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Swan River Cruise from Perth: Why this scenic cruise wins
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION75 minutes
FREQUENCY11.15am, 2.15pm
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
Make a day of it—cruise the Swan River and enjoy free time to explore Fremantle’s vibrant port city.
- Starting point: Perth Barrack Street Jetty, right in the heart of the city
- Everything you get: Swan River cruise (Perth–Fremantle–Perth), expert Captain’s live commentary, access to a full bar on board, and unreserved seating.
- Sights covered: Swan River’s scenic waterfront, Perth skyline, historic Fremantle port, and iconic riverside landmarks
- Why choose this: Combines a relaxing river cruise with the freedom to discover Fremantle’s cafes, museums, and harbourside charm—no rush, just pure exploration.
- Upgrades: Choose a round-trip cruise for double the river views, or add free time in Fremantle to explore the historic port city before returning.
Make a day of it—cruise the Swan River and enjoy free time to explore Fremantle’s vibrant port city.
- Starting point: Perth Barrack Street Jetty, right in the heart of the city
- Everything you get: Swan River cruise (Perth–Fremantle–Perth), expert Captain’s live commentary, access to a full bar on board, and unreserved seating.
- Sights covered: Swan River’s scenic waterfront, Perth skyline, historic Fremantle port, and iconic riverside landmarks
- Why choose this: Combines a relaxing river cruise with the freedom to discover Fremantle’s cafes, museums, and harbourside charm—no rush, just pure exploration.
- Upgrades: Choose a round-trip cruise for double the river views, or add free time in Fremantle to explore the historic port city before returning.
Inclusions
- One-way cruise from Perth
- Round-trip cruise from Perth (as per option selected)
- Captain’s commentary
- Free time in Fremantle (as per option selected)
- Tip: Keep an eye out for black swans and stingrays 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.
- Both the one-way cruise and the round-trip cruise depart at 11:15am and 2:15pm.
- If you opt for the round-trip cruise + Fremantle explorer, please note that the cruise departs from Perth at 11:15am. After spending some free time in Fremantle, the return cruise departs from Fremantle at 3:45pm.
- 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 Perth?
It’s the most relaxed way to explore Perth’s riverside charm
Instead of walking or driving, you just sit back with a drink in hand and watch the city roll by. You’ll glide past Kings Park, the Bell Tower, Blackwall Reach. It's a sightseeing tour worth experiencing, and the commentary makes sure you catch the good stories too.
You can pair it with a Fremantle day trip
If you’ve got time, choose the cruise that includes free time in Fremantle. Stroll the local markets, try fish and chips at the harbour, and soak up that bohemian port town energy before you cruise back.
It works for both tight and open schedules
Whether you’ve got a spare 75 minutes or want to make a half-day of it, there’s a cruise for you. All three options run daily and leave from a central location in Perth, making it super easy to plan around.
The riverside landmarks are more stunning from the water
From the historic Swan Brewery nestled at the foot of Kings Park to the much-photographed Blue Boat House near Crawley Edge, you’ll cruise past Perth’s riverside icons with uninterrupted views from the water.
Swan River Cruise from Perth: Tour Options
Duration
You’ve got three ways to do this. Choose a one-way cruise to Fremantle (about 1 hr 15 min), a round-trip to enjoy the return journey as well (around 2.5 hrs), or go for the round-trip with Fremantle exploration which is a full day out with 2–3 hrs of free time in the port city.
Departure points
All cruises start from Barrack Street Jetty, right in the heart of Perth. If you’re going one-way, you’ll disembark at E Shed in Fremantle. If you’ve picked a round-trip or Fremantle explorer option, you’ll cruise back to where you started.
What you get
Expect live captain’s commentary, unreserved seating (so you can move around), and access to a fully licensed onboard bar. You’ll sail past riverside icons like Kings Park, the Blue Boat House, and more. It's scenic, breezy, and super relaxed.
Extras
Want more out of your cruise? Opt for the round-trip for double the views, or explore Fremantle on your own. You can wander through markets, galleries, and old port streets. You’ll be back in Perth by late afternoon, no stress.
Plan your visit
Timings
Getting there
Accessibility
What to bring
- All three cruise options set sail at 11:15am from Barrack Street Jetty.
- If you’re wondering about the best time to go, mid-morning is ideal. The lighting is great for photos, the water is calm, and the breeze is just right. Plus, you’ll beat the afternoon winds that sometimes pick up along the coast.
- All Swan River cruises depart from Barrack Street Jetty. If you're already in the city, you can easily walk there, it's just a few minutes from Elizabeth Quay Station and most central hotels.
- Jump on any train to Elizabeth Quay Station or catch a bus to St Georges Terrace. From there, it’s a short, scenic stroll down to the riverfront.
- If you’re driving, nearby paid parking is available at Terrace Road Car Park or Convention Centre Parking.
- The cruise vessels are not wheelchair accessible.
- Also know that the seating is unreserved.
- A light jacket. It can get breezy on the water, even on sunny days.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen, if you’re sitting on the open deck.
- A reusable water bottle (or grab a drink from the onboard bar).
- Your camera or phone. It’s worth capturing the views of the Perth skyline and riverside landmarks are photo-worthy.
- Comfortable shoes if you’re planning to explore Fremantle.
- More importantly your booking confirmation.
- Optional: a good book or earbuds for the return leg if you're just here to relax.
Frequently asked questions about the Swan River Cruise from Perth
What’s the difference between the one-way, round-trip, and Fremantle exploration cruises?
The one-way cruise takes you from Perth to Fremantle (or vice versa), ideal if you’re continuing your day in Fremantle. The round-trip gives you a return cruise with river views both ways. The Fremantle exploration option includes free time in Fremantle before cruising back.
Where does the cruise depart from?
All cruises start at Barrack Street Jetty in Perth’s city centre. If you’re taking the one-way option, you’ll disembark at E Shed in Fremantle. Round-trip options return you to Barrack Street.
Can I bring food or drinks on board?
There’s a fully licensed bar on board with drinks available for purchase, but outside food and beverages generally aren’t permitted.
Is seating reserved?
Nope! Seating is open and unreserved, so if you want that top-deck view, it’s a good idea to arrive a little early and pick your spot.
Is the cruise suitable for kids or families?
Definitely. Kids love being out on the water, and with calm river conditions and sights like the Blue Boat House and passing yachts, there’s plenty to keep them engaged. Plus, there’s no risk of boredom since it’s short and scenic.
Will I see wildlife on the Swan River cruise?
You might! Keep an eye out for black swans (yep, that’s what the river is named after), pelicans, and even stingrays near the shallows at Point Walter. Bring binoculars if you're into birdwatching.
Can I use public transport to get to the departure point?
Yes, Barrack Street Jetty is right near Elizabeth Quay Station and bus stops. It’s an easy walk from most parts of Perth’s CBD.