Visiting Possession Island safely

Beach access on Possession Island.

Photo credit: Queensland Government

Possession Island is remote.

Photo credit: Queensland Government

Possession Island is covered woodland and open heath.

Photo credit: Queensland Government

Getting there and getting around

Possession Island National Park comprises two continental islands—Possession and Eborac islands—with a total area of 508 hectares. Possession Island is in the Gulf of Carpentaria, approximately 17km south-west of the tip of Cape York Peninsula in North Queensland. Eborac Island is about 1km north of the tip of Cape York Peninsula.

The nearest mainland communities are Seisia and Bamaga, approximately 25km south of the tip of Cape York Peninsula. Access to Possession Island National Park is by charter or private boat. A public boat ramp is located at Seisia, approximately 11km south of Possession Island. No roads, walking tracks or public facilities are provided on the national park.

For more information see the tourism information links.

Wheelchair accessibility

There are no wheelchair-accessible facilities on Possession Island National Park.

Staying safe

Possession Island National Park is remote and visitors must be well prepared.

• Wear sunscreen and cover up when you are boating.
• Always carry drinking water and wear a hat.
• Bring insect repellent.
• Do not enter mine shafts or caves on these islands as they are unsafe due to the possibility of collapse.
• Dangerous stinging jellyfish (‘stingers’) may be present in the coastal waters at any time, but occur more frequently in the warmer months. If you cannot avoid entering the water, 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.
• Be aware that crocodiles can turn up anywhere in croc country, including tidal reaches of rivers, along beaches, on offshore islands and cays in the Great Barrier Reef and Torres Strait, and in freshwater lagoons, rivers, and swamps. Crocodiles are dangerous and attacks can be fatal. Remember to be croc wise in croc country.

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! (PDF, 573.6KB) before your visit.

Essentials to bring

This island park is remote and there are no facilities—visitors need to be well prepared.

• Be self-sufficient in food, water and first-aid supplies.
• Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, suitable clothing and sturdy footwear.
• Bring rubbish bags to take rubbish away—bins are not provided.

Opening hours

Possession Island National Park is open 24 hours a day.

Pets

Domestic animals are not permitted on Possession Island National Park.

Climate and weather

Possession Island National Park has a tropical climate. The wetter months usually occur between December and April, when maximum temperatures can soar well above 30°C. The best time to visit the park is between May and October when rain is unlikely and temperatures are cooler.

Fuel and supplies

There are no facilities, supplies or services on Possession Island National Park. Visitors must be self-sufficient with fuel and supplies. The nearest fuel and supplies are available on the mainland at Seisia, approximately 12km south of the national park. For more information see the tourism information links.