English
English
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.
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.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
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.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Itinerary
TimelineMap
Start point
Hillarys
25 min
1. Rottnest Island
Photo stop & Sightseeing
Go at your own pace and explore this beautiful island. There is a lot to do on the Island - Swim in the basin (most popular beach), Explore the historic shipwreck at Henrietta Rocks which is a perfect snorkeling spot, Checkout the iconic Bathhurst lighthouse and so much more.
Highlights
Ricey Beach
Quokka Spotting
Shipwrecks at Henrietta Rocks
Salmon Bay
Strickland Bay
Wadjemup Lighthouse
End point
Hillarys
Your ending point would be same as your start point
Journey from Hillarys to Rottnest—quokkas, beaches & lighthouse via a faster, less crowded ferry.
- Starting point: Check in at Hillarys Boat Harbour at least 30 minutes before departure and board your ferry to Rottnest Island. Enjoy a scenic cruise across the Indian Ocean before arriving at the island.
- Everything you get: Round-trip ferry transfers from Hillarys, entry to Rottnest Island, and ample time to explore at your own pace.
- Sights covered: Spot the friendly quokkas at Thomson Bay, visit The Basin to swim or relax in its iconic natural pool with calm turquoise waters, and climb Wadjemup Lighthouse for views of the island and surrounding ocean.
- Why choose this: This Rottnest Island day trip from Hillarys combines a scenic ferry ride with plenty of self-guided exploration. Departing from Hillarys means a shorter ferry than Perth, fewer crowds than Fremantle, and easy parking—perfect for travelers seeking flexibility, adventure, and close encounters with the island’s wildlife and natural beauty.
- Upgrades: Choose a bike hire option to pedal along scenic paths and explore Rottnest Island at your own pace. Alternatively, join a 1-hour 45-minute guided bus tour to enjoy a narrated exploration of the island’s key highlights.
Journey from Hillarys to Rottnest—quokkas, beaches & lighthouse via a faster, less crowded ferry.
- Starting point: Check in at Hillarys Boat Harbour at least 30 minutes before departure and board your ferry to Rottnest Island. Enjoy a scenic cruise across the Indian Ocean before arriving at the island.
- Everything you get: Round-trip ferry transfers from Hillarys, entry to Rottnest Island, and ample time to explore at your own pace.
- Sights covered: Spot the friendly quokkas at Thomson Bay, visit The Basin to swim or relax in its iconic natural pool with calm turquoise waters, and climb Wadjemup Lighthouse for views of the island and surrounding ocean.
- Why choose this: This Rottnest Island day trip from Hillarys combines a scenic ferry ride with plenty of self-guided exploration. Departing from Hillarys means a shorter ferry than Perth, fewer crowds than Fremantle, and easy parking—perfect for travelers seeking flexibility, adventure, and close encounters with the island’s wildlife and natural beauty.
- Upgrades: Choose a bike hire option to pedal along scenic paths and explore Rottnest Island at your own pace. Alternatively, join a 1-hour 45-minute guided bus tour to enjoy a narrated exploration of the island’s key highlights.
Inclusions
- Entry to Rottnest Island
- Self-guided tour of Rottnest Island
- Round-trip ferry transfers from Hillarys
- 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 swimwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, and water bottle.
What's not allowed
- Single pieces of luggage up to 22kg and no larger than 800mm x 500mm x 400mm can be stowed in the vessels’ luggage crates.
- Single carry-on items must be no larger than 600mm x 400mm x 300mm.
- 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: Bring a refillable water bottle and sunscreen as some stops like The Basin and Wadjemup Lighthouse have limited shade and kiosks, so staying hydrated and protected keeps your day comfortable.
- 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 6 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Active and fun—a scenic Perth ferry with a self-guided bike tour of Rottnest’s quokkas & trails.
- Starting point: Check in at Barrack Street Jetty at least 30 minutes before departure. Enjoy a scenic Swan River ferry ride to Rottnest Island, arriving ready for a full-day cycling adventure across its stunning landscapes.
- Everything you get: Round-trip ferry transfers from Perth, entry to Rottnest Island, a self-paced bike hire with helmet and security lock, and the freedom to explore the island at your own pace.
- Sights covered: Cycle along coastal trails and secluded beaches, snap selfies with the friendly quokkas at Thomson Bay, visit The Basin for a swim, explore Pinky Beach, and climb Bathurst Lighthouse for panoramic views. Keep an eye out for dolphins, turtles, and seasonal whales.
- Why choose this: Combine a scenic Swan River ferry from Perth with a self-guided cycling adventure, letting you explore hidden beaches, trails, lighthouses, and quokkas at your own pace. Fun, active, and eco-friendly, it’s perfect for travelers seeking flexibility and wildlife encounters.
Active and fun—a scenic Perth ferry with a self-guided bike tour of Rottnest’s quokkas & trails.
- Starting point: Check in at Barrack Street Jetty at least 30 minutes before departure. Enjoy a scenic Swan River ferry ride to Rottnest Island, arriving ready for a full-day cycling adventure across its stunning landscapes.
- Everything you get: Round-trip ferry transfers from Perth, entry to Rottnest Island, a self-paced bike hire with helmet and security lock, and the freedom to explore the island at your own pace.
- Sights covered: Cycle along coastal trails and secluded beaches, snap selfies with the friendly quokkas at Thomson Bay, visit The Basin for a swim, explore Pinky Beach, and climb Bathurst Lighthouse for panoramic views. Keep an eye out for dolphins, turtles, and seasonal whales.
- Why choose this: Combine a scenic Swan River ferry from Perth with a self-guided cycling adventure, letting you explore hidden beaches, trails, lighthouses, and quokkas at your own pace. Fun, active, and eco-friendly, it’s perfect for travelers seeking flexibility and wildlife encounters.
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
Bike routes you can take
The Rotto Mini Loop
- Distance: 4 km
- Time taken: 30 minutes
- Sights seen: The Basin, Longreach Bay, Geordie Bay, salt lakes, and Vlamingh Lookout.
- See route map here.
Beaches, Lighthouses, and Lakes
- Distance: 10 km
- Time taken: 1.5-3 hours
- Sights seen: Henrietta Rocks, Porpoise Bay, Parker Point, Little Salmon Bay, Wadjemup Lighthouse, and salt lakes.
- See route map here.
The Island Ride
- Distance: 22 km
- Time taken: 3-5 hours
- Sights seen: West End, Cathedral Rocks, Cape Vlamingh, Geordie Bay, Longreach Bay, Stark Bay, Parakeet Bay, and salt lakes.
- See route map here.
What to bring
- Bring along your swimwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, and water bottle.
What's not allowed
- Single pieces of luggage up to 22kg and no larger than 800mm x 500mm x 400mm can be stowed in the vessels’ luggage crates.
- Single carry-on items must be no larger than 600mm x 400mm x 300mm.
- 1 piece of luggage is permitted per person. Additional luggage will incur an excess luggage charge.
- Alcohol, weapons, drugs, drones, pets, smoking and furniture are not allowed onboard the ferry.
Accessibility
- 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 e-bikes or electric scooters to explore the island easily, reducing effort on longer routes. Helmets are included, and marked paths ensure safe, sustainable travel.
- 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.
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.
A 4.5-hour lunch cruise on the Murray River with a chef-prepared buffet, a guided stop at boat-access-only Cooper's Mill, and dolphin spotting.
- Starting point: Board at Mandurah Cruises Jetty, Mandjar Square. No road transfer included.
- Everything you get: 2-course Australian buffet lunch (menu attached). Complimentary tea and coffee. Live expert commentary. Twin-level catamaran.
- Sights covered: Peel Inlet, RAMSAR-listed Creery Wetlands, the Murray River, Cooper's Mill heritage island, and Port Mandurah's canal-lined waterways.
- Why choose this: The only cruise in the catalogue that ventures up the Murray River, including a land stop at a heritage island reachable only by boat.
A 4.5-hour lunch cruise on the Murray River with a chef-prepared buffet, a guided stop at boat-access-only Cooper's Mill, and dolphin spotting.
- Starting point: Board at Mandurah Cruises Jetty, Mandjar Square. No road transfer included.
- Everything you get: 2-course Australian buffet lunch (menu attached). Complimentary tea and coffee. Live expert commentary. Twin-level catamaran.
- Sights covered: Peel Inlet, RAMSAR-listed Creery Wetlands, the Murray River, Cooper's Mill heritage island, and Port Mandurah's canal-lined waterways.
- Why choose this: The only cruise in the catalogue that ventures up the Murray River, including a land stop at a heritage island reachable only by boat.
Inclusions
- 4.5-hour lunch cruise on the Murray River, Peel Inlet, and Port Mandurah waterways
- 2-course Australian buffet lunch with morning tea and charcuterie board (menu here)
- Complimentary tea and coffee on board (BYO keep-cup)
- Guided walking tour of Cooper's Mill heritage island on Cooleenup Island, reachable by boat only
- Live commentary from a local expert guide throughout the cruise
- Twin-level catamaran with climate-controlled indoor deck and open-air upper viewing deck
- Blankets for cooler months, board games, and books available on board
- Bingo with prizes on the return journey
- 10% discount at the onboard souvenir and artisan gift shop
What to bring
- Present a printed or digital booking confirmation to board the cruise.
- Bring a keep-cup to access complimentary tea and coffee on board.
- A warm top is recommended, as temperatures on the water can drop, especially on the upper deck.
What's not allowed
- Outside alcohol is not permitted on board; the vessel operates a fully licensed bar.
Accessibility
- The vessel is wheelchair and walking frame accessible; select the relevant option when booking online or call the booking office.
- The walking tour at Cooper's Mill is not wheelchair or walking frame accessible; guests may remain on board during this stop.
- All guests must be able to board the vessel, move around independently, and remain seated during small waves without crew assistance.
Additional information
- Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure; boarding does not begin until all members of your group have arrived.
- Seating is allocated on the day on a first-come, first-served basis; arrive 30 minutes early if a preferred location matters.
- Online bookings close 24 hours before departure.
- This cruise requires minimum passenger numbers to operate; if numbers are not met, an alternative date or full refund will be offered.
- The menu varies by season; check the attached menu PDF for current offerings.
- GF, vegetarian, and halal dietary requirements can be accommodated; note your needs when booking.
- Severe allergies cannot be catered for due to limited galley space.
- Guests claiming senior or student pricing must present a valid concession card on the day.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 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.