Cruises to Darwin
Australia
Darwin
Unlike the barren dusty land of the Northern Territory, Darwin is a modern, lively city. This small city is the gateway to the fascinating Top End of Australia.
Port Darwin was discovered by Lieutenant John Lort Stokes and named by Captain J.C. Wickham while sailing past the harbour area in 1839. Wickham named the area after Charles Darwin who had once sailed in the HMAS Beagle. The city was founded in 1869 and subsequently renamed Palmerston, but in 1911 it reverted to Darwin. The discovery of gold in Pine Creek in 1871 caused the city to grow rapidly; however, development quickly slowed due to the extreme climate and cyclones. Darwin also had poor contact with the other cities around Australia until the road to Alice Springs was surfaced.
At A Glance
Population
120,586 (2011 census)
Language
English
Government
Democratic
Currency
Australian Dollar
Darwin Shore Tours
Most Popular
Guest favourites, the most booked Shore Tours at this port
Must See
Our handpicked Shore Tours are a must for any guest.
What To See
Visit Darwin’s intriguing museums
Situated on Fannie Bay, The Northern Territory Museum of Arts and Sciences offers exhibits about the unique Northern Territory region. You can also see Aboriginal art and artifacts, unique seafaring vessels, and even a stuffed crocodile named Sweetheart. At Fannie Bay Gaol Museum you’ll find informative displays about the city’s development and rebuilding. It is situated inside Darwin’s old prison, which was in operation between 1883 and 1979.
Meet the local wildlife
Join our tour to the Territory Wildlife Park for an unparalleled insight into the diversity of tropical Australia. For an opportunity to get up close to the area’s crocs, take the Jumping Crocodiles Cruise tour. There’s nothing more amazing than seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Learn about Darwin’s military past
For those with a burning passion for war history, The Military Museum at East Point Reserve contains bunkers and other artillery items from years past. Alternatively, you might like to join the “Darwin War History” tour.
Litchfield National Park
Why not spend the day discovering one of the incredible National Parks right on Darwin’s doorstep? Spectacular Litchfield National Park boasts breathtaking scenery including cascading waterfalls and monsoonal rainforests.
DOCKING
Your ship will dock at Fort Hill Wharf, an approximate 15 minute walk from town.
Getting Around
For a small fee, shuttle buses will be available to take you into town. Visit the shore tours desk onboard or check your Pacific Daily for prices and further details. Taxis are available pier-side and throughout the city.
DINING
Darwin’s multicultural diversity is reflected in its dining options. Popular restaurants are scattered throughout the centre of town. Try the Stokes Hill Wharf or Mitchell street precincts. Quarantine authorities do not generally allow food such as fruit and vegetables, dairy and meat products and sandwiches to be taken off the ship however commercially packaged confectionery, chips and bottled drinking water are allowed subject to inspection.
SHOPPING
A number of small food and souvenir outlets are situated around the wharf precinct. If you’re heading into town, the main shopping area is in the Smith Street Mall. There is a wide variety of souvenir and duty-free shops. Pearls, Aboriginal paintings and wood carvings, t-shirts, and crocodile themed souvenirs are just some of the items you’ll find here.
CLIMATE
Darwin’s climate is mainly tropical. The dry months are from May to September and the wet season is from December to March. Temperatures range from 25-33 degrees in summer and 20-30 degrees in winter. The average rainfall ranges from 321mm in summer and 2mm in winter.
CREDIT CARDS
Major credit cards and charge cards are widely accepted. Automatic teller machines can provide currency to foreign card holders.
Communication
A public telephone is located at the pier. Mobile coverage is generally available.
WHAT TO WEAR ASHORE
To make your day ashore as enjoyable as possible, please wear comfortable flat soled shoes, lightweight clothing and a hat. You are also advised to bring sunscreen and bottled water.
SHORE TOURS
There are a range of tours available for you to really get the most out of your time in Darwin. Tours can be booked onboard at the shore tours desk and are subject to availability. Passengers are required to meet at a specific location for each shore tour departure. Please refer to your tour ticket for the correct time and place.
ENVIRONMENT
Please dispose of your rubbish thoughtfully.
