Searching for Crocs in Australia’s Northern Territory

Looking into the eyes of Sweet Thing was absolutely terrifying. (Photo: Brittany Jones-Cooper)

The crocodile was named Sweet Thing.

But by one look in the prehistoric beasts eyes, I knew that our interaction would be anything but sweet should I fall into the water.

I was in a place I never thought I’d be — sitting on a airboat in Australia’s Northern Territory. The only thing separating me from a 20-foot crocodile (that was eyeing me like a Lunchable), was a small railing that I could easily tumble over.

“Are we safe on this boat,” I asked with trepidation.

“Sure,” said the guide. “Crocodiles are all about the surprise attack, so as long as you can see the her, were all good.”

I let out an exhale, and then quickly lost all sense of relief upon noticing that Sweet Thing had slipped below the murky waters and was now lurking, unseen, somewhere around the boat.

To my surprise, she showed up behind me on the other side of the boat. I promptly took a seat and fastened my seatbelt as to avoid becoming a chew toy.

The sea plane pared outside of Outback Floatplane Adventures. (Photo: Brittany Jones-Cooper)

The truth is, I brought this terror upon myself.

Like many, the adventurous spirit of Steve Irwin is what I associated with Australia’s Outback. The unregulated wilderness filled with its dangerous animals and terrain seemed both exotic and thrilling.

So during a recent trip to Darwin, I wanted to see first-hand the danger and beauty that Australia truly has to offer.

Darwin is a bit sleepy, and feels like any small town in America, but a short sea plane ride can quickly transport you to what feels like a different planet.

The folks at Outback Floatplane Adventures pick you up at your hotel bright and early (think 6 a.m.) and transport you to the local airport. Groggy, I tried to sleep during the ride, but as the sun started to rise, I was entranced by the beauty of famous Darwin sky.

The airboat zipping through the marsh. (Photo: Outback Floatplane Tours)

Once at the airport, we boarded a small sea plane that flew over the impressive marshland spreading on for miles below. In that moment it became clear that this place had no roads. There were no buildings, and no light pollution. It was isolated, and in many ways, untouched.

The pilot expertly maneuvered the sea plane into a small channel (prepare to hold your breath), where a pontoon boat sat waiting for us with a grill, an adorable dog, and of course, a helicopter.

After a quick bite, we boarded the tiny doorless helicopter to survey the land below. From the air, I could see how densely populated the area was with crocodiles. Walking through the area on foot would be like trying to skip through a minefield. Not advisable.

Related: A Visual Guide to Visiting the Australian Outback

Sweet Thing meets Rose. (Photo: Outback Floatplane Adventures)

When we landed, the real fun began.

Decked out in headphones and goggles, I boarded an airboat that zipped through the water like an ice skater gliding on the ice. After some daredevil maneuvers, the ride slowed down as the driver expertly navigated narrow tributaries that were overgrown with foliage and infested with crocodiles. Some were small, and some like Sweet Thing, were things nightmares are made of.

The best part though, was a small wild egret named Rose, who had made herself a part of the crew at Outback Floatplanes. She casually landed on our guides head, who fed her small fish as he drove. She also spent some time at the front of the boat helping us spot crocs.

Later that evening, I trekked over to Darwin Harbor to reflect on the day. I thought of Sweet Thing, Rose, and how my mom would be the most freaked out by the fact that I rode in a helicopter without a door.

And then I saw this sunset, which completely wiped my mind of any thought. It was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen.

The day ended exactly as it began. Me, staring at the sun, marveling at the timeless beauty of this exotic land so far from home.

No filter. Sunset at Darwin Harbor in Australia’s Northern Territory. (Photo: Brittany Jones-Cooper)

WATCH: Inside the Cage of Death: Face to Face with Australia’s Monster Crocs

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