Adelaide’s waterfront offers some of the best boat tours in South Australia, with options ranging from 6-hour Coorong expeditions to laid-back city cruises. I’m especially fond of the Murray River luncheon cruise – it combines great local food with stunning river views. The dolphin and seal watching tours around the islands are another standout, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts.
The port transfer services double as scenic tours, making even your arrival or departure an experience worth remembering. For city views, nothing beats cruising through central Adelaide’s waterways.
Let’s explore the top boat tours that make Adelaide’s waters worth exploring.
Key Points
- The Coorong 6-Hour Adventure Cruise offers an immersive experience showcasing diverse landscapes, birdlife, and cultural heritage, with guided walks and catering included.
- The Murray River Highlights and Luncheon Cruise provides a full-day tour featuring a 2-hour boat cruise, a 2-course lunch, and optional visits to local attractions.
- The Seal Island Boat Tour and the 3.5-Hour Guaranteed Wild Dolphin Watching Cruise provide unique opportunities to observe Australian sea lions, fur seals, dolphins, and other marine life.
- The Torrens River Cruise and the River Torrens Popeye Sightseeing Cruise offer scenic tours of Adelaide’s iconic landmarks, with amenities such as live commentary, snacks, and drinks.
- The cruises are conveniently located at Holdfast Shores, Glenelg, with easy access and well-connected transport options, and receive high customer satisfaction ratings.
Coorong 6-Hour Adventure Cruise
If you’re looking to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Coorong National Park, the Coorong 6-Hour Adventure Cruise is an excellent choice.
With an impressive 283 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this cruise boasts a Badge of Excellence.
During the 6-hour adventure, you’ll get to witness the diverse dunes, lagoons, beaches, and birdlife of the Coorong. Guided walks on the Younghusband Peninsula and Cattle Point will provide opportunities to learn about the local flora, fauna, and Indigenous lifestyles, as well as contemporary water management.
The cruise includes morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea, ensuring a truly memorable and informative experience.
Read our full review: Coorong 6-Hour Adventure Cruise Review
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Adelaide Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Adelaide City
When arriving at the Adelaide Cruise Port, a private transfer service can conveniently whisk you away to your desired destination in the Adelaide city center.
This service offers a duration of 30 minutes to 1 hour, with prices starting from $249.20 per group of up to 2 people. You can reserve now and pay later, plus enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The air-conditioned vehicles are fully licensed, insured, and equipped to handle various weather conditions, including storage for sports equipment.
Professional drivers provide door-to-door service, assisting with luggage and meeting you with a name sign.
The service includes waiting time, all fees, and taxes, ensuring a hassle-free journey.
Read our full review: Adelaide Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Adelaide City Review
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Seal Island Boat Tour From Victor Harbor
The Seal Island Boat Tour from Victor Harbor offers an exhilarating 45-minute adventure aboard a 37-foot rigid inflatable boat (RIB).
With a maximum capacity of 38 travelers, you’ll depart from Granite Island, passing the Penguin Centre and Horse Tram route.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy live commentary and the chance to spot Australian sea lions, New Zealand fur seals, common and bottlenose dolphins, cormorants, petrels, and shearwaters.
Spend approximately 10 minutes viewing the marine life at Seal Rock, and learn about the area’s whaling history.
While not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with back problems, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
Read our full review: Seal Island Boat Tour From Victor Harbor Review
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Murray River Highlights and Luncheon Cruise
Escape the hustle and bustle of Adelaide with a journey to the serene Murray River on this full-day highlights and luncheon cruise. Priced from $122.08 per person, this 8-hour tour departs from the Adelaide Central Bus Station, offering a convenient pick-up and drop-off service.
Highlights include a 2-hour boat cruise on the Proud Mary, a delicious 2-course lunch, and time to explore the charming town of Mannum. Along the way, you’ll enjoy scenic views and wildlife spotting.
The tour also includes optional visits to Melba’s Chocolate Factory and Woodside Cheese Wrights. With a 4.3/5 overall rating from previous guests, this tour provides great value and an immersive experience on the Murray River.
Read our full review: Murray River Highlights and Luncheon Cruise Review
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Torrens River Cruise in Adelaide
Situated in the heart of Adelaide, the Torrens River Cruise offers a delightful way to explore the city’s picturesque waterways.
With a high recommendation rate of 94% and a stellar 4.5-star rating, this 1-hour cruise is a popular attraction. Accommodating up to 48 passengers per boat, the cruise departs from Elder Park and showcases the city’s iconic landmarks and wildlife.
Onboard, you’ll enjoy live commentary, complimentary snacks and drinks, and a relaxing atmosphere. The cruise is family-friendly and accessible to most travelers, though it’s not wheelchair-accessible.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the great value for money, making the Torrens River Cruise a must-do activity for visitors to Adelaide.
Read our full review: Torrens River Cruise in Adelaide Review
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Adelaide: River Torrens Popeye Sightseeing Cruise
A popular choice among visitors to Adelaide, the Adelaide: River Torrens Popeye Sightseeing Cruise offers a delightful 45-minute journey along the city’s iconic waterway. Priced from $16.62 per person, this guided tour allows you to learn about South Australia’s history from an expert while passing by key landmarks like the Adelaide Festival Centre and SAHMRI.
You can choose to disembark at the Adelaide Zoo or Botanic Garden for further exploration. Though not wheelchair-accessible, the cruise provides handrails and assistance for those with limited mobility.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 from 548 reviews, this family-friendly experience is praised for its informative guides and picturesque views.
Read our full review: Adelaide: River Torrens Popeye Sightseeing Cruise Review
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Coorong 3.5-Hour Discovery Cruise
The Coorong 3.5-Hour Discovery Cruise offers an immersive journey through the stunning Coorong National Park, showcasing the diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage of this remarkable region.
You’ll cruise along the Murray River to the river mouth, with the option to take a guided walk to the Younghusband Peninsula. Along the way, you’ll witness diverse wildlife, learn about traditional dance, and even harvest pipi clams.
Onboard, the knowledgeable captain provides captivating commentary on the local history and Aboriginal culture. The cruise includes a delicious lunch, afternoon tea, and coffee or tea, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
With excellent reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this cruise is a must-do activity for visitors to Adelaide.
Read our full review: Coorong 3.5-Hour Discovery Cruise Review
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Port Adelaide: Dolphin and Ships Graveyard Cruise
Set out on a captivating 1.5-hour cruise that takes you through the Port Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary and the historic Ships Graveyard.
For $56.25 per person, you’ll have the chance to spot dolphins in their natural habitat and explore the eerie wrecks of bygone ships.
The live commentary from the skipper provides insights into the region’s maritime history and local sights.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this cruise offers flexibility and convenience.
Though dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed, you’ll still enjoy the scenic International Bird Sanctuary and breathtaking views of famous ships and landmarks along the Port River.
Read our full review: Port Adelaide: Dolphin and Ships Graveyard Cruise Review
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Adelaide: Glenelg Twilight Catamaran Cruise With Drink
Enjoy the serene ambiance of a 1.5-hour Glenelg Twilight Catamaran Cruise, where you’ll admire the picturesque sunset views over the Gulf.
Priced from $36.43 per person, this cruise departs from the Marina Pier in Glenelg, just 20 minutes from Adelaide’s CBD.
Onboard, you’ll enjoy a refreshing beverage of your choice and the option to purchase additional drinks.
The cruise isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, and large bags aren’t allowed.
With an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 98 reviews, this experience is sure to be a highlight of your Adelaide visit.
Read our full review: Adelaide: Glenelg Twilight Catamaran Cruise With Drink Review
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Adelaide: River Torrens Popeye Devonshire Tea Cruise
Frequently, travelers enjoy a delightful 45-minute cruise along the River Torrens aboard the iconic Popeye boat. The cruise starts at Elder Park Landing and includes live commentary from an expert guide.
You’ll pass notable sites like the Adelaide Festival Centre, SAHMRI, and Adelaide Gaol. For $24.93, you can treat yourself to Devonshire tea with fresh scones, jam, whipped cream, and tea or coffee served on board.
Reviewers praise the friendly, accommodating staff and recommend this activity for its value and relaxation. While some mobility is required, the boat has handrails and assistance available.
Disembark at the Adelaide Zoo or Botanic Garden for further exploration.
Read our full review: Adelaide: River Torrens Popeye Devonshire Tea Cruise Review
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Adelaide: 3.5-Hour Guaranteed Wild Dolphin Watching Cruise
For those seeking a truly unforgettable experience in Adelaide, the 3.5-Hour Guaranteed Wild Dolphin Watching Cruise is a must-try activity.
Departing from the Holdfast Shores in Glenelg, this cruise offers a 58-foot catamaran with knowledgeable staff and a money-back guarantee to spot dolphins.
Cruising the Gulf waters, you’ll have the chance to see common and bottlenose dolphins up close, with opportunities for stunning photography.
The on-board experience includes live commentary, and you’re free to bring your own food and drinks.
With a 4.8/5 rating based on over 200 reviews, this cruise is an exceptional way to learn about Adelaide’s vibrant marine life.
Read our full review: Adelaide: 3.5-Hour Guaranteed Wild Dolphin Watching Cruise Review
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The Sum Up
Adelaide offers a variety of cruises and boat tours that allow you to explore the city’s waterways and surrounding natural attractions. From the Coorong to the Murray River, you can enjoy scenic views, wildlife sightings, and delicious meals on these leisurely excursions. Whether you’re interested in a short cruise or a full-day adventure, there’s something for all in Adelaide’s thriving maritime activities.