MV True North

The 2005-built MV True North cruise ship is a modern expedition yacht operating on exotic itineraries, predominantly in the northwest region of Western Australia. Each year, the vessel completes a circumnavigation of Australia and offers expeditions along WA’s Kimberley Coast, South Australia, NSW, Papua New Guinea, and Indonesia.

The True North was built in Fremantle–Perth, Western Australia at Austal shipyards and launched in March 2005. The ship is owned by the Broome-based company True North Adventure Cruises, operating under the brand North Star Cruises Australia. She features advanced maritime technologies, including computer-controlled motion stabilizers that ensure a highly comfortable ride.

The vessel (IMO number 9308651) is Australia-flagged (MMSI 503486000) and registered in Fremantle.

In mid-November 2022, True North Adventure Cruises announced that a second vessel, True North II (maximum capacity 22 passengers), would join the fleet in March 2023. The fleetmate’s itinerary program includes voyages in Australia and Southeast Asia. The 1999-built True North 2 was scheduled to enter drydock in Fremantle for major refit and refurbishment before entering service with the company.

Shipboard facilities

Cruise passengers enjoy numerous vantage points, including a forward observation lounge, the ship’s lounge, an alfresco bar, and an outdoor sundeck. A naturalist delivers interpretive presentations on plasma screens, and an Internet café allows guests to stay connected.

The ship’s dining room (on the Lower Deck) provides exceptional comfort and features large panoramic windows, ensuring that passengers never miss the scenery while enjoying the finest in fine dining.

True North’s cabins feature stylish décor, in-house entertainment, satellite telephones, and en-suite facilities. The Explorer and River Class cabins offer king-size beds that can be converted into singles, while the Ocean Class cabins provide spacious single beds.

The ship also features a top-deck helipad with a helicopter (maximum capacity six passengers, all with forward-facing seats). Onboard and ashore activities include photography classes, fishing, diving, and snorkeling.

Itineraries

In January 2019, the ship launched a new Western Australia cruise program featuring 7-day itineraries between Fremantle–Perth and Esperance. Kimberley coastal itineraries are offered in lengths of 7, 10, and 13 nights. Each voyage is accompanied by a resident biologist and supported by six tour guides (one per tender boat).

In November 2022, the company announced that True North’s 2023 schedule would introduce new 4-night/5-day and 10-night/11-day Kimberley itineraries, as well as 13-night/14-day Great Barrier Reef/Queensland voyages.