Darwin Shore Excursion: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

Darwin , Australia

Darwin Shore Excursion: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

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(61 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

See the sights at your own pace when your cruise ship docks in Darwin, with your choice of a 24-hour or 48-hour hop-on hop-off pass. Conveniently departing from the cruise ship terminal at Fort Hill Wharf, your hop-on hop-off tour stops at 11 locations around Darwin, including Crocosaurus Cove, the waterfront precinct and Military Museum. Enjoy panoramic views from the open-top double-decker bus, and listen to an entertaining on-board commentary and design your own shore excursion itinerary.

Available options

24 Hour Ticket

Darwin Hop-on Hop-off bus. Includes both the 60 and 90 minute tours and is valid for 24 hours from first use.

What's included

24-hour pass

Pre recorded commentary on board

What you'll see

When your cruise ships docks in Darwin, join your hop-on hop-off tour at Fort Hill Wharf Cruise Ship Terminal (stop 10), conveniently located outside the cruise ship terminal. Hop on or off at the sights of your choice and spend as long as you like exploring Darwin’s many attractions, or stay on board to enjoy full 60-minute and 90-minute city tours.

The 60-minute morning tour departs every 30 minutes. The extended 90-minute afternoon tour departs every 45 minutes, and includes East Point Reserve and an additional stop at the Military Museum.

You can hop on and off as many times as you like to explore Darwin's main attractions including Crocosaurus Cove, Doctor's Gully, Cullen Bay Marina, Darwin Military Museum and the Waterfront Precinct.

This excursion is located within a 5-minute walk to the cruise port, so you determine the time you return to your ship in Darwin. Please allow yourself ample time to enjoy the excursion and ensure your timely return to the port.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Not covered by Viator’s worry-free policy: guaranteed on-time return to your ship

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

47 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.4

14 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Infants aged 0 to 4 years travel free of charge

Meeting point

Purchase Tickets from the Hop-on Hop-off Booth at corner of Smith and Bennett st.

Important notes

Departure point:You can pick up the bus for any of our 12 central locations listed, lease visit the Big Bus Website for further details for the locations.

Customers are advised to visit the Big Bus website to find out more about our new health and safety measures and for the most update service information.

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