Broome WA-based expedition travel company True North Adventure Cruises has completed a refit program valued at approximately US$4 million across its vessels True North and True North II in preparation for the 2026 season.
The works were undertaken as the Australian company approaches four decades of operations in remote regions across Australia and the South Pacific.
The refit programme concentrated on operational performance, passenger comfort and the vessels’ capacity to support expedition-style travel. On True North, the works included installing new engines and modifying several cabins. Selected staterooms have been equipped with additional Pullman bunks, enabling more flexible accommodation arrangements while maintaining the vessel’s small-ship configuration.
Attention aboard True North II was directed toward both guest areas and operational capability. Public spaces were refreshed, and the vessel received new adventure boats intended for operations in shallow coastal environments. These craft allow the ship to reach river systems, reef areas and remote shorelines that lie beyond the reach of larger tenders.
Alongside the physical upgrades, both ships completed crew training and development programmes before the start of the season. The initiative was intended to ensure that operational procedures and service standards remain aligned with the company’s expedition model.
The 2026 sailing schedule introduces several new itineraries across Australia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea, reflecting the operator’s continuing focus on remote access and nature-based exploration. Among these routes is Kimberley Untold, which explores lesser-visited stretches of Western Australia’s Kimberley coast, combining navigation through isolated river systems and sandstone gorges with activities such as fishing, wildlife observation and guided excursions ashore.
A second addition, Navigate New Britain, operates in Papua New Guinea and blends coastal cruising with snorkelling and visits to remote island communities. The programme also includes a return to the Great Barrier Reef, continuing the company’s practice of operating small expedition vessels capable of close access to reef environments.
Within the company’s leadership, the investment has been described as part of a broader effort to expand operational flexibility while ensuring that both vessels and crew are fully prepared for the coming season. Director Chad Avenell indicated that the upgrades were intended to support the range of destinations the fleet can reach and to ensure that the ships are equipped to operate effectively once voyages begin.
Operating small expedition ships designed for low-density travel, True North Adventure Cruises continues to focus on itineraries that emphasise access to remote coastal regions, river systems and island environments across the Asia-Pacific region.