The Northern Territory is a place that’s not for the faint of heart. It’s an Australian stereotype come to life, with scorching sun, the unforgiving deserts of The Outback, and nasties lurking around every corner.
If the snakes don’t get you, the crocs just might.
If that thought doesn’t terrify you, you might be a good candidate for a trip on the Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise. The boat takes a leisurely trip down the Adelaide River, which is home to more than 80, 000 saltwater crocs, or salties as they’re known in these parts. These man-eaters can measure up to six meters, and when they jump out of the water you’ll be able to take all of that length in. But don’t be scared. They’re more interested in the raw buffalo meat the tour operators dangle from the long feeding sticks than you. If you’re game, the crew will even let you give the crocs their tucker.
Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruises has two boats: the 8.7 meters Wildcat, and the double-decker Northern Adventurer, which measures a massive 18.2 meters. The cruises’ hosts are incredibly knowledgeable about the area’s native wildlife, which also includes bats, snakes, and the enormous kites. These birds, with their awe-inspiring wingspans, will happily swoop in on the crocs’ buffalo, and often get away with it too. That’s one brave bird!
A saltwater crocodile jumping for food in the Northern Territory, Australia
Speaking of those snakes, you can meet some of those too. Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruises has a large collection of pythons which they’ll happily pass around to any brave guests. If you do hope to handle a snake make sure you’re not wearing sunblock, perfume, or insect repellent. These products can offend the snakes’ delicate sense of smell, and you really don’t want to do that!
Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruises cost $35 for adults and $20 for kids, including complimentary tea and coffee. Discounted family, group, and senior passes are also available. The cruises last for one hour and leave at 9 am, 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm every day.
