KMSB: Enabling Tourism and Trade in WA

Western Australia’s Kimberley region is entering a dynamic phase of development, driven by strategic infrastructure that enhances both tourism and commercial activity. At the heart of this transformation is Broome’s new port terminal, owned and operated by Kimberley Marine Support Base (KMSB), which is poised to usher in a new era of maritime capability.

The facility is redefining access to Broome’s coastline by resolving long-standing tidal constraints. KMSB’s soon-to-be-commissioned floating wharf introduces uninterrupted, round-the-clock marine operations, an unprecedented advancement for the region. This innovation ensures consistent berthing regardless of tidal conditions, enabling reliable service for industries ranging from cruise tourism and agriculture to energy and emergency response.

Broome as a Gateway

Broome has long been recognised as the gateway to the Kimberley, celebrated for its pristine shores, rich Indigenous culture, and adventurous spirit. Yet, extreme tidal fluctuations, among the highest in the southern hemisphere, have historically disrupted vessel schedules, affecting both visitor experiences and freight logistics.
Engineered with a tension-leg mooring system, the floating wharf directly addresses these challenges. It delivers operational certainty for vessels previously hindered by delays or cancellations, marking a significant milestone in the Kimberley’s evolution as a hub for resilient and diversified maritime activity.

“The new KMSB port terminal is a game-changer for tourism across Northern Australia,” said Andrew Natta, Managing Director of KMSB. “We’re now able to offer a year-round gateway for cruise lines, tour operators, and local enterprises to grow beyond the constraints of the traditional dry season.”
“The ripple effect is substantial. More consistent visitation means sustainable employment, deeper local partnerships, and the opportunity to showcase the Kimberley to the world on our own terms.”
“The wharf has been purpose-built to connect Broome and the wider Kimberley to global markets. It’s designed to berth the largest vessels permitted in Australian waters, positioning Broome as a serious contender in the international cruise and expedition sector.”

Opening Doors

With year-round berthing now possible, cruise operators can plan with greater confidence, knowing passengers will enjoy seamless experiences regardless of the season. Beyond tourism, the facility is also becoming a regional logistics hub. Livestock exporters benefit from predictable dispatch windows, improving animal welfare and lowering operational costs. Energy operators can reduce round-trip distances by more than 1,000 kilometres compared to southern ports, cutting both fuel use and emissions. Emergency response agencies also gain faster mobilisation capabilities – a critical advantage in a region often affected by weather events and remote access. Onshore infrastructure further supports KMSB’s maritime functionality, with a bi-directional causeway allowing smooth handling of varied cargo types – from containerised freight to oversized project cargo such as wind turbine components and subsea equipment. Over 20 hectares of logistics and laydown space are being progressively developed, allowing the facility to scale with growing demand. Reliability is central to KMSB’s value proposition. The ability to berth on time strengthens supply chains, supports consistent tourism experiences, and enables communities to grow in line with economic opportunity.
As Western Australia continues to diversify its economy beyond resources, assets like this new port terminal provide a platform for growth in emerging sectors. Tourism is becoming a strategic pillar – and requires dependable, year-round access to succeed. Far more than a port terminal, Kimberley Marine Support Base is a catalyst for regional transformation.

To learn more, visit kmsb.com.au or to book a berth, email bookings@kmsb.com.au.