Glide 110km on the Ord River from Kununurra to the Ord Top Dam and back, ending with an East Kimberley sunset. Expect sandstone gorges, abundant birdlife, and an informative, six-hour cruise that pairs river scenery with local history.
Glide 110km on the Ord River from Kununurra to the Ord Top Dam and back, ending with an East Kimberley sunset. Expect sandstone gorges, abundant birdlife, and an informative, six-hour cruise that pairs river scenery with local history.
The boat slips away from the Diversion Dam and the Ord opens like a map of light and sandstone. Water hisses under the hull; eucalypt-lined banks and weathered red cliffs slide past as the vessel threads 55km upriver, then back again, catching the last hot gold of an East Kimberley sunset.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Triple J Tours · Kununurra, Western Australia
The boat slips away from the Diversion Dam and the Ord opens like a map of light and sandstone. Water hisses under the hull; eucalypt-lined banks and weathered red cliffs slide past as the vessel threads 55km upriver, then back again, catching the last hot gold of an East Kimberley sunset.
This cruise traces a modern-engineered artery: the Ord River system was transformed by mid-20th-century irrigation works and the Ord Top Dam (Lake Argyle), reshaping local ecology and Indigenous country. Geologically the gorge country is ancient sandstone and siltstone, scoured by seasonal floods; culturally, the river corridor is part of Miriwoong and Gajirrabeng lands with continuing cultural connections to river country.
Wildlife is a constant companion — shorebirds, kingfishers, and the occasional freshwater crocodile sunning on rocks — and the changing light makes for rich photography, especially where narrow channels funnel into fast-flowing, riffled water near the Top Dam.
Practical guidance: cruises run about six hours, typically including coach transfer from Kununurra, riverside tea stops and commentary on the dams and local history. Expect open decks and gusty conditions when moving; bring sun protection, a warm layer for late afternoon, and a small camera. The operator schedules afternoon return to town after sunset viewing.
For travelers wanting the fullest experience, plan arrival in Kununurra with an extra day to explore nearby Lake Argyle, local Indigenous art centers, and short walks. Bookings can fill in the dry season (May–September), so reserve ahead and check pickup details and cancellation windows before you go.
easy.
6 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated with short onshore stops
The experience is approximately six hours including coach transfer, river time and afternoon tea on the banks.
Yes; infants must sit on an adult’s lap and the trip is rated physically easy for all ages.
Freshwater crocodiles are sometimes seen basking on rocks; saltwater crocodiles are rare in this reach but always follow crew safety guidance.
Light refreshments are provided, typically pumpkin scones, cake or a muffin with tea and coffee during the riverside stop.
The Ord River Irrigation Scheme and construction of Lake Argyle reshaped the river system in the 1960s–70s, creating extensive freshwater habitats and irrigated agriculture near Kununurra.
Operators follow guidelines to minimize disturbance to wildlife and shorelines; visitors should avoid feeding animals and dispose of waste properly to protect river ecology.
Triple J Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




The boat slips away from the Diversion Dam and the Ord opens like a map of light and sandstone. Water hisses under the hull; eucalypt-lined banks and weathered red cliffs slide past as the vessel threads 55km upriver, then back again, catching the last hot gold of an East Kimberley sunset.
The boat slips away from the Diversion Dam and the Ord opens like a map of light and sandstone. Water hisses under the hull; eucalypt-lined banks and weathered red cliffs slide past as the vessel threads 55km upriver, then back again, catching the last hot gold of an East Kimberley sunset.
This cruise traces a modern-engineered artery: the Ord River system was transformed by mid-20th-century irrigation works and the Ord Top Dam (Lake Argyle), reshaping local ecology and Indigenous country. Geologically the gorge country is ancient sandstone and siltstone, scoured by seasonal floods; culturally, the river corridor is part of Miriwoong and Gajirrabeng lands with continuing cultural connections to river country.
Wildlife is a constant companion — shorebirds, kingfishers, and the occasional freshwater crocodile sunning on rocks — and the changing light makes for rich photography, especially where narrow channels funnel into fast-flowing, riffled water near the Top Dam.
Practical guidance: cruises run about six hours, typically including coach transfer from Kununurra, riverside tea stops and commentary on the dams and local history. Expect open decks and gusty conditions when moving; bring sun protection, a warm layer for late afternoon, and a small camera. The operator schedules afternoon return to town after sunset viewing.
For travelers wanting the fullest experience, plan arrival in Kununurra with an extra day to explore nearby Lake Argyle, local Indigenous art centers, and short walks. Bookings can fill in the dry season (May–September), so reserve ahead and check pickup details and cancellation windows before you go.