Bathurst and Melville Islands are known as the Tiwi Islands. They are popular destinations for one- and two-day trips from Darwin. The waters in the area yield the elusive barramundi, one of Australia's finest eating fish. They are predators, growing up to 60kgs and are a sought-after game fish providing good angling, one of the favourite pastimes of Getaway presenter, Ben Dark.
Ben and his mate Bradley Thomas boarded MV Cannon, a 23-metre ship, custom-built to do charter work in the Top End and Kimberley. It is modern, luxurious, fully air-conditioned and very comfortable. The mother ship has four by 4.6 metre sports fishing boats with four-stroke motors. Each is equipped with sounders, top quality fishing gear, ice and portable iceboxes, and a guide.
The Cannon can accommodate eight guests in four cabins — two are twin-bunk style with their own shower and separate toilet rooms. Two cabins have a double and single bed and ensuite. All have individual air conditioning and there is endless fresh water for showering.
The internal lounge and dining area has television, video, DVD and stereo system, all in air-conditioned comfort. The galley is stainless steel and is fitted with all modern conveniences, including walk-in cool room.
The outside entertaining deck has a drinks refrigerator with an ice maker, stainless steel barbecue, instant boiling water and shower and toilet. Two tables under the shade of the hard top each seat eight.
The vessel is equipped with a full colour, state-of-the-art navigation system and is powered by a MTU 820hp motor with a cruise speed of 10 knots. Two gensets provide 240 volt power and bow thrusters allow easy manoeuvrability.
From Darwin you can visit many other remote tropical locations — Cape Don, Arnhem Land, Perron Island and the Kimberley.
