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Home to untouched bushland, diverse native wildlife, and some of Australia’s whitest beaches, Esperance is an unmissable Australian cruise destination. Once a small seaside town with a colourful history including whalers, pirates, pastoralists, and miners, the picturesque coastal community is now a hotbed for tourism, agriculture, and fishing. Abounding with breathtaking sights, artisan delights, and fascinating flora and fauna, Esperance is a must-visit destination on any cruise in Western Australia.
Whether you’re a nature lover or avid wildlife watcher, you’re sure to find something to love about Esperance. Book into a P&O Shore Tour and make the most of your time in this west coast wonderland by visiting scenic lookouts, swimming in famous Lucky Bay, and discovering exquisite handcrafted glass objects and artworks at Section Gallery.
Fancy a dip at one of Australia’s most pristine beaches? Join the Esperance in a Day Shore Tour and explore the Great Ocean Drive Loop, which takes you to Cape Le Grand, one of Western Australia’s most spectacular national parks. There, you’ll have a chance to explore Lucky Bay, which has been voted Australia’s Whitest Beach, and pass by Hellfire Bay and Le Grand Beach. Afterward, tick off another Esperance holiday must-see with a stop at Pink Lake lookout, a salt plain with a high concentration of salt-tolerant algae that appears bright pink in the right weather conditions.
For a closer look at Esperance’s unique geological features, book into the Cape Le Grand National Park and Stonehenge Shore Tour, on which you’ll see a full-size replica of the original Stonehenge hewn from local granite. Then, head toward Cape Le Grand National Park, where you may be lucky enough to glimpse kangaroos sun-baking on the beach. As you journey further into the park, watch the landscape change from massive granite outcrops to clear freshwater pools and incredibly white, sandy beaches.
With its many natural highlights and sunny climate, Esperance is the perfect place to kick back and relax in style. Join the Twilight and Highlights Shore Tour to visit Twilight Beach, voted one of Australia’s beautiful beaches. Enjoy panoramic views of Esperance and the Recherche Archipelago from Rotary Lookout, then head to Tanker Jetty and explore the Esperance township on foot and at your leisure.
In the mood for adventure? Hop onboard the Island Eco Cruise Shore Tour and take an 80-minute ferry cruise to Woody Island, just off the coast of Esperance. Along the way, keep an eye out for dolphins, seals, and eagles, and marvel at the beautiful and untouched coastline. Upon arrival at Woody Island, snorkel around the bay with vibrant marine life, join a guided tour of the walking trails on the protected nature reserve, or simply sit back and soak in the magnificent views.
P&O Cruises can take you to Esperance from Adelaide on the 10-night Southern Discovery cruise. Alternatively, depart from Melbourne on a 6-night one way cruise and call in at Esperance and Albany before disembarking in Fremantle.
Keen to venture further afield? Join our 18-night one way Asia & Australia Explorer cruise, which departs from Melbourne and calls in at Esperance.
Population
14,487 (2014)
Language
English
Government
Democratic
Currency
Australian Dollar
Guest favourites, the most booked Shore Tours at this port
Our handpicked Shore Tours are a must for any guest.
From silky sand and imposing granite peaks to dazzling ocean as far as the eye can see, it’s little wonder Cape Le Grand National Park is one of Western Australia’s best known and most spectacular national parks. Make a point to visit Hellfire Bay, one of the most beautiful spots in the park.
The 100-plus untouched islands that make up this stunning archipelago off the coast of Esperance are home to amazingly diverse wildlife. See majestic white-breasted sea eagles soar, colonies of Australian sea lions and New Zealand fur seals unwind on rocky outcrops, and bottlenose dolphins at play.
Breathtaking coastal imagery is broken up by fascinating landmarks on this beautiful 40-kilometre round trip from Esperance that meanders past one of Australia’s best beaches, Twilight Beach. The Rotary Lookout offers a bird’s eye view of Esperance and the Recherche Archipelago, and there’s a touch of history too: Observatory Point is where the two French frigates, L’Espérance and the Recherche, sheltered from a storm before going on to explore the region.
Your ship will anchor offshore and a regular tender service will operate to and from Taylor Street Wharf.
Esperance's town centre and beachfront are within a short walking distance of the wharf.
A taxi rank is located near the post office on Andrew Street.
Esperance offers food and beverage outlets to cater for every taste, from casual family restaurants to cafes, bakeries, and takeaways.
Please note that 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.
There are a number of shops in Esperance including boutiques, gift shops, and craft stores, which are all within walking distance of the wharf. For a souvenir you won't find anywhere else, visit Australia’s only specialist fish and shark leather tannery, Mermaid Leather, on Woods Street. There, you’ll find unique handbags, wallets, and accessories made from fish and shark leather.
Esperance enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm to hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Daily temperatures range from 22 to 23 degrees celsius in summer and 13 to 15 degrees celsius in winter.
Major credit cards and charge cards are widely accepted, and ATMs can provide currency to foreign card holders.
Public telephones are available at the post office square, and mobile coverage is generally available as long as global roaming is selected prior to leaving home (where applicable).
Free wi-fi is available at: Taylor Street Bar and Café adjacent to the Taylor Street Jetty, Dôme Café on Andrew Street, Target in the Esperance Boulevard shopping centre, the Esperance French Hot Bread Shop, McDonalds on Dempster Street, and Jax Snax on James Street.
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.
Our Shore Tours can help you make the most out of your time in Esperance. Tours can be booked before departure via Cruise Control or onboard at the Shore Tours desk, and are subject to availability.
During your time ashore, we ask that you dispose of your rubbish thoughtfully.