Exmouth, Western Australia Cruise Ship Port Guide

Where is The Port Located?

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The cruise port is at Bundegi Beach, 14 kilometres north of Exmouth town. Your ship will anchor offshore, and you’ll need to take a tender boat to reach the beach. A shuttle bus connects the tender landing to Exmouth town, taking 20 minutes.

You’ll find Exmouth in northwestern Australia, at the tip of North West Cape. The town sits 1,270 kilometres north of Perth. From your arrival point, you can easily reach two major attractions: Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park.

How to get to the port, by air, train, road

Getting to Exmouth Port:

By Air:

You can fly to Learmonth Airport, 36km south of Exmouth. Regular flights operate from Perth daily. Airport shuttles take you directly to town.

By Road:

You can reach Exmouth by:

• Coach: Regular services run from Perth (15-hour journey)
• Car: Drive along North West Coastal Highway, then take Minilya-Exmouth Road
• Distance from Perth: 1,270km
• Driving time: Two days with one overnight stop

Car Hire:

You’ll find rental cars at:

• Learmonth Airport
• Exmouth town centre

Remember:

• No train services operate to Exmouth
• The ship docks at Bundegi Beach
• Local shuttles connect all key transport points

Port Parking Options

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Parking at Exmouth Cruise Port

You’ll find limited parking spots at the Tantabiddi Boat Ramp, where cruise ships dock. The main car park fills up quickly on ship days.

Your best option is to book transport instead of driving. Tour companies can pick you up from your accommodation in Exmouth. If you need to drive, get there early to find a space in the main car park or use the overflow area 200 metres away.

You should call the Exmouth Visitor Centre if you need overnight parking. They’ll tell you about any seasonal restrictions and help you check space availability.

Local Transport & Transfers

Exmouth lies 40 kilometres from the cruise ship port, so you’ll need to plan your transport carefully.

You can choose from several transport options:

• Cruise line shuttles run every 30 minutes to Exmouth town (fees apply)
• Local tour operators provide pre-booked transfers with sightseeing options
• You can hire a car from the visitor centre
• Local taxis offer pre-booked services

Many visitors share transport to split costs. To ensure smooth travel, book your preferred option before arrival.

Remember to:

• Check shuttle times with your cruise line
• Compare transfer prices between operators
• Book your transport early during peak seasons
• Keep local taxi numbers handy

This structured approach helps you reach and explore Exmouth easily.

Port Terminal Facilities and Accessibility

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The Exmouth port operates through tender boats, with basic facilities at the landing area. You’ll find:

• Public toilets
• A sheltered waiting space
• Information displays

Mobility support:

• Tender transfers can be challenging for wheelchair users
• You need to contact your cruise line before arrival to arrange special assistance
• Port staff provide transfer help when needed

Onshore orientation:

• Local guides are at the landing point
• Clear signage points to nearby shops and cafés
• Tour meeting spots are within walking distance
• You can easily reach the town centre from the port

All essential amenities are a short distance from where your tender boat docks. You’ll spot clear markers to help you navigate the port area and find your way to local attractions.

Things to Do Before Your Cruise in a Day

Arrive in Exmouth a Day Before Your Cruise

You can explore this coastal town easily in one day before your departure. Start your morning at any café on Kennedy Street for a hearty breakfast. The locals are welcoming and happy to share tips about the area.

Visit the Jurabi Turtle Centre next. You’ll discover how sea turtles nest and thrive along the Exmouth coastline. The centre offers clear information about these marine creatures and their habits.

Head to the Ningaloo Centre after lunch. You’ll learn about the local marine life and coral reef systems through interactive displays.

Complete your day at Town Beach. You can walk along the shore and watch the sunset. Many cruise passengers gather here, making it ideal for meeting fellow travellers.

Tips:

• Book your breakfast spot in advance during peak season
• Bring a camera for the sunset
• Wear comfortable walking shoes
• Pack sun protection

Walks near the port

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Beautiful walking trails connect you to Exmouth’s cruise port and surrounding areas. You can easily explore Western Australia’s coastline on these well-marked paths.

Try these popular local walks:

• Vlamingh Head Lighthouse Trail: You’ll spot whales (seasonal) and get clear ocean views from the top
• Mandu Mandu Gorge Walk: You’ll discover limestone cliffs and see local wildlife
• Town Beach Coastal Path: You’ll enjoy an easy walk with sea views and birdwatching spots

These walks give you the perfect way to stretch your legs after your cruise. You can complete each trail at your own pace and take photos at several viewing points along the way.

Dining and Shopping

You’ll find several dining and shopping spots near Exmouth’s cruise port. The town centre offers multiple cafés specialising in fresh seafood and Australian dishes. Visit Whalers Restaurant for local prawns and reef fish, or stop at Adrift Café for coffee.

The Ningaloo Centre’s gift shop stocks local souvenirs and artwork. You can browse beachwear, handmade jewellery and Aboriginal art in the town’s boutiques. All shops sit close together, making them easy to explore on foot during your port visit.

Take Australian dollars with you – smaller shops often don’t take cards.

Accommodation near the port

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Looking for a place to stay near Exmouth port? You have several options to suit different budgets and preferences.

For luxury stays:

• Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort offers oceanfront rooms with sea views
• Full amenities and premium services available

For budget-friendly options:

• Holiday parks provide basic, comfortable accommodation
• Caravan sites cater to self-driving visitors
• Shared facilities keep costs down

For independent stays:

• Holiday rentals throughout Exmouth give you a homely base
• Self-catering facilities available in most properties
• Flexible booking lengths to match your needs

All accommodation options place you within easy reach of Exmouth’s shops, restaurants and natural attractions. You’ll find most properties are within walking distance or a short drive from the port area.

See what’s on offer from the Port of Bunbury, Western Australia for a different Western Australia Cruise destination.

Tips for First-Time Cruisers from The Port

First-Time Cruise Tips

You need to arrive one day early at Exmouth port. This extra time helps you learn the port’s layout and check-in points.

Pack these items in your carry-on bag:

• Essential medicines
• Passport and boarding documents
• One set of spare clothes
• Sun protection items
• Light, breathable clothing

The port offers a welcome session for new cruisers. You’ll meet other passengers and learn the boarding steps.

Get the port’s mobile app to track:

• Your ship’s arrival time
• Gate changes
• Check-in updates

Quick tips:

• Keep your phone charged
• Wear comfortable shoes
• Bring a water bottle
• Set multiple alarms for boarding time
• Take photos of your documents as backup

The port staff will guide you through each step. You’ll find clear signs and helpful crew members at every point.

Customs & Immigration at The Port

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Going Through Customs & Immigration at Exmouth Port

You need your documents ready before arriving at Exmouth port. The process moves quickly when you prepare properly.

Essential items to keep handy:

• Your valid passport
• Your cruise card
• Your completed passenger card
• Your customs declaration form

Simple steps to follow:

1. Fill out your passenger card whilst on board
2. Keep all documents within easy reach
3. Present yourself to Border Force officials
4. Declare any restricted items you’re carrying

The Border Force team will check your papers at the arrival point. Most passengers complete the process in minutes when they have their documents prepared. You’ll find the experience straightforward if you follow these basic requirements.

Remember: Being honest about declarations helps you avoid any fines or delays.

Need to know:

• The port uses efficient checking systems
• Officers process multiple passengers at once
• You can move through quickly with correct preparation
• Regular cruisers find the process easy to navigate

Local Currency & Payment Options

Currency and Payments in Exmouth

You’ll use Australian dollars (AUD) for all transactions in Exmouth. Your Visa and Mastercard will work at most shops, restaurants and hotels.

You can get cash from ATMs at:

• Local banks
• Shopping centre
• Some convenience stores

Small businesses and market stalls often prefer cash payments, so keep some notes handy.

Money Exchange Tips:

• Convert your currency before you travel
• Use your bank card for larger purchases
• Avoid local exchange bureaus which offer lower rates
• Check your bank’s international fees beforehand

Quick Tip: £1 typically equals around AUD 1.90-1.95 (rates vary daily).

Emergency Contacts

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Save these three emergency numbers in your phone before visiting Exmouth:

1. Triple Zero (000)

You need this for all urgent emergencies – police, fire, or ambulance

2. Exmouth Police Station: (08) 9947 8700

Call this for non-urgent police matters

3. Exmouth Hospital: (08) 9949 3666

Use this for non-life-threatening medical issues

You can access these services throughout Western Australia. Add them to your contacts now before you start exploring.

History of The Port

Located in Western Australia, Exmouth Port began as a US naval communication station in 1967. You can trace its roots to World War II, when American submarines used the Gulf as a hidden base during Operation Potshot.

The port underwent major changes when the naval station closed in the 1990s. You’ll find it transformed from a military site into a bustling tourist destination. The 2003 port expansion now lets you arrive on cruise ships, giving you direct access to the stunning Ningaloo Reef.

Today, you can explore this remarkable coastal hub where military history meets natural beauty. The port welcomes thousands of visitors each year who come to discover its unique blend of historical significance and marine attractions.

Best Times of Year to Cruise from The Port

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When to Cruise from The Port

You’ll find different highlights throughout the year at the port. Choose your cruise timing based on these peak seasons:

March to June

• You can spot whale sharks in large numbers
• The sea remains calm
• Temperatures stay moderate

August to October

• You’ll see humpback whales during their migration
• Perfect conditions for whale watching
• Clear visibility in Ningaloo waters

September to November

• You can enjoy wildflowers in full bloom
• Swimming conditions reach their best
• You’ll encounter smaller tourist crowds

Your chosen season will shape your cruise experience. Pick the time that matches your wildlife or activity interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Marine Wildlife Can I See During Excursions From Exmouth?

During Exmouth excursions, you can spot six main types of marine wildlife:

• Whale sharks
• Humpback whales
• Manta rays
• Dolphins
• Dugongs
• Sea turtles

You can swim with these creatures in Ningaloo Reef’s clear waters. The reef’s visibility makes it easy for you to observe marine life up close during your guided tours.

Are There Any Aboriginal Cultural Experiences Available Near the Port?

You can discover several Aboriginal cultural experiences close to the port area. Local Aboriginal guides offer interactive heritage tours that teach you about traditional customs and practices. You’ll learn about indigenous art through hands-on demonstrations and hear authentic Dreamtime stories from community elders. These activities run daily and provide direct insights into Australia’s indigenous culture.

How Severe Are Cyclones in Exmouth During the Wet Season?

Cyclones hit Exmouth heavily during the wet season from November to April. You need to watch weather forecasts closely if you visit during these months. You’ll see that local residents keep emergency supplies ready and follow strict safety measures. Your best approach is to monitor local weather alerts and stick to official safety guidelines.

What Reef Protection Measures Should Visitors Follow in Ningaloo?

Follow these simple rules to protect Ningaloo Reef when you visit:

• Keep your hands off all coral formations
• Apply only reef-safe sunscreen before entering the water
• Stay within designated anchoring areas
• Maintain a safe 3-metre distance from all marine creatures
• Remove all your rubbish when leaving the reef area

You help preserve this unique ecosystem for future visitors by following these guidelines. Your responsible behaviour makes a real difference to the reef’s health.

Can Cruise Passengers Visit Cape Range National Park Independently?

You can explore Cape Range National Park independently from your cruise ship. You’ll need to organise your own transport through local rental cars or taxis. The park requires an entry fee, which you can pay at the entrance. Remember to take essential items with you:

• Plenty of drinking water
• Sun hat and sunscreen
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Camera for wildlife spotting

The park’s main entrance sits about 40 kilometres from Exmouth town centre. Your visit works best when you plan your transport and timings around your ship’s schedule. The park offers walking trails, beaches and lookout points that you can easily navigate on your own.

Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Busselton, Western Australia Cruise Ship Port.