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Book Swan River Cruise from Fremantle | Best way to see Perth’s riverside
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION75 minutes
FREQUENCY12.45pm, 3.45pm
MODE OF TRANSFERCruise Ship
1 Boarding point
Sights covered
The Bell Tower
Swan Brewery
Kings Park
Royal Perth Yacht Club
Point Walter
The Blue Boat House
Relaxing Swan River cruise from Fremantle to Perth with live captain’s commentary and city views.
- Starting point: Fremantle pier, with easy access to the Swan River cruise vessels
- Everything you get: One-way scenic river cruise to Perth (1 hr 15 mins), entertaining captain’s commentary, full bar facilities on board, and unreserved seating for a casual, social atmosphere.
- Sights covered: Perth city skyline, Black Wall Reach cliffs, Point Walter Spit, Crawley Edge Boatshed (“Blue Boat House”), upscale suburbs, and yacht clubs
- Why choose this: Effortless way to travel between Fremantle and Perth while soaking up iconic riverside sights and local stories
- Upgrades: Opt for a 2.5-hour round-trip cruise for uninterrupted views and to get dropped off back where you started.
Relaxing Swan River cruise from Fremantle to Perth with live captain’s commentary and city views.
- Starting point: Fremantle pier, with easy access to the Swan River cruise vessels
- Everything you get: One-way scenic river cruise to Perth (1 hr 15 mins), entertaining captain’s commentary, full bar facilities on board, and unreserved seating for a casual, social atmosphere.
- Sights covered: Perth city skyline, Black Wall Reach cliffs, Point Walter Spit, Crawley Edge Boatshed (“Blue Boat House”), upscale suburbs, and yacht clubs
- Why choose this: Effortless way to travel between Fremantle and Perth while soaking up iconic riverside sights and local stories
- Upgrades: Opt for a 2.5-hour round-trip cruise for uninterrupted views and to get dropped off back where you started.
Inclusions
- One-way cruise from Fremantle
- Round-trip cruise from Fremantle (as per option selected)
- Captain’s commentary commentary
- Tip: Keep an eye out for Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins often seen swimming in the river.
- This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
- The one-way cruise lasts 1 hour 15 minutes, while the round-trip cruise lasts 2 hours 45 minutes.
- The one-way cruise departs at 12.45pm and 3.45pm, whereas the round-trip cruise departs at 12.45pm only.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Start in Perth, enjoy a Swan River journey, & arrive ready to explore Rottnest’s quokkas & beaches.
- Starting point: Check in at Barrack Street Jetty, Perth, 30 min before departure and board your ferry to Rottnest Island.
- Everything you get: Round-trip ferry transfers from Perth with a scenic Swan River cruise, entry to Rottnest Island, and the freedom to go on a self-guided adventure.
- Sights covered: Meet the friendly quokkas at Thomson Bay, swim in the crystal-clear waters at The Basin, climb Wadjemup Lighthouse for panoramic island views, and visit Oliver Hill Battery with its historic tunnels.
- Why choose this: This Perth to Rottnest day trip combines the convenience of a scenic ferry with the flexibility to explore at your own pace. From wildlife spotting to heritage sites and pristine beaches, enjoy a hassle-free island escape packed with iconic highlights.
- Upgrades: Add a bike hire to cycle around the island or join a 1-hour 45-minute guided bus tour for narrated insights into Rottnest’s best sights.
Start in Perth, enjoy a Swan River journey, & arrive ready to explore Rottnest’s quokkas & beaches.
- Starting point: Check in at Barrack Street Jetty, Perth, 30 min before departure and board your ferry to Rottnest Island.
- Everything you get: Round-trip ferry transfers from Perth with a scenic Swan River cruise, entry to Rottnest Island, and the freedom to go on a self-guided adventure.
- Sights covered: Meet the friendly quokkas at Thomson Bay, swim in the crystal-clear waters at The Basin, climb Wadjemup Lighthouse for panoramic island views, and visit Oliver Hill Battery with its historic tunnels.
- Why choose this: This Perth to Rottnest day trip combines the convenience of a scenic ferry with the flexibility to explore at your own pace. From wildlife spotting to heritage sites and pristine beaches, enjoy a hassle-free island escape packed with iconic highlights.
- Upgrades: Add a bike hire to cycle around the island or join a 1-hour 45-minute guided bus tour for narrated insights into Rottnest’s best sights.
Inclusions
- Entry to Rottnest Island
- Self-guided tour of Rottnest Island
- Round-trip ferry transfers from Perth, including a scenic Swan River cruise with commentary
- Bike hire with helmet & security lock (as per option selected)
- 1-hour 45-minute guided AC bus tour on Rottnest Island (as per option selected)
- Live commentary (as per option selected)
What to bring
- Bring along your sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, and water bottle.
What's not allowed
- Carry-on items are allowed if they fit on your seat without taking extra space. For safety, luggage cannot block aisles, wheelchair spaces, or exits.
- Alcohol, weapons, drugs, drones, pets, smoking and furniture are not allowed onboard the ferry.
Accessibility
- The ferry is wheelchair accessible.
- Rottnest Island is an A-Class reserve. So, it’s best to check directly with the island rangers for the most up-to-date advice on service dog access and allowances.
Additional information
- Practical tip: Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore Rottnest Island’s calm bays and crystal-clear waters from Thomson Bay, making it a fun and active way to see marine life and hidden beaches.
- Guests are required to pay an admission fee for Rottnest Island, which is included in your ferry fare at the time of booking. This helps support island conservation and facilities.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Explore Rottnest your way from Fremantle—quokkas, The Basin, beaches & lighthouse.
- Starting point: Check in at B Shed Terminal, Fremantle, 30 min before departure and board your ferry to Rottnest Island
- Everything you get: Enjoy round-trip ferry transfers from Fremantle and entry to Rottnest Island, where you can embark on a self-guided tour of the island, exploring at your own pace.
- Sights covered: Spot the friendly quokkas at Thomson Bay, swim in the natural pool at The Basin, climb the Wadjemup Lighthouse for panoramic views, and explore Oliver Hill Battery and its historic tunnels.
- Why choose this: This Rottnest Island day trip from Fremantle combines self-guided freedom with optional guided experiences. Spot friendly quokkas, climb Wadjemup Lighthouse, and explore hidden beaches—all in one seamless, hassle-free day.
- Upgrades: Choose a bike hire option to explore at your own pace, a snorkel hire to discover underwater reefs, or a guided bus tour for a 1-hour 45-minute narrated exploration of the island’s highlights.
Explore Rottnest your way from Fremantle—quokkas, The Basin, beaches & lighthouse.
- Starting point: Check in at B Shed Terminal, Fremantle, 30 min before departure and board your ferry to Rottnest Island
- Everything you get: Enjoy round-trip ferry transfers from Fremantle and entry to Rottnest Island, where you can embark on a self-guided tour of the island, exploring at your own pace.
- Sights covered: Spot the friendly quokkas at Thomson Bay, swim in the natural pool at The Basin, climb the Wadjemup Lighthouse for panoramic views, and explore Oliver Hill Battery and its historic tunnels.
- Why choose this: This Rottnest Island day trip from Fremantle combines self-guided freedom with optional guided experiences. Spot friendly quokkas, climb Wadjemup Lighthouse, and explore hidden beaches—all in one seamless, hassle-free day.
- Upgrades: Choose a bike hire option to explore at your own pace, a snorkel hire to discover underwater reefs, or a guided bus tour for a 1-hour 45-minute narrated exploration of the island’s highlights.
Inclusions
- Entry to Rottnest Island
- Self-guided tour of Rottnest Island
- Round-trip ferry transfers from Fremantle
- Bike hire with helmet & security lock (as per option selected)
- Snorkel hire with flippers & a mask with an adjustable strap (as per option selected)
- 1-hour 45-minute guided AC bus tour on Rottnest Island (as per option selected)
- Live commentary (as per option selected)
What to bring
- Bring along your swimwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, and water bottle.
What's not allowed
- Carry-on items are allowed if they fit on your seat without taking extra space. For safety, luggage cannot block aisles, wheelchair spaces, or exits.
- Alcohol, weapons, drugs, drones, pets, smoking and furniture are not allowed onboard the ferry.
Accessibility
- The ferry is wheelchair accessible.
- Rottnest Island is an A-Class reserve. So, it’s best to check directly with the island rangers for the most up-to-date advice on service dog access and allowances.
Additional information
- Practical tip: Try mango macadamia or vanilla berry swirl ice cream at Simmo’s Ice Creamery near the main settlement for a refreshing break between adventures.
- Guests are required to pay an admission fee for Rottnest Island, which is included in your ferry fare at the time of booking. This helps support island conservation and facilities.
- Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult when snorkeling.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Perth’s only dinner cruise offering a vibrant buffet, live entertainment, and city lights
- Starting point: Departs from Perth city pier on the iconic Swan River
- Everything you get: 2.5-hour scenic evening cruise, delicious buffet dinner and dessert, live entertainment or DJ, reserved seating, access to a dance floor, and the option to purchase drinks from the onboard bar. Full bar, toilet, and EFTPOS facilities available.
- Sights covered: Perth city skyline, Elizabeth Quay, illuminated riverside landmarks, and the tranquil Swan River at night
- Why choose this: The only dinner cruise in Perth with live entertainment, a buffet, and stunning city views—perfect for celebrations or a unique night out
Perth’s only dinner cruise offering a vibrant buffet, live entertainment, and city lights
- Starting point: Departs from Perth city pier on the iconic Swan River
- Everything you get: 2.5-hour scenic evening cruise, delicious buffet dinner and dessert, live entertainment or DJ, reserved seating, access to a dance floor, and the option to purchase drinks from the onboard bar. Full bar, toilet, and EFTPOS facilities available.
- Sights covered: Perth city skyline, Elizabeth Quay, illuminated riverside landmarks, and the tranquil Swan River at night
- Why choose this: The only dinner cruise in Perth with live entertainment, a buffet, and stunning city views—perfect for celebrations or a unique night out
Inclusions
- 2.5-hour dinner cruise on Swan River, Perth
- Buffet dinner and dessert (menu here)
- Complimentary tea and filter coffee
- Live entertainment or DJ
- Choice of drinks to purchase from the onboard bar (drinks list here)
- Reserved seating
- Access to dance floor
- Elizabeth Quay – A vibrant waterfront hub that sparkles with city lights, marking the exciting departure point.
- The Bell Tower – An iconic glass-clad structure glowing brilliantly against the night sky.
- Kings Park & Botanic Garden – Lush greenery and panoramic vistas of the city skyline, beautifully framed by river views.
- The Old Swan Brewery – A charming historic building with a weathered façade, softly lit by the river’s glow.
- Mounts Bay Road & Millionaire's Row – Grand, elegant mansions that shine along the river’s edge in the evening light.
- Royal Perth Yacht Club – A prestigious, timeless landmark exuding nautical elegance on the water.
- Crawley Edge Blue Boatshed – The famous blue boathouse, its vibrant hue contrasting strikingly with the dark night.
- Matilda Bay Reserve – A serene parkland illuminated by ambient lighting, offering peaceful river views.
- Point Walter Sandbar – A mystical natural sandbar, bathed in reflections from the city’s lights.
- Blackwall Reach Cliffs – Dramatic limestone cliffs standing as silent sentinels along the river.
- East Fremantle – A charming suburb with historic homes and yacht clubs aglow in the soft evening light.
- Fremantle’s Inner Harbour – A bustling port area with shimmering reflections and lively nocturnal activity.
- Wheelchairs and strollers are welcome and service animals are allowed but please contact the cruise provider before the tour, as accessibility can vary by boat.
- This cruise is not recommended for people with serious mobility issues.
- Infant seats are available if needed.
- Pets are not allowed on this experience.
- Alcoholic beverages will not be served to guests aged under 17 years and under.
- If you have any dietary needs or food allergies, make a note when booking. While they do their best to cater to dietary requirements, please note that meals are prepared in shared kitchens and cross-contamination may occur.
- A maximum of 50 travelers are allowed on this cruise.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION2 hours 45 minutes
FREQUENCY4 days a week
Sights covered
The Bell Tower
Kings Park & Botanic Garden
The Old Swan Brewery
Mounts Bay Road & Millionaire's Row
Royal Perth Yacht Club
Crawley Edge Blue Boatshed
Matilda Bay Reserve
Point Walter Sandbar (seen from the river)
Blackwall Reach Cliffs
East Fremantle
Fremantle’s Inner Harbour
A leisurely lunch cruise showcasing Perth’s cityscape and Swan River’s natural beauty
- Starting point: Perth city pier, with easy access to central Perth
- Everything you get: Direct return cruise along the Swan River (2 hrs 45 mins), reserved seating, live Captain’s commentary, a seasonal buffet lunch featuring Western Australia’s fresh produce, cake dessert, and access to a fully stocked onboard bar for drinks (available for purchase).
- Sights covered: Perth city skyline, Kings Park, riverside mansions, Fremantle port, and scenic riverbanks
- Why choose this: Combines a relaxing river cruise with a delicious buffet lunch and panoramic views—perfect for a laid-back day out in Perth.
A leisurely lunch cruise showcasing Perth’s cityscape and Swan River’s natural beauty
- Starting point: Perth city pier, with easy access to central Perth
- Everything you get: Direct return cruise along the Swan River (2 hrs 45 mins), reserved seating, live Captain’s commentary, a seasonal buffet lunch featuring Western Australia’s fresh produce, cake dessert, and access to a fully stocked onboard bar for drinks (available for purchase).
- Sights covered: Perth city skyline, Kings Park, riverside mansions, Fremantle port, and scenic riverbanks
- Why choose this: Combines a relaxing river cruise with a delicious buffet lunch and panoramic views—perfect for a laid-back day out in Perth.
Inclusions
- 2.75-hour lunch cruise on Swan River, Perth
- Seasonal buffet lunch and cake dessert
- Choice of drinks to purchase from the onboard bar (drinks list here)
- Reserved seating
Exclusions
- Hotel transfers
Swan River Cruise Route - Perth to Fremantle and Return
- Elizabeth Quay – Departure point, located in the heart of Perth
- The Bell Tower – One of Perth’s most iconic riverside landmarks
- Kings Park & Botanic Garden (view from the river) – Beautiful parklands overlooking the city and river
- The Old Swan Brewery – A historic riverside building with scenic views
- Mounts Bay Road & Millionaire's Row – Grand riverside mansions and stunning properties
- Royal Perth Yacht Club – Prestigious yacht club known for its sailing history
- Crawley Edge Blue Boatshed – The famous blue boathouse perfect for photos
- Matilda Bay Reserve – Picturesque parklands popular with locals
- Point Walter Sandbar (seen from the river) – A unique natural sandbar stretching into the river
- Blackwall Reach Cliffs – Natural limestone cliffs lining the river
- East Fremantle – Riverside suburb with historic homes and yacht clubs
- Fremantle’s Inner Harbour – A bustling port area and the turnaround point for the cruise
- Return journey – The cruise follows the same scenic route back to Perth
- Tip: Listen for the Captain’s commentary for local trivia, but if you’re keen on photos, step outside for uninterrupted river views
- Wheelchairs, strollers, and service animals are welcome, but check accessibility with the cruise provider before the tour.
- This cruise is not recommended for people with serious mobility issues.
- Guests must be 18 or older to consume alcohol.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Enjoy a scenic marine cruise along the Murray River and Mandjar Bay, accompanied by an expert English-speaking guide.
- Cruise past the Creery wetlands and discover endless species of birds.
- Get a close look at the famous bottlenose dolphins as they swim and play in the river.
- Dig into a delicious spread of lunch aboard the cruise.
- Lose yourself in the spectacular sounds and sights of nature at its finest.
- Enjoy a scenic marine cruise along the Murray River and Mandjar Bay, accompanied by an expert English-speaking guide.
- Cruise past the Creery wetlands and discover endless species of birds.
- Get a close look at the famous bottlenose dolphins as they swim and play in the river.
- Dig into a delicious spread of lunch aboard the cruise.
- Lose yourself in the spectacular sounds and sights of nature at its finest.
Inclusions
- English-speaking guide and host
- Goods and Services Tax
- Buffet lunch menu here
- Hot coffee and/or tea (Bring your own cup)
- Entry to Coopers Mill
- This experience is wheelchair accessible.
- This cruise requires a minimum number of travelers and requires good weather. If it is canceled due to either requirement not being met, guests will be offered a different date or a full refund.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Round-trip Fremantle ferry, island entry & bike hire—your flexible, eco-friendly Rottnest adventure.
- Starting point: Check in at Fremantle B-Shed or Northport ferry terminal at least 30 minutes before departure. Cruise across in just 30 minutes and collect your bike, helmet, and lock on arrival for a full day of exploring.
- Everything you get: Round-trip ferry transfers from Fremantle, island admission, self-paced bike hire with helmet & security lock, and free time to explore at your own pace.
- Sights covered: Ride along coastal trails and past 60+ beaches and 20 bays, stop at Thomson Bay to meet the island’s quokkas, swim at The Basin or Pinky Beach, and cycle to Wadjemup and Bathurst Lighthouses for panoramic views.
- Why choose this: A full-day pedal adventure combining ferry, freedom & wildlife; excellent if you want flexibility, scenic views and to explore Rottnest by bike rather than crowd tours.
Round-trip Fremantle ferry, island entry & bike hire—your flexible, eco-friendly Rottnest adventure.
- Starting point: Check in at Fremantle B-Shed or Northport ferry terminal at least 30 minutes before departure. Cruise across in just 30 minutes and collect your bike, helmet, and lock on arrival for a full day of exploring.
- Everything you get: Round-trip ferry transfers from Fremantle, island admission, self-paced bike hire with helmet & security lock, and free time to explore at your own pace.
- Sights covered: Ride along coastal trails and past 60+ beaches and 20 bays, stop at Thomson Bay to meet the island’s quokkas, swim at The Basin or Pinky Beach, and cycle to Wadjemup and Bathurst Lighthouses for panoramic views.
- Why choose this: A full-day pedal adventure combining ferry, freedom & wildlife; excellent if you want flexibility, scenic views and to explore Rottnest by bike rather than crowd tours.
Inclusions
- Entry to Rottnest Island
- Self-guided tour of Rottnest Island
- Round-trip ferry transfers from Fremantle
- Bike hire with helmet & security lock
What to bring
- Bring along your swimwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, and water bottle.
What's not allowed
- Carry-on items are allowed if they fit on your seat without taking extra space. For safety, luggage cannot block aisles, wheelchair spaces, or exits.
- Alcohol, weapons, drugs, drones, pets, smoking and furniture are not allowed onboard the ferry.
Accessibility
- The ferry is wheelchair accessible.
- Rottnest Island is an A-Class reserve. So, it’s best to check directly with the island rangers for the most up-to-date advice on service dog access and allowances.
Additional information
- Practical tip: Use the island maps as Rottnest’s cycling routes are clearly marked, making it easy to navigate. Popular trails guide you to highlights like The Basin for swimming and Parker Point for snorkelling. Plan your ride to include these stops.
- Guests are required to pay an admission fee for Rottnest Island, which is included in your ferry fare at the time of booking. This helps support island conservation and facilities.
- Bikes with baby seats can be requested and are subject to availability.
- Children's bikes are suitable for children between the ages of 4 to 7. Children aged 7 or older can usually use adult-sized bikes.
- Bicycles must be collected on the island by an adult over 18 years and must be returned by closing time on the same day.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Why go on a Swan River Cruise from Fremantle?
Tour options for Swan River Cruise from Fremantle
You can opt for a one-way river journey or enjoy a full round-trip. The tour departs from E Shed in Fremantle and follows the Swan River all the way to Perth's Barrack Street Jetty, passing by scenic landmarks and waterfront highlights along the way. Here's what you can choose from:
One-Way Cruise to Perth
Duration: 1 hr 15 min
Cruise from Fremantle to Perth and hop off at Barrack Street Jetty. It’s a relaxed and scenic way to reach the city. Ideal if you’re planning to explore Perth for the day.
Round-Trip Cruise
Duration: 2 hr 45 min
Start and end in Fremantle with uninterrupted river views both ways. You’ll pass iconic spots like Kings Park and the Blue Boat House twice, with plenty of photo ops and stories from the captain’s live commentary.
What you get
Whichever option you choose, the experience stays consistently good. You’ll enjoy a laid-back river cruise with live commentary from the captain. The vessel has a fully licensed bar on board, so you can grab a drink as you glide past landmarks. Seating is open and unreserved, so you can move around, snap photos, and take in the views from both sides of the deck.
Plan your visit
Timings
How to get there
Accessibility
What to bring
The one-way cruise to Perth departs from Fremantle at 12:45pm and 3:45pm daily, lasting about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The round-trip cruise departs only at 12:45pm and lasts 2 hours 45 minutes, giving you more time on the water.
- Your cruise departs from E Shed, Victoria Quay in Fremantle.
- It’s a short walk from the Fremantle Train Station and right beside the Fremantle Passenger Terminal.
- You can also hop on the Fremantle Line and you’ll be there in about 30 minutes.
- If you're driving, there’s parking available near E Shed (paid parking applies).
This cruise is not wheelchair accessible, and unfortunately, strollers may need to be folded and carried on board.
Here’s a quick checklist for your Fremantle-to-Perth cruise:
- Camera or smartphone: Fremantle’s historic port, the passing yacht clubs, and the Perth skyline from the water are all worthy of your camera roll. Keep it handy, you might even spot dolphins along the way.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen: The afternoon sun hits differently when you’re cruising past the bright waterfront suburbs and open stretches of river.
- A light jacket or windbreaker: Even on warm days, the sea breeze in Fremantle can surprise you. Once you’re out on the water, it’s nice to have an extra layer.
- Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is key, especially during the 2.5-hour round-trip option.
- Comfortable footwear: Whether you’re pacing the deck for the best view of the Blue Boat House or strolling around Perth after you dock, good shoes go a long way.
- Credit/debit card: The onboard bar serves drinks, so bring a card if you want to sip while you sail.
Frequently asked questions about Swan River Scenic Cruise from Fremantle
Is this cruise good for first-time visitors to Perth?
Definitely. The route between Fremantle and Perth gives you a great intro to the city’s riverside highlights.
Should I book the one-way or round-trip option?
If you're planning to explore Perth city after your cruise, the one-way option is perfect. But if you’d rather return to Fremantle by water and enjoy the full scenic loop, go for the 2.5-hour round trip.
What’s the best time of day to take the cruise?
Early afternoon departures (12:45pm) are great for photos and sightseeing. The later cruise (3:45pm) can be a bit livelier and gives you a golden-hour view of the river on your way in.
Can I bring food or drinks onboard?
Outside food and drinks aren’t typically allowed, but the cruise has a full bar on board if you’d like to grab a drink or light snack. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Will I see wildlife like dolphins on this cruise?
It’s possible! Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins are often spotted swimming near the boat. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, they’re always a welcome surprise.
How much walking is involved?
Very little. The cruise is relaxing and seated, with the option to walk around the deck if you’d like. Once you arrive in Perth, you can choose to explore further on foot, but it’s totally up to you.
Is there any commentary or guide during the cruise?
Yes! Your captain provides live, entertaining commentary as you cruise up the Swan River. It’s light and informative, just enough to give context to what you’re seeing without overwhelming the experience.