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Exmouth AustraliaCruise Port Guide

Upcoming cruises to Exmouth

Exmouth, Australia, serves as the primary gateway to the renowned Ningaloo Reef. Cruise ships are unable to dock directly at the port and will instead tender passengers ashore to the Novotel Hotel. From this tender point, transportation options are available to reach the town center, which is located about two miles away.

Originally established to support a communications base, Exmouth has successfully reinvented itself as a top tourism destination, with tourism now being the major industry. The town provides easy access to the Ningaloo Reef, where you can snorkel in shallow waters directly from the beach or venture offshore for fishing. Be aware that emus are known to wander through Exmouth's main streets and parks.

Getting Around from the Port

Upon arrival, cruise passengers are tendered to the Novotel Hotel. The Exmouth town center is approximately two miles from this tender drop-off point.

  • Walking: It is possible to walk from the Novotel to the town center. However, Exmouth is fairly spread out, and walking long distances, especially from one side of town to the other, can be quite a trek, particularly during the hot summer months.
  • Shuttle Buses: Shuttle buses are typically available to transport passengers from the Novotel Hotel tender point into the town center. Check with your cruise line for detailed schedules and any associated costs.
  • Taxis: Taxis are usually available at the tender drop-off area at the Novotel Hotel for transport to the town center or other destinations.

Attractions and Activities

Exmouth's main attractions revolve around the stunning Ningaloo Reef and its surrounding natural environment.

  • Ningaloo Reef Snorkeling & Diving: This is a highlight, allowing you to simply don a mask and snorkel and swim out into shallow waters to see the reef. Dive shops in town can arrange boat trips for more extensive scuba diving and snorkeling experiences.
  • Swimming with Whale Sharks/Whale Watching: Depending on the season, you can book boat tours for unique wildlife encounters, such as swimming with whale sharks (typically March to July) or whale watching (generally June to October).
  • Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: For those who prefer to stay dry, glass-bottom boats offer an excellent way to view the colorful corals and marine life of the Ningaloo Reef without getting in the water.
  • Fishing Charters: Exmouth is renowned for its offshore fishing. Various operators offer charters for those looking to catch a prized fish.
  • Sea Kayaking & Wildlife Spotting: Explore the coastline and discover secluded beaches and reef sections via sea kayak. Opportunities for wildlife spotting are abundant in the surrounding national parks and arid landscapes.
  • Tip: Compare excursions offered by your cruise line with independent tour operators found online (e.g., GetYourGuide, Viator) to find the best fit for your interests and budget.

Dining

You'll find a selection of coffee shops and casual eateries in town. *

Shopping

Basic amenities include supermarkets, which are open 7 days a week. There are also several dive shops for any gear you might need for the reef, and a couple of fashion stores. Souvenir options will primarily focus on the Ningaloo Reef and local wildlife.

Weather

Exmouth enjoys a semi-arid climate with over 300 days of sunshine a year, with the prime cruising season during the Australian winter from April to October when daytime temperatures range comfortably between 77°F and 86°F (25°C to 30°C). Cyclone season runs from November to April when ships rarely visit, and even outside this period the sun is extremely strong. Passengers should pack lightweight, breathable clothing, plenty of high-SPF sunscreen, and a hat for this remote coastal destination.

Average Temperature (°F)
9476Jan9478Feb9478Mar8975Apr8269May7564Jun7562Jul7863Aug8365Sep8868Oct8970Nov9474Dec
Average Precipitation (in)
0.21Jan0.8Feb1.52Mar0.72Apr1.62May2.42Jun0.69Jul0.26Aug0.26Sep0.01Oct0.08Nov0.08Dec

Top Attractions

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Cape Range National Park
A rugged and spectacular park featuring limestone ranges, deep canyons, and 50 km of pristine beaches. Offers hiking, scenic drives, and abundant wildlife spotting.
Turquoise Bay
Renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral gardens, perfect for drift snorkeling. Visitors can swim with abundant fish just meters from the shore.
Yardie Creek Gorge
A permanent waterhole in a spectacular gorge, offering boat tours to see unique rock wallabies and diverse birdlife. There are also short walking trails along the rim.
Mandu Mandu Gorge
A challenging but rewarding 3 km loop hike through a dry riverbed and along the gorge rim, offering panoramic views of the gorge and the Ningaloo Reef coastline.
Ningaloo Reef
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this fringing coral reef is famous for its seasonal whale shark encounters and vibrant marine biodiversity. Snorkel or dive directly from the beach to explore its rich underwater world.
Vlamingh Head Lighthouse
A historic lighthouse offering stunning panoramic views of the Ningaloo Reef and the Indian Ocean. It's a popular spot for sunset viewing and whale watching during migration season.
Jurabi Turtle Centre
An interpretive centre dedicated to the marine turtles of the Ningaloo Coast. Offers educational displays and guided turtle nesting tours during the breeding season (November-March).
Charles Knife Canyon
A scenic drive along a winding unsealed road offering breathtaking views into the deep, colourful gorges of Cape Range National Park and out to the Ningaloo Reef.
Shothole Canyon
Another spectacular scenic drive within Cape Range National Park, providing access to stunning lookouts over ancient riverbeds and dramatic canyon landscapes.
SS Mildura Wreck
The remains of a tanker shipwreck, visible from the shore at low tide and accessible for snorkeling. It's home to a variety of marine life.
Bundegi Beach
A calm, sheltered beach ideal for families, swimming, and beginner snorkeling. It's also a popular spot for launching kayaks and paddleboards.
Sandy Bay
A beautiful, expansive white sand beach with shallow, clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and popular with kitesurfers due to consistent breezes.
Exmouth Marina
The main hub for marine activities, offering various boat tours for fishing, diving, and whale shark encounters. It's also a pleasant spot for a stroll and dining.
Town Beach
The closest beach to Exmouth town, offering calm waters for swimming and a convenient spot for a quick dip or relaxing by the shore.