Visiting Marpa National Park (CYPAL) safely
Getting there and getting around
Located in Princess Charlotte Bay, off the east coast of Cape York Peninsula, the three pristine continental islands, known as Ronganhu (to the north), Errewerrpinha (to the west) and Olilu (to the south), form Marpa National Park (CYPAL).
Access is by private boat only. A boat ramp is located about 20km (10 nautical miles) from Marpa National Park (CYPAL) at Port Stewart—approximately 229km north of Cooktown.
There are no roads, walking tracks or public facilities provided on these islands.
Access to Ronganhu Island and Olilu Island is prohibited to protect the significant cultural resources.
Wheelchair accessibility
There are no wheelchair-accessible facilities on Marpa National Park (CYPAL).
Staying safe
Marpa National Park (CYPAL) is a remote national park. Visitors must be well prepared.
- Tell friends or family where you are going and when you expect to return.
- Carry at least one form of emergency communication equipment. Personal locator beacons (PLBs) are the most effective.
- Wear sunscreen and cover up when you are boating.
- Be aware that estuarine crocodiles can occur in waters around islands and cays in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. Crocodiles are potentially dangerous and attacks can be fatal. Remember, your safety is our concern but your responsibility – always be crocwise in croc country.
- Dangerous stinging jellyfish (‘stingers’) may be present in the coastal waters at any time, but occur more frequently in the warmer months. A full-body lycra suit or equivalent may provide a good measure of protection against stinging jellyfish and sunburn. Visit marine stingers for the latest safety and first-aid information.
- Always carry drinking water and wear a hat.
- Bring insect repellent.
For more information, please read the guidelines on safety in parks and forests.
Before you visit
Our precious Great Barrier Reef World Heritage islands are among the most pest-free islands in the world. They need your help to stay this way. Please Be pest-free! before your visit.
Essentials to bring
Preparation is the key to a safe and enjoyable visit to Marpa National Park (CYPAL). Make sure you bring:
- drinking water
- rubbish bags
- protective clothing, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
- suitable shoes for walking on rough surfaces
- a comprehensive first-aid kit
- insect repellent
- communication equipment.
Opening hours
Marpa National Park (CYPAL) is open 24 hours a day. Access to Ronganhu Island and Olilu Island is prohibited to protect the significant cultural resources.
Permits and fees
Permits are required for commercial or organised group activities. View permits and fees for further information.
Pets
Domestic animals are not permitted on Marpa Island National Park (CYPAL) or on tidal lands adjacent to Marpa Island National Park (CYPAL) within the Great Barrier Reef Coast Marine Park. Tidal areas include beaches, rocks and dunes.
Climate and weather
Marpa National Park (CYPAL) has a tropical climate with the wetter months usually between December and April when maximum temperatures can soar above 30°C. The best time to visit the island group is between May and October when rain is unlikely and temperatures are cooler.
Fuel and supplies
There are no facilities on Marpa National Park (CYPAL), all fuel and supplies need to be brought with you.
The nearest fuel and supplies are available on the mainland at Coen, approximately 90km north-west of Port Stewart which is 20km (10 nautical miles) from Marpa National Park (CYPAL).
For more information see the tourism information links.
- There are currently no park alerts for this park.