Perth: Swan River Bridges and City Segway Tour

Exploring Perth from the seat of a Segway might seem unconventional, but it’s one of the most fun, practical ways to see the city and its scenic riverfront. This 2-hour guided tour takes you along the Swan River, across iconic bridges, and through vibrant urban neighborhoods—all at a pace that lets you soak up the sights without rushing. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but reviews and the itinerary suggest this is a memorable way to experience Perth’s blend of natural beauty and urban charm.

What stands out most about this tour are the stunning river views and the chance to glide across impressive bridges like the Boorloo and Matagarup. We also love how it combines city highlights, indigenous stories, and a bit of local culture—all in a manageable, small-group setting. The only potential consideration? It’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, so it’s best for active, adventurous travelers.

This tour is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of scenery and city sights, especially if you’re looking for a more interactive experience than just walking or bus tours. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview or locals looking for a fun new perspective on familiar surroundings.

Key Points

• Scenic river views and photo opportunities at key bridges and lookout points
• Small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures personalized attention
• Inclusive commentary with a guide and audio system for better storytelling
• Comfortable, easy-to-learn Segway experience suitable for most active travelers
• Diverse highlights from bridges and parks to cultural pathways and city landmarks
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Experience

Imagine cruising along Perth’s beautiful Swan River on a Segway, a surprisingly intuitive and fun way to see the city’s waterfront. The guided tour kicks off with a quick training session—nothing too intimidating—that gets you comfortable on the Segway. Once you’re ready, your guide, equipped with a radio headset, shares stories about the locale, ensuring everyone stays informed without missing a word.

From the start at Barrack Street Jetty, the tour takes you along the river, where you’ll enjoy views of the city skyline framed by the shimmering water. The first highlight is crossing the Boorloo Bridge onto Heirisson Island, a peaceful spot often home to black swans and, if lucky, kangaroos. This section exemplifies the tour’s balance of urban and natural scenery, giving a real sense of Perth’s riverside environment.

Crossing Iconic Bridges and Enjoying Views

One of the standout moments is riding over the Boorloo Bridge, which offers an elevated perspective over the water and cityscape. Next, the tour traverses the Matagarup Bridge, affectionately called the Serpent Bridge, known for its striking design. Standing atop the bridge, travelers get a chance to snap photos of Optus Stadium and the city skyline, both of which look spectacular framed by the river.

The Optus Lookout stop provides a perfect vantage point to appreciate Perth’s sprawling urban layout and the river’s course. Many reviews highlight how these bridge crossings and lookouts deliver “breathtaking views”—a phrase often echoed by travelers who find the experience visually rewarding, especially given the natural light and cityscape.

Exploring Burswood Parkland and Cultural Pathways

After crossing the bridges, the route continues into Burswood Parkland, a lush green area that surrounds the Crown Casino and the impressive Optus Stadium. Riding through these parks, you’ll appreciate the contrast between natural spaces and modern development. The guide also shares stories about the indigenous pathways and the cultural significance of the land, adding depth to the experience.

Travelling through these pathways offers a chance to reflect on the area’s heritage. We loved how the storytelling added a layer of meaning beyond just sightseeing, making it a tactile way to connect with Perth’s history and culture.

City Landmarks and Urban Highlights

The final stretch of the tour takes you through East Perth and into the city center. Here, you’ll pass notable sites like the Perth Mint, Cathedrals, and the State Library—not just for their looks but for their stories. As you glide through these historic and civic spaces, your guide fills in details about each location, making it more than just a sightseeing run.

A notable stop is the Boonji Spaceman sculpture, which adds a touch of modern art to the cityscape. The tour concludes back at Barrack Street Jetty, completing a circle of Perth’s most scenic and culturally significant spots.

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What to Expect on the Tour

The entire experience lasts about two hours, with most of that time spent on the Segway itself. The small group size ensures plenty of attention from your guide, which is helpful if you’re new to Segways or want extra tips. The pace is steady but relaxed—perfect for taking in the surroundings.

The training session is straightforward and lasts around 5 minutes, with plenty of encouragement for beginners. Helmets and radios are provided, making safety and communication straightforward. You’ll want to wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes; backpacks, bags, and alcohol are not permitted, and the tour isn’t suitable for kids under 12, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

• Starting Point: Shop 3, 1 Barrack Street Jetty—easy to find, right in the heart of Perth’s waterfront.
• Swan River: Your journey begins with a gentle glide along the river, soaking in the natural beauty and city skyline.
• Heirisson Island & Burswood Park: Cross the Boorloo Bridge, pass through parks, and spot native wildlife like black swans and possibly kangaroos.
• Optus Stadium & City Highlights: Ride past the stadium, then stop at the Optus Lookout for panoramic views.
• Cultural Insights: Explore indigenous pathways and learn their significance from your guide.
• City Landmarks: Pass by the Perth Mint, cathedrals, the State Library, Government House, and gardens.
• Return to Base: Conclude your ride back at Barrack Street Jetty, feeling both energized and enriched.

Real-World Insights from Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the stunning views and the amount of ground covered in a short period. One noted, “The views from the bridges were incredible, and the guide’s stories made it even more special,” reinforcing the tour’s balance of scenery and storytelling.

Many appreciated the small group setting, which made the ride feel personal and allowed for questions along the way. One remarked, “It’s a fantastic way to see Perth without feeling rushed or overwhelmed,” which sums up the experience well.

Some minor concerns include the physical requirement—if you’re uncomfortable standing for two hours or have difficulty balancing, this might not be ideal. However, most reviewers found the Segway surprisingly easy to operate and accessible for beginners.

Pricing and Value

While the price isn’t specified here, the 2-hour duration and focus on iconic sights suggest good value, especially given the inclusion of an expert guide, safety gear, and the personalized experience. The limited group size adds to the value, ensuring you’re not just another face in a large tour bus.

If you prioritize unique perspectives, scenic views, and cultural insights, this tour offers a compelling blend at a reasonable cost compared to private tours or multiple separate activities.

The Sum Up

This Swan River Bridges and City Segway Tour offers a lively, accessible way to see Perth’s waterfront and city highlights. It’s great for active travelers eager to combine sightseeing with a bit of fun, providing panoramic views, cultural stories, and urban charm all in just two hours. The small group setting and expert guidance help make it both educational and entertaining.

While it’s not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues, it’s an ideal choice for those comfortable on a Segway and wanting a memorable, scenic introduction to Perth. The views alone make it worth considering, but add in the stories and cultural insights, and it becomes a well-rounded way to experience this vibrant city.

If you’re a curious explorer who appreciates natural beauty, enjoys new experiences, and wants a fresh perspective on Perth’s landmarks, this tour delivers. It’s best suited for active, adventurous travelers ready to glide and learn at the same time.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age for this tour?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 12 years old.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes for safety and comfort.

Can I take a backpack?
No, backpacks and bags are not allowed on the tour to ensure safety and ease of movement.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women due to safety considerations.

What if I’ve never used a Segway before?
The guide provides a quick training session, and most beginners find it easy to pick up.

How long is the training session?
About 5 minutes, enough to get comfortable on your Segway before starting the tour.

What’s included in the tour?
A guided tour with a live guide, an audio system for commentary, helmets, and safety instructions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning options.

This detailed review hopes to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Perth Swan River Bridges and City Segway Tour. Whether you’re seeking a scenic adventure, cultural insights, or just a fun way to see the city, it’s a memorable experience that combines the best of Perth’s natural and urban charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby