Experience Cruising in WA’s North West

• Why Cruise WA’s North West?
• When to Cruise
• Cruise Styles & Experiences
• Itinerary Lengths & Highlights
• Featured Cruise Operators
• Booking Advice & Travel Tips
• FAQ's

Why Cruise Western Australia's North West? 

For decades, the Kimberley coast has been hailed as one of the world’s premier expedition cruise destinations - and with good reason. Its remote bays, towering waterfalls, and ancient rock art sites offer a seaborne adventure that’s both rugged and refined. The coastline itself is spectacular, but it’s the stories behind the landscapes, shaped by deep time and living culture, that make this region so distinctive. Imagine gliding past cliffs etched with millennia-old Aboriginal art, or anchoring in a secluded cove to spot dolphins, turtles, or rare shorebirds.

Today, many cruises focus on the iconic stretch between Broome and Wyndham or Darwin, showcasing hallmark experiences like Horizontal Falls, Montgomery Reef, and King George Falls. New itineraries are venturing further: exploring the island-strewn waters of the Pilbara coast, diving amid the coral atolls of the Rowley Shoals, or linking the North West with Western Australia’s broader west coast. Each journey opens a window to landscapes few ever see, offering moments that feel personal and transformative.

What unites these journeys is the sense of immersion. Small ship sizes, guided excursions, and access to places no road can reach allow you to experience the North West up close, from gliding past cliffs etched with millennia-old rock art, to anchoring in secluded bays where dolphins, turtles and rare shorebirds appear, or witnessing tidal spectacles at remote waterfalls.

When to Cruise

Cruising in Western Australia’s North West spans a range of seasons, each offering unique landscapes and experiences. Understanding the timing helps you choose the itinerary that best suits your interests.

Wet and Early Season (February–May)

Wet season departures (February–March) provide a rare chance to see the Kimberley at its most dramatic — waterfalls in full flow, flooded rivers, and lush gorges. Conditions can be hot and humid, and itineraries are limited, but the landscapes are unforgettable. Early season (April–May) is ideal for photographers and nature lovers, with vibrant colours, flowing waterfalls, and thriving wildlife.

Mid-Season (June–July)

Dry season stability brings warm days, cool nights, and calm seas, perfect for cruising. Many operators also shift to southern Kimberley or cruise/fly itineraries during this period, offering different access points and shorter durations while still showcasing iconic locations. Some West Coast itineraries also run in these months.

Late Season and Outer Reef Expeditions (August–November)

Late-season cruises (August–September) are excellent for wildlife encounters, including humpback whales, sea turtles, and abundant birdlife. Visibility is superb for snorkelling, and guest numbers are often lower. Outer reef expeditions to Rowley Shoals and Ashmore Reef generally run from September through to late November or early December, offering access to pristine coral gardens and tropical marine life.

Extended Season (October–November)

While most Kimberley cruises wind down, Pilbara coast and island itineraries — including the Montebello Islands — continue into the warmer months. These cruises focus on reef snorkelling, history, and island exploration, providing a different kind of adventure later in the year.

Cruise Styles & Experiences

The Kimberley and Pilbara coasts offer a remarkable range of expedition cruising styles, each designed to immerse you in the region’s remote landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking luxury, adventure, or a deeply personal connection to the coastline, there’s a cruise to suit every traveller.

Expedition Cruises

These small-ship journeys focus on access and discovery. Zodiacs and tenders take you to secluded bays, tidal waterfalls, and hidden beaches that larger vessels cannot reach. Many smaller expedition vessels can even cruise upriver, revealing inland waterways, remote gorges, and bird-rich estuaries. Expect guided excursions to swimming holes, dramatic gorges, and ancient rock art sites, revealing the stories behind these extraordinary landscapes.

Luxury Cruising

For those seeking indulgence at sea, luxury cruises combine spacious, air-conditioned cabins with fine dining, attentive service, and a high staff-to-guest ratio. Some offer on-board specialists or even helicopters for spectacular aerial views, ensuring your expedition is both comfortable and unforgettable.

Active Itineraries

Adventure-focused cruises invite you to get out and explore. Hike through rugged gorges, take refreshing dips in crystal-clear pools, snorkel over vibrant coral reefs, or try scuba diving in pristine waters. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting seabirds and shorebirds at hotspots such as Ashmore Reef and other remote islands, while cliff-top trails and swimming holes offer hands-on exploration ashore.

Cultural Journeys

Immerse yourself in the living culture of the region. Aboriginal-guided tours and rock art interpretation provide insight into millennia-old traditions, sacred sites, and the stories etched into the landscape, offering a richer understanding of the Kimberley and Pilbara beyond the scenery.

North West Cruise Itineraries

Explore Western Australia’s North West with cruises ranging from 4 days to multi-week adventures, each offering a unique way to experience remote coastlines, islands, and reefs.

4–6 Days – Short Reef and Island Voyages

Ideal for those short on time, these trips explore remote destinations such as Rowley Shoals or the Montebello Islands. Highlights include snorkelling, diving, fishing, and wildlife encounters.

7–10 Days – Classic Kimberley Loop

Perfect for first-time cruisers, these journeys typically run from Broome to Darwin (or return), showcasing the region’s iconic coastal landmarks, waterfalls, and secluded bays.

11–14 Days – Deeper Kimberley Exploration

Extended cruises venture further into secluded rivers, gorges, and islands, often adding Pilbara stops for a richer adventure and more varied landscapes.

15+ Days – Full Coastal Odysseys

For the ultimate North West experience, multi-week cruises traverse the entire coastline, combining remote wilderness, island chains, and a wide range of immersive activities.

Your Cruise Adventures Await

Explore a curated selection of trusted and expert cruise operators offering unforgettable journeys across the Kimberley and beyond. Scroll down to discover more options and find the perfect cruise for your adventure.

Cruising the Pilbara

Explore the Pilbara coast on a handful of West Coast Expeditions, or set sail on a dedicated journey to the remote Montebello Islands. The Montebello Islands are a highlight — a chain of 100+ islands where fishing, snorkelling and WWII history meet turquoise lagoons. West Coast expeditions link Broome and Fremantle via coral atolls and rugged coastline and operate mainly in March, June and July for the West Coast, with Montebello departures from Dampier between February–April and September–December. Dedicated Montebello fishing charters also depart from Dampier from July–September.

Discover the West Coast with True North Adventure Cruises or Ponant

Cruise the Montebello Islands with Eclipse Expeditions or take a fishing charter with Pelican Charters. 

Cruising the Rowley Shoals

The Rowley Shoals is one of Australia’s most remarkable marine environments, known for its pristine coral atolls, abundant marine life, and exceptional diving and snorkelling. Cruises to this remote destination operate from August through to early December, with departures from Broome and returning to the mainland after days spent exploring turquoise lagoons, drift dives, and untouched reef systems.

Plan your Rowley Shoals adventure with: 

Coral Expeditions

Ocean Dream Charters

Odyssey Expeditions

Diversity Charters

True North Adventure Cruises

Lady M Luxury Cruises

Plan Your Cruise

Timing and preparation are key to making the most of a North West cruise. From booking early to knowing what to pack, a little planning goes a long way.

Book Early

North West cruises are often open for booking up to two years in advance. With the most popular cabins and itineraries in high demand, securing your spot early ensures you get the dates, accommodation, and experiences you want.

Compare Inclusions

Cruises vary in what’s included — some offer scenic flights, shore excursions, or beverages as standard, while others charge separately. Understanding the inclusions helps you tailor your trip to your interests and avoid surprises.

Plan Pre- and Post-Cruise Travel

Some cruises depart from and return to Broome, while others travel from Broome to Wyndham, Broome to Darwin, Broome to Fremantle or in the opposite direction. Direct flights from Sydney and Melbourne to Broome operate seasonally, with year round direct flights from Perth offering multiple connections for domestic and international travellers. Flights to Darwin and Broome are available from Kununurra. Allow extra time in Broome, Darwin, or Kununurra to explore more of northern Australia. This also provides flexibility for flights, transfers, and optional tours before or after your cruise.

Permits and Access

Many North West cruises visit areas managed by Traditional Owners. Operators handle the necessary permits and ensure respectful access, giving you the opportunity to explore these culturally significant sites responsibly.

What to Pack

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for warm days, plus a few layers for cooler mornings or evenings. Essentials include swimwear, sturdy shoes for excursions, a hat, sun protection, sunglasses, a camera, and a light day pack for on-shore activities.

Talk to a Specialist

A Kimberley cruise expert can help match your travel style, interests, and budget with the right itinerary — from adventure-focused excursions to relaxed luxury voyages.

FAQ'S