The Yellow Water (Ngurrungurrudjba) wetlands are part of the South Alligator River floodplain in the heart of Kakadu National Park. A Yellow Water Billabong Cruise is the ultimate way to experience the abundance of natural phenomena in this area and learn more about Kakadu’s living Indigenous culture.
The Indigenous-owned Yellow Water Cruises has exclusive use of the Yellow Water Billabong, operates year-round, and offers up to six departures a day from Cooinda which is 55km from Jabiru and the only town in Kakadu. Cruises depart from sunrise to sunset and wind their way through the various ecosystems of the billabong and river tributaries. You’ll discover Yellow Water’s extraordinary wildlife, including birdlife, kangaroos, and the impressive (and intimidating) saltwater crocodile. With dramatic scenery and an ever-changing landscape, a Yellow Water Billabong Cruise is by far the best way to experience Kakadu’s World Heritage-listed wetlands.
Australia's Top End and the Kimberley await with adventures to be had, dreamtime culture to enlighten and glorious nature to explore. Marvel at the termite mounds of Litchfield National Park, see Rock Art and cruise the Yellow Water wetlands in Kakadu, discover Katherine Gorge and the Ord River, soar above the Bungle Bungles, see the Derby Boab Tree for yourself, then finish with a camel ride on stunning Cable Beach.
Delve into Darwin and the Northern Territory’s epic Top End on this 8 day journey of discovery. From exploration on Tiwi Island, dreamtime legends to an Arnhem Land scenic flight, we have everything covered. We’ll marvel at the termite mounds of Litchfield National Park, see the Aboriginal rock art site of Burrungkuy and cruise the Yellow Water wetlands in Kakadu, take a thrilling Tom Curtain’s Katherine Outback Experience cruise and get a real taste of life at Seafood on Cullen Bay in Darwin.
Complete your visit to Kakadu with a Yellow Water Billabong Cruise. Considered the heart of Kakadu, Yellow Water Billabong is tucked away at the end of Jim Jim Creek, a tributary of the South Alligator River. The South Alligator river system is the largest in Kakadu and is made up of an intricate network of river channels, blackwater swamps, and floodplains. There is only one way to truly experience this vast region, and that is by water with a local guide whose in-depth knowledge of the region will keep you spellbound. Yellow Water Billabong Cruises offers just that.
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If time allows you may also consider booking more than one cruise during your visit to Kakadu. Not only do the changing seasons present an ever-changing view, throughout each day the different species showcase different habits. And don’t forget to pack your binoculars, because about one-third of Australia’s bird species can be found in Kakadu, and 60 species are found in the wetlands.
See our range of Northern Territory tours that stay in Cooinda and include a Yellow Water Billabong cruise in the tour package.
The cruise is a few minutes drive from Cooinda Lodge and easy to access.
Choose from either 90 or 120-minute cruises that depart up to six times a day (depending on the season) from Cooinda. The longer cruises take in sunrise or sunset and are extremely popular, so book early to secure your spot.
Birds to keep a lookout for include whistling ducks, magpie geese, and various kingfishers which can be seen in abundance. A little more elusive but often seen are Jabirus and, if you’re lucky, dancing Brolgas. Saltwater crocodiles can also be spotted lurking in the shadows.
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.
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