Corroboree Billabong sunset cruise: Crocodiles and birdlife
Watch crocodiles move and birds hunt as the sun drops over the floodplains
A 2-hour sunset cruise on Corroboree Billabong, part of the Mary River Wetlands near Darwin, with a live guide pointing out crocodiles, eagles, darters, kingfishers and other species as they become active at dusk. The billabong holds the world's largest concentration of saltwater crocodiles, and the timing catches both predators and prey in motion. You bring your own transport from Darwin (90 minutes' drive). The operator provides the boat, the guide and the commentary.
Step-by-step itinerary
Corroboree Billabong Sunset Cruise
- Drive 90 minutes from Darwin
- Board open-air vessel at Corroboree Billabong
- Cruise around Mary River Wetlands
- View saltwater crocodiles and birdlife
- Listen to guide's wildlife commentary
- Take photos of wildlife and sunset
What’s included
- Professional guide providing live commentary throughout the cruise.
- open-air vessel designed for close wildlife viewing and photography.
Times
Next departure: 1 Apr 2027
2 departing soon ›Before you book
Operated by Wetland Cruises
Prices and times updated 14 days ago
Traveler reviews
The experience
Corroboree Billabong sits 90 minutes' drive from Darwin on the road toward Kakadu, and the cruise departs as the light begins to soften. The billabong is part of the Mary River Wetlands and holds the largest concentration of saltwater crocodiles in the world. You'll see them cruising past the open-air vessel or basking on the banks. The sunset timing is deliberate: birds are catching their final meals and crocodiles are on the move for the night ahead, so the water is alive with hunting and feeding instead of the stillness of midday.
Your guide is experienced and speaks throughout the cruise, naming the species you pass: eagles, darters, kingfishers, egrets, jabiru, brolgas and many more. The open design of the boat puts you close enough to photograph the animals as they move, and the light itself becomes part of the show as it sinks below the horizon. This is the only company in the region running sunset cruises, so the timing and the wildlife activity are not something you'll find elsewhere on the billabong.
You'll need your own transport to reach the billabong from Darwin. The operator does not arrange pickup from the city. Bring your own drinks if you want them: beer, wine or soft drinks are welcome on board. Infants can travel in a pram or stroller, or sit on an adult's lap. Children must be with an adult at all times.
Is this one for you?This is a shared boat with a guide, not a private charter, so you're cruising with other passengers. Choose it if you want the expertise and the timing (sunset is when the predators and prey are both active), and you're comfortable driving yourself to the billabong from Darwin.
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Top questions
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 15 years); Infant (under 4): free.
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
What crocodiles will I see on the Corroboree Billabong cruise?
Saltwater crocodiles, which are the largest species in Australia and highly active at dusk. The billabong holds the world's largest concentration of them, and you'll see them both in the water and resting on the banks as the boat cruises past.
What birds can I expect to see during the sunset cruise?
The billabong is home to a huge variety of species, including eagles, darters, kingfishers, egrets, jabiru and brolgas. At sunset they are feeding and most active, giving you the best chance to spot and photograph them.
How far is Corroboree Billabong from Darwin, and do you arrange transport?
The billabong is 90 minutes' drive from Darwin on the way to Kakadu National Park. You'll need to arrange your own transport to reach it. The operator does not provide pickup or drop-off from the city.
Can I bring food and drinks on the cruise?
You're welcome to bring your own beer, wine or soft drinks on board. Food and drinks are not provided by the operator, so plan accordingly if you want to eat before or after the cruise.
Corroboree Billabong sunset cruise: Crocodiles and birdlife
2h · EN
from AU$ 99 per person
≈ US$ 70 in your currency
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