Cruising The Abrolhos Islands, Western Australia

Destination

The Abrolhos Islands

The Abrolhos Islands, Western Australia

A summary of the Abrolhos Islands
Where are the Abrolhos Islands?
What can I see there?
Which boats cruise there?
What to pack for your visit

Cruising The Abrolhos Islands with True North Australia

Exploring the Abrolhos Islands with True North. Image (c) True North Australia.

1. A summary of the Abrolhos Islands

The Abrolhos Islands, located about 60 kilometres west of Geraldton off Western Australia’s midwest coast, are a chain of 122 islands known for their pristine waters and marine life. Best explored via a small-ship expedition cruise, the islands feature crystal-clear lagoons, coral reefs, and historic shipwrecks like the Batavia. Visitors can snorkel, dive, or spot sea lions and seabirds.

While the islands are predominantly uninhabited, there are rustic shacks and camps scattered across the islands, used by seasonal fishing communities during the lobster season. Image (c) True North Australia.

2. Where are the Abrolhos Isands?

The Abrolhos Islands are located about 60 kilometres west of Geraldton on Western Australia’s midwest coast. This remote archipelago consists of 122 islands divided into three main groups — the Wallabi Group, Easter Group, and Pelsaert Group. Surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs, they’re rich in marine life and seabird colonies.

Abolhos Islands cruising map. This map and top header image (c) Eco Abrolhos Cruises.

Map of cruising The Abrolhos Islands with Eco Abrolhos cruises

3. What can I see there?

The remote Abrolhos Islands offer an unforgettable mix of history, wilderness and underwater adventure. The surrounding reefs are home to over 400 species of fish and 184 species of coral, making them one of Australia’s most diverse marine ecosystems.

One of the standout experiences here is diving among the colourful coral gardens, where you’ll encounter parrotfish, angelfish and clownfish. If you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins, sea lions or even migrating humpback whales. The crystal-clear waters provide exceptional visibility, too.

Above the surface, visitors can explore the historic Batavia shipwreck site, see thriving seabird colonies, and visit traditional fishing settlements that still operate much as they have for generations.

Things to see and do:

Snorkelling and diving among vibrant coral reefs
Visit the historic Batavia shipwreck site
Birdwatching – The Abrolhos Islands are an important seabird haven, with several species nesting on the islands. Some birds you might see include the Wedge-tailed shearwater, the Brown booby, Noddies (brown and black noddy), Lesser frigatebirds and Crested terns
Explore remote fishing settlements
Spot dolphins, sea lions and migrating humpback whales
Enjoy guided walks on select islands
Learn about the region’s rich maritime history