Kick back and take in the sparkling blue waters of Darwin Harbour or journey along the Adelaide River and feed the snapping crocodiles below.
The area around Darwin has some wonderful opportunities to get out on the water.
Darwin Harbour
No doubt a highlight of any visit to the NT’s capital is a cruise on the scenic waters of Darwin Harbour. Twice the size of Sydney Harbour, a trip out on this calm waterway is a lovely experience that allows you to relax with a tropical sunset over the Timor Sea.
Cruises are available on a range of vessels and last anywhere from two to 12 hours. Take in Darwin’s cosmopolitan foreshore and drift past banks lined with mangrove forest, home to diverse birdlife and marine species. Dinner cruises are popular and combine a sunset departure with a gourmet seafood BBQ. Afternoon cruises are another relaxing way to spend the day, as is chartering a boat for some world-class fishing.
River cruising around Darwin
Mary River
Those seeking some peace and quiet in the true wilderness should arrange a nature cruise along the Mary River. The river system comprises pristine wetlands and billabongs covered with pink and purple lilies. Check out the largest concentration of saltwater crocodiles in the world, see a wide variety of birdlife, and cast a line for barramundi. Organised cruises are a popular day trip from Darwin, otherwise consider hiring a houseboat and go it alone.
Adelaide River
A more thrilling option is a wildlife cruise along the Adelaide River in Litchfield National Park, home to some of the biggest crocs in the world. Voted in the top 10 wildlife cruises in Australia, you’ll encounter the incredible sight of 6m crocodiles leaping out of the water to snatch pieces of meat held out to them.
