MV True North

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

The True North ship was built in Fremantle-Perth, Western Australia at Austal shipyards. The vessel was launched in March 2005. The shipowner is the Broome-based company True North Adventure Cruises via its brand North Star Cruises Australia. The ship boasts some of the newest maritime technology innovations, among which are the computer-controlled motion stabilizers to ensure a most comfortable ride.

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

In mid-November 2022, True North Adventure Cruises announced that a second vessel (True North II/max capacity 22 passengers) will join its 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 a major refit and refurbishment prior to entering service for the company.

Shipboard facilities

Cruise passengers are able to take advantage of lavish vantage points including a forward observation lounge, ship’s lounge, alfresco bar and outdoor sundeck. The naturalist presents interpretative info on plasma screens. An internet cafe enables communication with the outside world.

Ship's dining room (on the lower deck) offers the ultimate in comfort with large panoramic windows that ensure passengers never miss any of the action, even while enjoying the ‘finest in fine dining’.

True North cruise ship cabins feature stylish decor, in-house entertainment, satellite telephones and en-suite facilities. The Explorer and River Class cabins provide king size beds which can be converted to singles. The Ocean Class twins have roomy single beds.

The ship also has top-deck helipad with a helicopter (max capacity 6 passengers, all with forwarding view seating). Onboard and ashore activities include photography classes, fishing, diving and snorkeling.

Itineraries

In January 2019, the ship started a new Western Australia cruisetour program with 7-day itineraries between Fremantle-Perth and Esperance. Kimberley coastal itineraries have lengths 7-10-13 nights. Each voyage is served by a resident biologist in charge of 6 tour guides (1 per tender boat).

In November 2022 was announced that True North's 2023 schedule will include new for the company 4-night/5-day and 10-night/11-day Kimberley and 13-night/14-day Great Barrier Reef/Queensland itineraries.