Rowley Shoals Marine Park

Rowley Shoals Marine Park lies approximately 300 kilometres west of Broome in Western Australia and is one of the most remote and pristine marine environments in the country.

Comprising three coral atolls - Clerke Reef, Imperieuse Reef and Mermaid Reef - the Rowley Shoals is renowned for its untouched coral gardens, crystal-clear lagoons, and exceptional marine biodiversity.

How to Get to the Rowley Shoals from Broome

Rowley Shoals Marine Park is only accessible by extended liveaboard cruise departing from Broome.

There are no day trips, air access, or independent travel options due to the remote offshore location of the atolls.

Cruises typically operate as multi-day expeditions, allowing time to explore the reefs, dive sites and surrounding waters of Clerke Reef, Imperieuse Reef and Mermaid Reef.

Browse available cruise options below to plan your Rowley Shoals experience. Dedicated Rowley Shoals cruises vary in duration from 5 to 8 nights.

Best time to visit the Rowley Shoals

The Rowley Shoals cruise season is typically short and highly seasonal due to its offshore location and ocean conditions.

The best time to visit is generally between late September and November, when calmer sea states allow safe passage from Broome and optimal conditions for diving and snorkelling.

During this period you can expect:

High underwater visibility
Stable cruising conditions
Peak expedition departures from Broome

Outside of this window, access is generally limited due to weather conditions and sea state.

World Class Diving and Snorkelling at Rowley Shoals

The Rowley Shoals is widely regarded as one of Australia’s premier diving and snorkelling destinations, offering exceptional visibility, healthy coral systems, and abundant marine life.

The atolls support a rich ecosystem including hard and soft corals, reef fish, molluscs, and invertebrates, many found only in Australian waters.

Marine life encounters may include:

Sea turtles
Manta rays
Dolphins
Seasonal whale sightings

Its isolation has preserved reef systems in near-pristine condition, making it a standout for expedition diving experiences.

Big Game Fishing at Rowley Shoals

The deep waters surrounding the Rowley Shoals Marine Park support abundant pelagic species, making it a sought-after destination for remote sportfishing experiences.

Species may include marlin, sailfish, and other game fish depending on seasonal conditions.

Fishing is typically offered as part of specialist expedition cruises from Broome, combining time on the reef with offshore angling opportunities.

For more information about Rowley Shoals fishing, contact Broome Visitor Centre.

Lady M luxury cruises at the rowley shoals

Shot from overhead, four snorkellers hold hands as they look into the water beneath them. They are alongside a coral outcrop

Shot from overhead, a tender vessel is seen entering a narrow channel at the Rowley Shoals. You can see trails of water from the vessels engine, deep blue water outside the channel and lighter blue in the channel.

Rowley Shoals Cruises & Charters from Broome

A small number of specialist expedition cruise operators offer seasonal journeys to Rowley Shoals Marine Park.

These liveaboard expeditions are the only way to access the atolls and are designed for travellers seeking remote marine wilderness and world-class diving.

Each operator offers different vessel styles, itineraries, and onboard experiences.

True North Adventure Cruises

The TRUE NORTH conducts adventures all around the magnificent Australian coastline and in the stunning waters of the South Pacific. Extended periods at sea are specifically excluded and daily activities…

Diversity Charters

Adventure by day, luxury by night We are a vibrant local Kimberley company with a thirst for adventure. Explore scenic waterfalls, secluded anchorages, secret fishing spots by day and exquisite sunset…

Ocean Dream Charters

Indulge in unmatched luxury along the Western Australian coastline. Select from diverse remote extended overnight adventures, available for private charters or scheduled cruises throughout the Kimberley…

Odyssey Expeditions

Discover the Kimberley like never before with Odyssey Expeditions, a family-run cruise company offering small-group adventures since 1998. With just 20 guests on board the luxury, custom-built MV…

Coral Expeditions

Thirty-five years ago, when the company made its first exploratory Kimberley cruises, it had to rely on hand-drawn ‘mudmaps’ and the knowledge of fishermen and early explorers to navigate the vast and…

Lady M Luxury Cruises

the Kimberley experience... Accommodating only 12 guests in en-suite air-conditioned cabins, your Kimberley adventure promises to be an intimate and personal journey. Our itineraries are adapted daily…

Rowley Shoals Location

Rowley Shoals sits approximately 300 kilometres west of Broome on the edge of Australia’s continental shelf in the Indian Ocean.

Its isolation is central to its appeal, supporting one of the most pristine marine ecosystems in Australia.

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