Full Day Tour Departing Cygnet Bay

Discover the Kimberley with a Full Day Cruise from Broome

Imagine spending a day floating through some of Australia’s most iconic landscapes, from the rugged Dampier Peninsula to the incredible Horizontal Falls. For around $730 per person, this full-day cruise — about 10 hours of adventure — offers a blend of jaw-dropping scenery, cultural insights, and gourmet food aboard the luxurious vessel, Ohana. Led by a friendly crew, including guides like Willy, you’ll visit remote pearl farms, cruise past islands, and experience the raw power of nature in one of the world’s most spectacular wilderness areas.

What we love about this trip is how well-rounded it is; it combines sightseeing with the chance to learn about local history and culture, plus enjoy fresh, gourmet meals that keep coming throughout the day. The boat itself is modern and comfortable, making long hours on the water feel more like a luxury experience than an exhausting adventure. And, of course, the sights are unforgettable—Horizontal Falls alone is worth the price.

A potential consideration is the weather dependency of the trip, especially the Horizontal Falls experience, which depends heavily on tidal conditions. If the weather turns foul, the tour might be canceled, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. This tour is best suited for those who are comfortable on a boat for several hours and eager to see the Kimberley’s wild side in style.

This cruise suits adventurous travelers who appreciate good food, stunning scenery, and engaging, knowledgeable guides. It’s particularly perfect for those who want to tick off a major natural wonder in Australia with a reliable, all-inclusive package.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery of Kimberley’s islands, waterfalls, and rugged coastlines.
• All-inclusive gourmet dining with eleven courses prepared by an expert chef.
• Expert guides and crew including local personalities like Willy, sharing insights and stories.
• Flexible and well-organized itinerary with multiple sightseeing stops.
• Weather-sensitive activity, so check the forecast before booking.
• Ideal for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, culture, and comfort.

A Closer Look at the Kimberley Full Day Cruise

This tour offers a rare opportunity to see the Kimberley from the deck of a luxurious vessel, Ohana, with a well-structured itinerary that balances active exploration with relaxing moments. Starting early at Broome, you’ll meet at the iconic Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm, an important site itself, where you learn about Australia’s pearling history and enjoy a complimentary 30-minute introduction to the region.

From Pearl Farm to Buccaneer Archipelago

The journey kicks off with a scenic cruise up the coast, about three hours long, giving you time to settle into the boat and soak up the views. As you cruise past Buccaneer Archipelago, Hidden Island, Silica Beach, Cockatoo Island, and Koolan Island, you’ll realize just how rugged and pristine this coastline really is. These islands are a patchwork of white sand beaches, lush greenery, and striking rock formations, making your camera work as hard as your stomach (which will be happy with the gourmet breakfast served en route).

The Main Event: Horizontal Falls

The highlight of the day is definitely the Horizontal Falls, a natural phenomenon where tidal waters force their way through narrow gorges, creating what appears to be a massive, roaring set of waterfalls—yet entirely natural. As you approach Talbot Bay, you’ll hop onto tenders for a closer look. Many reviews praise this part, describing it as “spectacular,” “unforgettable,” and “brilliant.” One traveler noted, “The tide was just right to experience the sheer strength and awesomeness of nature,” which perfectly captures why so many find this sight so captivating.

The experience in the falls is designed to be safe but exhilarating. The boat gets close enough to witness the power of nature firsthand, with some reviews even emphasizing the tide-dependent timing that makes this a must-see while the conditions are optimal.

Scenic Cruise Through Kimberley Islands

Between the falls and the start of the day, you’ll cruise past various islands and beaches, marveling at the geological formations and birdlife. Many travelers mention the beauty of the scenery, describing it as “stunning,” “breathtaking,” and “just as incredible as the photos.” The boat offers plenty of vantage points to appreciate the natural artistry of this rugged coast.

Gourmet Dining on Board

One of the standout features of this tour is the food. Eleven courses are served throughout the day, prepared by a talented chef. From the reviews, it’s clear that the quality of the cuisine exceeds typical cruise fare, with multiple mentions of “delicious,” “fresh,” and “to die for.” Some reviews highlight the seafood, especially scallops and crayfish, as particularly memorable, but vegetarians and those with dietary requirements are also accommodated well, with reviewers noting the staff’s helpfulness.

Return and Reflection

As the day winds down, you’ll make your way back to Cygnet Bay, reflecting on the power of nature and the beauty of the Kimberley. The crew, including personable guides like Graham and Willy, share stories, insights, and local knowledge, bringing the region’s history and culture to life.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Unlike many generic boat trips, this experience emphasizes authenticity and comfort. The vessel’s luxury design makes long hours enjoyable, and the crew’s professionalism shines through in their informative commentary and friendly service. Many reviewers mention how knowledgeable and engaging the guides are, especially highlighting Willy’s cultural insights and Graham’s sailing expertise.

The all-inclusive food is another major plus. It’s not just snacks but a full gourmet experience, with customers frequently remarking that the meals “just kept coming” and were “top notch.” This makes the entire day feel like a special occasion rather than just a sightseeing trip.

The Value of the Price

At approximately $730, this tour isn’t cheap, but given the inclusivity—gourmet meals, expert guides, and exclusive access to natural wonders—many consider it a fair price for the experience. Several reviews praise the high standard of service and the quality of the sights, suggesting this is a worthwhile splurge for travelers looking for a memorable day in the Kimberley.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy boat trips, appreciate good food, and love learning about local cultures and natural phenomena. It’s also ideal for those who prefer an organized, all-inclusive experience, with the comfort of a luxury vessel and expert guides. However, be prepared for a long day on the water, and remember the activity is weather-dependent.

The Sum Up

For anyone eager to witness the dramatic landscapes and natural spectacles of Western Australia’s Kimberley region with a blend of comfort and adventure, this full-day cruise delivers on many levels. It combines stunning scenery, fascinating wildlife, cultural stories, and gourmet cuisine in a way that’s both accessible and memorable.

Travelers who value authentic natural wonders, well-organized tours, and delicious food will find this experience particularly rewarding. It’s perfect if you want a hassle-free way to see the Horizontal Falls and surrounding islands without sacrificing comfort or insight.

While the price might seem steep, the quality of the sights, service, and food makes it a good value for a once-in-a-lifetime kind of day. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or simply someone looking for a memorable adventure, this cruise offers a meaningful way to connect with one of Australia’s most spectacular regions.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour requires participants to be at least 18 years old for alcohol consumption, but most travelers can participate, and children might enjoy the scenery and boat rides. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for a day on the water, with layers to handle sun and wind. Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended, along with closed-toe shoes for safety.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, the crew is helpful and can cater to dietary requirements. Reviewers mention that vegetarians and those with allergies were well taken care of.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the Horizontal Falls experience depends on tidal conditions. If weather or tides are unfavorable, the tour may be canceled or altered, but a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

How long is the cruise?
The total experience lasts about 10 hours, starting early at 7:00 am and returning to Broome in the late afternoon.

What’s included in the cost?
The price covers the entire cruise, all gourmet meals (eleven courses), beverages, guide services, and transfers from Cygnet Bay.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the vessel Ohana is a modern, luxury cruise ship designed for comfort during long hours at sea, with ample space for sightseeing and dining.

This Kimberley cruise combines natural drama with culinary delight and expert storytelling—perfect for those who want a truly full and flavorful experience of Australia’s wild northwest.