RAFT POINT GUIDE

Discover Raft Point in the Kimberley, home to remarkable Wandjina rock art, dramatic coastal scenery and rich Aboriginal heritage. Learn how to visit and why it is a highlight of many Kimberley cruises.

Raft Point is one of those Kimberley destinations that surprises many first-time visitors. While waterfalls and tidal phenomena often dominate the headlines, Raft Point offers something different: a powerful combination of ancient Aboriginal culture, dramatic coastal scenery and genuine remoteness.

Located on the Kimberley coast near Doubtful Bay, Raft Point is best known for its important Wandjina rock art — sacred images that have been cared for by Traditional Owners for countless generations. For many travellers, visiting Raft Point becomes one of the most meaningful cultural experiences of a Kimberley cruise.

Beyond the rock art, the journey itself is memorable, with rugged sandstone headlands, mangrove-fringed inlets and expansive coastal views that capture the wild character of the Kimberley.

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WHAT IS RAFT POINT?

An outline in brief

Raft Point is a remote headland on the Kimberley coast featuring significant Aboriginal rock art sites, scenic walking tracks and panoramic views across Doubtful Bay.

It is most commonly visited as part of a Kimberley expedition cruise, where guests land by Zodiac and explore the site with guides.

Wandjina Rock Art

The highlight of Raft Point is its collection of Wandjina images, among the most recognisable forms of Kimberley rock art. These powerful ancestral figures hold deep cultural significance for Traditional Owners and should be viewed with respect.

A Coastal Kimberley Landscape

Raft Point also showcases classic Kimberley scenery — weathered sandstone, tidal creeks, mangroves and sweeping views across the surrounding bays and islands.

WHERE IS RAFT POINT

Where to find Raft Point

WHERE IS RAFT POINT LOCATED?

Raft Point sits on the remote Kimberley coast in the Doubtful Bay region, south of Montgomery Reef and west of the Prince Regent River area.

Because there is no simple road access, most visitors arrive by:

Kimberley expedition cruise
Small ship cruise
Occasional scenic flight or private charter

❖ View all: Scenic flight tours.

CLICK TO VIEW MAP

WHY RAFT POINT IS WORTH VISITING

One of the oldest amd most important cultural sites in the Kimberley

WORLD RENOWN CAVE PAINTING

A Strong Cultural Experience

Many Kimberley destinations impress through scenery. Raft Point stands out because it adds a deeper cultural dimension to the journey. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about the significance of the Wandjina tradition and the enduring connection between people and Country.

A Gentle Shore Excursion

Compared with some of the Kimberley's more adventurous landings, Raft Point is often appreciated as a rewarding cultural walk with excellent views and interpretation from expedition guides.

Photography Without the Rush

The combination of rock art shelters, sandstone textures, coastal vegetation and open bay views creates varied photography opportunities throughout the visit.

WHAT YOU'LL SEE AT RAFT POINT

Aboriginal history and stunning views

WHY IS RAFT POINT SO SPECIAL?

Raft Point is not a “big waterfall stop”.

The value of visiting Raft Point is the culture + landscape + perspective. Guests who enjoy learning, photography and quieter shore landings often rate it very highly because of its sense of isolation and reflection. With no road access and limited visitor numbers, the area retains a feeling of genuine wilderness that is increasingly rare in modern travel.

In short, you'll experience:

Wandjina rock art shelters
Sandstone outcrops and escarpments
Mangrove-fringed tidal inlets
Views across Doubtful Bay and the surrounding islands
Native birdlife and coastal vegetation

ABORIGINAL HERITAGE & RESPECTFUL VISITING

Cultural experience

Respecting the Traditional Landowners

Raft Point is a place of ongoing cultural significance.

Visitors should follow the guidance of Traditional Owners and expedition staff, remain on designated paths where requested, and avoid touching rock art surfaces.

The opportunity to view Wandjina imagery in its natural setting is a privilege, and respectful behaviour helps protect these sites for future generations.

VISITING RAFT POINT ON A KIMBERLEY CRUISE

One of the key sites to visit on a Kimberley cruise

WHAT TO EXPECT ON YOUR VISIT

Most cruise visits begin with a Zodiac landing before a guided walk to the rock art site and lookout areas.

Typical Excursion

Zodiac transfer ashore
Short guided walk
Rock art interpretation
Scenic lookout stop
Return to the vessel

Who Enjoys It Most?

Travellers interested in Aboriginal culture and history
Photographers
Birdwatchers and nature lovers
Guests who enjoy quieter, less crowded shore excursions

BEST TIME TO VISIT RAFT POINT

Seasonal notes

Raft Point can be visited throughout the Kimberley cruise season, generally from April to October.

Early Season (April–May)

Lush vegetation
Dramatic coastal colours
Excellent landscape photography

Mid-Season (June–August)

Comfortable temperatures
Peak expedition season
Good walking conditions

Late Season (September–October)

Clear skies
Warm weather
Beautiful late-afternoon light

For a month-by-month overview of conditions across the region:

❖ See our: Best Time to Cruise the Kimberley guide.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQs

Q. How did Raft Point get its name?

Raft Point got its name because the explorer John Lort Stokes (from HMS Beagle) observed local Indigenous "saltwater" people launching from the headland on traditional mangrove-wood rafts to ride the massive Kimberley tides out to Montgomery Reef to hunt and gather food.

Q. What is Raft Point famous for?

Its Wandjina rock art, cultural significance and panoramic coastal views.

Q. Can you visit Raft Point without a cruise?

Access is limited. Most visitors arrive via Kimberley expedition or small ship cruise.

Q. CIs the walk difficult?

It is generally a short guided walk, but conditions can vary. Check with your cruise operator for current accessibility information.

Q. Does every Kimberley cruise visit Raft Point?

No. Inclusions vary by itinerary, ship and tidal conditions. Speak to our Kimberley Cruise experts on 1300 799 758. They will give you the information that you need.

READY TO EXPERIENCE THE HORIZONTAL FALLS FOR YOURSELF

Speak to our Horizontal Falls and Kimberley Cruise experts now.

GET READY TO BOOK NOW!

Witnessing the immense tidal forces of Horizontal Falls is one of the defining moments of any Kimberley expedition cruise. Whether viewed from the water, from the air or as part of a broader Kimberley itinerary, it's an experience that leaves a lasting impression on almost every traveller.

The challenge isn't deciding whether Horizontal Falls is worth seeing—it's choosing the right cruise to get you there.

With dozens of itineraries, departure dates and ships operating throughout the Kimberley season, finding the best option can be overwhelming.

Our Kimberley cruise specialists can help you compare itineraries, explain which ships visit Horizontal Falls, and recommend departures based on your travel dates, interests and budget.

Need Help Choosing the Right Kimberley Cruise?

Compare cruise lines and ships
Find departures that include Horizontal Falls
Get expert advice on the best time to travel
Access current availability and special offers

Speak with a Kimberley cruise specialist today and start planning your adventure to one of Australia's most extraordinary natural wonders.

CONTINUE EXPLORING THE KIMBERLEY

❖ Montgomery Reef Guide – Witness an entire reef emerge from the ocean.

❖ Horizontal Falls Guide – Experience one of Australia's most famous tidal phenomena.

❖ Prince Regent River Guide – Explore the Kimberley's great wilderness waterway.

❖ King George Falls Guide – Discover one of Western Australia's tallest waterfalls.

❖ Kimberley Cruise Routes & Itineraries – See where Kimberley cruises travel.

❖ Best Time to Cruise the Kimberley – Find the ideal month for your journey.

❖ Kimberley Cruise Wildlife Guide – Learn about crocodiles, whales, turtles and more.

If you want to delve more into ancient aboriginal history in the Kimberley or want to lear more about our Raft Point Guide call our office now,