Wyndham, Australia

Wyndham is Western Australia’s northernmost town, set amid vast wilderness.

Overview

Wyndham, Australia Cruise Port

Wyndham is a remote and rugged port town located in the far north of Western Australia, nestled at the base of the majestic Bastion Range where five rivers converge into the Cambridge Gulf. As the northernmost port in Western Australia, Wyndham serves as a vital gateway for cruise ships exploring the spectacular and ancient Kimberley region, a true Australian wilderness frontier. The town itself, established in 1886 during the Halls Creek gold rush, carries a rich history as a working port, servicing industries from cattle export and mining to tourism.

For cruise passengers, Wyndham offers a unique opportunity to experience the Australian Outback and the raw, untamed beauty of the Kimberley. It's a place where dramatic landscapes of red earth meet turquoise waters, and ancient Aboriginal culture intertwines with pioneering history. A visit to Wyndham promises an adventure into one of the world's last great wilderness areas, offering access to iconic Kimberley attractions and a genuine sense of Australia's vast and diverse landscape.

Top Things to Do in Wyndham, Australia

Take in the Panoramic Views from Five Rivers Lookout (The Bastion)

Ascend to the Five Rivers Lookout, also known as The Bastion, perched high above Wyndham. This iconic viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic vistas over the confluence of the King, Pentecost, Durack, Forrest, and Ord rivers flowing into the Cambridge Gulf. The sheer scale and beauty of the landscape are truly awe-inspiring, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Tip: This is a must-do for photographers. The lookout is accessible by road, and your cruise line will likely offer a shuttle or excursion.

Get a Photo with the Big Croc Statue

Don't miss the chance to snap a photo with the famous Big Croc Statue at the entrance to Wyndham. This impressive 20-meter long, 3-meter high concrete sculpture of a saltwater crocodile is an iconic and fun landmark, welcoming visitors to the region known for its real-life crocs.

Tip: It's a popular photo opportunity and a great way to mark your visit to the Kimberley.

Explore the Wyndham Museum

Delve into the fascinating history of this remote frontier town at the Wyndham Museum. Learn about its role in the gold rush, its significance as a port for the cattle industry, its experiences during WWII, and the stories of the pioneers and Indigenous people who shaped the region.

Tip: The museum offers valuable context to the vast landscapes and unique challenges of life in the remote Kimberley.

Visit the Famous Prison Boab Tree

See the historic Prison Boab Tree, an ancient and massive boab tree that was reputedly used as a temporary lock-up for Aboriginal prisoners in the late 1800s. While its exact historical use is debated, it stands as a poignant reminder of the region's past.

Tip: The tree is a striking natural landmark and offers a moment for reflection on local history.

Discover Local Wildlife at Parry Creek Lagoon Nature Reserve (or similar wetland)

If time and excursions permit, head to the Parry Creek Lagoon Nature Reserve (or similar wetland areas) to experience the abundant birdlife of the Kimberley. These wetlands are teeming with diverse bird species, especially during certain times of the year, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Tip: Bring binoculars and a bird identification guide. Be aware that these areas are also natural habitats for crocodiles, so always obey warning signs and stay vigilant.

Take a Scenic Flight or River Cruise (if available as an excursion)

For an unforgettable experience, consider a scenic flight over the Bungle Bungle Range (Purnululu National Park) or the Horizontal Falls, or a river cruise on the Ord River or through the Cambridge Gulf. These excursions provide unparalleled aerial or water-level perspectives of the Kimberley's dramatic gorges, rivers, and unique geological formations.

Tip: These are often full-day or half-day excursions from Wyndham and should be booked well in advance through your cruise line. They offer a truly iconic Kimberley experience.

Overview