WHY DARWIN?

Nowhere in Australia, or for that point anywhere in the world, is like Darwin. It is truly a unique place everyone should see at least once. It's combination of tropical weather, amazing landscapes and scenery, its laidback feeling and attitude, and its turbulent history make it a must-see city with a lot to offer.   

Yes it is a Capital city, but it is a city with the feeling of a small bustling town, and a population made up of locals who have grown up there, to those that have escaped the cooler states “down south” and  a substantial portion of it's population is made up of travellers and explorers meaning it’s great to get out and meet the locals and hear their stories    

Darwin was originally named Palmerston until 1911, but then changed to Darwin, named after the British naturalist Charles Darwin. However he never did to visit the city he gave his name to, but you can in just 4 and a half hours flight from Sydney.  

HOT SPOTS AND MUST DOS

History: Fannie Bay Gaol operated as a gaol until 1979, and the original buildings from the 1800’s are still there to explore. The Museum of the Northern Territory includes an insight into the bombing of Darwin, Cyclone Tracey and the Aboriginal history of this city  

Activities: Crocs – and no, not the stylish footwear worn by those who are shun fashion in the interests of comfort,  but the ones with the big jaws. No visit to Darwin is complete without getting up close and personal with one of their Crocs. I would not recommend visiting the nearest creek and hoping for a sighting, as I do not want to see the headline  “Ecruising customer becomes legless“ on the cover of one of those iconic Darwin newspaper front pages.  Instead, take the safer option I took and visit Crocosaurus Cove. This is a great option if you are short on time and want to meet the local wildlife right there in the main street of Darwin – feed the smaller crocs and the big ones you can either watch  or jump into the Cage of Death, it’s a one of a kind in Australia. 

The biggest wave pool I have ever seen is in Darwin – its called Wave Lagoon. Its very popular with all ages – and the best thing is, there are no stingers or crocs. Its located in the newest part of Darwin, the Waterfront area, which is full of upmarket cafes and restaurants – good for a quick bite or coffee fix during the day or a great meal at night looking out over the Timor sea.        

Chillax: Mindil beach – great city beach, with the added attraction of the most famous markets in town, Mindil Sunset Markets. Time your visit so you can have your beach time and then stroll the markets when they open from 4 pm.

Hit the water -  From an organised harbour cruise through to a more substantial day trip on a catamaran, it's great way to see Darwin from the waterways. Fishing is also great if you like to sink a line.

FOOD OF THE NORTH 

No city in Australia has such a close geographic location to our neighbours in Asia as Darwin, and whilst Asian flavours are very prominent and evident, there is so much more to explore.

One of my favourite dishes of all time is the Laksa, and these are in abundance in Darwin. Even in the heat, these are very popular. But if spicy noodle soups are not your thing, and you prefer the fruits of the sea, then you will experience some of the freshest and tastiest seafood in Australia here. I tried the mud crab and the barramundi which were the best I’ve ever tasted.      

Of course, you have to try Darwin pubs too. If you had experienced the famous Darwin stubby, unfortunately it has become as extinct as the dinosaurs. But, in its wake, Darwin beer drinkers have found craft beers and smaller bars popping up everywhere. NT tastes have matured and widened so there is something for everyone.            

ACCOMMODATION

The Hilton Darwin

Everything in Downtown Darwin is a short stroll away, and you can enjoy the famous Hilton service and amenities at this modern hotel. Their pool is on a very high level, and the perfect place to wind down and have a dip after a day out exploring all that Darwin has to offer. Once you are refreshed, many of the city’s most sought after restaurants and bars are right on your doorstep.         

OUTSIDE OF DARWIN

If you have a couple of full days to spare, the best close by trips to do from Darwin are :

KAKADU – it’s the biggest national park we have, and its certainly the most diverse in terms of terrain and landscapes with the biggest wealth of Aboriginal culture scattered throughout and the wildlife that will surround you. It’s a long day, you’ll be on the go about 13 hours all up, so definitely get an early night the night before so you can make the most of your big day of adventure.

KATHERINE GORGE AND EDITH FALLS -  Nestled at the southern tip of the Kakadu, the landscape and terrain changes again. Now you can see the jaw dropping Katherine Gorge and the stunning Edith Falls with more diverse flora and fauna again. This is also a big day trip so you need to be well rested and ready for an approximately 14-hour day all up. But, for something as unique as this, you will be glad you did.   

THE GHAN

The iconic Ghan train is on everyone’s bucket list, and for good reason – it is a truly unforgettable experience travelling through  some of the most iconic countryside in the whole of the continent.

With ecruising’s exclusive reduced rates on the Ghan currently on offer under our packages, you truly can have it all. Whether it is starting or ending in Darwin, to or from Adelaide, plus with a stop in Alice Springs.  

For enquiries, please contact Scott at cruiseadmin14@ecruising.travel or call 1300 369 848