Perth’s waterfront excursions combine practicality with pure enjoyment. The Swan River serves as the main artery for most boat tours, offering both city views and nature experiences. Local operators run well-organized trips ranging from 2-hour city cruises to full-day adventures. The best value comes from combination tours – especially those pairing wine tasting with river sightseeing or wildlife watching.
I’m particularly impressed by the sunset dinner cruises, which showcase the city skyline while serving fresh local seafood. The Fremantle-bound boats offer great historical commentary, and the Rottnest Island ferry services include helpful wildlife guides.
Check out these standout boat tours for your Western Australia adventure:
Key Points
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Perth offers a variety of scenic and immersive cruises, including wine and culinary experiences, wildlife and marine tours, and island adventures.
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Swan Valley wine cruises provide an opportunity to sample local wines and enjoy a shared platter lunch, with added entertainment on the return journey.
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Dinner cruises along the Swan River offer a relaxing dining experience with live music, ideal for special occasions or celebrating local cuisine.
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Whale watching and dolphin/wildlife cruises allow visitors to observe marine life in its natural habitat, with knowledgeable crew enhancing the experience.
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Rottnest Island cruises combine ferry transfers and adventure boat tours, enabling travelers to explore the island’s beaches, bays, and iconic quokkas.
Swan Valley Gourmet Wine Cruise From Perth
The Swan Valley Gourmet Wine Cruise from Perth offers a full-day experience along the Swan River, providing visitors with the opportunity to sample local wines and indulge in a shared platter lunch.
The cruise includes narration about the area’s history and geography, as well as a visit to Mandoon Estate for wine tasting and macaron pairings.
The return journey features additional wine tastings, dessert, and live entertainment.
While the overall experience is highly rated, some guests have expressed concerns about the wine quality, air conditioning issues, and perceived value compared to previous tours.
The cruise is suitable for adults aged 18 and above, with accessibility assistance available upon request.
Read our full review: Swan Valley Gourmet Wine Cruise From Perth Review
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Perth: Swan River Dinner Cruise With Beverages
Departing from Pier 3 at Barrack Street Jetty, the Perth: Swan River Dinner Cruise With Beverages offers a 2.5-hour scenic glide along the Swan River.
Priced from SEK 1,054 per person, this dinner cruise features a buffet of seasonal salads, hot dishes, and desserts. Guests can enjoy live music and entertainment while taking in views of Perth’s city lights.
The cruise provides reserved seating with a buffet and dance floor on the main deck. Though not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, the cruise is accessible via public transport.
With an overall rating of 4.4/5 from 168 reviews, this dinner cruise is Perth’s only Swan River offering of its kind.
Read our full review: Perth: Swan River Dinner Cruise With Beverages Review
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Perth River Cruise and Vineyard Experience: Best of Both Worlds
This full-day guided tour along the Swan River combines the best of both worlds – a scenic river cruise followed by a delightful exploration of local wineries and breweries.
The experience includes winery tours, tastings at two vineyards, and a lunch at the second vineyard. Guests also visit boutique breweries for beer sampling and end the day with a chocolate and truffle tasting.
The tour starts at 9:15-9:30 AM at the Captain Cook Cruises office, and transport is provided to the Sandalford Jetty after the cruise around noon.
With an average rating of 4.9 based on 171 reviews, this tour is a must-try for those seeking an immersive and enjoyable day in Perth’s wine and beer scene.
Read our full review: Perth River Cruise and Vineyard Experience: Best of Both Worlds Review
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From Perth or Fremantle: Swan River One-Way or Return Cruise
Explore the picturesque Swan River by embarking on a one-way or return cruise from either Perth or Fremantle. Prices start from Kč 693 per person, offering 75-minute to 5.5-hour durations.
You’ll enjoy scenic river views, including landmarks like the Bell Tower and Swan Brewery. The cruise features live commentary, unlimited tea and coffee, and complimentary wine tastings on selected Fremantle departures.
On board, you’ll find comfortable seating, air-conditioned areas, and a full bar. While the cruise isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, it’s an excellent way to see Perth from the water, with a 4.5/5 overall rating based on 155 reviews.
Read our full review: From Perth or Fremantle: Swan River One-Way or Return Cruise Review
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Swan Valley River Cruise and Wine Tasting Day Trip From Perth
Set out on a 6.5-hour Swan Valley River Cruise and Wine Tasting Day Trip from Perth, enjoying Western Australia’s oldest wine region.
This tour includes morning tea, wine and cheese tastings, and a scenic river cruise. You’ll visit two Swan Valley wineries, a brewery, and a chocolate showroom.
Suitable for adults 18+, the tour accommodates a maximum of 23 travelers. Reviewers praise the food quality, wine, and friendly service, though some note issues with plastic waste.
Priced from €123.93, the tour is considered great value, with a flexible cancellation policy.
As environmental awareness grows, the operator could explore eco-friendly alternatives to reduce the tour’s footprint.
Read our full review: Swan Valley River Cruise and Wine Tasting Day Trip From Perth Review
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Swan River Lunch Cruise From Perth
For those seeking a leisurely lunchtime cruise along the Swan River, the Swan River Lunch Cruise from Perth offers a delightful midday experience.
This 2.5-hour cruise allows you to enjoy a seasonal buffet lunch while taking in views of Fremantle’s impressive homes, yacht clubs, and heritage buildings.
The cruise features informative commentary from the captain and a fully stocked bar with alcoholic beverages.
Included in the from $83.59 per person price are direct return transportation from Perth, a dessert buffet, and hotel pick-up and drop-off.
With wheelchair accessibility and limited to 10 participants, this cruise provides a relaxing and intimate setting to explore the Swan River.
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Rottnest Island Day Trip by Ferry & Adventure Boat Tour
One of the most popular day trips from Perth is the Rottnest Island Ferry and Adventure Boat Tour. This full-day excursion includes a ferry ride to the island and an adventure boat tour around its stunning coastline.
The tour has a rating of 4.7 out of 1,619 reviews and costs $76.52 per person. Visitors can explore the island by bike, spotting the iconic quokkas along the way.
The adventure boat tour provides the opportunity to see the island’s natural beauty from the water, including its rugged cliffs and secluded beaches. With a duration of 1 day, this tour is a fantastic way to experience Rottnest Island’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Rottnest Island Day Trip by Ferry & Adventure Boat Tour Review
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From Perth or Fremantle: Rottnest Island Seafood Cruise
Travelers seeking an indulgent day on the water can enjoy the Rottnest Island Seafood Cruise, which departs from both Perth and Fremantle.
The 9.5-hour trip includes a ferry ride to Rottnest Island and a 4-hour boat cruise with a seafood feast. The menu features Western Rock lobster, sashimi salmon, oysters, crabs, and prawns, accompanied by unlimited Western Australian wine, beer, and soft drinks.
Though not suitable for those with mobility issues or young children, the cruise offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
Reviews praise the food quality and attentive staff, making this an ideal excursion for seafood enthusiasts.
Read our full review: From Perth or Fremantle: Rottnest Island Seafood Cruise Review
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Swan Valley Wineries Tasting Tour and River Cruise
Visitors hoping to experience the renowned wineries and scenic waterways of the Swan Valley can embark on a combined tasting tour and river cruise.
This 6.5-hour excursion includes pickup, a guided tour of Swan Valley vineyards, wine tastings, a gourmet lunch, and a leisurely cruise along the Swan River.
Travelers can enjoy panoramic views of the picturesque landscape while sampling the region’s acclaimed wines and local produce.
With pickup available and skip-the-line access, this tour provides a seamless and immersive experience for those seeking to discover the best of Swan Valley’s winery and river attractions.
Read our full review: Swan Valley Wineries Tasting Tour and River Cruise Review
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Full-Day Swan Valley Wineries With Lunch and River Cruise
This full-day excursion takes visitors on a comprehensive exploration of Swan Valley’s renowned wineries, offering a seamless combination of wine tastings, a gourmet lunch, and a leisurely cruise along the picturesque Swan River.
Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars and lasting 6.5 hours, this popular tour costs $89.38 per person. Participants have the opportunity to sample a variety of local wines, enjoy a delicious lunch, and take in the stunning natural scenery of the Swan Valley region.
With pick-up and drop-off service included, this tour provides a convenient and immersive experience for those seeking to discover the best of Western Australia’s wine country.
Read our full review: Full-Day Swan Valley Wineries With Lunch and River Cruise Review
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Perth: Whale Watching Cruise From Hillarys Boat Harbor
Departs from the Hillarys Boat Harbor, this 2-hour whale watching cruise offers an opportunity to observe the majestic humpback whales that frequent the waters off the coast of Perth during their annual migration.
With a rating of 4.9 out of 288 reviews, this tour provides an exceptional whale watching experience. Customers praise the knowledgeable crew and the high chances of spotting whales.
The cruise departs at various times throughout the day, allowing flexibility in scheduling. At €58.12 per person, this tour is a popular choice for both visitors and locals seeking to witness the incredible marine life of Western Australia.
Read our full review: Perth: Whale Watching Cruise From Hillarys Boat Harbor Review
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From Perth: Swan Valley Cruise, Winery, Cheese & Lunch
Departing from the heart of Perth, this immersive 6.5-hour Swan Valley Cruise, Winery, Cheese & Lunch experience invites guests to indulge in the region’s renowned wine and culinary offerings.
The all-inclusive tour features a premium wine tasting on board, a grazing table lunch at Sandalford Estate, and live entertainment during the return cruise.
Highlights include a freshly brewed coffee and tea service, a cheese board, and a cake selection.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from 69 reviews, this experience is praised for its excellent staff, beautiful sights, and enjoyable wine tasting.
Priced from $151.11 per person, it’s a popular choice that often sells out, so early booking is recommended.
Read our full review: From Perth: Swan Valley Cruise, Winery, Cheese & Lunch Review
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Hillarys Boat Harbour: Rottnest Island Ferry Transfer
Conveniently located at Hillarys Boat Harbour, the Rottnest Island ferry provides a hassle-free way for visitors to explore the natural wonders of this picturesque offshore destination.
The round-trip service costs from $57.87 per person and takes just 45 minutes each way. Travelers can choose from two daily departures, at 7:30 AM or 10 AM, and return to the mainland at 4:30 PM.
Complimentary coach transfers are available, and visitors should arrive 30-45 minutes early to collect their bike or snorkeling gear.
With 63 beaches, 20 bays, and the chance to encounter playful quokkas, Rottnest Island offers a peaceful escape just a short ferry ride from Perth.
Read our full review: Hillarys Boat Harbour: Rottnest Island Ferry Transfer Review
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Perth: Dolphin and Wildlife Cruise With Fish & Chips
Visitors seeking a memorable wildlife encounter can embark on a captivating dolphin and wildlife cruise along Perth’s picturesque coastline.
This 6-hour tour takes passengers to the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, where they’ll have the chance to spot bottlenose dolphins, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds in their natural habitat.
The experience also includes a stop at Penguin Island, where guests can observe adorable little penguins up close.
To complete the package, the cruise serves up a delectable fish and chips lunch, ensuring a well-rounded adventure.
With its 4.8-star rating from 213 reviews and prices starting at Kč 4,604 per person, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Perth.
Read our full review: Perth: Dolphin and Wildlife Cruise With Fish & Chips Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruises?
Passengers can typically bring their own food and drinks on cruises, though some may have restrictions or additional fees. It’s best to check with the cruise operator for their specific policies before the trip.
Are the Cruises Suitable for Children and Families?
The cruises are generally suitable for children and families, with many offering family-friendly activities and amenities. However, it’s best to check each operator’s policies to ensure they cater to the needs of young passengers.
What Are the Cancellation and Refund Policies for the Cruises?
Cancellation and refund policies vary across cruise operators, so it’s best to check with each provider. Many offer flexible policies, allowing customers to cancel or reschedule bookings with minimal fees if needed.
How Accessible Are the Cruises for Individuals With Mobility Issues?
The accessibility of cruises can vary, but many offer accommodations for individuals with mobility issues. Travelers should inquire about specific accessibility features and assistance available to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Do the Cruises Offer Any Special Dietary Options or Accommodations?
Many cruises offer special dietary options and accommodations for guests with dietary restrictions or allergies. Passengers should inquire about the available options when booking their cruise to ensure their needs can be met.
The Sum Up
Perth offers a diverse range of cruises and boat tours that cater to various interests. From scenic Swan River cruises and wine tastings to whale watching and dolphin spotting, there’s something for all. Visitors can choose from a variety of options, depending on their preferences and budget, to make the most of their time in the city.