Ord River Cruise & Lake Argyle: Fast-Boat, Wildlife, Sunset

Summary

East Kimberley’s wild river country by boat with local stories

You’ll ride from Kununurra across Durack country with hotel pickup, explore the historic Argyle Downs Homestead Museum (with pumpkin scones!), then board a fast-boat for 55km down the Ord River spotting crocs and birdlife before drifting into sunset near Kununurra. Expect laughter, quiet moments, and scenery that lingers long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

It was one of those afternoons where you blink and suddenly you’re standing outside your hotel in Kununurra, squinting at the sun while the Triple J Tours coach pulls up. I barely had time to finish my coffee before we were rolling through Durack country — red earth everywhere, birds darting low over the road. Our driver, Steve, pointed out a wedge-tailed eagle circling above. He said they’re kind of like royalty around here. I tried to get a photo but mostly caught my own thumb.

The stop at Argyle Downs Homestead Museum was quieter than I expected — just us and a couple from Perth wandering between old stone walls. There’s this faint smell of eucalyptus and dust inside, mixed with something sweet from the scones they set out for us (pumpkin scones, which I didn’t know were a thing). Li laughed when I tried to say “Ord” like a local — apparently it’s more of an “awd,” not “ord.” The museum itself is full of family photos and cattle gear; it feels lived-in somehow.

After that it was a short drive up to the Ord Top Dam. The view over Lake Argyle made me stop talking for once — just blue water stretching way further than I thought possible out here. Then we boarded the boat for what our guide called “the fun bit.” He wasn’t kidding. The first stretch is fast and loud; wind in your face, water slapping past rock walls so close you could almost touch them (don’t). Somewhere along those 55km back to Kununurra, everything slows down: pelicans gliding by, freshwater crocs sunning themselves on muddy banks (they really do look fake until they move), and this sense that you’re floating through someone else’s story.

I still think about that sunset — all orange light catching on the river as we drifted home. There was fruit and muffins passed around (I went for seconds), people swapping stories about what they’d seen. It felt like nobody wanted to be the first to start talking again after the quiet hit just before dusk. And then we were back in town almost too soon.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Lake Argyle cruise and sunset

• Coach pickup from accommodation
• Travel 70km to Lake Argyle
• Visit Argyle Downs Homestead Museum
• Drive to Ord Top Dam viewpoint
• Board boat at Ord Top Dam
• Cruise 55km back to Kununurra
• Enjoy wildlife and scenic views
• Watch East Kimberley sunset

Top questions

How long is the Ord River cruise from Lake Argyle to Kununurra?

The scenic cruise covers 55 kilometers between Lake Argyle and Kununurra.

Is pickup included for this Ord River tour?

Yes, hotel pickup from your accommodation in Kununurra is included.

What food is provided during the day trip?

You’ll get fruit, pumpkin scones, and a muffin as part of your tour snacks.

Are there any stops before boarding the boat?

Yes, there’s a stop at Argyle Downs Homestead Museum near Lake Argyle.

Will we see wildlife during the cruise?

Yes, expect to see birds and freshwater crocodiles along the riverbanks.

Is this Ord River cruise suitable for all ages?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels; infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

How far is Lake Argyle from Kununurra?

The drive covers about 70 kilometers across East Kimberley landscape.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your accommodation in Kununurra, comfortable coach transport across Durack country to Lake Argyle with a visit to Argyle Downs Homestead Museum (and homemade pumpkin scones), then a fast-boat cruise back down the Ord River with fruit and muffins served onboard before returning around sunset.