Cruise Port Day PlannerCruise Port Day Planner
Find Cruises Plan a Cruise My Trips Port Guides

Broome AustraliaCruise Port Guide

Upcoming cruises to Broome

Broome is located in northwest Western Australia, on the Indian Ocean. Originally a pearling town, it boasts a unique history and natural attractions. Due to a significant tidal range of up to 10 meters (33 ft), the area features extensive mudflats and mangrove swamps. Upon arrival, cruise passengers will be met by a free local bus service at the pier, which provides transfers to the Visitor Center in town. This bus operates throughout the day for convenient transport back and forth. The pier itself is approximately 5 km from the town center. Broome is known for its beautiful beaches, the seasonal "Staircase to the Moon" optical illusion, and ancient dinosaur footprints visible at low tide.

Getting Around from the Port

Upon docking, a complimentary local bus will pick up passengers directly from the pier and transfer them to the Visitor Center in Broome town center, which is 5 km away. This free shuttle service runs continuously throughout the day, facilitating easy access between the ship and town. For exploring Broome beyond the Visitor Center, the Pearl Town Bus Service offers a Day Pass for $10, providing unlimited travel on the day of issue. This pass is particularly useful as it includes services to view the 'Staircase to the Moon'.

Attractions and Activities

With 8-10 hours in Broome, consider these independent activities:

  • Explore Broome Town: Wander through the historic town, visit local shops, and soak in the atmosphere.
  • Cable Beach: Head to one of Broome's most famous beaches. You can relax, swim, or opt for a memorable camel ride along the shoreline, especially popular around sunset.
  • Staircase to the Moon: If your visit coincides with this seasonal phenomenon (caused by moonlight reflecting off exposed mudflats at low tide), it's a unique spectacle. The Pearl Town Bus Service Day Pass ($10) includes transport for this event.
  • Dinosaur Footprints at Gantheaume Point: At low tide, you can see ancient dinosaur footprints preserved in the reef rock at Gantheaume Point, located west of town.
  • Pearling: Given Broome's history, look for opportunities to learn about and purchase local cultured pearls. It's advisable to compare independent tour options from providers like GetYourGuide and Viator with those offered by your cruise line.

Dining & Shopping

Broome is renowned for its pearls, making them the primary local souvenir and a significant shopping focus. You'll find numerous establishments specializing in cultured pearls. General shop opening hours in Broome are typically Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, and Saturday mornings until lunchtime. In larger towns and cities across Australia, some shops offer late-night trading on Thursday or Friday evenings, usually until 9 pm, and shopping malls are often open on Sundays. For quick and reliable internet access, McDonald's in town offers free WiFi.

Weather

Broome experiences a tropical climate with most cruise ships visiting during the dry season from May to October, when warm, sunny days with temperatures around 86°F (30°C) and lower humidity are the norm. The wet season from November to April brings high humidity, monsoonal rains, and potential cyclones. Passengers should pack lightweight clothing, high-SPF sunscreen, and a hat, as the sun can be intense even during the cooler dry months.

Average Temperature (°F)
8981Jan9081Feb9281Mar9478Apr9071May8567Jun8465Jul8767Aug9072Sep9177Oct9280Nov9282Dec
Average Precipitation (in)
12.19Jan4.05Feb2.85Mar0.77Apr0.71May0.25Jun0.02Jul0.19Aug0.07Sep0.11Oct0.57Nov3.78Dec

Safety

No specific safety concerns beyond standard travel precautions are noted for Broome.

Currency and Language

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Top Attractions

Show map
Horizontal Falls
Horizontal Falls are a natural phenomenon caused by intense tidal currents squeezing through two narrow coastal gorges. Visitors can take a thrilling boat tour through the falls, experiencing the power of the rushing water up close.
Broome Historical Museum
The Broome Historical Museum showcases the town's rich history, including its pearling industry heritage, indigenous culture, and World War II connections. Visitors can explore exhibits, artifacts, and photographs that bring the past to life.
Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park
The Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park offers visitors the chance to see saltwater crocodiles up close in a safe and educational environment. The park also features other native wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and snakes, making it a popular family-friendly attraction.
Staircase to the Moon
Staircase to the Moon is a natural phenomenon that occurs when the full moon rises over the exposed mudflats of Roebuck Bay, creating a stunning optical illusion of a staircase leading to the moon. Visitors can witness this magical event from various vantage points in Broome.
Broome Bird Observatory
The Broome Bird Observatory is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 300 species of birds recorded in the area. Visitors can participate in guided birdwatching tours, learn about local conservation efforts, and enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings.
Rowley Shoals Marine Park
A pristine marine park featuring three coral atolls rising from deep ocean, offering world-class diving, snorkeling, and fishing with abundant marine life.
Cape Leveque
Famous for its striking red pindan cliffs contrasting with white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Offers cultural tours, fishing, and swimming.
Japanese Cemetery
The Japanese Cemetery in Broome is a poignant reminder of the town's multicultural history, particularly its connections to the pearling industry. Visitors can pay their respects to the Japanese divers who lost their lives in the pursuit of pearls.
Broome Courthouse Markets
The Broome Courthouse Markets are a vibrant weekly market where visitors can browse stalls selling local arts, crafts, food, and souvenirs. The markets also feature live music, entertainment, and a friendly community atmosphere.
Cable Beach
A world-renowned 22-kilometer stretch of white sand, famous for camel rides at sunset, swimming, and relaxing by the Indian Ocean.
Gantheaume Point
A scenic headland featuring ancient dinosaur footprints visible at low tide, striking red rock formations, and a historic lighthouse.
Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm
Australia's oldest operating pearl farm, offering tours to learn about pearling history, witness pearl harvesting, and purchase exquisite South Sea pearls.
Willie Creek Pearl Farm
Discover the fascinating process of pearl farming on a guided tour, including boat cruises on Willie Creek and insights into the cultivation of South Sea pearls.
80 Mile Beach
A vast, pristine stretch of coastline renowned for its incredible birdlife, fishing opportunities, and spectacular sunsets over the Indian Ocean.
Lacepede Archipelago
A group of four low-lying islands and reefs, a significant breeding ground for seabirds and turtles, offering excellent snorkeling and wildlife viewing.