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Kimberley Explorer (10 Nights) Broome to Wyndham / Kununurra
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Covid Information

We are delighted to announce a significant development in our ongoing commitment to the health and safety of our guests and crew. As of August 28, 2023, all Australian state and federal government COVID-19 requirements related to cruises have been lifted. This positive change includes the removal of mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations for guests over the age of 12 before boarding.

True North Adventure Cruises is promptly responding to this welcome update by eliminating the mandatory COVID-19 protocols for our Australian cruises. We appreciate the collective effort in overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic, allowing us to transition back to pre-pandemic settings while maintaining our dedication to health and safety.

It is important to note that, while the majority of Indonesia has rescinded COVID-19 vaccination requirements, certain more remote cities and provinces, visited on our West Papuan cruises, continue to mandate vaccination for all travellers. Unvaccinated guests may be permitted with an exemption letter from a hospital and a physician affirming their inability to receive the coronavirus vaccine. For our PNG and Solomons island cruises, COVID vaccination requirements are still evolving. We encourage you to reach out to our sales team for the most up-to-date information on these specific itineraries.

Although the obligation for COVID-19 vaccinations is no longer in place, we strongly encourage our guests to stay current with vaccinations for both COVID-19 and influenza. We believe in maintaining a responsible approach to health and safety, aligning with the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee’s (AHPPC) advice for safe cruising. Our strategy treats COVID-19 in line with other common communicable diseases, emphasising prevention and effective management of illness.

True North Adventure Cruises remains steadfast in implementing comprehensive prevention and control protocols for communicable diseases across our fleet. We appreciate your continued trust in us, and we look forward to providing secure and enjoyable adventures for all our guests.

 

True North Fresh

(updated October 6 2023)

Australian authorities have recently announced that Covid specific protocols are no longer applicable to cruise operations within Australian waters.

True North would like to take this opportunity to thank all guests for their previous patience and cooperation.

Going forward, we encourage everyone to observe the normal courtesies associated with contagious illness.

Guests who are joining itineraries that include operations in international waters are encouraged to contact our reservations team for latest advice.

True North Fresh

August 28, 2023

We are delighted to announce a significant development in our ongoing commitment to the health and safety of our guests and crew. As of August 28, 2023, all Australian state and federal government COVID-19 requirements related to cruises have been lifted. This positive change includes the removal of mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations for guests over the age of 12 before boarding.

True North Adventure Cruises is promptly responding to this welcome update by eliminating the mandatory COVID-19 protocols for our Australian cruises. We appreciate the collective effort in overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic, allowing us to transition back to pre-pandemic settings while maintaining our dedication to health and safety.

It is important to note that, while the majority of Indonesia has rescinded COVID-19 vaccination requirements, certain more remote cities and provinces, visited on our West Papuan cruises, continue to mandate vaccination for all travellers. Unvaccinated guests may be permitted with an exemption letter from a hospital and a physician affirming their inability to receive the coronavirus vaccine.

For our PNG and Solomons island cruises, COVID vaccination requirements are still evolving. We encourage you to reach out to our sales team for the most up-to-date information on these specific itineraries.

Although the obligation for COVID-19 vaccinations is no longer in place, we strongly encourage our guests to stay current with vaccinations for both COVID-19 and influenza. We believe in maintaining a responsible approach to health and safety, aligning with the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee’s (AHPPC) advice for safe cruising. Our strategy treats COVID-19 in line with other common communicable diseases, emphasising prevention and effective management of illness.

True North Adventure Cruises remains steadfast in implementing comprehensive prevention and control protocols for communicable diseases across our fleet. We appreciate your continued trust in us, and we look forward to providing secure and enjoyable adventures for all our guests.

True North Fresh

(updated November 2 2022)

Although Coronavirus continues to impact, associated restrictions have been greatly reduced.

Accordingly, the provisions of this program have been updated as follows.

  • All guests are required to have received 2 doses of COVID vaccine, if over 12 years of age.
  • All guests are required to conduct a self-administered RAT and, to complete pre-departure screening immediately prior to boarding.
  • RAT testing capability is maintained onboard.
  • Guests who provide a positive test at any time will be required to isolate in their cabin for a mandatory 5-day period or until symptoms cease. Positive tests are reported to health authorities.
  • Close contacts of a positive case are welcome to join activities however mask-wearing, separate dining times and daily testing will be required.
  • An approved COVID Safe Plan is installed.
  • In the interests of all guests and crew, any guest who exhibits sign or symptom of ill-health will be asked to take precautionary measures which may include mask-wearing, cabin isolation or, a need to make alternative arrangements off-ship. Please note that any loss or expense relating to ill-health or injury is a guest responsibility and accordingly, comprehensive travel insurance (including provision relating to Covid) is recommended.

    Following the advent of Covid 19, it has become necessary to update our terms and conditions. Please refer to our booking terms and conditions (https://truenorth.com.au/true-north-booking-conditions/) and see specific detail under the Covid19 Pandemic Schedule.

    True North Fresh

    (updated September 20 2022)

    Australia’s national cabinet has announced that persons testing positive for Covid are no longer be subject to forced isolation. However, isolation periods (and mandatory vaccination) are still applicable to cruises operating within Australian waters.

    In compliance, True North’s Covid protocols are as follows:

    The following amendment to our general booking conditions will continue to be maintained until such time as the provision is no longer considered essential.

    Flexible Booking Conditions:

    Any person who is not able to join a booked departure because of a travel ban associated with coronavirus or, who is not able to join a booked departure because they have tested positive to coronavirus, or because they have had close contact with someone who has tested positive to coronavirus or, because they have had close contact with someone who is suspected of having contracted coronavirus, or because they are indicating sign or displaying symptom of virus at the time of departure, will be offered deferred arrangement equivalent to the value of the existing arrangement without the application of penalty. Requests for deferment as above must be reasonably substantiated.

    From 12 November 2022, anyone who tests positive to Covid post embarkation will be required to isolate in their cabin for current government-directed isolation period. Guests will be able to recommence activities following the isolation period provided they are no longer exhibiting sign or symptom and, provided they undertake to wear a mask for the ensuing 7-day period. A credit is no longer applicable to disrupted days. Please note that guests always remain responsible for any costs associated with repatriation relating to injury or illness and, that appropriate travel insurance is always recommended.

    Compliance with State Government requirements:

    Each Australian State requires the following for cruises operating within Australian waters:

    • All guests will be required to have received 2 doses of COVID vaccine, if of an age that is approved by ATAGI.
    • All guests will be subject to a RAT test (to be organised by the company prior to embarkation). Positive test results must be referred to the Department of Health and guests who provide a positive test are not permitted to embark.
    • RAT testing capability must be maintained onboard.
    • An approved COVID Safe Plan must be installed.

    Enhanced Hygiene Arrangements :

    Guests travelling on the TRUE NORTH have always commented on our meticulous housekeeping and, our focus on small group outdoor activities presents much less risk when compared to more crowded alternatives. However, all TRUE NORTH itineraries will continue to feature the following enhanced procedure:

    • A pre-departure statement declaring the absence of any known virus-related risk to fellow guest or crew.
    • Strict compliance with COVID Safety Guidelines e.g. mask wearing.
    • Embarkation screening including reaffirmation of the pre-departure statement.
    • Hygiene protocols included in the master’s welcome speech and in guest cabins.
    • Signage reinforcing hygiene protocols displayed in all guest and crew cabins.
    • Pre-embarkation professional laundering (high temperature) of bed linen.
    • The maintenance of a two-tier sanitation process in the air conditioning system that removes impurities in the air handling unit and cooling coils and, also sanitises the ducting system.
    • Complimentary stainless-steel water bottles supplied to all guests.
    • The issue of guest specific recreation equipment. (In instances where guest specific recreation equipment is not available – all items will be cleaned with hospital grade cleaner after use).
    • Twice-daily cleaning of surface areas and contact points in all cabins and day-use areas.
    • Air sanitiser units fitted to all interior spaces.
    • Floors cleaned daily with hospital grade cleaner.
    • Hand sanitiser dispensers in all cabins and day-use areas.
    • Hand sanitiser wipes available in guest cabins.
    • Twice daily cleaning of deck washrooms.
    • Enhanced galley specific protocols in accordance with industry standards.
    • Crew service at breakfast buffet.
    • Crew service at canapes.
    • To assist with social distancing – outside bar service and television/audio will always be available.
    • Dedicated containment and evacuation procedure (including provision of required PPE).
    • Reduced crew change-outs.

    True North Fresh

    (updated February 15 2022)

    Your pathway to adventure!

    It is now more than two years since Covid 19 was first recognised as a public health emergency of global concern.

    During the intervening period the travel industry has experienced significant disruption and even periods of total shutdown.

    At the time of writing, the trend was towards less restriction however, True North has decided to extend the flexible booking provisions incorporated in the True North Fresh program.

    We have also added recently announced government requirements.

    The updated provisions of the program are as follows:

    Flexible Booking Conditions:

    To provide our guests with greater assurance when considering their travel plans, the following amendment to our general booking conditions will be maintained until such time as the provision is no longer considered essential:

    Any person who is not able to join a booked departure because of a travel ban associated with coronavirus or, who is not able to join a booked departure because they have tested positive to coronavirus, or because they have had close contact with someone who has tested positive to coronavirus or, because they have had close contact with someone who is suspected of having contracted coronavirus, or because they are indicating sign or displaying symptom of virus at the time of departure, will be offered deferred arrangement equivalent to the value of the existing arrangement without the application of penalty.

    Requests for deferment as above must be reasonably substantiated.

    Additionally, if a Covid related incident causes disruption to your itinerary post embarkation, True North will arrange a credit proportional to the disrupted days and to the amount paid in excess of your 25% deposit, less any non-refundable expenses which we may have reasonably incurred.

    Compliance with WA Government requirements:

    The Western Australian government has recently announced the following requirements for cruises operating within WA waters:

    • All guests will be required to have received 3 doses of COVID vaccine, if of an age that is approved by ATAGI and, if eligible for a third dose.
    • All guests will be subject to a RAT test (to be organised by the company prior to embarkation). Positive test results must be referred to the Department of Health and guests who provide a positive test are not permitted to embark.
    • RAT testing capability must be maintained onboard.
    • An approved COVID Safe Plan must be installed.

    Note: If your travels are originating from outside WA – you also need to consider requirements for entry into the state. You can stay up to date with Western Australia’s border requirements at COVID-19 coronavirus: Controlled border

    Enhanced Hygiene Arrangements :

    Guests travelling on the TRUE NORTH have always commented on our meticulous housekeeping and, our focus on small group outdoor activities presents much less risk when compared to more crowded alternatives. However, all TRUE NORTH itineraries will continue to feature the following enhanced procedure:

    • A pre-departure guest (and crew) statement declaring the absence of any known virus-related risk to fellow guest or crew.
    • Strict compliance with Western Australian Government’s COVID Safety Guidelines e.g. mask wearing, social distancing etc.
    • Embarkation screening (for guest and crew) including reaffirmation of the pre-departure statement and, temperature scanning.
    • Hygiene protocols included in the master’s welcome speech and in guest cabins.
    • Signage reinforcing hygiene protocols displayed in all guest and crew cabins.
    • The removal of all non-essential items from guest cabins.
    • Pre-embarkation professional laundering (high temperature) of bed linen.
    • The maintenance of a two-tier sanitation process in the air conditioning system that removes impurities in the air handling unit and cooling coils and, also sanitises the ducting system.
    • Vessel defogging during off-boat activities.
    • Complimentary stainless-steel water bottles supplied to all guests.
    • The issue of guest specific recreation equipment. (In instances where guest specific recreation equipment is not available – all items will be cleaned with hospital grade cleaner after use).
    • Twice-daily cleaning of surface areas and contact points in all cabins and day-use areas.
    • Air sanitiser units fitted to all interior spaces.
    • Floors cleaned daily with hospital grade cleaner.
    • Hand sanitiser dispensers in all cabins and day-use areas.
    • Hand sanitiser wipes available in guest cabins.
    • Twice daily cleaning of deck washrooms.
    • Enhanced galley specific protocols in accordance with industry standards.
    • Crew service at breakfast buffet.
    • Crew service at canapes.
    • To assist with social distancing – outside bar service and television/audio will always be available.
    • Helicopter cab to be disinfected after each flight (including wipe down and aircon treatment).
    • Helicopter headsets to be fitted with single-use mouth pieces.
    • Helicopter life jackets to be disinfected after use.
    • Dedicated containment and evacuation procedure (including provision of required PPE).
    • Reduced crew change-outs.

    Important Notice 8: Protocols for coronavirus precaution and management:

    Issued: 3rd February 2021

    At the time of writing, the trend in Australia continues to move away from domestic travel restriction and accordingly, TRUE NORTH is anticipating normal operations during the coming Kimberley Season.

    Further advice concerning our international itineraries will be provided shortly.

    We regret that restrictions on international arrivals into Australia are still preventing guests from other countries from joining the TRUE NORTH. We hope that vaccine distribution will bring swift relief to all who continue to suffer the ravages of this terrible pandemic.

    Thank you for your continued understanding and support.

    True North.

    Read less

    Important Notice 7: Protocols for coronavirus precaution and management:

    Issued: 11th November 2020

    Domestic travel restrictions are steadily being relaxed within Australia and the TRUE NORTH is now looking forward to welcoming guests from all over Australia.

    However, it is likely that international arrivals into Australia will be disrupted for the foreseeable future and, we are progressively contacted effected guests.

    Thank you for your continued understanding and support.

    True North.

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    Important Notice 6: Protocols for coronavirus precaution and management:

    Issued: 19th June 2020

    The resumption of domestic travel in Australia is proceeding and the TRUE NORTH is now scheduled to recommence Kimberley operations on July 4.

    However, it is likely that travel into international waters will not be possible in the foreseeable future and accordingly, we have made the difficult decision to reschedule our 2020 itineraries in Indonesia and Papua New Guinea.

    Although we regret this outcome, it is obviously a matter beyond our control.

    We have commenced contacting guests effected by this latest re-scheduling and, we will be offering opportunity to join alternative departures.

    In this regard, we have created an exciting series of alternative 2020 departures. For more information see https://www.truenorth.com.au/cruise-map/schedule/

    We have also created a new program to provide our guests with additional confidence when considering an adventure on the mighty TRUE NORTH.

    Thank you for your continued understanding and support.

    True North.

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    Important Notice 5: Protocols for coronavirus precaution and management:

    Issued: 30th April 2020

    Although there are some encouraging signs for the future, travel bans and other restrictions are continuing to make it impossible for the TRUE NORTH to conduct normal operations.

    We have therefore decided to extend the suspension of departures until June 30 2020.

    We are immediately contacting all guests who are impacted by the extension and we ask for your patience in this regard.

    Our intention is to resume operations as soon as possible however we remain cognisant that it may become necessary to again extend this suspension. We will continue to contact guests progressively as they become impacted.Add Row

    Hopefully coming editions of our ADVENTURE UPDATE will present opportunity to introduce plans for the future. If you are not already receiving this communication, please enter your email address in the box below and click “Subscribe”.

    Thank you for your anticipated understanding and patience.

    True North Adventure Cruises.

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    Important Notice 4: Protocols for coronavirus precaution and management:

    Issued: 3rd April 2020

    Travel bans and other restrictions are continuing to make it impossible for the TRUE NORTH to conduct normal operations.

    We have therefore decided to extend the suspension of departures until June 12 2020.

    We are immediately contacting all guests who are impacted by the extension and we ask for your patience in this regard.

    Our intention is to resume operations as soon as possible however we remain cognisant that it may become necessary to again extend this suspension. We will continue to contact guests progressively as they become impacted.

    Thank you for your anticipated understanding and patience.

    True North Adventure Cruises.

    Read less

    Important Notice 3: Protocols for coronavirus precaution and management:

    Issued: 23rd March 2020

    The installation of travel bans and other restrictions have now made it impossible for the TRUE NORTH to continue normal operations.

    We have therefore decided to suspend activity until May 29 2020.

    We are immediately contacting all guests who are impacted by this unavoidable circumstance and we would ask for your patience in this regard.

    Our intention is to resume operations as soon as possible however we are cognisant that it may become necessary to extend the above-mentioned suspension and, we will progressively contact guests who may be impacted by any extension.

    Thank you for your anticipated understanding and patience.

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    Important Notice 2: Protocols for coronavirus precaution and management:

    Issued: 14th March 2020

    To provide our guests with greater flexibility during this period of disruption, True North Adventure Cruises has decided to temporarily amend its booking conditions.

    Effective immediately, the following override will apply to all existing and future bookings and, will remain in effect until further notice.

    • Any person who is not able to join a booked departure because of a travel ban associated with coronavirus or, who is not able to join a booked departure because they have tested positive to coronavirus, or because they have had close contact with someone who has tested positive to coronavirus or, because they have had close contact with someone who is suspected of having contracted coronavirus, will be offered deferred arrangement equivalent to the value of the existing arrangement without the application of any penalty.
    • Requests for deferment account of a coronavirus incident must be reasonably substantiated.

    All measures will remain subject to health authority recommendation and requirement, and we will continue to monitor the situation accordingly.

    At this juncture – there is no plan to change itinerary or scheduled activity.

    In closing, we are respectfully asking all guests who are about to embark on the TRUE NORTH and, who may have recently exhibited sign or symptom of virus, or who may have had close contact with any other person who has recently exhibited sign or symptom of virus, to obtain medical clearance before commencing travel.

    Thank you for your anticipated understanding and cooperation.

    True North Adventure Cruises

    Read less

    Important Notice 1: Protocols for coronavirus precaution and management:

    Issued: 5th March 2020

    At the time of writing, the incidence of coronavirus in Australia remained relatively low and, the majority of guests who travel on the TRUE NORTH are Australian residents. Additionally, guests who are not Australian residents or, who are Australian residents recently returned from overseas, are subject to this country’s current border control measures which include travel bans and requirement for self-isolation. It also needs to be remembered that the TRUE NORTH is a small ship carrying just 36 guests and that the level of risk is greatly reduced compared to larger ships. Hence, the risk of a coronavirus occurrence on the TRUE NORTH remains low.

    However, the comfort and well-being of guests is always an utmost priority and accordingly, the following detail regarding precaution and management is provided:

    • The TRUE NORTH will continue to be subject to stringent cleaning and sanitation protocol.
    • The ship’s entire air conditioning system inclusive of coils and ducts has recently been cleaned and treated with recommended solution (Viper).
    • San Air Blocks have been installed in the ship’s air handling units and will be changed every 30 days.
    • All surfaces and walls in the ship’s day use and accommodation areas will remain subject to frequent cleaning and disinfection.
    • In addition to the provision of hand sanitation dispensers in day use areas – this provision will be extended to guest & crew cabins
    • In addition to the provision of hand sanitation dispensers in day use areas – this provision will be extended to guest & crew cabins
    • Guests and crew members will be encouraged to engage in frequent hand washing and recommended etiquette when coughing or sneezing.
    • Subject to medical advice, any guest or crew member who exhibits signs or symptom consistent with a virus may be asked to remain isolated in their cabin and/or evacuated from the ship.

    All measures will remain subject to health authority recommendation and requirement, and we will continue to monitor the situation accordingly.

    At this juncture – there is no plan to change itinerary or scheduled activity.

    Thank you for your anticipated understanding and cooperation.

    True North Adventure Cruises

    Read less

    True North Fresh

    (updated September 20 2022)

    Australia’s national cabinet has announced that persons testing positive for Covid are no longer be subject to forced isolation. However, isolation periods (and mandatory vaccination) are still applicable to cruises operating within Australian waters.

    In compliance, True North’s Covid protocols are as follows:

    The following amendment to our general booking conditions will continue to be maintained until such time as the provision is no longer considered essential.

    True North Fresh

    (updated November 2 2022)

    Although Coronavirus continues to impact, associated restrictions have been greatly reduced.

    Accordingly, the provisions of this program have been updated as follows.

  • All guests are required to have received 2 doses of COVID vaccine, if over 12 years of age.
  • All guests are required to conduct a self-administered RAT and, to complete pre-departure screening immediately prior to boarding.
  • RAT testing capability is maintained onboard.
  • Guests who provide a positive test at any time will be required to isolate in their cabin for a mandatory 5-day period or until symptoms cease. Positive tests are reported to health authorities.
  • Close contacts of a positive case are welcome to join activities however mask-wearing, separate dining times and daily testing will be required.
  • An approved COVID Safe Plan is installed.
  • In the interests of all guests and crew, any guest who exhibits sign or symptom of ill-health will be asked to take precautionary measures which may include mask-wearing, cabin isolation or, a need to make alternative arrangements off-ship. Please note that any loss or expense relating to ill-health or injury is a guest responsibility and accordingly, comprehensive travel insurance (including provision relating to Covid) is recommended.

    Following the advent of Covid 19, it has become necessary to update our terms and conditions. Please refer to our booking terms and conditions (https://truenorth.com.au/true-north-booking-conditions/) and see specific detail under the Covid19 Pandemic Schedule.