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Things to know before you board
Choose your boarding point
There are several whale watching and sightseeing tours that depart from different boarding points along Western Australia’s coast. If you're based in Perth, the Barrack Street Jetty is the main hub, it’s centrally located and ideal for Swan River cruises or day trips to Fremantle. But if whale watching is your goal, consider heading south to Mandurah, Dunsborough, or Augusta, where cruises take you closer to marine life and the natural drama of WA’s coastline.
Swan River Scenic Cruise is worth taking
If you’re more into cityscapes and cultural stops, consider a Swan River cruise. Departing from Perth, these cruises glide past iconic landmarks and give you the chance to explore Fremantle. You can opt for a one-way trip, a round-trip, or a combo that gives you free time to wander around the port city before cruising back. It’s a relaxed alternative to the open-sea adventures down south.
Not all tours are wheelchair accessible
The Scenic View Dolphin Cruise from Mandurah is the only option which is wheelchair accessible and suitable for guests with limited mobility. Most other cruises involve boarding catamarans via steps, and aren’t designed for wheelchairs or walking aids.
Perks, discounts & extras
Some cruises come with nice little bonuses. For example, the Mandurah dolphin tours offer exclusive local perks like loyalty points, future booking discounts, and sometimes a buy-one-get-one churros deal. If you’re planning to cruise again or love value-packed experiences, keep an eye out for these extras when choosing your ticket.
Different boats, different vibes
Ocean-based tours (like Augusta or Dunsborough) typically use spacious catamarans, which are built for stability and better all-around views. They’re great if you want to move around freely and get uninterrupted whale watching from the deck. On the other hand, the Swan River cruises use more compact sightseeing boats that are great for sitting back with a drink and enjoying the scenery, but not designed for chasing marine giants.
Departure points
Perth Barrack Street Jetty
Right in the heart of the city, Barrack Street Jetty is a scenic and well-connected departure point along the Swan River. Skyscrapers on one side, tranquil water on the other. It’s a perfect city-meets-nature setting for a laid-back cruise. Most Swan River scenic tours, including those heading to Fremantle, depart from here.
Who is it for: Ideal for travelers staying in Perth or anyone short on time. Great for casual sightseeing or a relaxed start to a Fremantle day trip.
How to get there: Easily accessible by bus, train (Elizabeth Quay Station is nearby), or on foot from Perth CBD. Taxis and rideshares are also readily available.
Recommended tour:
- From Perth: Swan River Scenic Cruise
Fremantle Pier
Set in Perth’s eclectic port city, this departure point is full of energy. Surrounded by markets, historic buildings, and harbor-side eateries, it’s a vibrant place to start your cruise. Though most cruises start in Perth, some return or stop here.
Who is it for: Perfect for those already exploring Fremantle or planning a stopover. Adds a local, cultural twist to your river journey.
How to get there:
Take a train from Perth to Fremantle Station (30 mins), then it’s a short walk or taxi ride to the pier.
Recommended tour:
- From Fremantle: Swan River Scenic Cruise
Mandurah Cruises Jetty
Tucked into the canals of Mandurah, this jetty is your launchpad for dolphin cruises and scenic inland waterways. With calm estuaries, abundant marine life, and a vibrant foreshore, it’s great for relaxed wildlife encounters.
Who is it for: Great for families, wildlife lovers, and anyone seeking a close-to-Perth nature escape. Also the only tour with wheelchair access.
How to get there: Just under an hour’s drive from Perth via Kwinana Freeway. You can also take a train to Mandurah Station, then a short local bus or taxi to the foreshore.
Recommended tours:
- From Mandurah: Scenic View Dolphin Cruise
- Giant & Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise
Dunsborough Boat Ramp
Surrounded by calm waters and rolling hills, this low-key departure point in Geographe Bay feels far removed from the city. Expect a peaceful start to your whale watching cruise with wide decks, light breezes, and nothing but open water ahead.
Who is it for: Best for road-trippers, families, and those heading south along the Whale Trail. Especially popular with travelers doing a South West coastal drive.
How to get there: Dunsborough is around 3 hours from Perth by car via Forrest Highway and Bussell Highway. No direct public transport, so self-driving is best.
Recommended tour:
- From Dunsborough: Whale Watching Cruise
Augusta: Augusta Boat Harbour
At the meeting point of two oceans, Augusta’s boat harbour is as dramatic as the scenery. Surrounded by rocky headlands and wide open waters, it’s the most adventurous boarding point and perfect for a close-up encounter with migrating whales in Flinders Bay.
Who is it for: Ideal for serious wildlife enthusiasts and those seeking a raw, unforgettable whale watching experience. Less crowded and more rugged.
How to get there: Roughly 3.5–4 hours from Perth by car. Intercity buses (Transwa) stop at Augusta town, and the harbour is a short taxi ride from there.
Recommended tour:
- From Augusta: Whale Watching Cruise
FAQs
Which departure point should I choose for the best whale watching experience?
If you’re after the most immersive whale encounters, Augusta or Dunsborough are your best bets. Both offer close-up sightings and operate in calm, whale-rich waters during peak migration.
Are there any whale watching cruises that depart directly from Perth city?
We currently don’t have a tour option that departs directly from Perth. However, you can board scenic Swan River cruises from Barrack Street Jetty and connect to Fremantle for coastal excursions.
How far in advance should I book my cruise?
During peak season (June–August), it’s smart to book at least a few days ahead, especially for Augusta and Dunsborough tours which have limited departures and fill up quickly.
Are any of the departure points accessible by public transport?
Yes, Perth (Barrack Street Jetty), Fremantle, and Mandurah are all accessible by train and local bus. Dunsborough and Augusta require driving or a bus-and-taxi combo.
Is there a best time of day to board a cruise?
Morning departures (around 10am) often offer calmer seas and better lighting for photography, while afternoon cruises can be warmer and slightly more relaxed in pace.
Can I board a cruise from one point and get off at another?
Some Swan River cruises allow one-way travel between Perth and Fremantle. Whale watching cruises, however, typically return to their original departure point.