Ashmore Reef

Located 840 kilometres west of Darwin and 610 kilometres north of Broome, on the edge of the continental shelf, Ashmore Reef consists of three low-lying tropical islands surrounded by a vast coral reef. Together, these islands cover around 54 hectares and are recognised as an Important Bird Area (IBA), providing vital breeding habitat for thousands of seabirds. The reef and islands also support nesting turtles, diverse coral ecosystems, and an incredible range of marine life, making it one of the most ecologically significant sites in northern Australia.

The three Ashmore Islands and their reef have been part of Australia since 1934, when the Ashmore and Cartier Islands Acceptance Act came into effect. A few years earlier, in 1931, King George V had already signed an order putting the islands under Australian control, paving the way for the change.

These days, visiting Ashmore Reef and its islands is strictly controlled, with most of the reef designated as a sanctuary zone where access is prohibited. These measures are in place to ensure the protection of fragile habitats and to uphold Australian government regulations. Your visit to Ashmore Reef is required to comply with these regulations, and every effort is made to minimise human impact on the environment.

Should weather, sea, and tide conditions permit, there may be an opportunity for cruise guests to take part in a guided zodiac tour near West Island on selected cruise vessels. From the water, visitors can observe seabirds wheeling overhead, spot turtles swimming gracefully below, and marvel at the colours of the surrounding reef. Land access is not allowed, but the chance to witness Ashmore’s natural beauty from the water offers a rare and privileged experience.

For nature enthusiasts, Ashmore Reef offers a glimpse into one of the world’s most pristine marine environments. Its isolation and protected status mean it remains largely untouched, and visiting here is less about exploration and more about quiet observation.