Tour ID: 10062462

Only two hours from Darwin by boat, and you will be taken to another world, a very interesting world. Be sure to visit the Tiwi Islands and learn all about their fascinating world, their history, culture, food & arts. This day and all your rich experiences will stay with you for a very long time.

  • Two hour cruise to Bathurst Island
  • Visit the aboriginal community of Nguiu
  • Learn all about the dreamtime stories
  • See artists at work at the Arts & Crafts Co-op
  • Stop at a wonderful lookout & learn different aspects of the culture

Ferry Crossing to Bathurst Island.
Today you’re up early to get started on a day that you’ll long remember. Make your own way to Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal to board your ferry – the “Tiwi Mantawi” and after a 2.5 hour cruise you’ll arrive at Bathurst Island. Upon arrival on Bathurst Island, you will meet your Local Guide who will take you on a journey through the progressive, modern day Aboriginal community (Wurrumiyanga).

The Museum.
First you will visit the museum with its interesting displays of traditional art and depictions of the Tiwi ‘dreamtime’ stories and Early Mission Precinct with its unique Tiwi style Catholic Church. Your guide will tell you about the colourful history of the early mission days and learn how the Tiwi people have blended their culture with Christianity.

Meet the Tiwi Ladies.
Spend time with some Tiwi Ladies while they work on their weaving and painting. Your guides and the ladies will also demonstrate their totem dances and perform a smoking ceremony to bless their visitors and explain the meanings behind them.

You will have the chance to sample some local billy tea and damper with your included lunch.

Arts and crafts co-operatives.
You will also be taken through the world-renowned Tiwi arts and crafts co-operatives and see where the artists work and possibly see some of them at work. You also have the opportunity to purchase Tiwi arts and crafts and screen-printed fabric at Island prices.

Lookout and burial site.
Stop at a picturesque lookout, which is the setting of a Tiwi burial site where we can learn some of the complex rituals associated with the Pukamani Poles (burial poles). Your guide will also share their knowledge about traditional bush tucker, bush medicine and the natural fibres and dyes used by the Tiwi people. Return back to the ferry landing to re-board your vessel, departing Bathurst Island for Darwin at 3.15 pm.



More Info

Tour Details

  • Included in price:

    Return Ferry to Bathurst Island, local guide, Lunch and museum entry.

  • Available for purchase/hire:

    Local arts and crafts.

  • Duration:

    Approximately 10hrs 15 mins

  • Departure:

    7:30 AM Mon, Thu, Fri

  • Return:

    5.45pm approximately to Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal, Darwin

  • Departure points:

    Darwin

  • Pickup/departure instructions:

    Make your own way to Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal to board your ferry by 7.00AM.

    The tour operates Thursday and Friday (excluding Public Holidays) from April to November, with an additional departure on Mondays from June to August.
    Tour does not operate from December to March.

  • What to bring:

    - Comfortable walking shoes
    - Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat
    - Water bottle
    - Camera
    - Jacket in cooler months
    - Small soft bag (no suitcases please)

  • Fitness level required:

    Not specified

  • Child policies:

    Children between the ages of 2-15 years will be applicable for child rates. Children under 2 years are considered infants and travel free of charge when seated on a parent or guardians lap.
    Children under 7 years cannot be seated in the first 2 rows of the tour vehicle. Child seats are unable to be used.

  • Additional Information:

    Transport to Bathurst Island is by ferry for this tour and is included in the price.

  • Destinations:

    Tiwi Islands

Booking dates