Paspaley has announced the launch of Pearl Expeditions, a new boutique expedition cruise venture that blends immersive adventure with elegant onboard luxury, debuting with voyages along the Kimberley coastline from July 2025.
A bold new chapter in Australian expedition cruising
Renowned for its legacy in fine pearling, Paspaley has joined forces with cruise industry pioneer Sarina Bratton AM to launch Pearl Expeditions—an entirely Australian-owned experience aboard the newly unveiled PASPALEY PEARL. Purpose-built to accommodate just 30 guests, the 53.5-metre expedition yacht offers a stylish and intimate setting designed to reach some of the world’s most remote waters.
This venture rekindles the successful collaboration between Bratton and the Paspaley family, co-founders of the celebrated Orion Expedition Cruises, credited with pioneering luxury expedition cruising in Australasia. Pearl Expeditions builds upon that foundation with a renewed focus on curated experiences, cultural immersion and relaxed Australian hospitality.
Drawing on Paspaley’s century-long nautical expertise in the Kimberley and a team of seasoned former Orion crew, the PASPALEY PEARL will explore both iconic and lesser-known sites along the remote Kimberley coast, such as King George Falls, Montgomery Reef, Hell’s Gate, and Paspaley’s own working pearl farms.
From Kimberley to Borneo: journeys of depth and discovery
Following its inaugural season in the Kimberley, Pearl Expeditions will expand to offer voyages to Papua New Guinea, Raja Ampat, East Indonesia, and Borneo. Guests will explore extraordinary destinations like the Sepik River, Trobriand Islands, Moluccas spice trails, and orangutan sanctuaries—regions where Sarina Bratton and her Orion team established lasting bonds with local communities.
With 21 crew onboard, including four expert expedition guides, the guest-to-crew ratio ensures high-touch service and genuine connections throughout each voyage. The experience promises greater flexibility, deeper exploration, and meaningful cultural interactions—all within the refined yet relaxed ambiance of a boutique yacht.
“As an Australian company with roots in the Kimberley, we are excited to leverage the talents of our businesses to deliver something truly exceptional,” said James Paspaley, Executive Director of Paspaley Group.
Sarina Bratton added, “Pearl Expeditions offers more—more immersion, more insight, more meaningful moments. Sharing it with just 30 fellow adventurers makes all the difference.”
