Tucked inside Talbot Bay in the Buccaneer Archipelago, the Horizontal Falls are one of Western Australia’s most dramatic natural spectacles, powerful tidal currents squeezing through two narrow gaps in ancient red rock, creating a horizontal “waterfall” effect.
Most visitors experience the falls on a full-day or overnight tour from Broome or Derby, combining seaplane flights, fast boat rides and scenic cruising through the islands.
Here’s how the main WA-based operators compare, and how to choose the tour that suits your budget and adventure level.
Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures – The Original Icon
Why they stand out
- Marketed as Australia’s most awarded adventure tour operator, running integrated seaplane and fast-boat experiences to the falls.
- Multiple tour formats: half-day, full-day and overnight options ex-Broome or Derby, often including scenic flights over the Buccaneer Archipelago and Cape Leveque.
- Review platforms show strong scores, with many tours rated 4.7–4.8/5 from hundreds of recent reviews, highlighting professional crew, efficient logistics and thrilling but controlled boat runs through the rapids.
Best for:
Travellers who want the classic, all-inclusive Horizontal Falls experience with seaplane, fast boats and optional overnight stays on a houseboat.
View their website:
Go Horizontal Falls Tours – Family-Owned WA Operator
Why they stand out
- Described as a well-respected family-owned and operated business based in Broome, with a strong focus on personal service and local knowledge.
- Tours combine scenic flights, fast boats, island stops and often grilled local barramundi for lunch; reviews highlight the generous meals and variety of stops, not just the falls themselves.
- Independent review aggregators list scores around 4.7/5 from recent guests, reflecting consistently positive feedback.
Best for:
Travellers who want a WA family-run experience with a full Kimberley day out, not just a “tick the box” pass through the rapids.
Please note: The website states a temporary season closure at time of writing, please contact their team directly for up to date information.
View their website:
https://gohorizontalfallstours.com.au/
Which Horizontal Falls tour is right for you?
When comparing tour options, think about:
- Departure point – Broome departures are convenient if you’re based in town; Derby departures sometimes mean slightly shorter flying times and different scenic routes.
- Time vs budget – Half-day tours are more affordable; full-day and overnight options give you more time at the falls and in the archipelago.
- Boat style – High-powered rigid-hulled inflatables (RHIBs) provide that “roller-coaster on water” feeling; some tours also include slower cruising for photos and wildlife spotting.
- Tides & season – The falls are strongest on bigger tides. Most operators run from April to September, avoiding the wet season and neap tides.
Safety, culture and country
The Horizontal Falls sit within Traditional Owner sea country. You may wish to choose operators who:
- acknowledge and educate about Traditional Owners in their commentary
- employ local Aboriginal guides where possible
- emphasise safe, controlled passes through the narrow gaps rather than “extreme stunts”
Major operators above have strong safety reputations and highly trained pilots and skippers, something reflected repeatedly in recent guest reviews.
Quick planning tips
- Book as early as possible for peak months (June–August).
- Consider booking your Horizontal Falls tour at the start of your Kimberley stay in case weather or tides force rescheduling.
- Pack light: camera, hat, light jacket, reef-safe sunscreen and a dry bag or phone case.