy throughout the interior of the ship. There is a total smoking ban when traveling on the "Xplorer" and zodiacs and while refuelling.

Special Diets and Special Occasions:

On booking, advise your agent should you have special dietary needs, or wish to celebrate any special occasion during your cruise.

Staff Aboard:

The cruise staff are available throughout the day. Questions regarding daily activities should be directed to the Expedition Leader.

Sun Deck:

Oceanic Discoverer has a large Sun Deck with comfortable sun lounges and spa pool.

Tipping:

Other cruise lines automatically add gratuities to your account and service charges onto your bar invoices. On Oceanic Discoverer, our crew has no other agenda than your delight, and tipping is completely optional.

Transfers:

Transfers are not included.

Valuables:

Valuables may be lodged with the Purser for safe keeping.

Viewing Areas:

The Sun Deck, Fore Decks and Aft Decks are all ideal for watching the scenery and wildlife. In addition the Dining Room and Cocktail Bar with their full-length windows are also ideal viewing areas. The ship has an "open bridge" policy, and you are welcome to visit this area except during manoeuvres.