Cruise Information
Willie, Broome’s legendary sunset icon, is the last operating pearl lugger in Australia. Willie is a 67’ Gaff Rig Schooner modelled on the designs of early 1900’s pearl luggers, and was built to fish for Mother of Pearl Shell (Pinctada Maxima). Willie has had several adventures as both a working and leisure vessel in the Kimberley and overseas. With a refreshed and new look of her former glory, Willie returned to Broome in 2019 to continue hosting sunset cruises along Cable Beach.
Come onboard Willie and join the crew for the opportunity to experience sailing the beautiful waters of Broome during sunset on this iconic vessel. Sailing daily, Willie allows you to see how a traditional gaff rigged sailing vessel operates, with all sails hauled manually just as they were in the past.
Our courtesy bus can transfer you from your Broome accommodation to the beach, giving you a brief history of Willie along the way. Once at the beach, kick off your shoes and wet your feet in the water as you make your way to our tender to transfer you across to Willie.
Onboard, you can relax, hear stories of the rich history and culture of the area, cool off with a swim in the boom net and take in the beautiful sunset from around the vessel. Complimentary canapes are served throughout the afternoon and there is access to an open deck bar where chilled beverages are available for purchase. Our crew will happily point out the abundance of marine life which can include turtles, sea snakes, dolphins, a plethora of pelagic fish and the mighty humpback whale.
Departs daily at 2:30pm and concludes at 6:30pm. Approx 4 hours cruising
Costs:
$165.00 Per Adult / $135.00 Per Child (1-12yrs) or Senior.
Children under 1 year old may travel for free of charge on the lap of a parent.
Important to Note:
For bookings made on day of departure, due to securing food arrangements, the cut off time for this is 10:00AM.
APRIL, SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER CRUISES: ‘Willie’ may sail in Roebuck Bay instead of Cable Beach due to seasonal changes in wind & swell conditions. The sailing location will be confirmed on the day of departure subject to the weather conditions. In addition swimming and use of the boom nets may not apply on cruises during these periods.
Drinks are purchasable from the on-board bar. See our Drink Price List.
Courtesy coach transfers from/to accommodation are available
Complimentary canapes provided
Licensed bar to purchase drinks (non-alcoholic and alcoholic are available)
Use of boom nets and swimming (seasonal)
Merchandise available for purchase
Few things you have to know before going on your trip
• Wear slip off shoes as your feet will get wet (thongs or sandals)
• If you suffer from seasickness, please take seasick tablet 30min before departure
• No Smoking on-board
What to Bring:
• Bathers, towel, hat, sun screen, cardigan/light jacket & camera
• Slip-on shoes for beach departure and landing (thongs or sandals)
Please check our FAQ for further information.
Please see the map below for our departure point at Gantheaume Beach.
If you are meeting us at Gantheaume Beach, please arrive at 2:20pm and look out for our orange bus when it arrives at the beach. Please make yourself known to the bus driver ready for the tender transfer.