Making the most of Exmouth
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
As ships cannot dock, passengers tender ashore to the Novotel Hotel. Shuttles run into town, about two miles away, or you can walk; shuttle buses and taxis are usually available between the port and town center.
Exmouth in Western Australia was established to support the Communications base at North West Cape. Although the base remains in reduced operation, the town has reinvented itself as a tourism gateway to Ningaloo reef, now the economy's main industry contributor. Snorkel from shore in shallow water to see the coloured coral of Ningaloo Reef, or head offshore if catching big fish is your holiday ambition, with options near shore and farther out.
Getting around
Although Exmouth is small enough to explore on foot, its sights are widely spread and crossing town can be a substantial walk, particularly in summer. Emus still roam the main streets and parks.
Exmouth tours include swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, wildlife spotting, scuba diving, sea kayaking, fishing and glass-bottom-boat coral viewing.
Nearby places
Endless beaches, national parks and arid landscapes surround the town. You can often find a beach and reef almost to yourself.
Food and shopping
Exmouth has around 2500 residents, with the population doubling during the temporary workforce's 4 month tourist season. It offers supermarkets (7 days a week), coffee shops, dive shops and a couple of fashion stores.
Money
The local currency is the Australian Dollar.