Darwin’s waterfront excursions pack serious bang for your buck, offering some of Australia’s most memorable experiences. The standout tours include the Litchfield waterfalls cruise (perfect for nature lovers), the heart-pumping Crocodile Cruise (where massive saltwater crocs leap from the water), and the historically rich Bombing of Darwin harbor tour (a must for WWII buffs).
We especially love the billabong lunch cruises for their peaceful atmosphere and abundant wildlife spotting. The combo helicopter-boat tours, while pricier, provide unbeatable views of the Top End’s dramatic landscapes.
Check out our favorite Darwin boat tours below.
Key Points
- Corroboree Billabong offers highly-rated scenic lunch and sunset cruises, providing opportunities to observe wildlife in a serene wetland environment.
- Charles Darwin Dinner Cruise and Sunset Harbour Cruise offer historical and dining experiences, with live commentary and scenic views of Darwin Harbor.
- Crocodile Cruises, such as the Jumping Crocodile Cruise, provide close encounters with saltwater crocodiles in their natural habitats.
- Kakadu National Park tours offer immersive experiences, including cultural insights, ancient rock art, and guided hikes through scenic landscapes.
- The Bombing of Darwin WWII Tour and Harbour Cruise provide historical insights into Darwin’s wartime history, with guided visits to significant sites and a harbor cruise.
Litchfield National Park & Fogg Dam or Crocodile Cruise – Day Trip From Darwin
The Litchfield National Park & Fogg Dam or Crocodile Cruise day trip from Darwin provides visitors a chance to explore the natural wonders of the region.
This highly-rated tour offers a comprehensive experience, including sightings of Australian wildlife, swimming at picturesque rock pools and waterfalls, and an optional crocodile cruise.
With an accredited outback driver guide providing informative commentary, the tour offers a glimpse into the area’s diverse landscapes and ecosystems.
While the inclusion of national park fees and hotel transfers make it a convenient option, some travelers have expressed concerns about the cost versus the overall experience, particularly regarding the crocodile cruise and meal arrangements.
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From Darwin: Litchfield Park Tour & Jumping Crocodile Cruise
Departing from Darwin, this full-day tour offers visitors a chance to explore the natural wonders of Litchfield National Park and embark on a thrilling Jumping Crocodile Cruise.
Priced from $147.01 per person, the 11-hour excursion includes hotel pickup, a guided cruise to spot crocodiles, and visits to picturesque waterfalls and swimming holes.
Travelers can also enjoy a bush picnic lunch and explore a butterfly farm.
With a small-group format and live commentary from the guide, the tour provides a personalized experience.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning natural scenery, making this an excellent option for those seeking an adventure in the Northern Territory.
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Corroboree Billabong 2.5 Hour Lunch Cruise
What better way to experience the natural beauty of Darwin’s Corroboree Billabong than with a 2.5-hour lunch cruise?
This 5-star rated experience from Wetland Cruises offers an intimate adventure for up to 29 travelers. Enjoy a selection of cold meats, salads, and bread as you glide through the serene wetlands, spotting abundant local wildlife.
Accessible via a short drive from Darwin, the cruise departs at 12:45 PM and can be easily combined with other activities.
With its stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and delicious lunch, this Corroboree Billabong cruise is a must-do for anyone visiting the area.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
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Darwin: The Croc Bus to the Famous Jumping Crocodile Cruise
Explore the iconic Jumping Crocodile Cruise from the comfort of a Croc Bus. This 4-hour tour offers a chance to see the powerful reptiles up close.
Starting from 15 Smith St, you’ll journey to Humpty Doo for a photo with the 13m Boxing Crocodile, then cruise along the Adelaide River. The 30-seater boat brings you face-to-face with jumping crocs.
Afterwards, discover the history and birdlife at Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve. Roundtrip transportation, water, and entry fees are included.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and impressive croc sightings. At £60.20 per person, this tour provides excellent value.
Capture unforgettable memories and learn about these fascinating creatures.
Read our full review: Darwin: The Croc Bus to the Famous Jumping Crocodile Cruise Review
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Jumping Crocodile Cruise With Lunch
On this popular tour, travelers embark on a Jumping Crocodile Cruise with the opportunity to enjoy a delicious lunch.
The tour departs Darwin at 7:30 am and travels to the Adelaide River, where guests can observe crocodiles and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
With a maximum of 20 travelers per tour, this small group experience provides up-close views of the crocodiles.
The tour also includes a visit to the Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve and a lunch stop at the Humpty Doo Hotel.
Priced at $120.35 per person, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, live commentary, and park fees, making it a comprehensive and convenient wildlife adventure.
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Jumping Croc Cruise, Berry Springs,Fogg Dam & Humpty Doo Pub
This comprehensive 8.5-hour tour offers travelers a diverse and immersive experience in the natural wonders surrounding Darwin. Priced at $178.97 per person, the tour includes a maximum of 10 participants and features highlights like the Berry Springs Nature Park, the Jumping Crocodile Cruise, the Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve, and a stop at the Humpty Doo Pub.
Travelers can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and a picnic lunch at Berry Springs, while the Jumping Crocodile Cruise provides a chance to see one of the world’s highest concentrations of saltwater crocodiles.
The tour also includes wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and the opportunity to sample local beverages at the Humpty Doo Pub.
With knowledgeable guides, flexibility, and inclusions like a National Park ticket, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.
Read our full review: Jumping Croc Cruise, Berry Springs,Fogg Dam & Humpty Doo Pub Review
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Katherine Day Tour From Darwin Including Katherine Gorge Cruise
Travelers exploring the natural wonders surrounding Darwin can embark on a captivating Katherine Day Tour.
The tour includes a 2-hour cruise through the stunning Katherine Gorge, a swimming opportunity at Edith Falls, and a riverside lunch. Guests travel in a luxury vehicle with amenities like Wi-Fi and air conditioning, and are guided by knowledgeable local experts who share insights on the region’s history and culture.
While the 15-hour duration may be lengthy, the tour has earned 4.5-star ratings, with positive feedback on the comfortable transportation and breathtaking scenery.
Travelers should have moderate fitness due to uneven terrain, and special dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notice.
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Darwin: Mary River Wetlands Wildlife Cruise With Lunch
For those exploring the natural wonders surrounding Darwin, the Darwin: Mary River Wetlands Wildlife Cruise with Lunch offers a captivating opportunity to take in the region’s diverse wildlife.
This 8-hour small-group tour provides a comprehensive experience, including a 2.5-hour wetlands cruise, a visit to the Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve, and a healthy pre-packed lunch.
Travelers can expect to see an abundance of crocodiles and approximately 30 different bird species in their natural habitats, all while enjoying insightful commentary from experienced guides.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 based on 260 reviews, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Darwin.
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Jumping Crocs & Nature Adventure Cruise From Darwin
The Jumping Crocs & Nature Adventure Cruise from Darwin offers a thrilling opportunity to witness the raw power of saltwater crocodiles in their natural habitat.
This small-group wetlands cruise on the Adelaide River provides close encounters with these prehistoric predators, including the chance to see them being fed.
Travelers will also enjoy scenic views of the local birdlife and the Adelaide River wetlands, all while learning from knowledgeable guides.
With comfortable transportation, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioning, this tour offers an educational and enjoyable outing in Darwin.
However, some visitors have reported limited crocodile activity during certain seasons, though the overall feedback remains highly positive.
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From Darwin: Top End Helicopter Ride & BBQ Cruise Day Trip
Looking to experience the breathtaking landscapes of Darwin’s Top End from the air and water? The Top End Helicopter Ride & BBQ Cruise Day Trip offers an unforgettable adventure.
This 4-7 hour tour includes a scenic helicopter flight over the floodplains, an airboat ride through rainforest channels, and a BBQ brunch cruise on the river. Guests can also interact with crocodiles and spot wildlife like birds and buffalo.
With pickup and drop-off in Darwin, this tour is perfect for those seeking a comprehensive Top End experience. Priced at $316.39 per person, it’s an excellent value considering the range of activities.
Verified reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and quality of the overall experience.
Read our full review: From Darwin: Top End Helicopter Ride & BBQ Cruise Day Trip Review
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4 Day Kakadu Katherine Gorge With Guluyambi Cultural Cruise
Though a 4-day itinerary, this comprehensive tour offers an immersive exploration of Kakadu National Park and Katherine Gorge.
Travelers can expect to experience Aboriginal culture, view ancient rock art, and embark on the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise and the Katherine Gorge NitNit Dreaming Cultural Cruise.
With 3 nights of hotel accommodation, 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners included, the tour provides a well-rounded experience.
While special dietary needs have limited options, guests will participate in meal preparation and cleanup.
With a 97% traveler recommendation and 5.0 overall rating, this small-group tour promises knowledgeable guides, scenic hikes, and memorable cultural insights.
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Darwin: Litchfield Day Tour and Private Crocodile Cruise
This tour offers an immersive exploration of Litchfield National Park and the Adelaide River, allowing visitors to witness the region’s natural wonders and abundant wildlife.
Priced at $172.58 per person, the 12-hour excursion includes pickup, a guided tour of Litchfield, and a private crocodile cruise. Participants can swim in pristine waterways, observe ancient termite mounds, and enjoy lunch and snacks.
The small group size enhances the experience, with guides praised for their knowledge and accommodation. Reviewers highlight the tour’s informative and well-organized nature.
While not suitable for wheelchair users, the activities can be tailored to fitness levels, making it an accessible option for most visitors.
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Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruises – 2 Hour Sunset Cruise
Consistently, Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruises offers a 2-hour sunset cruise in Darwin, Australia, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to witness the region’s diverse wildlife, including crocodiles, in their natural habitat.
The cruise is highly rated, with a 99% recommendation rate from travelers. Passengers can enjoy live commentary by professional guides and bring their own drinks.
The small group size, up to 29 travelers, ensures an intimate experience. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, exceptional wildlife spotting, and stunning scenery.
Priced from $61.80 per person, the cruise offers a convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruises – 2 Hour Sunset Cruise Review
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Darwin: Adelaide River Half-Day Jumping Crocs Cruise
One of the must-do experiences for visitors to Darwin is the Darwin: Adelaide River Half-Day Jumping Crocs Cruise. This 5-hour tour allows you to see saltwater crocodiles leap from the Adelaide River and explore the diverse habitats of the Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve.
The tour includes a knowledgeable guide, hotel drop-off, and the chance to witness a kite show with rangers feeding kites from the boat. With an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 126 reviews, this tour offers great value for money.
However, some locals find it cheaper to visit the jumping crocs directly rather than through the tour, and logistics may vary, so it’s essential to manage expectations.
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Charles Darwin Dinner Cruise
The Charles Darwin Dinner Cruise offers a picturesque 2.5-hour journey along Darwin Harbour.
Aboard a deluxe 3-level catamaran, guests can take in stunning sunset views and learn about Darwin’s history and landmarks from live commentary.
The buffet features a tempting selection of Australian seafood and local produce, including fresh oysters, prawns, crocodile, and kangaroo.
While the food is generally well-received, some reviews note limited seafood portions.
The cruise departs from Stokes Hill Wharf, with a maximum capacity of 200 travelers.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the cruise is a popular choice, earning an impressive 4.5-star rating from Viator and Tripadvisor reviewers.
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Darwin: Sunset Harbour Cruise With Fish and Chips Dinner
This 1.5-hour sunset cruise along Darwin Harbour offers guests a delightful experience featuring fresh, locally caught fish and chips.
Priced at $69.67 per person, the cruise includes a fish and chips meal, a complimentary drink, and live commentary from a local guide.
Passengers may even have the opportunity to walk on the Fannie Bay sandbar or spot dolphins and dugongs.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 123 reviews, this tour is highly recommended for its value, transportation, and knowledgeable guides.
However, it’s not suitable for children under 3 or those with mobility issues, as the tour is subject to weather conditions.
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1 Hour Jumping Crocodile Cruise on the Adelaide River
Venture southeast of Darwin, Australia, to the Adelaide River and embark on a captivating 1-hour Jumping Crocodile Cruise. This experience offers the chance to encounter saltwater crocodiles in their natural habitat, led by knowledgeable guides who educate on river ecology and crocodile behavior.
Operated by an Indigenous-owned company and endorsed for animal ethics, the tour is wheelchair accessible and accommodates up to 55 travelers. Costing from $32.53, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, the cruise includes coffee, tea, and optional lunch.
While some guests report limited crocodile activity, overall, reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to witness these remarkable creatures.
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Darwin: 1-Hour Bombing of Darwin Cruise
Cruising through Darwin Harbour, the 1-Hour Bombing of Darwin Cruise provides an immersive exploration of the city’s World War II history.
Priced from $41.55 per person, the 1-hour tour departs from Stokes Hill Wharf at 11:00 AM and offers optional disembarkation at Cullen Bay or return to the starting point at 12:15 PM.
Guests will visit significant sites like Stokes Hill, Fort Hill, and the USS Peary shipwreck, accompanied by live English commentary. An optional virtual reality experience enhances the bombing of Darwin experience.
With a 4.6/5 rating from 63 reviews, the cruise is praised for its knowledgeable guides and value for money, though it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues.
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Litchfield National Park & Jumping Crocodile Cruise, 4wd, Max 6
A popular day trip from Darwin, the Litchfield National Park & Jumping Crocodile Cruise excursion takes travelers on an immersive exploration of the region’s natural wonders.
Accommodating up to 10 guests, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a thrilling crocodile cruise, iced water, and snacks.
During the 1-hour cruise, participants can witness the powerful jumps of crocodiles in their natural habitat.
With an overall rating of 5 stars from verified reviews, this tour is a must-do for visitors seeking an up-close encounter with Australia’s iconic wildlife.
The tour is accessible to most travelers, though it’s not wheelchair-friendly.
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Darwin: Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Adelaide River Cruise
On the Adelaide River, travelers can embark on a captivating 1-hour cruise to witness the awe-inspiring sight of saltwater crocodiles in their natural habitat. Priced from $31.96 per person, this experience offers the chance to see crocodiles jump into the air, while also providing expert commentary on the diverse wildlife, including potential sightings of white-bellied sea eagles, whistling kites, and other species.
The tour is 100% Indigenous-owned, with profits supporting the local community, and interactions comply with an internationally recognized code of ethics to ensure safety and sustainability.
Wheelchair accessibility, a minimum of 2 skippers, and an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on 117 reviews make this cruise a must-do activity in Darwin.
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Kakadu Wilderness Escape Fogg Dam or Crocodile Cruise – Day Trip From Darwin
This Kakadu Wilderness Escape tour provides travelers with an opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking natural landscapes and diverse wildlife of the region.
Offered as a day trip from Darwin, the tour includes a Kakadu National Park pass, an air-conditioned minibus, and guided commentary from an accredited driver.
Highlights include sightings of birds, crocodiles, emus, and water buffalo, as well as a visit to Fogg Dam and a Jumping Crocodile Cruise.
While the tour requires a moderate fitness level and doesn’t accommodate young children or those with limited mobility, many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and unique experiences it offers.
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Darwin: Bombing of Darwin WW2 Tour With Harbor Cruise
Travelers seeking to uncover the captivating history of Darwin’s involvement in World War II can embark on the Bombing of Darwin WW2 Tour with Harbor Cruise.
This 4.5-hour tour explores significant WW2 sites, including the East Point Military Precinct and the Defense of Darwin Museum, providing insights into the devastating attacks of February 19, 1942.
Guests will also enjoy a 1-hour cruise around Darwin Harbor, passing by historic wreck sites and landmarks.
With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and a reasonable price of $95.24 per person, this tour offers excellent value and an opportunity to explore the city’s wartime past.
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Discover Darwin Harbour 1 Hour Darwin Harbour Cruise
Discover Darwin Harbour 1 Hour Darwin Harbour Cruise.
This 1-hour cruising experience provides travelers with a chance to explore Darwin’s picturesque harbor. Offering live commentary from local guides, the tour includes a taste of Saltie Gin and a visit to a crocodile trap.
With a maximum capacity of 32 passengers, the cruise boasts a 5.0 rating based on 40 reviews and a 93% recommendation rate. Priced from ₹3,602.39 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off.
While some guests felt the cruise was too short or lacked engaging scenery, many praised the informative and enjoyable tours, comfortable boat, and excellent value for money.
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Darwin: 5-Day 4WD Kakadu, Litchfield Tour & Billabong Cruise
Frequently, travelers embark on this 5-day 4WD adventure through Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, complemented by a tranquil billabong cruise. Priced from $1,118.56 per person, the tour accommodates up to 16 participants and includes permanent campsites, meals, cultural experiences, and guided walks.
While moderate to advanced fitness is required for the daily 2-4 km treks, the itinerary offers versatile options, from exploring Aboriginal rock art to swimming in Edith Falls.
With a 4.9/5 rating from past guests, this comprehensive Darwin tour showcases the region’s natural wonders, cultural heritage, and provides an off-road 4WD experience.
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Bombing of Darwin World War II Tour With Harbour Cruise
Although the Bombing of Darwin World War II Tour with Harbour Cruise takes visitors on a sobering journey through the city’s wartime past, the experience offers a unique and insightful perspective on this pivotal chapter in Australia’s history.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the 4.5-hour tour explores the key sites of the 1942 bombing, including the War Memorial Museum. The highlight is the harbor cruise, which provides a firsthand view of the devastation.
While some reviewers wished for more time at certain stops, the tour is widely praised for its engaging commentary and ability to bring Darwin’s WWII history to life.
With limited group sizes and hotel pickups, this tour is a must-do for those interested in the region’s wartime past.
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Recap
Darwin offers a variety of cruise and boat tour options. From exploring the Litchfield National Park and Fogg Dam to witnessing the famous jumping crocodiles, these tours provide a unique way to experience the region’s natural wonders. For those interested in history, the Bombing of Darwin World War II tour with a harbor cruise is a compelling choice. Regardless of one’s interests, Darwin has something to offer in the form of captivating boat-based experiences.