Tiwi Islands Cultural Experience from Darwin Including Ferry

Darwin , Australia

Tiwi Islands Cultural Experience from Darwin Including Ferry

Active

(96 reviews)

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit a modern-day Aboriginal community. It will provide you with an insight into the Tiwi people’s rich culture and lifestyle. The tour will reveal scenes seldom seen by many outsiders and will leave you with a lifetime memory. Many cities are blessed with island destinations close by, but only Darwin has the Tiwi Islands.

Available options

Tiwi Islands

What's included

Local billy tea and damper for morning tea

Return ferry from Darwin to Bathurst Island

Lunch

Visit the Tiwi Museum

Experienced driver guide

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Make your own way to the Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal, a five-minute drive from the CBD, and take the 2.5 hour cruise aboard the Tiwi Mantawi over to Bathurst Island.

Here you are met by your local Guide to be taken on a journey through the progressive, modern day Aboriginal community of Wurrumiyanga.

Stop 3

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. Hear about the colourful history of the early mission days and learn how Tiwi people have blended their culture with Christianity. Spend time with some Tiwi Ladies while they work on their weaving and painting. You will then get the chance to sample local billy tea and damper. Your guides and the ladies also demonstrate their totem dances and perform a smoking ceremony to bless the visitors and explain the meanings behind them. Be taken through the Arts & Crafts Centres and see where the artist’s work. You also have the opportunity to purchase Tiwi arts and crafts and screen-printed fabric at Island prices. Learn some of the complex rituals associated with the Pukamani (burial ceremony) before taken back to the ferry landing to re-board your vessel. You'll depart Bathurst Island for Darwin at 3.15 pm.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.1

58 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 3.6

38 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Guests need to make their own way to and from Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal as there is no pickup or drop off provided on this tour.

The tour will return to Darwin at approximately 17:45. This allows ample time for your departing flight from Darwin at 21:00

Make your way to the Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal, a five-minute drive from the CBD. Head to the ticket booth on the upper platform with a copy of your itinerary to be marked off by the Tiwi Island Ferry Staff (Sealink) and receive your ticket

Meeting point

Meet at Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal
Address: Ferry Terminal, Larrakeyah NT 0820
Return point: Returns to original departure point at 5:45pm

Important notes

No Hotel-Picks available for this tour, please meet at Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal at 7:20 am for check-in

Arts & crafts at island prices - Locally made artwork, fabric and artefacts can be purchased on the island during your tour. Please ensure you bring cash for purchases as there is no facility for EFTPOS/Credit Card.

About Darwin

Darwin is the capital of Australia's Northern Territory, known for its unique blend of multiculturalism, stunning natural beauty, and rich Indigenous heritage. The city offers a gateway to the Outback, World Heritage-listed national parks, and a vibrant tropical lifestyle.

Top Attractions

Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory

Showcases the natural and cultural history of the Northern Territory, including Indigenous art and the story of Cyclone Tracy.

Museum 2-3 hours AUD 10-20

Darwin Waterfront Precinct

A lively area with a wave pool, restaurants, and bars, offering a great place to relax and enjoy the tropical atmosphere.

Entertainment Half day Free (activities may have separate costs)

Litchfield National Park

A stunning national park featuring waterfalls, termite mounds, and scenic walking trails.

Nature Full day AUD 10 entry fee

Crocosaurus Cove

A unique wildlife park offering close encounters with crocodiles, including the famous 'Cage of Death' experience.

Adventure 2-3 hours AUD 20-40

Mindil Beach Sunset Market

A vibrant market offering local food, crafts, and live music, set against the backdrop of stunning sunset views.

Cultural Evening Free entry, food and crafts for purchase

Must-Try Local Dishes

Mango Chicken

A tropical dish featuring grilled chicken with a sweet and tangy mango sauce.

Main Course Contains poultry and dairy

Barramundi

A local fish, often grilled or fried, with a delicate flavor.

Main Course Gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be prepared to be nut-free

Kangaroo

A lean and flavorful meat, often grilled or served in stews.

Main Course Gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be prepared to be nut-free

Pineapple and Lime Smoothie

A refreshing blend of tropical fruits, perfect for the hot climate.

Drink Vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free

Popular Activities

Hiking in Litchfield National Park Boat tours in Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) Crocodile encounters at Crocosaurus Cove Sunset cruises on Darwin Harbour Spa treatments at luxury resorts Beach relaxation at Casuarina Beach Visiting Indigenous art galleries Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

May to September

The dry season offers ideal weather for outdoor activities, festivals, and exploring the natural attractions.

20-32°C 68-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, Indigenous languages, Asian languages
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

GMT+9:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Darwin is generally safe for travelers, but caution should be exercised in certain areas and situations.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of crocodiles and other wildlife
• Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas
• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure

Getting there

By air

Darwin International Airport • 13 km from city center

By bus

Darwin Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with services running frequently during the day.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

CBD (Central Business District) Parap Fannie Bay Nightcliff

Day trips

Litchfield National Park

100 km from Darwin • Full day

A stunning national park featuring waterfalls, termite mounds, and scenic walking trails.

Kakadu National Park

250 km from Darwin • Full day or overnight

A World Heritage-listed national park offering stunning landscapes, Indigenous rock art, and diverse wildlife.

Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge)

300 km from Darwin • Full day or overnight

A stunning gorge system offering breathtaking landscapes and adventure activities.

Festivals

Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair • August Darwin Festival • August Mindil Beach Sunset Market • May to October (Thursday and Sunday evenings)

Pro tips

Visit during the dry season (May to October) for the best weather and outdoor activities
Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season
Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting Indigenous sites and communities
Be cautious of wildlife, especially crocodiles, and follow safety guidelines
Use public transport or walk to minimize your environmental impact