The recent addition of our Australian river cruises through The Kimberley provides another option to adventurous travellers, this time in the coastal waters of Western Australian. However, before you depart on a trip that will include stunning waterfalls, beautiful wildlife and Aboriginal artwork, you’ll arrive in the northern city of Darwin.

This is the place where the Outback meets the tropics, meaning there is plenty to see and do before you climb on board one of Coral Expeditions’ comfortable ships. So, whether you have a few hours or a couple of days, here are some great things to do in Darwin.

Smile At A Crocodile

As you’ll find out during your cruise, swimming in certain areas of Western Australia and Northern Territory is strictly forbidden due to the danger of crocodiles. But there are safer ways of getting close to one of Darwin’s most notorious residents.

Crocodylus Park is a family-friendly wildlife attraction that’s home to more than one thousand crocs, ranging from hatchlings to fully grown adults that weigh about half a ton. As well as seeing them on a boat tour, you can learn about the latest conservation efforts and the history of these toothy beasts in the small crocodile museum.

Other animals in the park include tigers, lions, monkeys, kangaroos, snakes, emus and meerkats.

If you really want to get your pulse racing, there is another crocodile-based attraction in Darwin. Crocosaurus Cove offers their infamous Cage of Death, which allows you to swim in the same water as some of the largest saltwater crocodiles in the region.

Make A Splash

The heat in Darwin can be relentless at times, so it’s a good job the city has plenty of places for you to cool off. As we mentioned above, taking a dip in natural watering holes is never a great idea, unless you can be absolutely sure it’s safe, but these public waterparks are a much better option.

The closest options to the city centre can be found in the charming waterfront area, where a variety of places to dine out or shop can also be found. Big Buoy is a floating, inflatable obstacle course that you can swim out to from a little manmade beach (don’t worry, it’s not far). There are slides, rope ladders and the human launcher – where one person can lie on a cushioned pad as another jumps from a height and propels them through the air and into the water.

The other option to beat the heat is the Darwin Wave Pool. Here you can gently bob up and down close to the ‘shore’ or swim deeper to feel the strength of the waves – all under the watchful eye of qualified lifeguards.

Taste The World

Darwin’s proximity to South-East Asia means that it is one of the most diverse cities in Australia and the best way to experience this is to visit the famous Mindel Beach Sunset Markets. Held every Thursday and Saturday between April and October, the stalls are open from 4pm until 9pm and offer plenty to entice you. As well as Australian specialities like barramundi and crocodile, you can sample local food from various regions of the world.

It’s not just food that’s available, though. Handmade arts and crafts are sold on a wide range of stalls, from homeware items to clothing and indigenous products. Live street performers will keep you entertained as you discover the different markets, making it the ideal place to soak up the local atmosphere, even if you don’t purchase anything.

If you would like to know more about our river cruises through The Kimberly or you wish to add some more time in Darwin to the start of your holiday, call the team on 0800 954 0064.