Sea Darwin - Sea Tiwi

WWII Bombing of Darwin tour by land and sea is a half day experience (0800 to 1230) that takes in significant war history sites. This complete package includes both land based sights around Darwin city, and sea sites on Darwin Harbour. Using local historians as your guides and real time commentary, you will hear the stories of the Darwin’s front line activity, starting with the WWII history and the Bombing of Darwin and tracing developments up to the modern day. The package includes CBD hotel pickups, the land based excursion and then the 1 hour Australia’s Frontline Bombing of Darwin cruise.

On this WWII Bombing of Darwin tour you will visit the sites that were hit by the Japanese air raids incl Charles Darwin National Park, the acclaimed Defence of Darwin Museum as well as the East Point Military precinct. The WWII Bombing of Darwin tour is complete with the one hour Australia’s Frontline cruise on Darwin Harbour.

There is also the option to cruise only for 1 hour at 11am each morning.

Step into the ancient cycle of life where the rhythm of the tides guides the journey. Turtle Tracks is an immersive experience to Ngulbitjik (Bare Sand Island), where Flatback and Olive Ridley turtles return under the cover of night to continue a story millions of years in the making. Arriving by fast boat as the sun sets over the Timor Sea, you’ll witness nature at its most raw and awe-inspiring.

Here, the land and sea are deeply connected. With permission from the Kenbi Traditional Owners, you’ll step ashore to explore this remote island with expert guides who share their knowledge of marine life, conservation, and the island’s rich cultural and wartime history. As the moon rises and the stars emerge, anticipation builds—you can expect to see a mother turtle arriving to nest, and if you’re very lucky, you may even witness hatchlings making their first journey to the sea.

More than a cruise, this is a journey with purpose. A portion of every ticket directly supports Austurtle’s vital research, ensuring the protection of NT’s Flatback turtles for generations to come.

Experience the famous Top End sun set on Darwin's most adventurous, most unique and most affordable sunset cruise.

Leaving Stokes Hill wharf at 1745 hours a fast boat ride will take you past the sights and sounds of Darwin city seascape to arrive at Cullen Bay Beach where you will pick up your fish'n chips. Eat your dinner accompanied by a glass of champagne, the warm wind, an exquisite tropical sunset and a harbour full of intrigue, as you casually cruise around to find the best position for your Darwin Harbour sunset photo. A perfect end to the day for families and spirited travellers, and those that have an interest in a real Top End experience. A fast boat ride in the calm of the evening will get you back to the hub bub of Stokes Hill Wharf.

Inclusions
•1.5 hour Darwin Harbour sunset cruise experience
•Fish'n Chips - one serve of fresh local wild caught fish and chips
•Complimentary glass of champagne or bottle of water or soft drink
•Visit to a site of at least one Darwin Harbour shipwreck
•Opportunistic mammal and marine life sightings

Sea Darwin - Sea Tiwi's local crew will take you on a journey of discovery. Allow the tide and the season to steer the adventure, ensuring no two adventures are the same. Beyond the natural wonders "Discover Darwin Harbour" will dive into the rich tapestry of Darwin's history. From pivotal shipwreck sites that whisper tales of bravery, to the eclectic mix of Darwin's maritime heritage, each element of the cruise is thoughtfully curated. Modern-day intrigue also finds its place, offering a glimpse into the harbour's contemporary significance. This blend of exploration, history, and unexpected discoveries makes "Discover Darwin Harbour" an essential experience for anyone looking to connect with the heart and soul of Darwin. Whether it's navigating through mangrove waterways to check on a crocodile trap or making a spontaneous visit to a sandbar, the cruise promises surprise or adventure at every turn.

Step aboard the Bombing of Darwin Cruise for a powerful and immersive journey through one of Australia’s most defining moments in history. Departing from Stokes Hill Wharf—ground zero of the first enemy attack on Australian soil—this experience brings to life the events of 19 February 1942.

With real-time commentary from passionate local guides, you’ll travel across Darwin Harbour, witnessing key WWII sites, from the wreckage of the USS Peary to the remnants of the oil storage tanks that ignited a firestorm. Stories of bravery, loss, and resilience unfold as you explore the city’s wartime past from the sea, offering a unique perspective on history.

More than just a historical tour, this is a Journey with Purpose—a tribute to those who served, a lesson in the impacts of war, and a commitment to preserving our past. As a Tiwi-owned experience, this cruise also honours the role of Tiwi coastwatchers who gave early warnings on the day of the attack. Step aboard and be part of history, reflection, and remembrance.