small pin icon
Destination
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
small switches icon
Tour type
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
small calendar icon
Departure Month
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
small clock icon
Tour duration
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
small walking icon
Physical rating
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

The amazing Buccaneer Archipelago

A thousand rugged, pristine islands

Home to one of the world’s natural wonders

The Buccaneer Archipelago consists of close to one thousand islands and lies off the coast of Western Australia, north of the town of Derby, in the Kimberley region. These remote and mostly uninhabited islands have pristine sandy beaches contrasted by rugged terrain. The tides in this region are the largest in the tropics. Along with whirlpools, they can create treacherous conditions for those navigating these waters.

These powerful tides also create the Buccaneer Archipelago’s most fascinating phenomenon and one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, the Horizontal Falls in Talbot Bay. Known as Garaanngaddim by traditional owners the Dambimangari, the Horizontal Falls are created by fast-moving tidal currents squeezing through two narrow gorges at an incredible rate to form what appear like waterfalls turned on their side.

See the Buccaneer Archipelago on a Fun Over 50 holiday to WA

Physical rating icon
Physical rating:
3 - Active/Moderate
Tour duration icon
Tour duration:
6
days

Welcome to an unforgettable journey to Broome, Western Australia's hidden gem. Immerse yourself in the beauty and excitement of this unique destination. Explore the Buccaneer Archipelago on a thrilling seaplane flight to Talbot Bay, where you'll witness the awe-inspiring Horizontal Falls up close. Dive into the world of pearls with a guided tour of the Willie Creek Pearl Farm, including a scenic cruise. Experience the magic of a sunset camel ride along Cable Beach and uncover the secrets of the ancient world with a visit to 120 million-year-old dinosaur footprints. Cruise the pristine waters of Talbot Bay and admire the architectural wonder of Beagle Bay Church. Journey to the tip of the Dampier Peninsula, explore Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm, and be captivated by the marine wonders at One Arm Point Trochus Hatchery and Aquarium. With expert guidance and a memorable culinary journey included, this is your ticket to an unforgettable Broome adventure. Join us and create memories that will last a lifetime!

A jaw-droppingly beautiful destination

The unspoiled Buccaneer Archipelago has so much to offer visitors to the northwest region of Western Australia. 

Largely untouched due to their isolation and difficulty to access, the simply stunning islands of Buccaneer Archipelago feature rugged red rock faces, secluded beaches and patches of mangroves and rainforest on a backdrop of the most vivid turquoise ocean.

The islands' rocks and high cliffs of Precambrian sandstone are estimated to be over 2 billion years old. The closest inhabited spot to the Buccaneer Archipelago is Bardi, also known as Ardyaloon or One Arm Point, an Aboriginal community town on the Dampier Peninsula about 54 kilometres away.

A thousand rugged, pristine islands

A natural phenomenon  

Now a first-rate cruising and fishing destination, Buccaneer Archipelago’s massive tidal range of over 12 metres once wreaked havoc on the pearling fleet that worked the waters in the last century. Many sailors lost their lives due to the unpredictable conditions, as is evident in the tombstones scattered throughout the islands.

Buccaneer Archipelago’s most popular tours are to Horizontal Waterfall, described by David Attenborough as one of the world’s great natural wonders. Horizontal Falls is a phenomenon that’s mysterious, mesmerising, and magnificent and a must-see on your visit to the Buccaneer Archipelago.

Join us on a Kimberley tour to explore the wonders of the Buccaneer Archipelago.

Frequently asked questions

How much distance does the Buccaneer Archipelago cover?

Covering over 50 square kilometres, the islands of the archipelago stretch out between King Sound and Collier Bay. 

Where did the name originate?

The interesting name of the archipelago came from Naval Officer Philip Parker King in 1821 to honour William Dampier, an English buccaneer, privateer, and some would say pirate, who charted the area in 1688.

Who are the traditional owners of the archipelago?

The traditional owners of the area are the Mayala group made up of the Yawijibaya and Unggarranggu people. The Bardi people have the traditional rights of fishing and trochus - sea snails valued for the mother-of-pearl layer to their shells.

See nearby cities, sights, and festivals

Get in touch if you have any questions

Our team is always happy to help if you have any questions about us or our tours. Fill out our form and we will get back to you soon.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.