Willie Creek Pearl Farm

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Board your air-conditioned motorcoach at the pier for the scenic ride to Willie Creek Pearl Farm. This protected tidal estuary, where freshwater meets and mixes with salty ocean waters, provides the perfect environment for growing the Pinctada Maxima oyster that produces the world-renowned South Sea Pearl.

Once you arrive, your knowledgeable guide will share the secrets of how these rare and beautiful cultured pearls are produced. You will also learn how to evaluate the luster, shape and value of individual pearls.

Did you know that the inside of an oyster's shell is covered with a smooth shiny coating called mother-of-pearl? When an irritant, such as a grain of sand, gets caught inside the oyster's shell it secretes layers of mother-of-pearl to protect its body by coating the irritant. This little coated grain of sand becomes a pearl.

Your tour also includes a demonstration of how oysters are seeded. Only highly-trained pearl technicians can perform the delicate operation. In a sterile environment, the oyster is opened to allow the technician to insert an irritant into the shell. It usually takes the oyster two to three years to produce a good-sized pearl. During that time, the oysters are cleaned and nurtured before being examined by pearl technicians who hope to find a large and lustrous pearl inside.

After the demonstration, you will climb aboard a boat for a tour of the oyster beds. Under these waters is the breeding ground for the famous Pinctada Maxima oyster, which is the only oyster that produces South Sea pearls. This oyster can grow up to a foot in diameter and can produce a satiny lustrous pearl ranging from 9 millimeters to 20 millimeters in size.

Before returning for the scenic ride back to the ship, you will have a chance to visit the elegant showroom, to see exquisite handmade jewelry featuring Broome pearls, diamonds and Western Australian gold.

Special Notes:

Wear warm-weather clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Bring a hat, sunglasses and adequate sun protection.

Carry cash or credit cards for your purchases.

The road to Willie Creek Pearl Farm is gravel and is bumpy.

Child Price:

12 years & under only