Port information & tips for Kimberly Coastal
The Kimberley Coast in northern Western Australia is one of the most spectacular wilderness regions in the world and impresses with its untouched, ancient nature. Here, vibrant red rocks meet the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, creating a unique, mystical backdrop thanks to dramatic tidal differences and spectacular gorges. Visitors experience fascinating highlights such as the legendary, snow-white Cable Beach, the historic pearl quarters in Chinatown, and the striking Gantheaume Point with its fossilized dinosaur footprints. Cruise ships dock at the Deep Water Wharf in the Port of Broome, which is located about six kilometers from the city center and offers convenient connections to the heart of the region and local attractions thanks to regular shuttle buses.
For international guests, arrival at the remote port of Broome, the gateway to the fascinating Kimberley Coast, is usually by air. The port, which has featured a modern floating cruise ship jetty since 2026, is located about 6 to 8 kilometers south of the town center and is not accessible on foot. Convenient shuttle buses run between the ship and the town.
Airplane
Broome International Airport (BME) is the nearest airport and is located only about 8 kilometers from the port. From the DACH region, you can reach Broome via long-haul flights with at least one layover, usually in Australian major cities like Perth or Darwin. The flight time requires careful planning, and arriving the day before embarkation is highly recommended.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Broome International Airport, you can easily reach the port or your pre-cruise hotel by taxi or private transfer services. Many cruise lines also offer their own shuttle buses to transport passengers directly from the airport or selected hotels to the cruise terminal. Private providers also offer door-to-door transfers with professional drivers who can pick you up or drop you off directly at the ship's gangway.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey from the DACH region and the need for a buffer against potential flight delays, an overnight stay in one of the charming hotels in Broome or at the famous Cable Beach is recommended. This also allows you to adjust to the time difference in a relaxed manner and explore the pearl town of Broome with its unique atmosphere and breathtaking sunsets at Cable Beach.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents will usually provide you with a fixed check-in time slot, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the cruise: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
For international guests, arrival at the remote port of Broome, the gateway to the fascinating Kimberley Coast, is usually by air. The port, which has featured a modern floating cruise ship jetty since 2026, is located about 6 to 8 kilometers south of the town center and is not accessible on foot. Convenient shuttle buses run between the ship and the town.
Airplane
Broome International Airport (BME) is the nearest airport and is located only about 8 kilometers from the port. From the DACH region, you can reach Broome via long-haul flights with at least one layover, usually in Australian major cities like Perth or Darwin. The flight time requires careful planning, and arriving the day before embarkation is highly recommended.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Broome International Airport, you can easily reach the port or your pre-cruise hotel by taxi or private transfer services. Many cruise lines also offer their own shuttle buses to transport passengers directly from the airport or selected hotels to the cruise terminal. Private providers also offer door-to-door transfers with professional drivers who can pick you up or drop you off directly at the ship's gangway.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey from the DACH region and the need for a buffer against potential flight delays, an overnight stay in one of the charming hotels in Broome or at the famous Cable Beach is recommended. This also allows you to adjust to the time difference in a relaxed manner and explore the pearl town of Broome with its unique atmosphere and breathtaking sunsets at Cable Beach.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents will usually provide you with a fixed check-in time slot, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the cruise: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
The Port of Broome serves as the primary gateway to the Kimberley region and offers convenient connectivity to the city center thanks to a well-organized infrastructure.
Broome Explorer Bus
These buses, typical for the region, provide a reliable connection between the port, the historic center of Chinatown, and the famous Cable Beach. Thanks to regular schedules, the surrounding area can be discovered comfortably and independently, while you simultaneously enjoy the view of the coastal landscape.
Expedition Inflatable Boats (Zodiacs)
As the Kimberley coast is known for its pristine nature, these agile boats are the primary mode of transportation at many landing sites. They enable you to travel directly from the ship to remote beaches, spectacular waterfalls, and hidden coves, allowing you to experience the wilderness up close.
Taxi and Shuttle Service
Taxis are available directly on the port grounds upon the arrival of cruise ships, enabling a quick ride to individual destinations. In addition, provided shuttle buses ensure a smooth transfer to the city center, which is about six kilometers away, allowing you to reach local sights comfortably within a few minutes.
To experience the untouched wilderness of the Kimberley Coast in all its glory, it is recommended to focus on the spectacular natural phenomena and coastal sections that can be ideally explored by Zodiac or small aircraft directly from the landing site.
Horizontal Falls
The powerful tidal currents in Talbot Bay create the world's only horizontal waterfalls and, thanks to a fast-paced boat tour through the narrow rock passages, offer a unique natural event amidst ancient sandstone formations.
Montgomery Reef
This gigantic coral reef seems to rise out of the Indian Ocean as if by magic at low tide and, thanks to numerous waterfalls and rich marine fauna, is a perfect place for unforgettable observations of sea turtles and rays.
Cable Beach & Gantheaume Point
The seemingly endless white sand beach of Cable Beach invites you to spend relaxing hours by the turquoise water, and the vibrant red rock cliffs at nearby Gantheaume Point with their fossilized dinosaur footprints offer a fascinating insight into the region's geological history.
Raft Point
Raft Point on the Kimberley Coast is easily accessible via Zodiac transfer directly from the ship and offers you fascinating access to the ancient Wandjina rock paintings of the Australian Aboriginal people. This cultural treasure is nestled within a monumental backdrop of red sandstone cliffs and also offers a wide panoramic view over the azure sea of the bay. Thanks to the expert guidance of the expedition teams, you will experience a deep connection to history in a completely untouched atmosphere. Ideally, start your excursion in the early morning to take advantage of the pleasant morning coolness and photograph the paintings in the best light before returning to the ship at midday in a relaxed manner for the remainder of the itinerary.
The way back to the Port of Broome is straightforward thanks to the good connections to the city center, allowing you a relaxed return to the ship.
Shuttle Bus and Public Transport
Most cruise lines offer a convenient shuttle service that takes you from the Visitor Centre in Chinatown directly to the berth at the Port of Broome. In addition, the Broome Explorer Bus connects major tourist highlights such as Cable Beach with the city center and the port area, ensuring you reach the pier on time.
Taxi and Rideshares
At central taxi ranks in the Chinatown district as well as in front of the major resorts on Cable Beach, you will find vehicles available at any time for the short trip to the pier. Thanks to the direct road connection to Entrance Point, you will reach the ship safely and without detours within a few minutes.
Orientation and Walking
Within the port grounds at the Port of Broome, clear signage and marked pathways guide you safely back to the gangway. Since the distance to the city center is too far for a walk, use the provided buses for the main route and enjoy the final meters at the terminal on the well-maintained sidewalks.
