LONG-TERM visitors to Karumba often sport a totally laidback mood while they “winter over” in the Gulf, a world away from their chilly homes in southern States. One way to get a similar feeling right from your first day in Karumba is to take a cruise aboard The Ferryman.

By the time you’ve been in happy, friendly company as you watch nature at its finest, you’ll be feeling as relaxed as the best of them.

The Norman River, lined with mangroves and alive with wildlife, is a great place to cruise. The Ferryman offers a range of cruises. Take the birdwatching and wildlife cruise with the leading experts on birds in the Gulf (book by the night before). Or for a look at the incomparable sunset across the waters of the Gulf of Carpentaria, take the 5.00pm Gulf Sunset Cruise, which is offered most nights and takes about two hours. You will cruise up the river, past the wharves, the whole time receiving a comprehensive history of the boats and area stopping for photos and to feed the eagles, brahminy kites, ospreys and any other birds. Then it’s out into the Gulf to view the sunset with a glass of wine, nibbles and great conversation. Because it’s a big barge it is very stable so no one ever feels sick or crammed in.

On most afternoons, a slightly later cruise is offered. It takes in a river sunset and some bird feeding and then croc spotlighting. With a maximum of six people and a skipper who is an expert on crocodiles, this is a recipe for fun. The Ferryman departs from the Karumba Boat Ramp. Bring a jumper ... and your camera. Cruises are run during the “green season” as well as the main tourist season.

---