The Mimi Pearl marks an exciting new chapter in sustainable tourism at Willie Creek Pearl Farm. This innovative vessel enhances the tour experience while significantly reducing environmental impact.
Quietly powered by renewable energy, the Mimi Pearl offers a smooth and tranquil way to explore the crystal-clear waters of Willie Creek. Its eco-conscious design provides a more peaceful journey for visitors and helps protect the delicate marine environment below.
With the introduction of the Mimi Pearl, Willie Creek Pearl Farm continues its commitment to delivering exceptional, environmentally responsible experiences—inviting guests to connect with nature, learn about pearl farming and enjoy the beauty of the region with minimal disturbance to its ecosystems.
The Mimi Pearl is more than a groundbreaking vessel — she’s a heartfelt tribute to family, heritage and the land that shapes the Willie Creek story.
Her name carries deep personal meaning. “Mimi” was one of the first words spoken by young Darcy, grandson of Valda — the matriarch of the family behind Willie Creek Pearl Farm. It was his way of naming the grandmother he adored. Fittingly, “Mimi” is also the word for grandmother in the local Aboriginal language, reflecting the family’s profound connection to Broome and its cultural roots.
Blending innovative, eco-friendly design with a name steeped in love and legacy, the Mimi Pearl embodies the spirit of Willie Creek: respectful of tradition, committed to sustainability and inspired by the people and place that make it truly unique.
With a 46-seat capacity and enhanced accessibility features, the Mimi Pearl has been thoughtfully designed to welcome more visitors while reducing environmental impact. With near-silent, emission-free operation, the Mimi Pearl offers a cleaner, more peaceful way to explore Willie Creek—benefiting both visitors and local marine life. By eliminating petroleum-based fuels, the vessel reduces waste, maintenance impacts, and carbon emissions. This shift is expected to save an estimated 787 carbon credits annually, aligning with Willie Creek Pearls’ commitment to sustainability and lower emissions.
"Mimi taught us to look after what matters: family, community, and the environment," says Bailey Banfield, Willie Creek Pearls’ Sustainability Officer and Valda’s grandson, "To see her name connected to a project that helps protect the Kimberley’s unique ecosystem is a tribute to that. Through solar power, we’re leading the way in sustainable tourism, ensuring that future generations can experience the beauty of our region."
About Willie Creek Pearl Farm Tours
Willie Creek Pearls offer a variety of award winning tours that provide an in-depth look at the pearl farming process—from shell to showroom. Guests will learn about the anatomy of the Pinctada maxima oyster, witness a live pearl harvest, and explore the farm's operations. The tour includes a scenic boat cruise on the tranquil waters of Willie Creek, offering opportunities to spot native wildlife and see the pearl operations from the water.
Choose from Drive Yourself (this is where you self-drive and meet for your tour departure at the pearl farm) or 'Catch our Coach' tours (these include pickups from most hotels in Broome for your air-conditioned coach transfer from Broome to the pearl farm and return).
Tours to the Willie Creek Pearl Farm, that include a boat tour aboard the Mimi Pearl, can be booked through the Broome Visitor Centre, making it easy for travellers to experience this unique blend of modern design, cultural significance, and natural beauty.
Need local information and booking assistance?
Broome Visitor Centre
Call: 08 9195 2200
Email: [email protected]
Location: 1 Hamersley St (near Male Oval) Google map
Socials: @VisitBroome #visitbroome
