Critical access to the Ningaloo
Tantabiddi boat ramp provides critical access the Ningaloo Reef for recreational vessels and marine tourism operators, such as fishing snorkelling and diving charters, whale shark, and humpback whale tours, and glass bottom boat tours. It also provides access for research and management purposes.
Currently, the small two ramp facility is operating at capacity during peak times, creating competition between recreational users and tourism operators for access to the facility.
The boat ramp is located at the mouth of Tantabiddi Creek. At times, boat launching from the boat ramp is restricted due to sand and sediment build-up caused by heavy rains and flooding.
To address this challenge, the Shire of Exmouth called on the DTMI to consider options to better meet the needs of current and future needs of recreational and commercial vessel operators.
A taskforce was established to guide this work, including representatives of the Gascoyne Development Commission; Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions; the Shire of Exmouth; Tourism WA; and the Department Primary Industries and Regional Development.
The Tantabiddi Taskforce considered several locations for a new facility before endorsing a concept layout plan and preferred site approximately 300 metres south of the existing boating facility. This has been informed by a $1.3 million planning program of extensive investigations.
The WA Government has committed a further $3.6 million for DTMI to progress cultural heritage and environmental impact assessment and approval. That work is underway.
In 2025, the WA Government committed $116 million to deliver the new Tantabiddi boating facility (Ningaloo Reef tourism hub at Tantabiddi).
The development of a new boating facility at Tantabiddi will provide significant economic and social benefits to the local regional and WA economies and supports sustainable tourism development – an important economic driver in the Gascoyne.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of this project?
DTMI has completed a detailed business case and planning investigations to identify a preferred site, about 300 m south of the existing boat ramp on the west side of the North West cape.
Key Statistics
In 2018-19 the Ningaloo Reef accounted for the following
Total economic impact
Full-time jobs created
Visitors
Visitor nights
Day trippers
Tourist average daily spend
Relevant Resources
Want to know more? Explore more here:
Environmental Impact Assessment Referral Information
DCCEEW’s Public Portal
