The Abrolhos Islands consist of 122 islands, clustered into three main groups, the Wallabi, Easter and Pelsaert Groups. Lying in the steam of the southward flowing Leeuwin current, the marine environment here is a meeting place for tropical and temperate sea life. Common marine mammals include Australian sea lions and bottlenose dolphins, and over 90 species of seabird have been identified. The treacherous reefs around these islands have claimed many wrecks over the centuries, the most famous being the Batavia in 1629 – whose Dutch crew swam ashore only to experience a brutal mutiny.
The Abrolhos islands offer a near-pristine natural environment with a diverse range of marine and terrestrial fauna and flora. This area also offers a rich history including shipwrecks and remnants of early colonial industries such as guano mining and commercial fishing.
We will spend three days exploring this area, visiting all three main groups: Pelsaert (Southern), Easter Group & the Wallabi Group.
A broad range of activities will be available across these three days including visiting historical sites, wildlife viewing and world-class diving and snorkelling sites. The Australian sea lions love to swim and play with snorkelers and divers here.
Today we will enjoy the chance to snorkel off picturesque Turtle Bay, and take a short walk along the beach where you may see Tamar Wallabies, skinks, and the endemic Abrolhos Dwarf Bearded Dragons.
Cruise past the Pidgeon islands, the wealthiest of the crayfishing islands. Birdwatch for Ospreys, White-Bellied sea eagles and Caspian Terns amongst other birdlife.
Conditions permitting, visit Beacon Island, also known as the Island of Angry Ghosts, where 126 men, women and children were massacred by the blood thirsty mutineers of this area over 400 years ago. Home to fantastic bird life, as well as the Batavia Memorial cairn and the coral pits are still evident from where Jeronimus Cornelisz (the mutiny ring leader) was held prior to his trial and execution.