Discover the Eco Abrolhos Difference - Guest Reviews






The Abrolhos Islands were unlike any we had ever seen before and the backdrop to a tale of betrayal and mass murder!
The range of activities was great, including fishing, snorkelling, walking, pot pulling (of craypots), swimming, viewing on their glass bottom boat
and relaxing. My wife caught her first fish ever and was greatly excited.
The crew were terrific and very friendly as were our fellow guests .The meals were amazing, with crayfish on the menu almost every lunch and dinner!
I recommend this trip to everyone.
Tony


They shared Abrolhos history and environmental information to make every stop in the huge spread (over 122 islands), a special event.
We could not have seen the Abrolhos Islands in such depth without their guidance through the coral reefs.
There was something happening all the time, without being overwhelming. You choose your activity and the team takes care of you. The food, fishing and new friendships were fabulous.
This is absolutely the best kind of holiday for us.


They shared Abrolhos history and environmental information to make every stop in the huge spread (over 122 islands), a special event.
The skipper navigated the Abrolhos Islands coral reefs with expertise and located the best fishing and snorkelling spots from his vast knowledge as a previous rock lobster fisherman.
There was something happening all the time, without being overwhelming. You choose your activity and the team takes care of you.
The food, fishing and new friendships were fabulous.
This is absolutely the best kind of holiday suitable for active people of all ages.
Thanks very much for this once in a lifetime trip.




Bronson and the whole crew delivered a smooth cruise with everything well planned and executed.
Thank you for a very unique experience and sharing your Abrolhos family history with us.
Craig






Sensational food with guest caught fresh fish and crays, there is a great bar all from the comfort and safety of very well-appointed boat. There is a support cray boat as well as 4 further smaller boats to get to the islands, two with glass bottoms and front loading to make it easy to get on off.
There is something for everyone here, and this is a world class trip. My advice is to go whilst you still can.


The cabins were comfortable and well appointed.
You cannot take alcohol aboard. Their prices were very reasonable I thought.
The fishing and snorkelling were both first class. Liam, skipper of the ex cray boat, Dhu Force, will put you onto the fish. You can also participate in the pot pull in the mornings, crayfish being a big part of the diet aboard.
Lastly for history buffs there is the 'Batavia' story. I recommend reading about this shipwreck and others that occurred on the WA coast. Visit both the Shipwreck Museum in Fremantle and the very good museum in Geraldton prior to going to the Abrolhos Islands to get an appreciation of this history if not already familiar with it.
I have spent years at sea in some of the world's best locations. This is the equal of any of those.






Our 3rd time aboard the Eco and once again we were treated with an amazing time
The minute you step on board you are with family and treated like royalty
Beds are very comfortable and the food is amazing with freshly caught crayfish on the menu every day


Activities of snorkeling, fishing, nature walks all so enjoyable. My second trip and definitely won’t be my last


I am a widow and I only mention this because:
I had fun.
I had social interaction with a very inclusive group of fellow cruisers.
I had my personal comfort zone challenged with the offered snorkelling/fishing activities.
I encountered a natural environment of such beauty that I was reminded that there is beauty in my world.
I had the most superb food!! Jay could trade in the cruising for his cuisine expertise. Crays, fish, salads never tasted so good.
I witnessed a crew and "a boss", Jay, put the concept of teamwork into action.
I had solitude if I wanted it.




A well structured and meaningful day to day schedule.
Snorkeling was excellent with skilled dive guides.
Plenty of corals,shells, sea grasses , tropical fish plus pearling operations.
Guided structured walks on various islands with plenty of scenery and wildlife photo opportunities
Able to be fully involved in deep sea fishing and to watch the famous WA crays being caught in the pots.
Friendly staff and skipper, all prepared to tell you everything about the historic Abrolhos Islands and ship wreck dramas.
Highly qualified informative on board "Abrolhogist" with everything you need know about the present ecology and past history.
High quality seafood and other meal choices.
High quality live aboard boat and support craft.
Each night capped off with upper deck drinks and nibbles plus daily recap of events.


We were on the Eco and Shipwreck tour with guest speaker Dr Howard Gray Abrolhogist! Howard is an expert in the islands and has written a number of fantastic books about the history, archaeology and ecology of the group. We were also fortunate enough to have Graeme Henderson AM aboard as a guest who discovered the wreck of the Vergulde Draeck (1656) at the age of 16 which led to his career in Marine Archaeology.
We started at the southern end of the group Pelsaert Group, then visited the Easter Group before spending the last couple of days around the Wallabi Group - where the wreck of the Batavia occurred in 1629.
I cannot stop raving about our trip! Jay and his very capable crew were so helpful and fun and they made the trip unforgettable. A big thank you also to Chef Emily who presented a fantastic variety of dishes for every meal and went out of her way to accommodate my request for Gluten Free meals.
If you’re lucky enough to get a berth on an Eco Abrolhos tour then you’re in for a treat!


The rooms were comfortable and lovely hot showers, toilet worked well and the bed was comfortable.






The family run business with Sonia , Jay and Bronson and all the extended family and crew was planned with great care and attention to meticulous detail..
As a professional artist , I was gobsmacked at the incredible beauty of the islands.. both Jay and Bronson’s storytelling , with firsthand lived experience captivated all the guests over the 5 days .
The food is mouth-wateringly spectacular and rivals any Michelin star restaurant anywhere in the world !!..the comfort on board and accomodation is superb it was definately excellent value and a trip that I will personally be doing again Ohhh and the crayfish , fishing and snorkeling all AMAZING as well !!! Everything in abundance !!
Thankyou Sonia and Jay , Brunson and crew ..you were all magnificent and your Eco sustainable footprint also brilliant !!
I’ll be seeing you all again soon I hope !!
Dee Walker






I would love to do it again!




Had a lovely time with family and relatives from overseas.
Long lunch @ Turtle Bay was a highlight, and we all enjoyed learning about the gruesome story of the Batavia shipwreck from Howard Grey. Some great snorkels, including a dive on the wreck site, and to top it off a couple of hours of fun and chaos at the Two Up out at West Wallaby island on Anzac day. Great trip.


We had the option to do exciting activities every day or just relax on the boat if we chose to. The food was incredible with fresh seafood and other selections at every meal.
Historian and local expert Dr Howard Gray was on hand to offer walking and other tours every day, including incredible insights to the islands and the history of the Batavia shipwreck dating back to the 1600's.
A must do cruise when in WA!







ECO Abroholos have everything covered, fishing, snorkelling, nature walks, providing history of the islands!
The staff are amazing, can’t do enough for you, the food is superb (Connor the chef is very good) and the actual boat is just perfect.
We are looking forward to our next trip. Thanks ECO Abroholos for giving us the holiday of lifetime.


Thank you Jay , your enthusiasm is infectious and is mirrored by your wonderful crew .
It was a highlight to be surrounded by such a happy crew , all wiling to help each other and the fantastic like minded travelling companions , all ready to experience whatever was on offer .
Pot pulling first up was on offer for anyone keen to join in,followed by breakfast , then fishing, snorkelling off small islands not far from our boat , or viewing from the glass bottom boat .
These activities were offered again after lunch in different locations .
My husband was elated to catch his first ever BIG fish , helped by Glenn & Kale , and it was big !
Conor our brilliant chef prepared the most delicious meals .
Lunch & dinner always included freshly caught & prepared crayfish & fish plus a non seafood dish & salads .
We chose this particular cruise as it was
The WA Wine & Seafood cruise .
It was wonderful .
James , from Leeuwin Estate , took us through a tasting of top class wines ,sharing his knowledge & generous tastings .
Sonia & crew set up one tasting on the top deck & the other on a beautiful small island not far from the boat .
The wines were paired with delicious seafood , very memorable tastings in such unique settings .
We loved everything.
Thank you


In 2018 I did the Houtman Abrohlos and 12 months later the Kimberly's
I met an amazing crew of fellow travellers on the kymberly trip and drove the GRR with a promise to do the Abrohlos islands together as a reunion.
This 3rd trip did not fail to provide us with an absolutely amazing holiday filled with fishing, beach walking, snorkelling and history telling.
Out of all the sites we visited only one was a return for me.
There is so much to do out there and the staff really knew their stuff
The history of shipwrecks and mutineers, the flora fauna and sealife is second to none and you snorkel with sea lions, fish and amazing corals .
I have done a lot in my life but this jampacked adventure wraps it all into one. I was sad to disembark and say my goodbye's to the amazing staff.
To be honest this is an absolute jewel to the Midwest, a wonderful attraction to the town of geraldton. We stayed on and visited the amazing museum where we purchased a few history books and enjoyed the town
If you can, just do it. You will not regret this
Cindee


Activities and Experiences are varied. Our guide on our February trip was a knowledgeable Historian & Nature Specialist Dr Howard Grey. The History of Coastal Wrecks and the Batavia Calamity are a background for present day Excursions & Explanations of various Natural Wonders. Australian Sealions, in the Ocean or pulled up on the coral beaches. Seabirds of many varieties, even in numbers at this time of the year.
We walked on cast up Coral beaches, fished and observed crew pulling Crayfish pots, blasting along in a powerful fishing boat.We went to a functioning Pearl Farm. Slowly motored over Fields of Brilliant Blue Staghorn Corals In a glass bottomed tender, with skilled young boat people always willing to help you safely in and out of the tender. Sunsets from the top deck. Exquisite.
Terrific Meals, often featuring Crayfish and recently caught fish. Interesting fellow travellers. What a place! Nature at its Brilliant Best. Recommended.


A fantastic crew on board who shared their passion of the destination, taking us snorkeling, fishing, craypot pulling, on guided walks with details of the incredible
eco system that makes up Abrolhos. Walking in the footsteps of the famous
Batavia shipwreck survivors was such a highlight, marginally topped by swimming with sea lions on our last morning! The Cruise boat is so well appointed, catering to a smallish group (our group was 18 total) . lovely, comfortable cabins, comfortable bed, hot shower, lots of added value. A wonderful chef who knows 100+ ways to service lobster! Not to mention his desserts!! Sunset drinks on the top deck, stories from Jay, the owner who has lived and breathed the area over 30 years - all while travelling with a fabulous group of people from all over Australia. Do yourself a favour and Get on Board!







We saw lots of wild life with sea lions, dolphins, ospreys, various other bird species and the small Tammar wallaby. We went fishing, snorkelling, visited a pearl farm and ate oysters off the rocks.
The staff were friendly but professional and safety focused.
There was fresh seafood on the menu every day and dietary restrictions were catered for.
I can highly recommend this cruise for a great trip off the coast of Western Australia.




The issues for me were many, Vertigo, sea sickness, fussy eater etc lol
The cruise I selected flew us out so I was able to avoid the long boat ride which I knew would be hard for me. The Shine Airlines did a great job, we were on a 3 Dave plane, including the pilot ;)
I had some expected vertigo issues but Davo preempted this and suggested I take a cabin lowest and that did help.
I did not go fishing nor snorkeling due to me vestibular problems but that did not deter me at all from having the trip of a lifetime.
I walked the various islands, best of all Batavia's Graveyard which was my number one goal as I am very interested in that history.
Howard Gray did a great job of explaining the wildlife and the history of everything we saw.
Davo Brown also kept me reminded of what we were seeing.
The seals were great to see close up as we had drinks on a sandy island.
I was fascinated by the huts out there and my wife appreciated my visit to the Pearl Farm at Post Office Island.
There is so much more to say and it's all positive! Sunsets were wonderful to see.
The entire staff & crew did a sterling job, especially the ones operating the boats.
My only comment would be to think if you are very frail as I have dodgy everything and getting onto the fishing boat was a challenge at times. Mind you there was always a strong hand to make sure I did not fall.
Oh I mentioned I am a fussy eater, I only had to ask for a sandwich once, not being a crayfish fan (I was the only one not loving it) Plenty of breakfast lunch & dinner, never a worry. Finally I did learn that I am the spitting image of Frederick De Houtman ;)

with fishing, snorkelling, island walks and lots more. The 60ft crayfish boat went out every morning to pull the pots and
there was an abundance of crayfish pulled aboard every day. The fishing was also great, lots of snapper and dhufish.
The crew were fantastic and were so helpful and energetic. All the food that was caught was prepared by the chef
In so many different ways and was delicious. The stories and history of the islands was given by Jay and was really
informative and entertaining.
We snorkeled over the Batavia wreck and saw the anchors and the canons and loads of colourful fish. We did the
wine and food cruise and the tastings and food were sensational and done on an island with seals in the background.
Overall the whole trip was great and we had a fantastic time.

The food was fantastic and almost always included the fish and lobster caught on the day. A great opportunity to get tired of lobster if that is one of your ambitions.
We snorkeled every day - superb clear blue waters, lots of different coral and an abundance of sea creatures - and my wife went on one of the fishing trips. There were many opportunities to go out and 'help' pull the lobster pots.
Although we are not bird watchers, this is a great place to see birds as there is great variety on the different islands.
The vessel, environment and itineraries were outstanding. The only thing better was the atmosphere created by Jay and his crew. Although of course safe, informative and action packed - the genuine passion and atmosphere of fun created by this exceptional team was a true joy to be a part of.

Thank goodness we did - what a wonderful adventure we have had over the past week. The whole trip was one of discovery and meeting new people. The Eco Team were genuinely amazing - such a great crew, courteous, friendly, helpful and professional.
We had singled out Anna as your star employee as she demonstrated a maturity and awareness of our needs - not just individually but for everyone. She has a great sense for safety, especially when in the water and it is very reassuring knowing she is there for guidance and assistance if the need arises.
Of course the other guys deserve as many accolades - Connor - superb chef and a really nice guy (can’t beat us Poms!). Kaele, Shannon, Ruby Mae, Karmony, Paul and Scott and the other members I can’t quite recall the names of, all absolutely amazing. You both must be rightly proud of the team you have developed.
The trip was way beyond what we had expected and each day brought yet another adventure including another day of sumptuous meals. Our main highlight was the snorkelling on the Batavia - this had been a goal of ours for many years and to find ourselves floating above that ancient site was magical - such history.
I’m not sure how our passenger group compared to other trips but we felt everyone had a really good connection, which again made the trip very enjoyable.
James’s wine tastings were great fun and enjoyable and informative - a great way to highlight WA premium produce.
Feel free to post this to any site or utilise our comments if it would help.
Wishing you all the very best.
Kind regards
Sally and David (Thomas) Charlton - Cabin 20



Food was epic and sunset drinks on an island while the crew hunted fresh oysters for us to try was fabulous. The best trip ever!






Janet and Grahame

As a travel agent, I have no trouble recommending Eco Abrolhos to my clients who I’m sure will leave a little piece of their heart in the Abrolhos like I have!!


Do yourself a favour and book your trip on this cruise, you will not be disappointed!
Thank you to the family and team at the Eco Abrolhos, this has made my year!
Clint


Owner Jay Cox was / is a lobster fisherman prior to this tourism venture and so he is in a unique position to interpret the islands for guests, he knows the best spots to visit and all the colourful local tales.
Each day aboard the Eco Abrolhos offers an opportunity to snorkel or to view coral from a glass bottom boat. There are also nature walks to observe birds, sea lions and Tammar Wallabies – as well as to learn about shipwrecks such as the Batavia. And for the fisher-folk there are also daily fishing trips.
Some specifics from our wonderful trip:
* The Eco Abrolhos does not claim to be a luxury cruise but it is quite comfortable for 5 nights. There are cabins for every budget and the boat does not travel at night, which ensures a calm rest. Our ensuite was compact but the shower was hot and everything functioned well.
* Chef Connor does a great job of catering to every dietary requirement as well as ensuring that the lobsters Jay pulls out of the ocean each morning are on the table that night – a big drawcard for some of us! (There are alternatives at every meal if you don’t eat lobster). Fishing activities ensure there fresh fish is also available. We especially appreciated the fruit salad each morning – but I don’t recall hearing anyone disappointed by any meal. Filtered water is available in the guest lounge so one can refill one’s water bottle.
* Beverages are not included in the trip’s cost, however, we found the range and markup on alcohol to be quite reasonable.
* Dress standards are casual – this would matter mostly to those flying out or back to join the cruise, as there is a limit on luggage allowance. There’s absolutely no need to dress up.
* Most cabins do not have individually controlled air conditioning and the boat temperature is quite cool. The one thing I wish I had known before the trip was that we would have been better bringing warm clothes – as we feel the cold. The team did provide extra blankets – so we were warm in bed. If you feel the cold, I’d recommend you ask for cabin 15 or 16 which do have individually controlled AC.
* The other thing that might be helpful is to know that on this relatively small ship, you will feel the ocean’s movement when you are not inside the shelter of the islands. Even if you have not previously experienced sea-sickness it may be worthwhile bringing seasickness tablets along.
* When visiting Post Office Island, guests have the opportunity to visit Jane Liddon’s pearl jewellery showroom. Jane is an amazing character and produces unique pieces specifically designed to be worn with casual clothing . We highly recommend paying the additional small fee to visit Jane’s showroom and to hear about the pearl production process. We found the cost of her jewellery compared to alternatives to be extremely good value.
* The crew of the Eco Abrolhos were wonderful: knowledgeable, helpful and tireless - ensuring we had a great time.
Overall this was a simply wonderful experience: we learned lots, the snorkelling was amazing and we enjoyed lobster each night!
The Eco Abrolhos is virtually the only way to experience the islands in this way – so we highly recommend it.

Such passion and a lifetime of experience shared by Jay the skipper, the consummate host.
Fishing, pot pulling,birding, history, snorkelling,eating,drinking.
Great crew, Great food. Great experience.
Thank you
Michael and Mirella



The staff were excellent and Jay had many a story to tell. The food was outstanding, I couldn’t see how this cruise could possibly be any better.


Western Australia's Well Hidden Destination
Abrolhos Island Cruise
A new world just a short journey away! The Abrolhos Islands are some of Australia’s most spectacular and historic islands. They abound with natural wonders, spectacular marine and bird life. The islands are also home to the historic Batavia wreck and what is generally acknowledged as being the earliest European structure in Australia. The Abrolhos Islands are regularly referred to as the "Galapagos Islands" of the Indian Ocean
Located approximately 70 kilometres from the coastal town of Geraldton, the Islands can be reached via boat or scenic flight. The Abrolhos Islands consists of some 210 islands that are clustered into three main groups; the Wallabi, Pelsaert or Southern Group and Easter Groups and form the Houtman Abrolhos Islands National Park. See the explore parks website for further details about the National Park.
Our 5 Day Cruise is the best choice to explore and experience more of this unique part of Australia!
Popular Abrolhos Island activities:
- Snorkelling & swimming
- Fishing & Crayfishing (lobster)
- Chef prepared ocean to plate food experience
- Bird watching & wildlife spotting
- Whale watching (seasonal)
- Island walks with experienced guides
- Batavia history
- Pearl farm tour (seasonal)
- Glass bottom boating
📅Back to the Abrolhos Islands September 2025!
⏺ 24th - 29th September 2025
Only 3 🛏 Cabins remaining
Be quick and secure your cabin today!
History, Marine Wildlife & Island Culture
Abrolhos Island Cruise Highlights

Experience Marine Life
The Abrolhos Islands lie in the flowing Leeuwin current which provides the perfect environment for spectacular coral outcrops and marine life. Watch the Australian sea lions frolic in the waters alongside bottle nose dolphins and huge Samson fish.

Sea Bird Sanctuary
The birdlife is amazing with over 90 specific and rare species identified and often cited as the world’s most important sea bird breeding colony. September & October is the peak breeding season and the best time to witness hatchlings.

Whale Of A Time
Migratory whales such as the humpback, are frequent visitors and can often be seen breaching, and at play in the warm waters and are a site to behold. Whales typically migrate for breeding in the months from May through December.

Dive Into History
Discover the fascinating and gruesome history of the Batavia shipwreck - the mutiny, the savagery, the maritime skill, and the rescue. We visit up to 4 different locations!

Discover Island Culture
Learn about the rich history based around Crayfishing & fishing, visit the fishing camps and meet the locals. Try your hand at catching the iconic Baldchin Groper!

Seafood Bounty
Our onboard chef prepares the freshly caught local crayfish & reef fish for you to enjoy. Eco Abrolhos serves buffet style meals & dietary requirements can be catered for.
Discover our Signature Island Cruise
Eco Abrolhos 5 Day Cruise
Our 5 Day Abrolhos Islands Cruise is the ultimate way to explore and experience the very best of the Abrolhos Islands. From sunrise to well after sunset your days will be filled with a variety of activities. Each 5 Day Cruise is tailor made to make the best of the weather, tide and seasonal conditions.
CRUISES WITH CHARACTER
Our speciality cruises

1st October 2025



Boat Out & Fly back
Our 5 Day Cruise Sample Itinerary
DAY 1
Your 5 Day Abrolhos Islands Cruise begins on Day 0 as we welcome you aboard for a complimentary night prior to departure the next morning. This allows you time to settle in your cabin, meet the crew and other passengers, complete the safety briefings and enjoy pizza night as you watch the sun set over the Eco Wharf.
The next morning you have a choice of either waking with the crew & watching the sun rise over Geraldton as the Eco Abrolhos departs or enjoy a sleep in as we steam towards the Abrolhos Islands. Scheduled arrival at the Southern Group is around 10am. The next 24 hours is spent exploring a selection of the Southern Group locations
DAYS 2+3
The Eco Abrolhos departs the Southern Group around noon and cruises north to the Easter Group where we meet up with the morning’s fisherman. There is a selection of 6 locations where we will spend our next 36 hours.

DAY 4
Batavia Day – After a quick steam to the Wallabi Group get ready for some history lessons. There is a choice of 4 historical sites to visit.
DAY 5
The morning is spent exploring around the Wallabi Group typically Turtle Bay on East Wallabi Island.
Your Shine Aviation flight awaits to return you via air back to Geraldton. Flights depart at 1pm + 3pm & take approximately 35 minutes.
All the details you need to know
General Information

Catering

Tailor Made Adventures

Complimentary Vehicle/RV storage
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