Boat Tours in Darwin

One of the most visited locations in the largely undiscovered Northern Territory is its capital city — Darwin. However, if you can travel just a little further out of the city, you'll be met with vast wetlands, deep ravines, gushing waterfalls and a dazzling display of wildlife.

Whether you’re interested in WWII history or the feeding habits of crocodiles, you’ll be spoiled for choice with the selection of boat tours from Darwin that are on offer. Hurry, because these hidden gems won’t remain secret for long.

Here's all you need to know about boat tours, some of the most invigorating outdoor activities in Darwin.

What are the most popular boat tours from Darwin?

Litchfield National Park and jumping crocodile boat cruise

Discover Northern Australia’s most famous reptile on this boat tour from Darwin.

Leave the streets of Darwin far behind before its residents awaken as you navigate your way to the park early to beat the crowds.

Once you arrive, you’ll visit the soaring termite mounds that make the park so unique, which were created over 100 years ago and are still standing strong today.

Admire the impressive Wangi Falls, which carves its way through a red-rock canyon, and have the opportunity to take a dip in its refreshing pool.

Moving on, you’ll make your way through Litchfield to Florence Falls, constantly rated the best waterfall in the park. Enjoy a second swim at the naturally formed Buley Rockhole, which has several different pools of varying sizes.

End your Litchfield National Park boat tour from Darwin by hopping aboard a boat and cruising lazily down the Adelaide River.

Keep your eyes out for saltwater or freshwater crocodiles lurking in the waters or sunning themselves on the river banks as you travel with the current, past many of the park’s natural attractions.

Sunset cruise from Darwin

If you want to create unforgettable memories of your Northern Territory adventure, book a sunset cruise from Darwin for you and your loved one.

Board your vessel at Darwin Harbor and set sail on the open seas in the late afternoon. On this luxury catamaran, you can sit back and enjoy the views while listening to nothing but the sound of the waves.

Alternatively, head onto the deck to snap some spectacular shots of Darwin’s rugged coastline.

You can toast your loved one with a glass of bubbly as you watch the sun set beyond the horizon and discuss your once-in-a-lifetime vacation.

Feast on barbecued local favorites, as well as tapas, as the golden hour sets in before returning to the magical city of Darwin.

Mary River Wetlands wildlife cruise

Experience one of Australia’s most unique ecosystems — wetlands — on a cruise through the Mary River’s wildlife-filled waters.

Travel out of Darwin and into the wilderness as you head to Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve where water pythons, and turtles can both be found. Originally set up as a rice-growing venture, this reserve is now a haven for wildlife and birds.

Moving on, you’ll learn all about the biodiversity of Mary River Wetlands at the Window on the Wetlands Visitor Center. Depart on a 2.5-hour cruise along this scenic river, marveling at the abundance of life that surrounds you, both in the water and flying high overhead.

These wetlands provide a home for the largest concentration of saltwater crocodiles in the world and it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll catch a glimpse of at least one. Egrets, jabiru and sea eagles all grace the skies, and your guide will fill you in on some of the 250 bird species that roam the area.

Katherine Gorge cruise from Darwin

Alternatively, marvel at the ancient canyons that form Katherine Gorge on a boat tour from Darwin.

On this lengthy drive from Darwin, you’ll see a host of interesting landscapes as you travel south toward Nitimiluk National Park. Along the way, you’ll stop to pay your respects to the fallen soldiers of WWII at the Adelaide River War Cemetery.

Continuing on, you’ll travel to the thundering Edith Falls, where you can slip into its refreshing waters and cool off.

Discover the aboriginal history of the region before continuing on the Katherine Gorge where you’ll enjoy a cruise through its 13 70-meter-deep sandstone ravines. A bird lovers' paradise, Katherine Gorge is home to a host of colorful species that include sacred kingfishers and red-collared lorikeets.

Darwin Harbor WWII cruise

Travel back in time and learn the horrific yet important events of WWII, as well as how Australia was involved, on this historic boat cruise from Darwin.

Head to Darwin’s seafront, which is full of fascinating monuments that honor the soldiers of WWII. Here, you’ll find the Darwin War Memorial, as well as East Point Military Precinct, which once housed an important Australian fortress.

Moving on, you’ll journey to the Darwin Military Museum, where you’ll learn about the 1942 attack on the city by Japanese troops.

Once you’ve explored Darwin’s military history from the land, you’ll board a boat and travel along the coast to see the city’s current naval base from its harbor.

You’ll also be educated on the wreck sites of the devastating Japanese raid on Darwin and discover its lasting imprint on the city.

Kakadu National Park tour and boat ride from Darwin

Discover the diversity of one of Australia’s largest preserves on this tour that journeys to Kakadu National Park.

Begin your day tour with a drive through the scenic Marrakai Plains to Kakadu National Park, where you’ll depart your vehicle and board a boat.

On this cruise, you’ll discover Yellow Water, which is a billabong known for its array of wildlife and incredible fishing opportunities.

Like many other national parks in the Northern Territory, these lands are brimming with crocodiles and birds, which you can view as you travel slowly through its waters.

Continuing on, you’ll visit Nourlangie — home to remarkable displays of indigenous rock art, dating back 20,000 years. Take a walking tour of Nourlangie and learn about the events depicted in these artworks before returning to Darwin.

How much do boat tours in Darwin cost?

If you wish to participate in a sunset cruise, you can expect to pay US$110 per person for a boat trip that includes dinner and alcoholic beverages. You’ll pay the same price for a WWII tour of Darwin’s harbor and the surrounding area.

You’ll pay approximately US$130 per person for a boat tour from Darwin that travels to Litchfield National Park. A boat tour of Mary River Wetlands includes lunch and costs US$140 each.

Katherine Gorge cruises from Darwin cost US$220 per person, while each adult will pay US$250 for a day trip to Kakadu National Park, which includes a boat tour.

Which places are seen?

Darwin Harbor

Darwin Harbor surrounds the city and is home to over 400 species of marine life. The waters here are incredibly diverse and you’ll have opportunities to see unusual beings, such as dugongs thriving in the wild.

As well as these fascinating marine mammals, other creatures that call these waters home include turtles, sand bass and butterfly cod.

It was here that the Bombing of Darwin happened, back in February of 1942. At this time during WWII, over 240 Japanese aircraft mounted a surprise attack upon the waters surrounding the city, with a plan to wipe out all Australian ships.

Litchfield National Park

Some boat tours from Darwin head to Litchfield National Park, which covers around 1,500 square kilometers in the heart of the Northern Territory and has been inhabited by aboriginal tribes for thousands of years.

Its main attraction is the hundreds of termite mounds that reach heights of up to 7 meters, dotted throughout the park.

On top of this, Litchfield National Park is a haven for wildlife, with kangaroos, wallabies and dingos all roaming its lands freely. The park attracts saltwater crocodiles during the wet season, while other reptiles, including lizards, are commonly seen year-round.

Mary River Wetlands

The Mary River Wetlands is a section of wetlands, located to the southeast of Darwin. This unique ecosystem attracts an abundance of wildlife, including over 250 species of birds.

These feathered friends include endemic species, such as brolgas and jabirus, as well as more commonly seen varieties, including egrets, and sea eagles.

The area is home to the largest concentration of saltwater crocodiles anywhere in the world, as well as the smaller and more timid freshwater crocodile.

Wetlands have the ability to absorb water like a sponge, diminishing the impacts of heavy flooding during rainstorms and natural disasters.

Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park is one of Australia’s 20 UNESCO-listed World Heritage sites, with both outstanding natural and cultural significance.

The park itself is the second-largest in Australia and has been inhabited by aboriginal tribes for over 60,000 years. It was declared a protected site in the 1970s after crocodile hunters and wood-cutters began taking advantage of its magnificent lands.

Kakadu National Park is home to a fascinating display of rock art that dates back over 20,000 years. It features original x-ray art, as well as paintings of both humans and animals.

The landscape is filled with wetlands, waterfalls, gorges and forests, making it the ideal place to admire from a boat on the Yellow Water Billabong.

How long does a boat trip last?

Boat trips from Darwin last between 1 and 14 hours, depending on the excursion you choose. Shorter tours remain in the harbor surrounding the city, while those on the longer end travel further afield.

The cruise portion of your day trip will usually be between 1 and 3 hours, while the rest of the time will be spent exploring other attractions in your destination of choice.

Where do boat tours leave from?

The majority of cruises from Darwin include a complimentary accommodation pickup from hotels within the city center.

You’ll simply select your hotel from a drop-down menu on the booking page and meet your friendly tour guide in the lobby at a pre-determined time on the day of your excursion.

If this service is not offered on your tour of choice, you’ll be asked to meet your group at an easy-to-reach destination in Darwin city center. You’ll be informed of this location upon booking so that you can arrange transportation ahead of time.

When is the best time for a boat trip from Darwin?

The best time for a boat trip from Darwin depends on what you wish to see. If you’re heading to one of the Northern Territory’s national parks or wetlands, you’ll find that some are only accessible during the dry season.

This is a time when you’ll be able to see freshwater crocodiles, although you may miss seeing the saltwater species that usually roam the waters between November and April, depending on your location.

If you’re looking for wildlife, you should consider opting for an early cruise to avoid the crowds and see the creatures at their most active time of day.

However, those wishing to create a romantic moment should consider participating in a boat trip toward the tail end of the day, during sunset, when watercolors dance on the surface of Darwin’s waters.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Darwin?

• Jet ski tours in Darwin
• Cage of Death experiences in Darwin
• Airplane tours in Darwin
• Jeep tours in Darwin

Travel tips

• Keep your arms and legs inside your boat at all times, as you never know whether a crocodile is lurking near to your vessel.
• Take a camera with a good zoom feature with you on your boat tour from Darwin, so that you can capture crocodiles even from a distance.
• The climate in Darwin ranges from 31 to 35 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Ensure you’re prepared for the heat with plenty of water, a sun hat and sunscreen.
• If you’re a bird lover, consider taking a pair of binoculars with you on your excursion to view the many native Australian species up close.