A Dramatic Turn on a Kimberley Cruise
What started as a peaceful escape turned into an unexpected adventure for Silversea cruise passengers on 26th June 2025. A sudden tidal drop left their zodiac boats stranded near Adele Island, off Australia’s remote Kimberley coast. This incident occurred during a 10-day luxury cruise on the Silver Cloud, which was journeying from Darwin.
Stranded by the Tide
Around 70 guests and 10 guides embarked on a zodiac tour of Adele Island, known for its stunning birdlife and coral beds. However, they were caught off guard by a rapid tidal retreat. The tide fell quickly, leaving the zodiacs grounded in shallow waters. Passengers found themselves knee- to thigh-deep in the sea, unable to return to the ship.
Quick Response from the Crew
The crew acted swiftly, guiding passengers across 500 metres of coral beds to reach deeper waters. Additional zodiacs were dispatched from the ship to bring everyone back. Photos captured the scene as guests waded through shallow waters, assisted by crew members, with the sun setting in the background.
Rescue Efforts Continue
By 8:00 p.m. local time, most passengers were safely back on board. The ship’s medical team treated minor injuries like scrapes and twisted ankles. However, 10 passengers and some crew remained on Adele Island, waiting for the tide to rise so their zodiacs could refloat. The Silver Cloud stayed nearby, with high tide expected at 11:59 p.m.
Questions Arise
Observers questioned why the dramatic tidal changes weren’t better anticipated, given Silversea’s reputation for expedition expertise. Adele Island is known for its extreme tidal shifts, with sea levels dipping into negative measurements at low tide. Although no serious injuries occurred, the experience was described as disorganised and physically demanding.
Challenges Faced
Zodiacs are not designed for long delays, and no immediate provisions like food or water were available. Fortunately, temperatures remained between 23°C and 27°C, avoiding heat-related issues. Despite the discomfort, some passengers maintained their humour, calling it a “true expedition,” while others expressed surprise at the situation.
This unexpected adventure serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of expedition cruises. While the experience was challenging, it also highlighted the resilience and adaptability of both passengers and crew.
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