Vansittart Bay: The highlights
Published on 25 Nov 2024
Tucked away in the northern reaches of Western Australia’s Kimberley region, Vansittart Bay is one of the most breathtaking and remote destinations you can explore. Renowned for its stunning coastal landscapes, rich history, and significant Aboriginal rock art, Vansittart Bay is an unforgettable stop for travellers venturing through the Kimberley. Whether you’re drawn to ancient rock paintings, tranquil waters, or untouched wilderness, Vansittart Bay offers a unique glimpse into the Kimberley’s natural and cultural heritage.
Where is Vansittart Bay?
Vansittart Bay is located along the remote northwestern coast of the Kimberley, situated roughly 500 kilometres northeast of Broome. It is part of the rugged, inaccessible coastline that has kept this area so pristine and preserved. The bay is nestled between Admiralty Gulf to the east and Napier Broome Bay to the west, and is only accessible by boat or air, making it a secluded haven for those lucky enough to visit.
Highlights of Vansittart Bay
Vansittart Bay offers a wealth of experiences, from cultural treasures to incredible natural beauty. Here are the top highlights:
1. Aboriginal rock art – The Bradshaw (Gwion Gwion) Paintings
One of the most significant cultural attractions in Vansittart Bay is the ancient Aboriginal rock art known as the Bradshaw Paintings, or Gwion Gwion. These intricate paintings are believed to be among the oldest forms of rock art in the world, dating back over 17,000 years. The Gwion Gwion art is named after a bird believed to be associated with the creation of the art through its use of plant sap as paint.
What sets these paintings apart is their fine detail and the stylised depiction of human figures, often adorned with elaborate headdresses, tassels, and sashes. The artworks are remarkably well-preserved, protected by the overhangs of rock shelters in the area. Visitors are often awestruck by the artistry and the sense of connection to the ancient culture that these paintings provide.
2. The WWII DC-3 wreck
History buffs will be fascinated by the remains of a World War II DC-3 aircraft that crashed in Vansittart Bay in 1942. The plane, operated by the Royal Australian Air Force, was forced to make an emergency landing after running out of fuel during a supply mission. Amazingly, all those on board survived, and today the wreck remains a stark reminder of the region’s wartime history.
The DC-3 wreck sits largely intact on a salt flat near the shoreline of Vansittart Bay, and visitors can walk around the site to get a close look at the aircraft. It’s a hauntingly beautiful location, where the rusting plane seems almost frozen in time, surrounded by the wild, empty landscape of the Kimberley.
3. Pristine beaches and coastal beauty
Vansittart Bay is framed by some of the Kimberley’s most pristine and untouched beaches. The clear turquoise waters and white sandy shores offer a peaceful escape for travellers seeking solitude and natural beauty. Many of the bay’s beaches are sheltered, providing calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
The coastline around Vansittart Bay is dotted with rocky outcrops, hidden coves, and small islands, making it perfect for exploration by boat or kayak. The bay’s remote location means you’re likely to have these beautiful beaches all to yourself, with only the sounds of the wind and waves to keep you company.
4. Wildlife encounters
The Kimberley is known for its rich biodiversity, and Vansittart Bay is no exception. The waters surrounding the bay are home to a variety of marine life, including turtles, stingrays, and schools of colourful fish. It’s not uncommon to spot dolphins playing in the surf or catch a glimpse of dugongs grazing on seagrass beds.
Birdwatchers will also be in their element, as the area around Vansittart Bay is a haven for both seabirds and land birds. You may see sea eagles soaring overhead, kingfishers darting between trees, or the occasional brolga wandering along the shore.
For those keen on fishing, Vansittart Bay offers some excellent opportunities to catch barramundi, threadfin salmon, and other prized fish species. Whether from a boat or the shore, fishing here is an experience in itself, surrounded by the wild beauty of the Kimberley.
How to experience Vansittart Bay with True North
Given its remote location, the best way to experience Vansittart Bay is as part of True North’s Kimberley Wilderness Cruises. True North offers luxury expeditions through the Kimberley, providing guests unparalleled access to remote and otherwise inaccessible locations like Vansittart Bay.
With True North, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the Gwion Gwion rock art, fish for mackerel in Vansittart Bay and take a helicopter to Eagle Falls—all while enjoying the comfort of a world-class adventure cruise
Why choose True North?
- Exclusive access: True North takes you to remote locations like Vansittart Bay that are difficult to reach independently.
- Expert guides: Onboard guides share their deep knowledge of the Kimberleys’ history, culture, and wildlife.
- Luxury adventure: While exploring the wilds of Vansittart Bay, you’ll enjoy gourmet meals, spacious accommodations, and the personalised service that True North is known for.
Vansittart Bay: A Kimberley treasure
Vansittart Bay is one of the Kimberley’s hidden gems, offering a perfect mix of cultural history, natural beauty, and wildlife encounters. From the ancient Gwion Gwion rock art to the haunting WWII plane wreck, the bay is rich with stories waiting to be discovered. Its remote location ensures that it remains an untouched wilderness, providing an authentic and serene Kimberley experience for those fortunate enough to visit.
For a truly unforgettable journey, a True North expedition through Vansittart Bay offers the perfect blend of adventure, luxury, and deep connection to one of Australia’s most remarkable regions.
Ready to explore Vansittart Bay? Step aboard True North and discover the wonders of this remote Kimberley treasure for yourself.
