Port Essington, Australia Cruises

Port Essington, Australia Cruise Port

• The "by permit only" Gurig National Park is where the ruins of Port Essington can be found. There are plenty of them to examine in the now defunct town, including the governor's residence, which was one of the first elevated houses ever built. The ruins also include a hospital, church, military, and married quarters. There are also some roadways and fences left over from its brief venture into colonization.
   
• Within the park's Black Point Ranger Station is the Black Point Cultural Centre which showcases the Aboriginal, Macassan, and European histories of the area. Here, you'll see how the various people who settled in the land affected it in very different ways.
   
• While hiking is definitely part of the park experience, animal lovers will also be in their element. Birdwatching and keeping an eye out for wildlife (especially the marine variety, including dolphins, stingrays, and nesting turtles) is a great way to get in tune with nature.
   
• While swimming in the park isn't allowed because of saltwater crocodiles, it's an excellent place for fishing. Considered a world-class fishing destination, there are charters available to take you out in search of fish such as mackerel, shark, snapper, and a variety of reef fish.