Cygnet Bay Pearls launches world first Pearlers Master Class

Written on the 30 June 2017

The art of culturing some of the world's finest pearls lies in skills acquired over decades.  Since 1959, pearlers at pristine Cygnet Bay have been mastering the nuances of culturing pearls.  It's no easy feat, but gem enthusiasts, jewellery industry professionals and activity-travellers can now learn some of those secrets by joining a new and totally immersive experience at the only commercial pearl farm in Australia open to the public.

To capture the attention of a local and global tourism market a truly authentic tourism experience should tick at least seven boxes:

1. Ethical supporting community and sustainability
2. Natural pure and untainted
3. Historic embracing a sense of past
4. Human something living and people-focused
5. Honest visitors receive exactly what they are promised
6. Simple easily understood
7. Beautiful in every instagrammable, adrenalin-filled and tranquil way possible

All of the above points were taken on board when Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm decided to develop a unique tour to capture the attention of travellers who seek a truly authentic Australian experience.

The Pearler's Master Class is a two and a half day immersive experience at the company's pearl farm, 200 kilometres north of Broome.  In small groups, guests are treated to a behind-the-scenes look at the skills and effort required to bring a South Sea Pearl to life.

On the turquoise waters of Cygnet Bay, guests will follow everyday farming activities and enjoy a thrilling ride to see famous Waterfall Reef and witness the world's largest tropical tides.  They can watch a pearl technician at work during the critical first step of seeding an oyster, discover the subtleties of pearl grading and participate in a range of hands-on experiences such as the opportunity to harvest their very own pearl.

Accommodation is provided on site with all meals included.  At the end of the day, guests can relax and enjoy the true ambience of the Kimberley with downtime in the swimming poo a cool drink on the restaurant's deck or simply soaking up stunning views across the waters of King Sound that beg for Instagram hashtags.

In this remote Dampier Peninsula location, well and truly off the beaten track, master class guests will also learn about the changing face of global pearl production and the importance of provenance at a formal dinner hosted by James Brown, a third generation pearler born and raised on the farm.

In this world first experience, travellers will find their search for the pristine, remote, historic, beautiful and unknown very much rewarded.  Discerning and curious, each will return home with a first-hand knowledge of the entire Australian pearling process from breeding oysters and wild shell fishing to pear harvest and grading.

To find out more contact Marten Matthews, marten@cygnetbaypearls.com.au or 08 9192 5402.

Extract from The Australian Pearl Magazine - available at Cygnet Bay Pearl boutique on Dampier Terrace