Experience the Beauty of Western Australia with the Ord River Discoverer Cruise
The Ord River Discoverer Cruise with Sunset is an inviting way to take in some of Western Australia’s most captivating scenery. For approximately six hours, you’ll travel from Lake Kununurra through gorge country, stopping to learn about the local environment, wildlife, and history. At just $172.55 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights, all with hassle-free hotel pickup included.
What we love about this tour is how it balances nature and history, giving you a real sense of the Kimberley landscape. First, the guided visit to the Argyle Downs Homestead Museum provides a tangible connection to the area’s past, while the boat cruise itself offers spectacular views and wildlife spotting opportunities. Second, the afternoon tea onboard—with pumpkin scones and muffins—adds a cozy touch to the adventure.
One thing to consider is that this tour requires some physical readiness for walking at the museum stop, but overall, it’s quite accessible. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy scenery, wildlife, and cultural stories, and who want a balanced, in-depth look at the region without feeling rushed. If you’re after a relaxing day with plenty of photo opportunities and expert guidance, this tour hits the mark.
Key Points
- Comprehensive Experience: Combines a land visit with a scenic boat cruise, providing diverse perspectives of the Kimberley landscape.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Joey make the stories of the area come alive, enhancing the experience.
- Wildlife Spotting: Expect to see birds, freshwater crocodiles, and other local fauna, with guides keen on pointing out and explaining their behaviors.
- Cultural Insight: The visit to Argyle Downs Homestead Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into local history and pioneer life.
- Quality Refreshments: Enjoy traditional afternoon tea with pumpkin scones and muffins, adding a relaxing touch to the journey.
- Hassle-Free: Pickup from your Kununurra accommodation simplifies logistics, making this a smooth day trip.
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A Deep Dive into the Ord River Discoverer Cruise
The journey begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Kununurra, setting the tone for a stress-free day. You’ll travel in a comfortable coach through the vast East Kimberley landscape, crossing the Durack country to the historic Argyle Downs Homestead Museum. This site is a reconstructed version of the original Durack family homestead, rebuilt stone by stone, and now showcases local artifacts and stories that help contextualize the region’s pioneering past.
Visiting Argyle Downs Homestead Museum
At the museum, you’ll learn about the early settlers—an essential part of understanding Kimberley’s story. The reviews highlight how engaging and well-informed the guides are, with Robyn praising the tour staff as “friendly, knowledgeable & efficient.” The museum visit isn’t just a quick stop; it’s a chance to stretch your legs and take in displays that bring local history to life. For many, this stop sets the tone for the whole day, adding depth to the scenic experience that follows.
The Scenic Drive to Lake Argyle
From the museum, it’s a short drive to the Ord Top Dam, where magnificent views of Lake Argyle unfold. This vast water body is a sight to behold—one of Australia’s largest freshwater reservoirs. The view back toward Kununurra offers a sense of scale and the impressive feat of the dam’s construction. The landscape here is striking, with rugged outcrop formations and the expansive lake contrasting sharply with the surrounding dry Kimberley terrain.
The Boat Cruise on the Ord River
The highlight is the 55 km cruise back toward Kununurra. Guides like Lucas and Justin have garnered praise for their storytelling and knowledge, making the ride both entertaining and educational. The first 15 km of the cruise are particularly exhilarating, passing through the narrowest section of the river’s rapid waters. Here, you can expect to see freshwater crocodiles, often basking on the banks or swimming near the boat, and an array of waterbirds, which guides are eager to point out.
The boat itself is comfortable and well-equipped, with many reviews praising its quality. Joanna noted that the boat captains were “knowledgeable and funny,” making the trip both informative and fun. The cruise offers ample photo opportunities, especially when wildlife is active or the scenery is at its most dramatic.
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Wildlife and Nature
Expect to see various bird species, with guides actively pointing out eagles, kingfishers, and other avians. Crocodile sightings are common, and guides like Joey demonstrate keen eyes for spotting these elusive reptiles. The boat ride provides a unique perspective of the river ecosystem, showing how the waterways support a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Afternoon Tea and Sunset
No cruise would be complete without some delicious refreshments. The onboard afternoon tea, which features pumpkin scones, muffins, and fresh fruit, is highly praised—many reviewers mention how tasty and plentiful it is. It’s a lovely way to unwind and soak in the scenery.
As the journey nears its end, the boat turns back to Kununurra, and the day finishes with the awe-inspiring spectacle of a sunset over the Kimberley. The changing colors of the sky cast a warm glow over the landscape, making for perfect photo moments. Pauline called the sunset “magical,” and others have remarked on how peaceful and stunning this part of the tour is.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
The combination of land and water experiences gives this tour a layered perspective that is both relaxing and engaging. The guides’ deep knowledge and friendly demeanor elevate the experience—Joey, in particular, is praised for his storytelling and local insights. The wildlife sightings are frequent and varied, making it a delight for nature lovers.
The museum visit adds historical context, transforming a scenic cruise into a meaningful journey through the Kimberley’s past and present. Plus, the included afternoon tea makes the experience feel indulgent without overdoing it—many reviews rave about the quality of the food, especially the pumpkin scones.
Practical Details and Value
At around $172.55, this tour offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing, learning, and wildlife encounters. The hassle-free pickup simplifies logistics, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. The small group size, with a maximum of 50 travelers, ensures you’ll experience a more personal and less rushed atmosphere.
The duration of about six hours strikes a good balance—enough time to explore, relax, and enjoy the sunset without feeling overwhelmed. Remember to have lunch prior to departure, as this tour doesn’t include lunch, but the onboard treats and the scenic stops compensate for that.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re a nature enthusiast, eager to spot crocodiles and birds in their natural habitat, this cruise delivers. History buffs will appreciate the museum visit, and photography lovers will find endless opportunities, especially at sunset. It’s perfect for those seeking a luxurious yet authentic experience—comfortable, informative, and scenic—without the crowds.
Travelers who enjoy small-group tours, engaging guides, and a mix of outdoor adventure with cultural storytelling will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s suitable for most travelers, though those with mobility issues might want to check accessibility details, given the walking involved at some stops.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hassle-free pickup from your accommodation in Kununurra, making the day easier to plan.
How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts approximately six hours, including the museum visit, scenic drive, boat cruise, and sunset viewing.
Do I need to bring food for lunch?
Yes, lunch is not included, so plan to have a meal beforehand.
What wildlife might I see?
You can expect to see freshwater crocodiles, various waterbirds, and possibly other native animals along the river.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the relaxed pace makes it family-friendly, though younger children should be comfortable with boat rides and walking.
What’s the weather like?
Good weather is essential; if the tour is canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering peace of mind.
Are the boats comfortable?
Yes, many reviews praise the quality of the boat, noting its comfort and suitability for wildlife viewing.
Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour accommodates up to 50 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
Final Thoughts
The Ord River Discoverer Cruise with Sunset offers a rare chance to experience Western Australia’s Kimberley region in a relaxed, insightful way. Combining scenic landscapes, wildlife encounters, cultural history, and a beautiful sunset, it’s a well-rounded adventure that suits nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and photography fans alike.
The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach make this a memorable journey, while the included museum visit and refreshments add extra layers of enjoyment. If you’re after an authentic, value-packed day exploring one of Australia’s most scenic areas without feeling rushed, this tour is an excellent choice.
Perfect for those who want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, or for travelers eager to mark a memorable highlight in their Kimberley trip, the Ord River cruise delivers on every front.
Note: Always check the weather forecast and confirm your booking in advance, especially during peak season. And remember—bring your camera, a hat, and some sunscreen to fully enjoy this stunning journey.