Western Australia to Prohibit Boats from Navigating Horizontal Falls by 2026

The Western Australian government has announced plans to ban all boats from navigating the renowned Horizontal Falls on the picturesque Kimberley coast. The prohibition, set to take effect in 2026, will impact all tour operators except Seaplane Adventures, which has been granted a temporary reprieve until 2028, coinciding with the expiration of its operating license.

Evan Hall, the CEO of Tourism Council WA, shared insights on the potential ramifications of this impending closure with Oliver Peterson on the program Perth Live. Hall expressed concerns over the significant implications this ban will have on Western Australia’s tourism sector.

Highlighting the iconic status of traversing the Horizontal Falls and engaging in activities like diving with whale sharks, Hall emphasized the pivotal role these experiences play in promoting Western Australia as a premier tourist destination on a global scale. The loss of access to Horizontal Falls could lead to devastating consequences for tour operators, businesses, and employment opportunities associated with these popular day tours.

The broader impact, however, extends to the overall appeal of Western Australia as a tourist destination. Without the allure of the unique encounter with the Horizontal Falls, there is a risk of failing to capture the imagination of potential visitors who seek out extraordinary and unforgettable experiences in their travels.

This decision by the Western Australian government marks a significant shift in the tourism landscape of the region, prompting concerns about the future of adventure tourism and the preservation of natural wonders like the Horizontal Falls. The move raises questions about balancing conservation efforts with the economic interests of stakeholders in the tourism industry.