Why a Horizontal Falls cruise from Broome is a bucket list item
Published on 04 Mar 2024
Sir David Attenborough once described the Horizontal Waterfalls as one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. And when it comes to the world’s greatest natural wonders, David Attenborough is a pretty reliable authority!
Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the Horizontal Falls are a must-see for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. But the best way to see it? A Horizontal Falls cruise from Broome… here’s why.
What are the Horizontal Falls?
The Horizontal Falls are something of a natural wonder. Located in the stunning Kimberley region in picturesque Talbot Bay, they’re definitely not your traditional falls.
Like their name suggests, the Horizontal Falls are a powerful tidal flow rushing through two narrow, closely aligned gorges of the McLarty Range. The phenomenon is caused by the immense tidal currents forced through the tight openings, creating a horizontal ‘waterfall’ effect.
At certain times of the year, the tides can reach a staggering 10 metres, leading to a pretty significant difference in water levels on either side of the gorges. These changing tides transform the Falls, making them flow in different directions depending on the tide’s movement. It’s a rare and truly spectacular occurrence and speaks to the raw power and beauty of nature.
Why visit the Horizontal Falls?
A unique location with unique experiences in abundance… there’s nothing quite like it, and it’s something of a highlight on a True North Kimberley cruise. A blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural richness, it’s a must-visit destination for travellers seeking something truly out of the ordinary.
- Unique natural phenomenon: this is something few people have seen, and is the opportunity to experience something truly one-of-a-kind
- Stunning surrounding scenery: the surrounding Kimberley landscape offers breathtaking views, combining rugged cliffs, pristine waters, and rich red rock formations… it’s a photographer’s paradise!
- Adventure activities galore: the area surrounding the Horizontal Falls is ideal for thrill-seekers, with a range of exciting activities to add on to your bucket list.
- Rich marine life: the waters around the Horizontal Falls are teeming with diverse marine life, including large schools of fish, dolphins, and even the occasional whale.
- Remote and unspoiled: being in such a remote location, the Horizontal Falls offer an escape from crowded tourist spots. You’ll feel more secluded and get the chance to enjoy a more intimate connection with nature, without all of the tourists.
- Good fishing opportunities: for fishing enthusiasts, the surrounding areas are great for fishing. You may catch some barramundi, threadfin salmon, or other local species! From the deck of the TRUE NORTH, no less.
- Educational value: the Horizontal Falls and surrounding area is a natural classroom, offering insights into marine biology, geology, and environmental science. You won’t be able to come away from this experience without feeling enriched.
What to expect on your Horizontal Falls cruise from Broome
Sure, you can get a scenic flight from Broome or Derby to get a birdseye view of the Horizontal Falls… but it’s not quite as exhilarating as seeing them up close on an exhilarating fast boat ride.
Seeing the Horizontal Waterfalls as part of a TRUE NORTH itinerary is the best way to truly experience this natural phenomenon. In fact, it’s the best of both worlds: get up close in one of our adventure boats, or see the falls from the air in the TRUE NORTH’s on-deck helicopter.
Seek thrills
The adventure boat ride is everything you expect from a fast boat ride through turbulent water – lots of movement, lots of noise and, you might end up just a little bit wet!
The proximity of the narrow gorge walls is also exciting – you can almost reach out and touch them! Your guide will expertly navigate through the gaps (subject to the conditions) and then heading back the other way is twice the fun!
Defy gravity
Getting up close and personal with the Falls is one thing; seeing them from the air is a whole other ballpark. Our on-deck helicopter flight will take you over the Falls to see them in all their glory, and will also take you to Koolan and Cockatoo Islands, two of the archipelago’s larger islands that have unique, interesting histories.
Explore more of the Kimberley
The Falls are included in all of TRUE NORTH’s Kimberley itineraries – The Kimberley Waterfalls, The Kimberley Snapshot, Coast & Coral and of course, The Kimberley Ultimate. But the Falls are just one part of these itineraries… and believe us when we say, there is so much more to see!
Selected highlights (to name a few) include:
- Seeing some of the Kimberley’s more traditional waterfalls, like King George Falls, Eagle Falls, Mitchell Falls, King Cascade and more
- Fishing in some of the Kimberley’s best locations like the Drysdale, Mitchell River, and Swift Bay
- Exploring where few people have been before in the Hunter River
- Taking the adventure boats for a spin around the Kingfisher Islands and Montgomery Reef
- Seeing Aboriginal rock art, possibly the oldest paintings known to man!
- Enjoying some of the region’s finest delicacies aboard the TRUE NORTH, like fresh oysters, delicious hors d’oeuvres, and regional champagne and wine
Ready for adventure?
Our Horizontal Falls cruises from Broome are truly the adventure of a lifetime. There’s nothing like getting up close to a natural phenomenon, and the Horizontal Falls are just one stop on the Kimberley cruise of a lifetime.
Explore our Kimberley cruise itineraries and book your place today – you’re guaranteed something truly special!
