Uniting Icons of the Kimberley: A New Era for Small-Group Adventure Cruising
MEDIA RELEASE
UNITING ICONS OF THE KIMBERLEY:
A NEW ERA FOR SMALL-GROUP CRUISING
Pinnacle Travel Group (PTG), a proudly West Australian owned and operated tourism company, is excited to share that it has acquired The Great Escape Charter Company (GEC). GEC is one of the Kimberley’s original pioneers in small-group adventure cruising.
This milestone unites two respected cruise operators: Kimberley Quest (KQ) and GEC. Both are deeply rooted in the Kimberley’s remote coastline and carry decades of experience. Their shared values of exploration, community connection, and environmental care support PTG’s mission to provide authentic, world-class tourism experiences across Western Australia.
MV Great Escape the custom-built 26-metre luxury catamaran cruising through the Kimberley.
“We’ve always admired what The Great Escape team has built,” said James Mulholland, Managing Director of PTG. “Their crew and founders have unmatched knowledge of the Kimberley. They share our commitment to operating with integrity, care and a deep love for this region. We’re proud to welcome them into the PTG family.”
GEC and KQ are among the original small group adventure cruise operators in the Kimberley. With decades of combined experience, their crew, captains and naturalists are some of the most seasoned in the region. Their expertise opens access to remote locations, hidden waterfalls and ancient cultural sites that few ever see. Some locations were first discovered by the very guides leading guests today.
Under the new arrangement, GEC will operate independently while benefiting from PTG’s shared services across marketing, sales, finance, HR and ICT. This acquisition strengthens PTG’s Broome base of operations, which includes Integrity Coachlines, Australian Pinnacle Tours, Kimberley Quest, and now, Great Escape. It also offers long-term benefits for staff, including improved job stability, better systems, and more growth opportunities within a supportive, values-led organisation.
“As a local company, we aim to showcase the very best of Western Australia while supporting local people, knowledge and heritage,” said Luke Crispin, Founding Director of PTG. “This acquisition protects the legacy of the Kimberley’s top cruise operators and ensures their stories continue.”
Great Escape’s owners will stay involved through the 2025 Kimberley season to ensure a smooth transition. Guests can expect the same passionate service and incredible adventures GEC is known for, along with exciting new experiences to come in 2026 and beyond.
Media Contact: Jared Brazier, jared.brazier@pinnacletravelgroup.com.au (+61) 439 983 784
ABOUT THE GREAT ESCAPE CHARTER COMPANY
The Great Escape Charter Company is one of the original luxury small-ship operators in the Kimberley, offering immersive, personalised expedition cruises along the remote Kimberley coastline and the pristine Rowley Shoals. For over 20 years, this locally owned and operated company has delivered unforgettable wilderness experiences aboard its custom-built 26-metre catamaran, MV Great Escape. For more information, visit: https://www.greatescape.net.au/
ABOUT PINNACLE TRAVEL GROUP
As a fully integrated, Western Australian, family-owned business with over 40 years of tourism experience, Pinnacle Travel Group delivers excellence in transportation services. It encompasses industry-leading ferry services, coach day tours, and niche seasonal products, all locally owned and operated. For more information, visit: https://www.pinnacletravelgroup.com.au/