Paspaley Pearl Sets Sail As Australia’s New Intimate Expedition Vessel

A gracefully reimagined luxury yacht has received new purpose, debuting as a high-end expedition vessel: the Paspaley Pearl. Previously launched in 2021 as Island Escape for New Zealand-based small-ship cruises, the vessel entered a revived chapter under Australia’s iconic pearling company, Paspaley, following its 2023 acquisition.

A Bold Refit & Reinvention

• Sea trials held off Fremantle in 2024 affirmed its stability and advanced propulsion systems, including an Azimuth drive for quiet and smooth maneuvering.
• The yacht was meticulously refurbished by ICF International in Singapore, featuring luxurious new interiors, sustainable technical upgrades, and enhanced guest spaces.

Pearl Expeditions Launches

Paspaley forged Pearl Expeditions, led by industry veteran Sarina Bratton AM—renowned for founding Orion Expedition Cruises—to manage the yacht’s journey. The vessel was officially handed over in Singapore in May 2025, before arriving in Darwin as its home base.

Voyages in Australia’s Wild North

• The maiden Kimberley expedition is set for departure from Wyndham on 31 July 2025, with intimate voyages along remote waterways, waterfalls, and even a working Paspaley pearl farm.
• Specifications: The 53.5-meter yacht accommodates only 30 guests with a complement of 21 crew members and four expert expedition guides, offering immersive travel in refined comfort.

Beyond the Kimberley

After wrapping up its Kimberley season, the Paspaley Pearl will expand its reach into Papua New Guinea, East Indonesia, Raja Ampat, and Borneo, exploring biodiversity-rich regions and cultural hotspots.

Why This Matters

This remarkable transformation blends Paspaley’s deep-rooted Kimberley heritage with Bratton’s expedition leadership to offer a uniquely Australian cruise experience—combining luxury, sustainability, and immersion in untamed landscapes. With its small size and expert crew, Paspaley Pearl unlocks adventures inaccessible to larger vessels, reaffirming the growing demand for boutique expedition travel. For those continuing their journey on land, the convenience of furnished apartments in Melbourne provides the perfect complement—offering comfort, flexibility, and a home-like base for exploring the city before or after their voyage.