Top Darwin On the Water

The Adelaide River is renowned for its high population of saltwater crocodiles and is just a 1-hour drive from downtown Darwin. With this 1-hour cruise, set sail along the scenic river and have the opportunity to see wild crocodiles in their natural environment. Watch the crocodiles feeding, swimming, or resting on the shore from the safety of the boat as you learn about the fascinating creatures from your guide.

Hop aboard for the Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise on the Adelaide River, one of Darwin’s most thrilling and iconic experiences. Departing from the heart of Darwin, we’ll take you on a ½-day journey to the Marrakai Wetlands, a wildlife haven home to over 117 reptile species and 280 bird species – a nature lover’s dream!

Starting from Darwin, this Adelaide River Adventure includes a scenic drive to the Adelaide River wetlands, where you’ll learn about the wildlife species that call these waterways home—including the saltwater crocodile. You’ll then go on a Jumping Crocodile Cruise to see these crocs in their natural habitat. A local Indigenous owned and operated venture, the cruise is a great way to support the Traditional Custodians of this Country.

Cast your line into the rich waters of the Timor Sea and Beagle Gulf with this full-day offshore fishing charter from Darwin. Target a variety of species including Spanish mackerel, black jewfish, and golden snapper as you explore prime fishing spots like reefs and drop-offs. With a maximum of six guests, enjoy personalized attention from an experienced crew who provide all the necessary gear. Opt for the 'Catch, Cook, and Cruise' experience during the dry season to savour your fresh catch while cruising at sunset. This adventure promises a day filled with world class fishing.

Set out from Stokes Hill Wharf in Darwin for a fabulous sunset cruise accompanied by a meal of fish and chips, and a complimentary drink. Relax and enjoy watching a colorful Top End sunset over Fannie Bay from the best spot in Darwin Harbour. Your captain stops at Cullen Bay Beach to pick up your meal, which is made with fresh wild–caught Northern Territory fish. Eat a classic Australian dish, snap photos and enjoy the beauty of Darwin during this memorable sunset cruise.

In February 1942, the North Australian city of Darwin was bombed by Japanese forces. With this two-for-one deal, cruise around the Darwin waterfront on the Bombing of Darwin cruise, sailing by landmarks like the wreck sites of the SS Neptuna and USS Peery; then visit the historic Royal Flying Doctor Tourist Facility and hear the local stories of those air raids. Don’t organize these two attractions separately; book in advance and confirm them for the same day.

Soak up a magical Top End sunset from aboard the Charles Darwin, a 3-level catamaran with a fully licensed bar whilst you enjoy a gourmet grazing platter. Cruise past signature Darwin sights, such as Cullen Bay and the Esplanade, as the city lights up and the crew tell tales of Dawin's History !

Take a full-day detour from Darwin to explore the beautiful natural playground of Katherine Gorge. Cruise between ancient sandstone cliffs for an up-close perspective of Aboriginal rock art and crocodiles lounging on the riverbanks. Take a dip in a natural swimming hole at the base of Edith Falls (conditions permitting), and recharge with a delicious lunch.

See Darwin as you’ve never seen it before on this amazing guided jet ski adventure tour of the coastline. After a quick safety briefing, you’ll speed out of the city to visit East Arm’s glassy waters and tropical mangroves. Feel yourself flying across the waves as you swing around the coast to Mindil Beach, before taking in the epic city skyline on the way back to the harbour.

Hop aboard a jet ski to whip down the open water at your own speed. During this action-packed excursion, you’ll pass along both untouched coastlines and the iconic Mindil Beach Casino, getting a chance to rev your engine full-blast. Immerse yourself in local marine life along the way, including potential dolphin sightings.

Zoom across the water in Darwin Harbour and uncover the secrets of Darwin’s history on a shipwreck hunting jet ski tour. A great way to combine adventure with education, this jet ski tour takes you to historic shipwreck sites you’d never find if it wasn’t for the help of your jet ski guides. You’ll also learn about Darwin’s role in WWII history and the effects of Cyclone Tracey in 1974.

See where World War II bombs fell on Darwin on this harbour cruise. On 19 February 1942, Japanese planes targeted Allied ships in Darwin’s waters, causing mass destruction. Board an open-sided boat to cruise by these and other landmarks as you hear stories of the fateful day and Darwin’s wartime history. See remnants of the raids and underwater shipwreck sites, and sail by historical wharfs, pearling luggers, and other maritime locations. Live commentary included.

Take in the views of Darwin Harbour during a sunset cruise aboard the “Charles Darwin,” a deluxe 3-level catamaran. Sail past the Esplanade, Larrakeyah Barracks, Cullen Bay, and Fannie Bay, all while seated in air-conditioned comfort or outside on the sundeck. Enjoy a delicious buffet dinner featuring fresh seafood and local produce as you watch the sun set over the Top End.

Maximize your chances of spotting native Australian wildlife on this full-day tour from Darwin to Corroboree Billabong, where saltwater crocodiles and native birdlife are abundant. Step aboard a shaded, open-sided boat designed for optimal viewing, with live commentary helping you spot and understand the wildlife around you. The day also includes a stop at the Window on the Wetlands Visitor Centre, lunch, and round-trip hotel transport—so you can experience the Top End’s wildlife without the planning, driving, or guesswork.

Ride into the sunset and enjoy tropical breezes during this Darwin Harbour dinner cruise aboard a traditional fishing ketch. Enjoy a tasty 4-course dinner of fresh Northern Territory delicacies as you sail, all whipped up by the onboard chef. Drinks are available for purchase at the fully licensed bar. This cruise is an ideal option for couples, friends, or anyone seeking a relaxed evening out.

Discover Katherine Gorge from every angle on a thrilling 8-hour excursion by air and water. The adventure begins with a flight from Darwin over Adelaide River, Pine Creek, and the iconic Australian Outback. After landing, it's time to take to the skies again. Discover the hard-to-reach places within the gorge by helicopter. The last leg of the adventure includes a picturesque boat cruise through the gorge, before your return flight to Darwin.

Ensure you get the best sunset vista by heading out onto the water on this cruise across Darwin Harbour. Aboard a large, ocean-going catamaran with plenty of deck space, sit under the sails or in the air-conditioned salon and toast the setting sun with a glass of sparkling wine before enjoying a tapas/barbecue dinner while soaking up the views—if you wish, you can bring your own drinks and keep them chilled in the on board coolers.

One of the Northern Territory's key attractions is its isolation, but an increasing number of visitors means that the Territory's most popular attractions are becoming very busy. Cruise the Adelaide River without bumping into lots of other groups on this early-morning tour, with the chance to swim in picturesque—and croc-free—locales and meet a crocodile without a horde of onlookers spoiling the experience.

Explore the World War II sites of Darwin on this city sightseeing and cruise tour. Visit the Darwin war memorial and East Point Military Precinct, and explore Darwin Military Museum to chart the city’s wartime experience. Midway through, enjoy a small-boat cruise around Darwin Harbour, passing the modern naval base and the remnants and wreck sites of Japan’s devastating February 1942 air raids. Hotel pickup, entrance fees, and live onboard commentary included.

Hooked on Barra is the only guided, land-based barramundi fishing experience just outside Darwin on the way to Kakadu, set on a scenic floodplain teeming with wildlife. You’ll fish from the edge of a stocked dam. No boat? No stress! using easy-to-handle gear with help from friendly local guides. It’s designed for all ages and skill levels, making it perfect for families, first-timers, and curious travellers. Where else can you hook a saltwater-bred barra while spotting crocs and buffalo in the distance - all in the same afternoon? Simple, safe, and wildly fun. Just cast, set the lure, and reel in your Northern Territory memory.

Short on time but want to experience the best of the Top End? This fast-paced adventure packs multiple highlights into one seamless day. Combine helicopter flights, airboat rides, river cruising, and guided overland travel to see the region from every angle. Spot crocodiles and native birdlife across Litchfield National Park’s floodplains, then cool off with a swim in a designated crocodile-safe pool.

Spend an action-packed day exploring two national parks in the Top End: Nitmiluk and Kakadu. Fly round-trip from Darwin to Katherine Gorge, then hop aboard a helicopter for a scenic ride. Explore the magnificent landscape for 1 hour by air followed by a riverboat cruise back in Kakadu. A private tour helps you discover this region abundant with wildlife, natural beauty, and cultural significance before your return to Darwin.

Discover the rich marine life and fascinating maritime history of Darwin Harbour on a sightseeing cruise. Learn how human activity has shaped the working harbor, from aboriginal uses to World War II bombings and the hippie movement of the 1970s. Visit the site of a shipwreck, wind through a mangrove waterway, and watch the patterns of modern-day boat traffic while your captain narrates. Keep a close eye out for native birds, sea creatures, and crocs that call the harbor home.