True North’s two-ship expedition fleet completes makeover

The company’s original vessel, the 22-passenger mono-hull True North, was launched in 1999 and operated Kimberley cruises under the former branding North Star Cruises.

She was refitted in Fremantle and made her maiden voyage as True North II in March 2023, after operating charters in Indonesia under the name Ratu Motu. 

The purpose-built mono-hull True North was commissioned in 2005 and carries 36 passengers and a crew of 22.

Western Australia’s Echo Marine Group carried out the makeovers, which included revamped cabins, an overhaul and rebuild of the gearboxes and paintwork.

Relaxing environment

‘While guests will typically be spending the majority of their time exploring off the vessels, whether this be snorkelling, fishing or enjoying a heli-picnic, we want to ensure that their time back on deck or recharging in their cabins is in the most relaxing environment possible,’ owner Chad Avenell said.

‘As a 100% Australian owned and operated shipbuilding and sustainment company, we are proud to have supported True North on their annual refit,’ Echo Marine Group MD Mark Stothard said.

Partnership with crew

‘In partnership with True North’s experienced crew, we have worked hard to ensure both vessels are back in the water at the highest standard, ready to explore our great wilderness,’ Echo’s Chief Operating Officer Nick Gee said.