Northern Territory jumping crocodile cruises on the Adelaide River

Northern Territory jumping crocodile cruises on the Adelaide River

In Australia’s Northern Territory, the jumping crocodile cruises on the Adelaide river see giant crocs leap out of the water next to the tour boat.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Find something AMAZING to do tomorrow

Get queue-skipping, mobile-friendly tickets for the top experiences in Australia (and the rest of the world).

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Adelaide River jumping crocodile cruises are one of the most memorable wildlife experiences in Australia’s Northern Territory.

The Adelaide River near Darwin is home to a large population of saltwater crocodiles, some of which can grow up to five metres long. These ancient predators are known for their sharp teeth and powerful jaws, and a close encounter with them is not for the faint of heart.

Adelaide River jumping crocodile cruises: Booking and transport from Darwin

To get up close but not too personal with these incredible creatures, you can book a croc-spotting cruise with one of several licensed operators. such as Adelaide River Cruises. This company’s cruise lasts around an hour, and costs $55 at the time of writing.

If you don’t have your own transport, you can visit as part of a tour from Darwin. One good option also stops at Window on the Wetlands and Fogg Dam for extra wildlife viewing. This can be booked online, with mobile-friendly tickets.

You can also book day tours that combine the jumping crocodile cruise with Litchfield National Park’s waterfalls and termite mounds.

Six amazing day trips from Darwin that will improve your visit

Is the jumping crocodile behaviour natural?

During these Adelaide River cruises, you’ll watch in awe as the crocodiles jump out of the water to grab meat dangled over the edge of the boat. This behaviour is perfectly natural for crocodiles, as they use similar tactics to catch birds on overhanging branches.

As you cruise along the Adelaide River, your expert guide will share fascinating facts and stories about these ancient reptiles, their behaviour, and their habitat. You’ll learn about the importance of conservation efforts to protect these incredible creatures and their environment. You may even spot other wildlife such as water birds, fish, and turtles.

7 great Darwin experiences to book before arriving

In addition to Adelaide River Cruises, there are several other operators along the river that offer croc-spotting cruises. There’s not a great deal of difference in what they offer, so pick the one running at the most convenient time for you.

Jumping crocodile on the Adelaide River, Northern Territory
The jumping crocodiles of the Adelaide River in the Northern Territory. Photo by David Whitley/ Australia Travel Questions

Crocodile experiences in the Northern Territory

Other crocodile watching experiences in the Top End include:

More Northern Territory travel

What to see on a Canberra to Uluru road trip.

How much does it cost to camp at Curtin Springs?

What is the Kings Canyon caravan park like?

Is the free Ayers Rock Resort shuttle bus any use?

How to get from Ayers Rock Airport to the Ayers Rock Resort.