Outback Floatplanes tour from Darwin: Scenic flights, airboats and crocodiles
The half day Outback Floatplanes tour from Darwin crams in a lot. The trip includes airboat and helicopter rides, plus crocodile-spotting, giant termite mounds and Top End buffalo.
It’s tempting to think that the half day Outback Floatplanes tour from Darwin is really expensive scenic flight. But it turns out to be a whirlwind taste of what makes the Northern Territory‘s Top End so special.
Scenic flight over Darwin, NT, with Outback Floatplanes
Flying out over Darwin gives a wonderful view of Australia’s northernmost city. It looks like a stingray, the body crammed onto a jutting piece of land, while a tail of development furls back along the Stuart Highway.
But it’s also possible to see how isolated it is. Flying above Darwin Harbour, the rest of the land sticking out into the sea is all covered in pure Top End savannah and floodplains. Several creeks gush towards the sea, and in the middle of it all is a pontoon on Sweets Lagoon.
The concept of Outback Floatplanes’ half day adventure is to cram as much Top End adventure in as possible for those who haven’t got the time to spend a few days around Kakadu or Litchfield National Parks. And to do so using some rather impressive toys.
That means taking a floatplane from Darwin, landing on the lagoon, then heading out first on an airboat, then in a helicopter.
7 great Darwin experiences to book before arriving
- Swim face to face with an enormous crocodile in the Cage of Death.
- Enjoy the romance of Darwin Harbour on a sunset dinner cruise aboard a traditional fishing ketch.
- Explore Darwin’s food and art scenes on a 3.5 hour walking tour – with lunch or dinner included.
- Flit between Darwin’s top attractions with a hop-on, hop-off bus tour.
- Combine a wildlife tour with the famous jumping crocodiles cruise.
- Get a history fix on a Bombing of Darwin WWII tour and harbour cruise.
- Get the adrenalin pumping on a high speed airboat or jetski tour.
Crocodile cruise on an airboat
The airboat trip is all about seeing crocodiles. The lagoon is essentially shared between two dominant males, who take about half of the territory each. The females are tolerated, but only if they show signs of submission at all times. But they’re not the only creatures down here. Majestic white-bellied sea eagles soar above the trees towards their nests, and little tortoises merrily stick their heads out of the water when they’re confident one of the crocs isn’t lurking.
There’s more to see on the helicopter trip, which gives an idea of how untamed the Top End landscapes are. In clear patches, massive termite mounds grow, reaching up to five metres in height. And then there are the wild boars, scampering between the trees, plus an even more magnificent non-native import. Buffalos originally came to Australia from Asia, but have taken well to the landscapes of the Top End. And one thing’s for certain – they don’t like being followed around by a helicopter. At first glance of the chopper, the buffalo runs for it, galloping across the wetlands as if its life depended on it.
Six amazing day trips from Darwin that will improve your visit
- Litchfield National Park day tour – including jumping crocodile cruise. (💲 Great value 💲)
- Tiwi Islands Indigenous cultural experience including ferry.
- One day or four day Kakadu National Park tour.
- Kakadu scenic flight – with gorges, waterfalls and epic floodplains. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Full day Katherine day tour – including Katherine Gorge cruise.
- Arnhem Land full day tour – with ancient rock art.
Outback Floatplanes tour cost
The Outback Floatplanes tour from Darwin is very much designed for the cash rich and time poor. Aside from the novelty transport, you’ll see a lot of what you’d see over a few days in the Top End anyway. But if you’re in Darwin for a limited period, then the $695 price tag might begin to make sense.
The best places to stay in Darwin
You can check out deals on a wide range of Darwin accommodation options. But these are some of the best choices.
- For luxury on a special occasion: The superior suites with direct lagoon pool access at the Mindil Beach Casino Resort.
- For the buzziest location at the Waterfront: Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront.
- The one with the best guest ratings: Hudson Parap.
- For affordable city centre apartments with a pool: City Gardens Apartments.
- For the magic combo of quality, price and location: Travelodge Resort Darwin.
More things to do in Darwin
Why should I read the plaques on Smith Street Mall?
Is it worth visiting the Royal Flying Doctor Service Darwin Tourist Facility?
Where is the best place to swim in Darwin?
Is the Mindil Beach Market in Darwin worth visiting?
What wildlife can I see on a Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise?