Set Sail on a Broome Icon !
Willie’s Next Chapter is Loading…
Our 2025 Broome Season has concluded
Be Apart of Willie's Next Adventure
It is with full hearts and deep gratitude that we announce Willie Pearl Lugger Cruises will be sailing her final season under the care of her current custodians.
Their journey with Willie began in 2018, when she was found in a state of disrepair in Langkawi, Malaysia. The current owners, who had long admired Willie and her remarkable story, knew it was time to bring her home - to restore her spirit and save her from the fate of so many luggers before her.
With the help of family and friends, she was pulled apart and rebuilt piece by piece - seven days a week, twelve hours a day, through tropical storms, fires, and even dodging street dogs. Flying twelve Australians back and forth from Western Australia to Malaysia to complete the task. It was no small feat, but seeing her sail once again through the waters of Western Australia made every challenge worthwhile.
After a full refit, new masts, and a total transformation, Willie finally returned home in 2019 to Broome - restored to her former glory. Since then, she’s been a familiar and beloved silhouette on the horizon, gliding through those unforgettable golden-hour sunsets along Cable Beach.
She’s stretched her wings, sailing thousands of nautical miles each year via the Montes, Pilbara islands, Ningaloo Reef, the Abrolhos, Dunsborough, and Rottnest Island. But no matter how far she roamed, she always returned to Broome - where she belongs.
She just fits here - among the red cliffs, turquoise waters, and rich pearling history. The mission with Willie has always been to honour that legacy: to represent the spirit of the Northwest, the story of the pearling industry, and the romance of a town that is truly unlike anywhere else.
Built in 1985 by Tony Larad, Willie is a 67-foot gaff-rigged schooner - crafted in homage to the traditional sailing luggers that once dominated the Kimberley coast in the 1800s. Not only is she the last of her kind built to sail and fish for pearls, but she also remains the only one of her style still operating today.
Pearl of the Indian Ocean is calling you
With her owners unable to commit to another season due to new business opportunities, they have been quietly searching for the past 18 months for new owners, who share their hope of keeping this beautiful lugger where she belongs and continuing her legacy. Their wish is simple: that Willie continues offering Broome locals and visitors the best Broometime sunset experience.
Whether you're looking to grow your brand, start a new adventure, or honour a Broome icon, Willie is ready to set sail with you.
For more than four decades, she has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike - not just a boat, but a symbol of Broome’s spirit, heritage, and soul. Timeless and constant, it has been our privilege to share in her journey.
From sailing through fiery sunsets to weathering the storm of COVID, she has carried us and so many others on unforgettable voyages. Willie has her own soul. She's a pleasure to sail, a rare beauty, and she belongs here, in her Western Australian home.
To enquire about the opportunity to become her next custodian, please reach out to us at bookings@williecruises.com.au
Ticketed Daily Sailing Cruises
Sailing Days: Thursday to Monday (dependant on operations)
Departure Time: 2:30 PM
Our courtesy bus can transfer you from your Broome accommodation to the beach, giving you a brief history of Willie along the way. Once at the beach, kick off your shoes and wet your feet in the water as you make your way to our tender to transfer you across to Willie.
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Once aboard, enjoy a brief safety orientation before joining the crew in hoisting the sails or simply take in the ambience with a beverage in hand - the choice is yours! Your journey then begins as we set sail towards the horizon, and embark on a 3.5 - 4 hour journey. Along the way, you'll hear fascinating stories about the history of the Willie, the evolution of the Broome pearling industry, and the rich history and culture of Broome.
Sailing along the beautiful coastline from Gantheaume point to Cable Beach before, capturing WA’s most iconic sunset shot.
Throughout the afternoon complimentary canapés are served. You’ll also have the option to purchase a selection of chilled beverages from our fully licensed open deck bar.
Now is the perfect time to sit back, relax, and take in the unforgettable views, or seize the opportunity for a refreshing swim in the comfort of our boom nets. We aim to make your day at sea both relaxing and adventurous.
Our crew will happily point out the abundance of marine life which can include turtles, sea snakes, dolphins, a plethora of pelagic fish and the mighty humpback whale.
Departs daily at 2:30pm and concludes at 6:30pm. Approx 4 hours cruising
Private Charters
Looking for a unique way to celebrate your next event? Gather your friends and family for an unforgettable day aboard Willie! Enjoy our fully licensed bar or add a personal touch by pre-ordering your drinks.
We'll pick them up and have them chilled and ready for you. Our experienced crew will serve delicious food and beverages throughout the day, while you unwind and relax in the comfort of this magnificent vessel.
Whether sailing, celebrating, or simply soaking up the sun, create lasting memories on the water with Willie Cruises—the must do experience in Broome!
Gift vouchers not available
For the perfect gift for any occasion, discover the Willie Pearl Cruises Gift Voucher. Redeemable within a year of the purchase date.
Reserve your spot
Join us on ‘Willie’ as she cruises the crystal clear Indian Ocean waters. Relax aboard one of Australia’s oldest operating Pearl Luggers, ‘Willie’. Learn about her pearling history and the water on which she sails. Experience the wind at your back as her sails feel and take you on a journey of fun and relaxation. You can jump in the boom nets (seasonal), help pull up the sails or just take in the incredible sunset with a drink in hand.