The Guluyambi Cultural Cruise

Seeing and experiencing nature from the water is inherently different from experiencing it by land. You can become completely immersed in your surroundings. Time seems to standstill. The sounds are clear, the colours are more vibrant, and the eye becomes sharper...

Located 45 minute from Jabiru, near Ubirr, the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise offers an almost 2hr leisurely boat journey along the meandering East Alligator River, which separates Kakadu National Park from Arnhem Land. Led by an experienced local Aboriginal guide, you will gain insight into the plants and animals of this river system while learning the history and cultural significance of the ancient landscape.

With four departures a day, this cruise allows guests to experience the infamous Cahills Crossing, where the ever-present “Saltie” lay waiting patiently on the banks. You will head upstream past lush riverbanks and witness the shifting landscape of Kakadu as the scenery opens up to the rocky outcrops of western Arnhem Land.

As well as giving a unique insight into local Aboriginal mythology, your guide will educate you on the many traditional uses of native plants and animals. This region is abundant with wildlife with, more than one-third of Australia's bird species sighted here.

Towards the end of the cruise, you have the opportunity to step ashore in Arnhem Land and learn ancient hunting techniques and traditional bush survival skills, which are still currently used.

100% owned and operated by traditional owners, this small personalised cruise encompasses the beauty of one of the richest biological regions in Australia.

The Guluyambi cultural cruise offers a remarkable insight into the Indigenous culture within the fascinating natural environment of an unspoilt landscape.

In 2021 Venture North offers this cruise as a part of their 5 Day Kakadu, Arnhem Land and Cobourg Peninsula Tour. We can also incorporate the cruise into one of our tailored Private Charters.

If you are exploring Kakadu National Park yourself and wish to include this in your own self-drive Kakadu tour, the cruise operates daily between 1st May - 30th Nov at 9 am, 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm from the Upstream Boat Ramp (East Alligator River) and can booked through Kakadu Cultural Tours on 1800 525 238.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• What is the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise?
  The Guluyambi Cultural Cruise is an Aboriginal-guided boat tour on the East Alligator River in Kakadu National Park. The cruise provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about local culture, wildlife, traditional land management and the significance of the surrounding landscape.
• How long is the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise?
  The Guluyambi Cultural Cruise runs for approximately two hours and travels along the East Alligator River between Kakadu National Park and Arnhem Land.
• Can you visit Arnhem Land on the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise?
  Yes. During the cruise, guests have the opportunity to step ashore in Arnhem Land and learn about traditional hunting methods, bush survival skills and local Aboriginal culture from their guide.
• What wildlife can you see on the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise?
  The East Alligator River is home to saltwater crocodiles, a wide variety of birdlife and many native plant and animal species. The region is recognised as one of Australia's richest wildlife habitats.
• Who operates the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise?
  The Guluyambi Cultural Cruise is 100% Aboriginal owned and operated by traditional owners, providing visitors with an authentic cultural experience led by people with a deep connection to the region.