Get up close and personal to Kimberley’s hidden water-wilderness gems
By Australia’s North West
The Kimberley region in Australia is a water lover’s dream, offering a brilliant choice of cruising options that provide unparalleled access across its pristine landscapes.
From sunset water tours to epic expedition cruises, exploring the Kimberley by water promises an unforgettable adventure filled with breathtaking vistas, serene moments, and thrilling discoveries. Here’s why a Kimberley cruising experience should be on your travel bucket list.
Our Must-Do Kimberley water adventures
1. Day cruises
Day cruises offer an intimate glimpse into the Kimberley’s aquatic wonders. Explore unique sites like Geikie Gorge, where limestone cliffs and calm waters set the stage for kayaking or guided boat tours.
Horizontal Falls is another standout destination, known for its dramatic tidal phenomena. Scenic tours of this natural marvel often include opportunities to navigate the falls or relax in nearby lagoons, offering both adrenaline and serenity.
2. Sunset cruises
There’s something magical about watching the Kimberley skies burst into colours of oranges to pinks to purples at sunset. Cruises departing from Broome, Derby and Lake Argyle provide front-row seats to these spectacular views. Enjoy refreshments as you glide along, spotting wildlife such as dolphins or seabirds against the backdrop of a fiery horizon.
3. Nature-focused water tours
Montgomery Reef is a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts. As tides recede, the reef comes alive with cascading waterfalls and an abundance of marine life, including turtles and dugongs. Guided tours allow travellers to experience this natural wonder up close, often with knowledgeable locals sharing insights about the region’s ecology.
Cruising the Ord River and Lake Argyle offers a unique way to immerse yourself in the Kimberley’s stunning wilderness. These nature cruises provide an up-close encounters where you can spot crocodiles, wallabies, and an array of bird species in their natural habitat.
4. Expedition cruises
For a more immersive journey, multi-day expedition cruises traverse iconic waterways such as the King George River and the Berkeley River. These adventures often include excursions to remote beaches, hikes to ancient rock art, and breathtaking encounters with waterfalls like King George Falls and Mitchell Falls.
Luxurious vessels offer comfortable accommodations, gourmet dining, and expert-guided activities, ensuring a seamless and memory-making experience.
Kimberley cruising is the ultimate water wilderness adventure
1. You'll access remote beauty
Cruising allows access to some of the Kimberley’s most secluded areas, unreachable by road. Explore coastal archipelagos like the Buccaneer Archipelago, dotted with unspoiled islands and vibrant coral reefs, or marvel at the intricate waterways of Doubtful Bay and Prince Regent River.
2. Get personally close with nature
Whether spotting saltwater crocodiles basking on riverbanks or witnessing humpback whales breaching during their migration, the Kimberley’s wildlife is as captivating as its landscapes. Cruises often feature expert guides who share stories of the region’s rich biodiversity, enhancing your connection to this extraordinary wilderness.
3. Blend Relaxation with Adventure
Kimberley cruises cater to all travel styles, combining the thrill of exploration with moments of relaxation. From swimming in crystal-clear lagoons to savouring freshly prepared meals on deck, these journeys strike the perfect balance between excitement and leisure.
4. Must see highlights to explore along the way
– Buccaneer Archipelago: Famous for its sparkling waters and diverse marine life.
– Montgomery Reef: A spectacle of waterfalls and tidal movements teeming with wildlife.
– King George Falls: Witness these twin waterfalls plunging from towering cliffs.
– Bigge Island: Explore ancient Indigenous rock art and untouched beaches.
Our tips for planning your Kimberley cruise adventure
Choose the Right Season: The dry season (May to October) is ideal for cruising, offering calm waters and clear skies.
Pack Wisely: Lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes are essentials for onshore excursions.
Book Early: Kimberley cruises are popular and often have limited availability, so plan well in advance to secure your spot.
Give a Kimberley cruise or water day tour a crack
A Kimberley cruise offers a one-of-a-kind adventure, seamlessly blending natural beauty, cultural heritage, and luxurious comfort.
Whether you’re captivated by vibrant sunsets, fascinated by unique wildlife, or eager to explore untouched corners of the world, the Kimberley’s waterways promise memories that last a lifetime.
When does the improbable become the doable? The tipping point is usually when change excites us – a change of routine, of scenery, of what we think about every day.
When does the improbable become the doable? The tipping point is usually when change excites us – a change of routine, of scenery, of what we think about every day.
When does the improbable become the doable? The tipping point is usually when change excites us – a change of routine, of scenery, of what we think about every day.
We’re a super friendly bunch in the Kimberley and always happy to help with sharing a local insight of where to go and what to see. Please get in touch if you have questions we can help answer.