In mirror shades and an Akubra hat, our skipper Mitch welcomed us aboard the “Silver Cobbler II” where we spent the next 3 hours cruising the rugged northern end of Lake Argyle.
The “Silver Cobbler II” Cruise Boat is named after a fish that inhabits Lake Argyle. The tour took us through some of the lakes 90’s islands and inlets. (See video below)
Our guide entertained us with his knowledgeable commentary on the development of Lake Argyle including the Ord River Irrigation System and the Aquaculture Industry. He explained the natural history of Lake Argyle and pointed out rock wallabies, crocodiles, (lots of crocodiles) wallaroos (euros) and the diverse array of birdlife that call Lake Argyle home. We learnt that Lake Argyle is a designated RAMSAR wetland of International Significance. He brought the boat to standstill near a known popular fish spot which delighted all aboard with the Archer Fish shooting water up at them.
Towards the end of the day, we jumped in for our second swim and was surprised to see an esky lid float past with complimentary drinks and nibbles on board. Finchy is always the first one in and the last one out of the water and he wasn’t fazed by the chance of meeting a freshy at all. Being a strong swimmer and past water polo player, he had no trouble keeping himself afloat while opening a beer with both hands above the water. Soon the noodles came out and everyone had something to help them stay afloat and keep the beers from being watered down with lake water. The rugged red cliffs reflecting into the blue of the lake was breathtaking.
We watched the last golden rays of the Kimberley sun sink into Lake Argyle before a breezy trip back to our accommodation in the dark. The Magic Sunset Cruise by Lake Argyle Cruises certainly lives up to its name.
Watch our video here:
Read here a story of travelling through the Kimberley region years ago – Road Trains & Red Dirt and the changes to road trips from the eighties to today.
