Montebello Islands: The Highlights

Far off the Pilbara coast in Western Australia, a hidden archipelago awaits – one of the country’s best kept secrets. Welcome to the Montebello Islands.

With 174 tiny islands scattered across turquoise water, the Montes offer an adventure that few ever experience. And that’s exactly what makes this destination so remarkable. 

Isolated, untouched and only accessible by vessels like the True North, it’s a world that feels far removed from the ordinary – a place where every day reveals something extraordinary. From casting a line to gliding through coral reefs or spotting sea eagles in flight, every moment in the Montebellos gives you an encounter with nature at its most raw and rewarding.

So join us as we explore what makes the Montebello Islands the highlight of the West Coast Explorer cruise.

Remote, rugged and absolutely exclusive

The Montes aren’t the kind of place you stumble upon. Around 130 kilometres offshore from the Pilbara coast, this remote archipelago is about as off-the-grid as it gets.

No towns, no roads, no shops. And definitely no crowds! Simply endless blue horizons, white-sand beaches, and reef-fringed islands where nature runs the show.

This exclusivity is a huge part of the appeal in this gorgeous part of Western Australia. And with True North’s small-group expeditions, you’ll explore parts of the coast that larger ships can’t reach. 

Simply put, the islands become your own private playground, shared only with a few like-minded adventurers. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime setting for experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

Learn more about our curated Australian Coast cruises and what makes them truly unique.

Fishing like nowhere else

If fishing is your idea of adventure, all we can say is – welcome to paradise! 

The waters around the Montebello Islands are teeming with life, boasting some of the best fishing anywhere in Western Australia. With 174 islands creating an intricate network of reefs, drop-offs, and sheltered bays, there’s an incredible variety of fish waiting to be caught.

From coral trout and red emperor to Spanish mackerel and giant trevally, the Montes deliver big as well – and often. No matter if you’re a seasoned angler or simply looking to try your luck, our experienced crew and custom adventure boats ensure every fishing expedition is tailored to your level.

And here’s where it gets even better. Your fresh catch will become your night’s gourmet feast, expertly prepared by the True North’s onboard chefs! It’s hard to beat the feeling of enjoying a coral trout you reeled in yourself. But enjoying it fresh off the grill as the sun sinks over the Montebello Islands? Let’s just say, that’s a moment you won’t forget anytime soon.

Snorkelling and marine encounters that stay with you

Above the water, the Montes are wild and windswept. Below, they’re an underwater world alive with vibrant colours and constant motion.

When you slip into the warm, clear waters here, you’ll discover a living canvas, dazzling with marine activity – from reef sharks cruising through coral gardens, to schools of colourful fish weaving between giant clams, and even the occasional sea turtle drifting lazily past.

Basically, every swim, every dive, every snorkel in the Montebello Islands brings you closer to the beating heart of the Indian Ocean. It’s so much more than a wildlife experience in these waters. It’s a full-body immersion into an untouched marine wonderland.

Wildlife watching at its wildest

While the underwater world might steal the show for you, there’s just as much to marvel at above the surface. From sea to sky, the Montebellos are bursting with life. And if you know where to look, the encounters are truly extraordinary.

Keep your eyes on the skies, for example, and you might spot ospreys circling above the cliffs, or white-bellied sea eagles soaring with the thermals. And what about along the shoreline? Well, it’s not uncommon to see turtles nesting, rays gliding through the shallows, or even dolphins riding the bow wave of your adventure boat.

And because the islands are so remote, these animals aren’t used to crowds. You’ll be watching from a respectful distance, but close enough to experience these moments in a deeply personal way. It’s a rare privilege, and one that never gets old.

A history shaped by the sea – and the unexpected

There’s more to the Montebello Islands than rugged beauty. These islands are also steeped in rich history. 

The Montebello Islands have been witness to everything from shipwrecks to atomic testing, which have given them a layered history that’s as fascinating as the landscape itself. For instance, one of the most intriguing remnants is the 300m wide, 6m deep crater from the Plym, which was obliterated in the atomic detonation. This is visible from space! 

Used during the British atomic tests of the 1950s, the Plym was the site of Australia’s first atomic explosion. Now, it sits eerily silent, a visible reminder of a controversial chapter in history, slowly being reclaimed by the sea.

As you explore, True North guides will share the stories behind these islands, from shipwrecks to atomic test atomic test sites and remains of military headquarters, adding layers of meaning to every stop. It’s this blend of raw beauty and rich history that makes the Montebellos so compelling. 

Adventure, every single day

The Montebellos aren’t just rich in beauty and history. They’re made to be explored. And with the West Coast Explorer Itinerary, that’s exactly what you’ll do!

This isn’t your typical cruise where you’re stuck watching the world from a distance. Forget passive cruising. Onboard True North, every day is hands-on, from scenic heli-flights to setting foot on untouched shores. You’ll be immersed in the landscape – up close, personal – not just observing it from afar. 

And because our crew tailors each activity to your pace and preferences, you’re free to explore on your terms. That’s the magic of travelling with True North. No fixed schedules. No crowds. What you can expect is a carefully curated adventure shared with a few like-minded travellers, where every moment is yours to own.

Answer the call of the Montebellos and experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure

The Montebello Islands aren’t your typical destination. And that’s exactly the point! They’re remote, they’re rugged, and they’re reserved for those, like you, who are willing to go a little further for a whole lot more.

Onboard True North, you’ll get the rare opportunity to discover the Montes in all their glory, from stunning beaches and untouched reefs to fresh-caught dinners and once-in-a-lifetime encounters.

If you’re ready to experience an adventure that few have – and one you’ll never forget – the Montebello Islands are calling! Step aboard the West Coast Explorer. The adventure of a lifetime is waiting!