Exploring Kimberley’s Pearl Passage: Oolin Sunday Island Cultural Tours Experience
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, including families with children ages 5 and up; expect light walking and boat travel.
Overview
Discover the powerful tidal waters and rich Aboriginal heritage of Australia’s Kimberley coast on Oolin Sunday Island Cultural Tours, led by local guide Rosanna Angus. Explore pristine shorelines and learn the stories of the Tide Drifters on this must-do marine adventure.
Oolin Sunday Island Cultural Tours
Great for families • 4.5 Hours • Ages 5+ welcome • Fun activity rich in Aboriginal culture
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating journey through the Pearl Passage with local guide Rosanna Angus, a proud Jawi woman. Experience the powerful tidal waters that shaped Aboriginal culture while exploring the pristine Kimberley coast. Discover tranquil locations, abundant wildlife, and the rich history of the Tide Drifters in this unforgettable marine adventure.
Follow the Journey of the Tide Drifters
This is a journey that began thousands of years ago through what is today known as the Pearl Passage, a journey through the turbulent waters, whirlpools and eddies between Jooloom and Jayirru.
Step onto the tour vessel departing from Cygent Bay Pearl Farm, with your local guide Rosanna Angus a proud Jawi woman whose family lived on Sunday Island during the early mission days. Experience the power of some of the world's biggest tidal waters and learn how these massive tidal currents were used by the Jawi people to hunt, fish and trade. Share the story of the Tide Drifters as you retrace the ocean journey from Bardi Country on the mainland through the network of islands and tidal passages that make up Jawi Country.
Explore tranquil, unspoilt locations and learn about the cultural and environmental significance of this spectacular marine reserve.
The remote Kimberley coast is an untouched wilderness rich in Aboriginal culture. Abundant with wildlife, the sheltered Buccaneer Archipelago and King Sound are nurseries for humpback whale calves and three types of dolphin. The Kimberley Marine Park is home to dugongs, manta rays, sea turtles, hammerhead and tiger sharks as well as countless migratory birds and territorial birds of prey. Encompassing an area over 74,000 square kilometres it includes some of Australia's most remote and pristine coastline.
Places we visit along the way: Ardyaloon Community A brief visit to beautiful Middle Beach. Discover the story behind the establishment of Ardyaloon and its connection to Sunday Island. Pearl Passage We navigate the turbulent waters of this narrow pass between Jooloom and Jayirri islands and discover its cultural significance. Goodngarngoon Place of running water, Goodngarngoon is a place of great cultural importance the Bardi Jawi people.
Duration
4.5 hours
Location
Tour departure point is from Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm. Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm is located 200km north of Broome on the tip of the Dampier Peninsula. The Cape Leveque Road is now completely sealed, however the driveway is unsealed and approximately 3km long, and is now suitable for 2WD day access.
More Information
The tour is not age limited, the boat has a shade, it's safe to move around and offers a toilet onboard if required.
What to bring
Sunnies, hat, sunscreen, towels, swimmers, medications, and snacks.
Adventure Tips
Bring sun protection
The Kimberley sun can be intense; wear sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to stay safe.
Wear comfortable water-friendly shoes
The tour involves walking on rocky and sometimes wet terrain; sturdy, quick-drying footwear is recommended.
Stay hydrated
Carry sufficient water to stay hydrated throughout the 4.5-hour tour, especially during the dry season.
Respect cultural protocols
Follow the guide’s instructions about sacred sites and photography to honor local traditions.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Hawksbill sea turtles
- Black-footed rock wallabies
History
The Tide Drifters are Indigenous navigators native to the Kimberley region, known for their expert knowledge of tidal patterns and marine resources.
Conservation
The tour operates with a focus on preserving local ecosystems and cultural heritage, emphasizing low-impact travel practices.
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Adventure Hotspots in Broome
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sunscreen
Protects against strong UV rays common in northern Australia.
summer specific
Wide-brimmed hat
Shields face and neck from direct sun exposure.
summer specific
Lightweight, quick-drying shoes
Useful for traversing rocky coastal areas that may be wet.
Reusable water bottle
Helps maintain hydration during the tour in the hot climate.
all specific