A group of Indonesian fishermen are in good health and will be returned home following their island rescue when they were smashed by the full force of Tropical Cyclone Ilsa.

The 11 were found on Monday night after one of two boats washed ashore on Bedwell Island, about 313km west of Broome.

Ten of the survivors had been crewing the boat that made it to shore.

There was a lone survivor from the second boat, who spent 30 hours in the water before also being washed ashore.

The eight others on board were feared dead after it sank in extreme conditions.

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority said the survivors reported both boats had been caught in the cyclone, which posted Australian record wind speeds of 289km/h at nearby Bedout Island.

The men were first spotted by an Australian Border Force plane during a surveillance mission.

The fishermen had established a makeshift camp where they had spent about five days without food or water.

Once rescued, they were flown to Broome Hospital for treatment.

A regional health service spokesman said all 11 had been discharged but provided no details of any injuries.

An Australian Border Force spokesman said they were all in good health despite their ordeal.

“The ABF is working to repatriate the group as soon as practical, ensuring all legislative and welfare requirements are met,” the spokesman said.

“As such, they have been transported to Darwin in preparation for their return to Indonesia. Indonesian authorities have been notified and have acknowledged the support provided.”

Cyclone Ilsa tracked down the Kimberley coast last week before crossing the coast northeast of Port Hedland as a destructive category five system.