Turtle Tracks

Tour Details

Operator

Sea Darwin

Destination

Darwin Harbour

Departs From

Darwin

Tour Description

Turtle Tracks Tour

Turtle Tracks is an sunset odyssey for those with a spirit of adventure.

Leaving Stokes Hill Wharf at 4pm on a date especially picked around the lunar cycle, your cobwebs will be blown away as Darwin Harbour is left in the wake of the Snubfin. With the warm breeze on your face and the smell of salt in the air, life will become surreal as you skim over turquoise waters on the way to the nesting ground for flatback and olive ridley turtles.

Keeping your eyes peeled for marine mammals and reptiles, your journey will take you past historic Charles Point Lighthouse into Bynoe Harbour, arriving at a remote beach in time for the sun set. Explore the island with Team Turtle, learn about the ancient mariners who inhabit these waters, and the unique war history and traditional stories as you experience day turning to night.

Back on board your bento meal will delight, and then after twilight fades, Team Turtle will take you for a guided walk to witness the egg laying ritual. For those who take this adventure late in the season you may have the privilege of witnessing the eruption of baby turtles from their home under the warm sand. A fast boat ride will get you back to Darwin, with memories that will last a life time.

Capacity:

Twenty passengers per tour, pick up from Stokes Hill Wharf

Minimum 8 passengers.

Operation of Tour:

April to October inclusive. 2010 Tour Dates

Tour is conducted around the lunar cycle – full moon and new moon are the best times to see the turtles. In 2010 neap tide tours are offered on Friday evenings. These tours are not premium times to see nesting turtles, but it is anticipated that hatchling activity will be witnessed and that tour participants will experience a unique sunset adventure. 2010 tour dates



Nature dictates your experience and return time – the ladies usually come up around sunset, but not guaranteed. Later return if babies are hatching. Note that nesting turtles or hatchlings cannot be guaranteed on any tour. In 2009 we had a nesting turtle 94% of the time.

What to bring:

Flat shoes or sandals, camera, warm jacket.

Inclusions:

Drinking water, bento meal (choice of local prawns, chicken or vegetarian), complimentary drink, experienced guides.

Licensed bar available. Regrettably, no BYO on this adventure.

Pricing:

$220 per adult, $150 per child (6 – 13 years)

Charter price and family price by negotiation.

Please note:



The MV Snubfin is a fast open boat exposed to the elements. This tour is not advised for people who are pregnant, or who have existing neck or back injury.

Sea Darwin reserves the right to cancel or vary trips subject to weather or sea conditions.