Kununurra isn’t just a gateway to the Kimberley; it’s a place where waterways and scenery come together in a way that makes boat tours particularly rewarding. Whether you’re after a relaxing cruise, wildlife sightings, or a sunset adventure, this region offers a variety of experiences that highlight its rugged beauty. I’ve had the pleasure of trying out different options, and I’ll share the top three boat tours that stand out for their combination of scenery, wildlife, and comfort. For instance, the Ord River Discoverer Cruise with Sunset is a personal favorite because of its leisurely pace and stunning sunset views, making it perfect for those who want a detailed but relaxed experience.
If you’re curious about the specifics, I’ll break down the best options below, from full-day explorations to shorter, wildlife-focused trips. Each offers a unique way to experience the Kimberley’s waterways and wildlife, so whether you prefer a scenic cruise, wildlife spotting, or a mix of both, you’ll find something that suits your style.
Quick Overview
In this guide, you’ll find three of the best boat tours in Kununurra, each with its own flavor:
– Ord River Discoverer Cruise with Sunset: A 6-hour cruise featuring wildlife, a heritage museum visit, and an unforgettable sunset. []
– Ord River Explorer Cruise with Sunset: A half-day trip down the river focusing on wildlife and the dramatic landscape, ending with a sunset. []
– Ord River Cruise Experience with Riverside Lunch: A full-day cruise combining scenery, wildlife, and a riverside lunch, with a visit to Lake Argyle. []
1. Ord River Discoverer Cruise with Sunset
This 6-hour cruise takes you from Lake Kununurra through gorge country, all the way to Lake Argyle, with plenty of opportunities to see native wildlife. The tour starts with a comfortable drive across Durack country to the Argyle Downs Homestead Museum, which you can visit as part of the experience. The boat ride itself covers about 55 km and is a fantastic chance to observe waterbirds, freshwater crocodiles, and perhaps even some wallabies on the riverbanks.
What makes this cruise stand out is the combination of wildlife viewing, the heritage site visit, and the chance to enjoy afternoon tea onboard. Your captain shares insightful commentary about the local ecosystem, making it educational as well as scenic. The highlight for many is the sunset on the way back, which paints the landscape in warm hues, perfect for photographs.
From reviews, people love how well-organized and comfortable the tour is, with many mentioning the “delicious scones” and the “fantastic scenery.” For those who appreciate a relaxed pace with plenty of wildlife, this trip offers excellent value at around $172.55 per person.
Bottom line: Ideal for wildlife lovers and history buffs who want a leisurely cruise with the bonus of a spectacular sunset. It’s a well-reviewed, comprehensive experience that balances scenery, wildlife, and comfort.
2. Ord River Explorer Cruise with Sunset
For those seeking a half-day journey that’s less about the heritage and more about the natural environment, the Ord River Explorer Cruise with Sunset is a top choice. Starting in the late morning, this 6-hour cruise takes you 34 miles down the river, passing through narrow canyons and broad wetlands. The cruise begins gently—perfect for spotting birds and crocodiles—before heading towards the Ord River Dam.
This tour is especially good for travelers who want a relaxed, informative experience without a full-day commitment. The guides, like Mabo, provide lively commentary about the flora, fauna, and history of the Kimberley region. Plus, coffee and light snacks are included, making the trip comfortable even if you’re not a big breakfast person. The highlight is the stunning sunset over the river, which many review as a peaceful and beautiful end to the day.
Guests often comment on the excellent knowledge and friendly attitude of the guides, as well as the wildlife sightings. It’s perfect for those interested in nature, photography, and a laid-back atmosphere. Price-wise, at around $169.16, it offers great value for a scenic, wildlife-rich cruise.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a less structured, wildlife-focused cruise with a relaxed pace, making it perfect for nature lovers who enjoy a good guide and a peaceful sunset.
3. Ord River Cruise Experience with Riverside Lunch
If you’re after a full-day immersive experience, the Ord River Cruise Experience with Riverside Lunch is hard to beat. Starting at 9 am, this cruise takes you from the Diversion Dam all the way to Lake Argyle, with plenty of stops along the way. It’s a comprehensive journey that combines scenery, wildlife watching, and cultural exploration.
The tour includes a visit to the Argyle Downs Homestead Museum, offering insight into the region’s pastoral history. The highlight, however, is the lunch by the riverside, where you can relax and soak in the views while sampling delicious local fare. As you cruise, look out for birds, crocodiles, and other wildlife along the wetlands and riverbanks.
Guests praise the smooth organization and the knowledgeable guides, like Marv, who keeps the trip interesting with witty commentary. The lunch and wildlife sightings make this option a great deal at $169.16 per person, especially for those wanting a comprehensive look at the Kimberley waterways.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a full-day, in-depth journey with wildlife, cultural stops, and a riverside meal— suited for those who enjoy a mix of scenery and history.
How to Choose the Right Kununurra Boat Tour
When deciding between these tours, consider your time availability and interests. The Discoverer Cruise with Sunset is best if you love a relaxed pace and sunset views, while the Explorer Cruise suits those wanting a shorter, wildlife-focused trip. The Riverside Lunch offers a full-day experience with cultural insights and a meal, ideal if you want to immerse yourself fully.
Think about your budget—all tours are similarly priced, but the full-day option adds extra value with the included lunch. The best time to book is during the dry season (May to September), when water levels are ideal and wildlife activity peaks. Be sure to check availability early, especially in peak season, as these tours are popular.
Final Thoughts
Kununurra offers a range of boat experiences that showcase its stunning waterways, abundant wildlife, and rugged landscapes. The Ord River Discoverer Cruise with Sunset is a top pick for a leisurely, scenic evening, while the Ord River Explorer Cruise with Sunset offers a shorter, wildlife-rich adventure. For those looking for a full-day outing, the Ord River Cruise Experience with Riverside Lunch combines scenery, wildlife, and cultural insights into one memorable trip.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early is advised—these experiences are popular for their unique views and comfort. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a history lover, or simply after a peaceful cruise, Kununurra’s boat tours won’t disappoint.