Described by Sir David Attenborough as “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world,” the Horizontal Falls are a force of nature everyone needs to see at least once.
These fast moving currents located in Talbot Bay get their name because they’re quite literally waterfalls on their side. Basically a whole lotta water is forced through tiny gaps in the gorges thanks to massive tidal movements (some of the biggest in the world), creating those swirling rapid-like waters that you really need to see to believe.
And if you’re going to make the trip, you may as well go all out, right?
Enter the Jetwave Pearl; the most luxurious way to spend a night on Horizontal Falls and experience every inch of magic and adventure this wonder has to offer.
I was lucky enough to tick this beauty off my bucket list, and I can tell you it well and truly lived up to the hype.
Our trip started in Broome, where we got up early to catch a morning seaplane over to the Falls. The two hour trip takes you across some seriously incredible scenery over the Buccaneer Archipelago and also gives you your first squiz at the Falls before landing softly at the main pontoon.
The staff will be lined up to greet you, so give them your best White Lotus wave before hopping onto the main deck. You’ll find the whole show runs like a well-oiled machine so it won’t be long before you’re handed a life jacket and jetting off to the Jetwave Pearl; your luxe base during your stay.
Spread out over two levels, the stunning houseboat has ten rooms, a lush lounge area, spacious balcony and light-filled dining hall. Every inch has been designed to maximise the jaw-dropping views so you’ll find gorgeous timer-framed windows throughout that make the outside world look like moving pieces of art.
Once you’ve popped your bags down, you’ll be welcomed by the Traditional Owners of Dambeemangarddee Country, who have lived on this sacred land for 56,000 years. Take a moment to really appreciate how fortunate we are to be able to visit such a significant slice of country.
From there it’s a whirlwind of helicopter rides, power boats and refreshments, with some of the most welcoming crew you could dream of.
The exhilarating helicopter flight is where you can really take in the sheer beauty of the Falls from above, while the jetboat ride will get you right up close so you can experience it in full force. You’ll wanna have your phone charged and camera ready for both. Just remember to hang on to it, please. The helicopter has no doors (which is amazing for the views) and the power boat will take you over some pretty raging waters, so consider yourself warned.
Oh and did I mention you’ll be swimming with sharks too? Yep, amongst all the action, they somehow find time for you to cool off in the special marine viewing pool and say hi to the local nurse sharks during feeding time. Very cool.
After all the morning’s adventures, you’ll be whisked back to the Jetwave Pearl for a two course gourmet lunch prepared by the talented onboard chef. On the menu? Locally sourced barramundi of course. Then it’s back out onto the water for more cruising, soaking up the majestic ancient rock formations of Cyclone Creek, and even a spot of fishing (if you’re up for it). I may have failed to catch anything, but just throwing a line out and soaking up the tranquillity was a real joy.
Before calling it a day, we headed out croc hunting through the mangroves at sunset and boy was this magic. The skies, the land, the water… it was all sorts of beautiful, everywhere you looked. And thankfully, we did manage to find one curious croc before making our way back to base.
You’ll then get a chance to catch your breath and refresh before meeting up with the group for sunset drinks followed by dinner downstairs. I was honestly gobsmacked at how good the shower in our private ensuite was, so I guarantee you’ll be feeling relaxed and ready for a few bevvies afterwards.
Right about now, you could definitely head to bed (you’re probably tired and full enough) but given how epic the stars are here (see: no light pollution), it’s definitely worth enjoying a Matso’s Ginger Beer out on the balcony after dinner to take it all in. After all, how often do you get the opportunity?
In the morning you’ll be treated to a gorgeous sunrise, one final meal from the chef and a final whip up to the Falls by boat before flying back to Broome and wishing you could do it all over again.
Let’s be honest, an experience like this is going to cost a bit but it does include everything—transfers, food, drinks, guided activities, dedicated crew, and of course, the exclusivity factor. Given it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll never forget, I’d say the adventure is 100% worth the price tag.
Start planning your bucket list stay here.
Now, fill your north west itinerary with more epic things to do in Broome.
Images: Tristan McKenzie