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Horizontal falls, described by david attenborough as “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world”, horizontal falls is a natural phenomenon that is as intriguing as it is stunning..

In the turquoise water of Talbot Bay, the fast moving tidal current squeezes through two narrow gorges of the McLarty Range, pushing the water into rapid like formations which rush through the twin gaps at an astonishing rate, producing waterfalls turned on their side.

The powerful tides in the  Kimberley  can reach more than 10 metres and the direction of the flow reverses ensuring the water flows two different ways each day. 

Located in the Buccaneer Archipelago this unique waterfall is not accessible by vehicle. You can view the Horizontal Falls from the air with a scenic flight from  Broome  or  Derby  all year round. Get up close with an extended cruise or visit by float plane and land at the Horizontal Falls and hold on tight as you take a thrilling boat ride through the rushing water torrents.

While tidal movements are all year round, tour operators can advise on the best times to view the falls as some times are better than others to get the full impact of the rushing waters.

Horizontal Falls Boat Tours

Take to the air to see the spectacular Horizontal Waterfalls in Talbot Bay from the air, before joining a boat tour to take an exhilarating ride through them! Choose to depart from Broome or Derby, with overnight options and 4 day adventures also available.

Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures

Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures is the only Horizontal Falls adventure where you can soar in a seaplane, experience the horizontal waterfalls in a cruise boat and soak up the amazing surrounds of…

KAS Helicopters

KAS Helicopters' mission is to give visitors the experience of a lifetime, showcasing the best the Kimberley has to offer from a unique aerial perspective, with highly skilled, experienced pilots…

Horizontal Falls Day Cruise

Kimberley day cruises.

EXPERIENCE THE KIMBERLEY IN A DAY DEPARTING FROM BROOME AND CYGNET BAY TICKETS FROM $1075pp Embark on an unforgettable journey and explore the Kimberley in a single…

Horizontal Falls Scenic flights

Fly over the Horizontal Waterfalls on a range of half and full day scenic flight itineraries departing from Broome. Choose from scenic flight only options, or tours which include on the ground experiences on the Dampier Peninsula. 

Broome Aviation

Join us on the most spectacular scenic flights in the Kimberley. Broome Aviation has operated air tours in the Kimberley since 1982, and we're proud of our excellent level of safety and customer…

Air Kimberley

Air Kimberley has been flying the skies of Western Australia for 29 years, exploring ancient cultures, beautiful landscapes, and stunning natural attractions. Our passion is to connect people to the…

Horizontal Falls Cruises 

Visit the Horizontal Falls as part of an Extended Kimberley Coast Cruise

APT Kimberley Small Ship Expedition Cruising

Secluded gorges, tumbling falls and towering rock faces – explore the rugged Kimberley…

True North Adventure Cruises

The TRUE NORTH conducts adventures all around the magnificent Australian coastline and in the…

Lady M Luxury Cruises

the Kimberley experience... Accommodating only 12 guests in en-suite air-conditioned cabins…

One Tide Charters

At One Tide Charter cruises have been designed for travellers who still have a spark in their…

What are the Horizontal Falls?

The Horizontal Falls are fast moving tidal currents that squeeze through two narrow gorges of the McLarty Range in Talbot Bay, located in the Buccaneer Archipelago. They are waterfalls ‘turned on their side’.

Are the Horizontal Falls accessible by vehicle?

The Horizontal Falls are not accessible by vehicle. You can view the Horizontal Falls from the air with a scenic flight or helicopter flight from Broome or Derby. There are also tours that include the flight from Broome or Derby (some by float plane) and a speed boat ride to and through the Falls themselves. 

Do tours to the Horizontal Falls run year-round?

Tours which include the speed boat ride through the Falls run seasonally, from around March to November each year.  Scenic flight tours which include an overfly of the Horizontal Falls run year-round. 

Do the Horizontal Falls flow in one direction?

The direction of the flow reverses according to the tides, which can reach more than 10 metres in the Kimberley. The  falls are also reversible. Each day, when the tide turns, the falls flow in the opposite direction.

What is the difference in tides at the Horizontal Falls?

Daily tidal flow through the Horizontal Falls can be more than 10m on each tide. There are spring tides and neap tides. During spring tides the water flows rapidly through the falls. During neap tides there is a weak tidal movement so those on a boat will experience a more mellow water flow. King Tides occur twice a year –between March and April and again between September and October, and at these times the difference between high and low tides is even greater. 

How wide are the Horizontal Falls?

The most seaward opening is around 20 metres wide and the more inland gorge is around 12 metres wide.

Is a tour to the Horizontal Falls suitable for families with children?

Yes, we advise contacting the tour operator about the minimum age of children.

How long is the flight from Broome or Derby to the Horizontal Falls?

The flight from Broome to Talbot Bay takes approximately 1hr 15 minutes. Flights departing from Derby take approximately 40 minutes.

How long is a tour to the Horizontal Falls?

Tours to the Horizontal Falls are of different durations - half-day,  full-day, overnight and 24 hour stays, depending on the tour operator and tour option chosen.  

What is the temperature at the Horizontal Falls?

The average temperature is about 33 degrees Celsius, though cruising on the water will bring fresh air.

What is the cultural value of the Horizontal Falls?

The Horizontal Falls are situated in the ancestral country of the saltwater Dambimangari people. The land is Aboriginal Reserve Land, reserved for the use and benefit of Aboriginal people, and they have exclusive possession native title over the area. The Dambimangari people chose the name Lalang-garram, being a Worrorra word meaning ‘the saltwater as a spiritual place as well as a place of natural abundance’, relating to the ocean in a general sense. The Lalang-garram /Horizontal Falls Marine Park was created in 2016 as part of the Kimberley Science and Conservation Strategy.

7-Course Menu

Visit the horizontal Falls

One-day journey

Uncover the wonders of the Kimberley Coast & Horizontal Falls in a single day.

“The most breathtaking scenery I’ve ever seen, highly recommend this bucket list adventure.”

Alice Cannan

“Amazing from sunrise to sunset, this will remain in our memories forever!”

Cathy Stewart

“Fantastic boat with an awesome crew. Thanks for an incredibly memorable day.”

Dun Hulands

Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of the Kimberley in a brand new way.

For the first time ever, we’re offering visitors the chance to take a one day journey to the Horizontal Falls on our state-of-the-art vessel, Ohana, purpose-built for your comfort and safety to marvel at the wonders of the Buccaneer Archipelago. Offering depatures from Broome & Cygnet Bay.

Day Cruise from Broome

14 hours (approx), from $1,225, day cruise from cygnet bay, 8 hours (approx).

Overnight Accommodation Package

48 hours (approx), from $1460pp, experience the sacred horizontal falls.

Embark on a remarkable one day journey from Broome or Cygnet Bay to witness the awe-inspiring Horizontal Falls, also known as Garaanngaddim. Carved by massive tidal shifts, these stunning oceanic formations in Western Australia’s Kimberley Region hold sacred significance for the Dambeemangarddee Traditional Owners.

While visitors are welcomed, it is essential to respect their cultural protocols and refrain from traversing the falls during high tides. The falls are believed to embody the Woongudd, the Creator Snake, and are revered as a symbol of ancient connections between land and sea. 

Meet the Team

Discover the wonders of the Buccaneer Archipelago through the eyes of the team behind Kimberley Day Cruise.

Trip Planner

• Accommodation

HORIZONTAL FALLS SEAPLANE ADVENTURES

Price from $199.

• Hangar, 14 Gus Winckel Rd, Djugun WA 6725

Experience a trip of a lifetime with Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures!

Trust our multi-award-winning experience for your Horizontal Falls and Kimberley seaplane adventure.

As the only operator based at the Horizontal Falls, we provide the most extensive range of Horizontal Falls tours departing from Broome, Cygnet Bay and Derby.

The horizontal falls are a natural phenomenon which is constantly changing with the tide. Due to our unique positioning of the horizontal hotel based at the falls we are able to time all of our Horizontal Falls experiences around the peak flow periods of each tour.

Whether it be half day, full day or overnight tour we have something to suit everyone. Departing on one of our luxury turboprop Jet Seaplanes to experience a spectacular scenic flight over the Buccaneer Archipelago and an exciting landing onto the calm waters of Talbot Bay. In our state of the art seaplanes, we offer the lowest scenic flight in the Kimberley with being able to fly lower than any other aircraft due to our ability to land on the water - making this the premium scenic flight for photography.

Once you've landed, experience first-hand the incredible tidal power of this natural phenomenon as you are taken through the falls with our highly experienced skippers. Relax as you cruise the surrounding bays and creeks of this pristine wilderness area. Enjoy cooked breakfast or BBQ Barramundi lunch. Meet face to face our friendly resident sharks as you take a refreshing swim in one of our huge shark free cages.

Or choose to extend your stay on one of our overnight options on our luxury Houseboat, having time to capture the tranquillity of the vast Kimberley.

Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures has been providing luxury, adventure tours in the Kimberley since 2006, and has risen to be a National multi award winning operation.

Location & Directions

Cancellation policy.

Terms and Conditions:

HORIZONTAL FALLS SEAPLANE ADVENTURES PAYMENT TERMS AND CONDITIONS

1. INDIVIDUAL BOOKINGS (FIT) – applying to all FIT bookings

CONFIRMED BOOKING: Your booking is confirmed when:

(1) you have made the booking, complete with all information required

(2) we have received your payment or where post departure payment terms are in place

(3) the booking status is listed as “Confirmed” on the Booking Confirmation email sent to you

2. GROUP BOOKINGS

The following definitions apply and will be considered a Group Booking. Groups Terms and Conditions will apply to all Group bookings and will be provided as part of the Group Booking Contract.

(1) Bookings of 11 or more persons,

(2) Bookings for multiple/re-occurring departure dates eg tour series allotments (irrespective of guest numbers)

3. BEFORE YOU CAN TRAVEL

WEIGHT RESTRICTIONS

All guests must declare their accurate body weight at time of booking to ensure safe and balanced loading of the aircraft. All guests will be weighed at boarding and will be refused boarding if their weight is over the declared weight on the booking and no refunds will be provided.

We are not able to accommodate last minute weight increases on the existing bookings. If your weight has increased, please contact our Reservations team minimum 14 days prior to tour departure in order to discuss options or cancel your booking and receive full refund.

Separately to the weight declaration, for safety reasons, we cannot carry passengers weighing more than 120kg.

All weights are recorded in KG’s

SEATING RESTRICTIONS

Passengers can request to be seated together on the same aircraft; however, this is not guaranteed due to strict weight limits per aircraft. Multiple aircrafts carry passengers on the same tour each day, therefore on rare occasions, larger parties may need to be split up depending on individual passenger weights and prior notice will be given. Children (aged 4-12 years) and parents are guaranteed to always be seated on the same aircraft.

For safety reasons, minimum age for Guests is 4 years and all children must be accompanied by an adult carer.

The boat ride through the horizontal falls may not be suitable for women over 26 weeks pregnant.

FITNESS FOR TRAVEL

You must ensure that you are medically and physically fit for travel. Before you confirm your booking, you must advise us of any medical or physical condition(s) that may require medical attention, medication, or special treatment during your tour.

If a guest has a condition that we decide may significantly affect the enjoyment, health or safety of themselves or any other person on board, we can refuse or cancel a booking.

Any guests unsure about their fitness for travel should seek medical advice prior to booking and advise our Reservations team minimum 14 days prior to tour departure. We are not able to provide refunds for bookings cancelled within 14 days prior to tour departure if the medical condition/fitness to travel status was not communicated to us at the time of booking.

We are not able to accept guests with crutches, walkers or wheelchairs, as they would not be able to be carried onboard a seaplane and on any other part of the tour. Guests must be able to walk reasonable distances unassisted, climb several stairs at various locations on tour, be able to keep balance onboard our floating pontoon and be able to keep up with the pace of the tour.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

We strongly recommend that all guests arrange their own travel insurance prior to travel to cover any unforeseen circumstances, cancelation, lost or damaged property and emergency medical treatment.

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS

All dietary requirements must be advised at the time of booking. Whilst we endeavour to accommodate all requests, there is still a risk of cross contamination as all food is prepared in the same kitchen. If in doubt, please contact our Reservations Team directly.

DANGEROUS GOODS

Your luggage must not contain any items which in our opinion are dangerous, illegal, liable to harm or annoy other guests, or are otherwise unsuitable. We reserve the right to deny boarding or eject any Passenger that fails to comply with this clause.

4. SEASONS, WEATHER AND TIDES

HORIZONTAL FALLS ENVIRONMENT

All our tours feature a ride through the Horizontal Falls on a Power Boat, which contains a certain degree of risk. We have a duty of care to all our passengers and take all necessary precautions to ensure guest and staff safety. However, as the tidal movements and the natural environment of the Horizontal Falls can be unpredictable, all guests must be aware that our tours are a dangerous recreational activity.

TIDES/ GUARANTEE OF PASSAGE

The Horizontal Falls are a natural phenomenon, and as much as we will endeavour to take you through the main falls when the water movement is at its optimum, the experience will differ from tour to tour. As a safety conscious tour operator, our power boats operate under mandated guidelines encompassing both speed and the areas they operate within.

We endeavour to provide our guests with the best power boat ride experience possible given the tide height at the time of your tour and we cannot guarantee that your fast boat passage through the Horizontal Falls will be specifically at the peak of the tide height.

As the Horizontal Falls are a natural phenomenon influenced by fluctuating tides that vary daily, our tours only take place when the predicted tidal movements are not neap, to avoid taking guests out when there is the least difference between high and low tide. Neap tide block outdates can be found on our website.

SEASONALITY AND TOURS ITINERARY

HFSA operates seasonally from March to November and exact season and individual tour commencement and conclusion dates are subject to change.

Between the months of March to May and September to November, the weather is expected to be hot, humid, windy and on occasion wet. The tours will run if deemed safe to do so.

We reserve the right to cancel or make amendments to existing tours itinerary at any time and will endeavour to provide as much notice as possible.

(a) No Smoking Policy - All our vessels adhere to smoke free rules in accordance with relevant state government regulations. Unless designated areas have been created and assigned Passengers are not permitted to smoke (including e-cigarettes) on board.

(b) Safety -

1) Passengers must always follow and carry out all lawful directions of the pilot, bus driver, Master and/or crew members of the relevant vessel/pontoon or at any of the Horizontal Falls tour arrival and departure points (hanger, airport, airstrip).

2) Passengers must take all reasonable precautions for their own safety and the safety of any person in their care (particularly children). This includes always using hand and guard rails as provided, appropriately restraining children, and ensuring that children are accompanied by a responsible adult at all times and paying attention to the safety briefing given by staff and/or crew members on commencement of tour or activity.

3) Neither we, the vessel nor any crew member/staff member shall be held responsible for any loss or damage (including personal injury) suffered by any person, as a result of breach of that person’s safety obligations, or their failure to utilise all safety devices and precautions as provided and/or advised on board the vessel, or caused by any passenger acting in an unreasonable, unnecessary, or unsafe manner.

6. GUEST AMENDMENTS, PAYMENTS AND CANCELLATIONS

FARE: The fare for your Tour is the amount stated in your Booking Confirmation, noting that:

(1) We reserve the right to alter prices, alter itineraries, apply fuel surcharge, cancel departures, arrange alternative transport, and vary itineraries and services if necessary

(2) All prices are stated in Australian dollars and include GST

(3) Child fares are for children aged between 4-12 inclusive

(4) Family rates are for 2 adults and 2 children travelling together

(5) Prices are valid for travel from 22 March – 11 November

(6) Marine Park Fees apply and are payable at time of booking

MARINE PARK FEES: Marine Park Fees are payable at time of booking.

To ensure the conservation and preservation of the Lalang-garram / Horizontal Falls Marine Park, and to provide opportunities for Dambeemangarddee Traditional Owner employment, fees apply to all visitors. Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures collect fees on behalf of the Marine Park’s joint management body comprising of the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation & Attractions, and the Dambeemangarddee Aboriginal Corporation.

Fees are as follows (subject to change): $5.50 per person for day (or part thereof) visitors $17.00 per adult and $7.20 per child (4-12 years inclusive) for overnight stays and $10.50 per guest older than 5 years for helicopter or fixed wing scenic flights from the Park.

(a) Time of Payment: For all tours we must receive full payment at the time of booking.

(b) Credit Card Payments. A non-refundable transaction fee applies to payments made by credit card as follows:

1.42% - Mastercard & Visa only

(c) Direct Debit If you choose to pay by direct debit our payment details will be provided via Invoice. No Booking and Service fee applies for these payments. Full payment is required within 72 hours of making the booking and remittance advice must be provided to us as proof of payment. Booking confirmation number must be included in the payment reference for tracking. If payment is not received, the booking will be released.

INCLUSIONS: Your Booking Confirmation sets out the details of all goods/services that are included in your tour CANCELLATION AND AMENDMENTS POLICY

GUEST AMENDMENTS

(1) Date change, tour change, guest name changes are accepted subject to availability up to 72 hours prior to the tour departure > Nil amendments permitted within 72 hours prior to tour departure, any amendments within 72 hours prior to tour departure will be considered as cancellation

GUEST CANCELLATION

(1) Cancellation for any reason prior to 14 days to tour departure > Receive full refund

(2) Cancellation for any reason other than Force Majeure event (eg change of mind, change of plans) within 14 days prior to tour departure > Full cancellation penalty, no refunds and no credit vouchers permitted

(3) Cancellation due to a Force Majeure event or government-imposed travel restrictions due to Covid 19 can be made 14 days - 24 hours prior to tour departure > Receive credit voucher for the full value of the booking/monies paid on the booking. The voucher will be valid for travel until 31 December 2024 on Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures or any other Journey Beyond product. To view those products, visit www.journeybeyond.com. Once a secondary booking has been made using the travel voucher, the booking cannot be cancelled or refunded at any time regardless of notice period however additional date changes will be permitted - see Guest Amendments.

(4) Cancellation for any reason within 24 hours prior to tour departure > Full cancellation penalty, no refunds and no credit vouchers permitted

HFSA CANCELLATION

(1) Cancellation made by HFSA due to operational requirements or adverse weather conditions up to the date of the tour > HFSA will endeavour to accommodate guests on an alternative tour date pending availability. If this is not possible then a full refund will be issued.

REFUND PAYMENTS

Any travel voucher or refund payable by HFSA under this agreement will be calculated to take into account the monies paid under the booking and the amount of the tour that has been used less credit card surcharge. Any refunds for the booking will be payable back to the original card. If a booking was paid for via direct deposit, the refund will also be processed via direct deposit. The guest will be required to provide a proof of bank account details via email (for example bank statement header outlining guest name, BSB and Account number). If a booking was made through a Travel Agent, any refund will be returned to that Travel Agent for their payment to the guest.

7. OUR OPERATIONS

(a) Connections. We cannot guarantee our schedule. To the extent permitted by law, we are not liable for any costs deriving from the failure of a Passenger to connect with other services. As a result, Passengers should allow ample time for connections to flights and other services

(b) Warranties, Exclusions and Limitation of Liability.

To the extent permissible by law (and without limiting the operation of any statutory guarantee under the ACL), we will not be liable for any death or personal injury, loss of or damage to luggage or goods, consequential losses, loss of profit or any similar claims arising from any use of the services or arising out of our negligence, including delay, or any inaccuracy with respect to information relating to transport, services or pricing.

We are not liable in negligence for harm suffered by anyone as a result of the materialisation of an obvious risk of any dangerous recreational activities. You and any passengers travelling under this booking are made aware of the obvious risks of boarding a vessel and participating in any related activities.

To the extent that part of the services is supplied to the guest by a third party, any warranty offered by us in relation to those services will be limited to our right of redress against the third party arising out of any alleged fault or defect in the services.

Nothing in this agreement restricts, limits or modifies your rights or remedies as a consumer against us for failure of a statutory guarantee under the ACL.

8. MISCELLANEOUS

WAIVER AND AMENDMENT

(a) Waiver and Amendment. A provision of this agreement may not be amended or waived except in writing signed by our authorised representative.

(b) Enforceability. If a term of this agreement is unenforceable it shall be read down to be enforceable or, if it cannot be read down, the condition shall be severed from this agreement without affecting the enforceability of the remaining conditions.

(c) Disclaimer. Images in any of our brochures or advertising materials are indicative only and may not reflect the exact experience or destination.

(d) Third Parties. The service that you book through us may involve several parts, some of which are provided by us, some of which are provided by third party operators. We may act as an agent for such third-party operators (such as local tours and catering) but we have no liability to you for their services.

(e) Group Bookings and Charters. These Terms and Conditions do not apply to group and charter travel. Separate booking conditions, pricing and payment terms will be provided for group/charter travel.

9. DEFINITIONS

a) FIT – individual guest bookings where a single booking does not exceed 10 people

b) ACL means the Australian Consumer Law as that term is defined in the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth).

c) Booking Confirmation means the notification from us to you containing the details of your booking.

d) Dollars or $ means Australian Dollars.

e) Force Majeure event means an event or circumstance which is beyond our control and without our fault or negligence and which was not reasonably preventable, including:

f) riot, war, invasion or acts of terrorism.

g) requisition or compulsory acquisition by any governmental or competent authority, a material change in legislation or directions by a government authority;

h) medical outbreak, or contamination of any kind;

i) earthquakes, flood, fire, or other physical natural disasters; and

j) strikes or industrial disputes which affect an essential part of the service.

k) Passenger means anyone travelling with us under your booking.

l) We/us means Horizontal Falls Pty Ltd, ACN 140 138 852 in the Booking Confirmation

m) You means the person or entity that made the booking and is named in the Booking Confirmation

10. PRIVACY

Journey Beyond respects your privacy and will only use your personal information in accordance with our Privacy Policy. To review full details of how we collect, hold, use, manage and disclose your personal information, you may view our Privacy Policy here: https://horizontalfallsadventures.com.au/privacy-policy/

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• Call (08) 9195 2200

Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures

As the only oper­a­tor based at the Hor­i­zon­tal Falls, we pro­vide the most exten­sive range of Hor­i­zon­tal Falls tours depart­ing from Broome, Cygnet Bay and Derby. 

The hor­i­zon­tal falls are a nat­ur­al phe­nom­e­non which is con­stant­ly chang­ing with the tide. Due to our unique posi­tion­ing of the hor­i­zon­tal hotel based at the falls we are able to time all of our Hor­i­zon­tal Falls expe­ri­ences around the peak flow peri­ods of each tour. 

Whether it be half day, full day or overnight tour we have some­thing to suit every­one. Depart­ing on one of our lux­u­ry tur­bo­prop Jet Sea­planes to expe­ri­ence a spec­tac­u­lar scenic flight over the Buc­ca­neer Arch­i­pel­ago and an excit­ing land­ing onto the calm waters of Tal­bot Bay. In our state of the art sea­planes, we offer the low­est scenic flight in the Kim­ber­ley with being able to fly low­er than any oth­er air­craft due to our abil­i­ty to land on the water — mak­ing this the pre­mi­um scenic flight for photography. 

Once you’ve land­ed, expe­ri­ence first-hand the incred­i­ble tidal pow­er of this nat­ur­al phe­nom­e­non as you are tak­en through the falls with our high­ly expe­ri­enced skip­pers. Relax as you cruise the sur­round­ing bays and creeks of this pris­tine wilder­ness area. Enjoy cooked break­fast or BBQ Bar­ra­mun­di lunch. Meet face to face our friend­ly res­i­dent sharks as you take a refresh­ing swim in one of our huge shark free cages. 

Or choose to extend your stay on one of our overnight options on our lux­u­ry House­boat, hav­ing time to cap­ture the tran­quil­li­ty of the vast Kimberley.

As the region’s longest-run­ning Hor­i­zon­tal Falls Tour oper­a­tors, we know there’s no bet­ter way to expe­ri­ence the Kim­ber­ley than at close quar­ters. That’s why we pio­neered sea­plane tours over this mag­nif­i­cent wilderness.

We have our own fleet of Cess­na tur­bo­prop sea­planes which are metic­u­lous­ly main­tained to the most rig­or­ous stan­dards and pilot­ed by high­ly expe­ri­enced crew. And because our planes can fly at low lev­el, the views are spec­tac­u­lar; the watery land­ings and take-offs are pret­ty spe­cial too.

Our amphibi­ous planes land right at the Hor­i­zon­tal Falls where our home base with overnight accom­mo­da­tion and din­ing facil­i­ties is locat­ed, pro­vid­ing the ulti­mate in guest com­fort and convenience.

If you would like assistance from the Broome Visitor Centre to make a booking, please call us on 08 9195 2200

Click the gold button next to the tour you are interested in below and a calendar will appear allowing you to select the month/date you want at a glance.

For booking purposes Children aged under 4 years are not permitted to travel. Tour Prices for children are applicable to children aged 4 -12 years of age inclusive. All persons aged under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult responsible for them. Passenger weight limit maximum of 120kgs. During Slow Water dates (MARKED GREEN BELOW), there will be minimal water movement visible in the narrow gap.

Unforgettable Horizontal Falls tours to choose from

Kassia Byrnes

Native Content Editor

14 September 2023

From the sky or the sea, these Horizontal Falls tours need to be on your bucket list.

There are several ways to explore the mighty Horizontal Falls , but how to pick the best Horizontal Falls tours? The good news is, there’s something for everyone depending on budget, time to spare and preferred way to travel. Here, we discuss all your options.

See Horizontal Falls fall from the air, or from water level.

Horizontal Falls Scenic Flight tours

To really understand the majesty and soak in the colours of The Kimberleys , your best option is by air. While all boat tours will also include a seaplane ride into the area, many Horizontal Falls tours will pick you up from Broome or Derby, soar you over and around the falls and back again. Expect incredible views, and incredible ease (you don’t even need to get out of the plane).

1. Broome Aviation

As the longest-standing aviation company in Broome (operating since 1982), Broom Aviation has its Horizontal Falls tours down pat. They currently offer six different day tours out of Broome, starting from $750 for an adult, all flying you over the top of the falls in a small plane.

The main benefit of choosing one of these tours is that you’ll get to see a lot of other nearby highlights on the same flight: Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm, Mitchell Falls, Windjana Gorge, the Bungle Bungles and more all make appearances on different itineraries. Some places even included a short time on the ground to explore further.

Get a bird’s-eye view with Broome Aviation.

2. Fly Broome

This fam­i­ly-owned scenic and char­ter flight com­pa­ny is also based out of Broome and offers a half or full-day Fly The Falls tour , starting at $745 for adults. The half-day tour will fly over the top, but the full-day tour also includes a Cygnet Bay Sea Safari. You’ll also enjoy a Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm tour and view Cape Leveque, Beagle Bay, the Lacepede Islands, James Price Point and more from above.

Enjoy the view from the best seat in the house.

3. Air Kimberley

Choose from seven different scenic flights that take you over the majestic falls with Air Kimberley . With prices starting from $730 per adult, different options will also see you flying over Willie Creek Pearl Farm, stopping in at the Ardyaloon Trochus Hatchery and Aquaculture Centre, enjoying a bottle of sparkling as the sun goes down or even driving along one of the most remote Kimberley tracks through ancient Livistona Palm forest in an airconditioned 4WD.

View the falls then stop in scenic surrounds to enjoy a bottle of sparkling and nibbles.

4. KAS Helicopters

Flying might be the best way to see the falls, but flying over this natural wonder in a helicopter is the pinnacle. It might be louder, but your view will be far less restricted. KAS Helicopters offers six tours from around two to about eight hours that include a flight over Horizontal Falls as part of the itinerary. The Horizontal Falls Discoverer departs from either Broome ($2429pp) or Derby ($1559pp) and Montgomery Reef & Horizontal Falls Discoverer from Broome ($2959pp) or Derby ($2149pp) both include landing in Talbot Bay and taking a boat tour through the falls, as well as lunch.

Flying over this natural wonder in a helicopter is unmissable. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Horizontal Falls boat tours

While the view may be more encompassing from above, to truly understand the might of the currents that make Horizontal Falls what it is, getting on the water is the best way to go.

1. Kimberley Day Cruise

While most Horizontal Falls tours will at least involve a flight of some kind, Kimberley Day Cruise offers something slightly different. Its full-day tour, depart­ing Broome (for a 12-hour day) and Cygnet Bay (for an eight-hour day), will take you on an expe­di­tion ves­sel through the Kim­ber­ley region towards Tal­bot Bay, and right up to the falls. You won’t get to zoom through them as you can on jetboat activities offered by some other tour providers, but you can enjoy the natural beauty of these vibrant blue waterways. Starting at $1,075, the tour includes a four-course breakfast and a seven-course degustation lunch.

Dine on a four-course breakfast and a seven-course degustation lunch.

2. Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures

Get the best of both worlds when you take a half-day tour (starting from around $895 per person) with the region’s longest-running Horizontal Falls tour operators. Flying out of Broome, Derby or Cygnet Bay, catch a seaplane into Talbot Bay and relax on their main pontoon before jumping in a jetboat and zooming through the rushing tides of the falls themselves. The tour also includes a cruise through the wider area, a gourmet lunch of locally sourced Barramundi, a swim with sharks from the marine viewing platform and coach transfers to and from your original accommodation.

Get the best of both worlds on a half-day tour with Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures.

Horizontal Falls overnight tours

The only tour provider offering overnight stays is Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures. They have two options, depending on your budget. The first includes a stay in an air-conditioned cabin on board the houseboat (also in Talbot Bay). On top of the day trip offerings, you’ll get extra speedboat rides through the falls at different times of day, a helicopter ride, sunset appetisers and (BYO) drinks, dinner and breakfast. Prices start from $1215 per person.

The second is a luxury option aboard the newly refurbished Jetwave Pearl in the secluded nearby Cyclone Creek. To get the full guide on what to expect, read our tour review here .

Stay overnight with Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures.

For more insider tips and unforgettable experiences, read our guide to the Kimberley.

Kassia Byrnes is the Native Content Editor for Australian Traveller and International Traveller. She's come a long way since writing in her diary about family trips to Grandma's and has been writing about her travels professionally for over 10 years. She's addicted to travel but has a terrible sense of direction, so you can usually find her getting lost somewhere new around the world. Luckily, she loves to explore and have new adventures – whether that’s exploring the backstreets, bungee jumping off a bridge or hiking for days.

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Horizontal Falls

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Horizontal Falls - All You MUST Know Before You Go (2024)

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A new agreement would limit cruise passengers in Alaska’s capital. A critic says it falls short

FILE - Cruise ships are docked on June 9, 2023, in downtown Juneau, Alaska. A new agreement between Alaska’s capital city and major cruise lines seeks to cap the daily number of cruise ship passengers arriving in Juneau starting in 2026, but a critic of the cruise industry says the planned limits don’t go far enough. (AP Photo/Becky Bohrer, File)

FILE - Passengers stream off the Norwegian Bliss after the vessel arrived in Juneau, Alaska, April 25, 2022. A new agreement between Alaska’s capital city and major cruise lines seeks to cap the daily number of cruise ship passengers arriving in Juneau starting in 2026, but a critic of the cruise industry says the planned limits don’t go far enough. (AP Photo/Becky Bohrer, File)

FILE - A cruise ship sits docked near downtown Juneau, Alaska, Sunday, June 4, 2017. A new agreement between Alaska’s capital city and major cruise lines seeks to cap the daily number of cruise ship passengers arriving in Juneau starting in 2026, but a critic of the cruise industry says the planned limits don’t go far enough. (AP Photo/Becky Bohrer, File)

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JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — A new agreement between Alaska’s capital city and major cruise lines seeks to cap the daily number of cruise ship passengers arriving in Juneau starting in 2026, though a prominent critic of the cruise industry said Tuesday the planned limits do not do enough.

The agreement, finalized late last week, seeks a daily limit of 16,000 cruise passengers Sundays through Fridays and 12,000 on Saturdays. However, officials said that doesn’t necessarily mean there will be that many people every day.

Cruise passengers numbers ramped up rapidly after two pandemic-stunted years, hitting a record of more than 1.6 million passengers in Juneau last year. That’s caused tension between businesses that rely on tourism and residents who are fed up with increased traffic, busy trails and the hum of helicopters ferrying visitors to glaciers.

Cruise seasons also have gotten longer, with the first boat this year arriving in Juneau in early April and the last set to arrive in late October. On peak days in the past, passenger numbers have totaled about two-thirds of Juneau’s population of roughly 32,000 people.

A daily limit of five large ships took effect with the current season, as part of a separate agreement signed last year.

Alexandra Pierce, Juneau’s visitor industry director, said Tuesday that the aim with the current agreement is to hold cruise passenger numbers roughly steady, in the 1.6 million range.

“The idea is that the agreement buys everybody time not only to see if it is sustainable but also to build the infrastructure that will help it feel more sustainable,” she said.

Pierce said she expects a number of projects will be completed in the next five years “that will help our current numbers feel less impactful.” She cited plans for a gondola at the city-owned ski area, updates to the downtown sea walk and increased visitor capacity at the popular Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area .

The agreement, which was signed by the city manager and major cruise line executives, also calls for yearly meetings to “review lessons learned, to review and optimize the subsequent season’s operations, and align on community and industry parameters, goals, and opportunities.”

Pierce said city leaders are “trying to balance the needs of our residents, the needs of our economy, the needs of future opportunities for people to stay in our community.”

Karla Hart, a longtime critic of the industry, is skeptical of the new agreement, saying it doesn’t do enough to address concerns many residents have that current tourism levels are unsustainable.

“It feels like we’re just getting led along again, and expansion will continue and more time will pass” and impacts will continue, she said.

Hart is helping push a proposed local ballot initiative that would institute “ship free Saturdays,” with no cruise ships with a capacity of at least 250 passengers allowed to stop in Juneau on Saturdays or on July 4. The signature-review process for the proposed measure is underway. If the measure is certified, it could appear on the October ballot.

Renée Limoge Reeve, vice president of government and community relations for Cruise Lines International Association Alaska, a trade group, said initiatives “remove the opportunity for collaboration and discussion, and I think that that leaves a lot to be desired.”

She said the agreements with Juneau are the first such agreements the industry has signed in Alaska and underscore the cruise lines’ commitment “to being good partners in the communities that we visit.” Juneau and other southeast Alaska communities are popular stops on cruises that leave from Seattle or Vancouver. The much-smaller community of Sitka also has been grappling with the debate over tourism numbers.

Reeve and Pierce also participated Tuesday in a Greater Juneau Chamber of Commerce news conference to discuss the agreement.