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Book whale watching in Dunsborough | WA’s best-kept secrets
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
- 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.
Know before you go
What to bring
- Bring your own cup to enjoy the hot coffee and tea at the venue.
Accessibility
- This experience is wheelchair accessible.
Additional information
- The weather here tends to bring unexpected twists. Dress in layers for adaptable comfort.
- Guests are advised to specify any dietary specifications at the time of booking. Infant meals are not included in the ticket.
- Please note that as the dolphins are in their natural environment, the sighting cannot be guaranteed.
- 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.
What to know about Dunsborough
Dunsborough is a laid-back coastal town about 2.5 hours south of Perth, perched on the edge of Geographe Bay. It’s actually a calm, protected stretch of water that just happens to sit right on the Humpback Highway Every year between September and early December, humpback and southern right whales migrate through these waters, pausing here to rest and play close to shore. That means you’ll often see whales just metres from the boat, without heading into the rough open ocean. With its turquoise bays, forested headlands, and relaxed pace, Dunsborough offers one of WA’s most scenic and whale-rich cruise backdrops.
Tour option for Dunsborough Whale Watching Cruise
Duration
The cruise runs for around 2 to 2.5 hours, giving you ample time on the water to spot whales, dolphins, and more without taking up your whole day. It’s short, scenic, and easy to fit into any Dunsborough itinerary.
Departure point
All cruises leave from the Dunsborough Boat Ramp, tucked along the calm shoreline of Geographe Bay.
What you get
You’ll board a 17-metre catamaran with full deck access. It’s designed for wildlife spotting. Expect live commentary by a marine scientist, complimentary tea and coffee, and unbeatable views from every side of the boat. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly experience with serious learning built in.
Extras & guarantees
This cruise includes a whale sighting guarantee. That means if you don’t spot any whales, you’ll get a free return voucher valid for another trip.
Plan your visit
Timings
Getting to the Dunsborough Boat Ramp
Accessibility
What to bring
- Whale watching cruises from Dunsborough depart twice daily at 10am and 2pm.
- Both slots offer great visibility, but if you're after calmer waters and gentler light for photos, the morning cruise might suit you better.
By car
The easiest way to reach Dunsborough Boat Ramp is by driving via Bussell Highway. It’s about a 2-hour 45-minute scenic drive (240 km) from Perth. Free, convenient parking is available nearby, but arriving 15 minutes early is recommended.
By bus
You can take the Southwest Coach Lines or Transwa buses from Perth’s Elizabeth Quay or Perth Coach Terminal to Dunsborough Terminal. From there you can call for taxi service to Dunsborough Boat Ramp.
By shuttle or regional bus
If you’re staying in nearby Busselton, hop on TransBusselton Route 815 or 816 for a 30–45 minute ride directly to Dunsborough town then walk or taxi the last 5 minutes to the ramp.
- This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
- The cruise departs from the Dunsborough Boat Ramp, which requires boarding a 17-metre catamaran via steps. There are no ramps or lifts available.
- Warm layers: Even if it’s sunny on land, the wind can pick up over Geographe Bay. A jacket or windbreaker is a good idea.
- Flat shoes: You’ll be moving around on a catamaran, so wear something with grip (avoid heels or loose sandals).
- Binoculars (optional): You’ll already get clear views, but a pair of binoculars can help you spot whales breaching further off the bow.
- Sunscreen & sunglasses: The sun reflects off the water, so sun protection is essential even in cooler months.
- Camera or phone with a strap: Whales don’t pose for long, so keep your device handy but secure.
- Reusable water bottle: Tea and coffee are provided, but having your own water is always useful.
- Motion sickness remedies (if needed): If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication at least 30 minutes before departure.
FAQs on Dunsborough Whale Watching Cruise
What types of whales can I see in Dunsborough?
You’ll mostly spot humpback whales during their southern migration between September and early December. Occasionally, you may also see southern right whales, dolphins, and even seals.
Where does the cruise depart from?
All tours depart from the Dunsborough Boat Ramp. It’s located just off Geographe Bay Road and has parking available. Arrive at least 15–20 minutes early for boarding.
How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the whale sightings, live commentary, and Geographe Bay’s coastal scenery.
What if I don’t see any whales?
You’re covered by a sighting guarantee. If no whales are spotted on your trip, you’ll receive a free return voucher to use within the season.
Is this cruise suitable for kids?
Yes, absolutely. Kids will love spotting whales, and the open deck space makes it easy to move around. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible. If you have mobility concerns, it's best to contact the operator ahead of time for advice.
Are food and drinks available on board?
Tea and coffee are provided as part of the cruise. You can bring your own snacks or water bottle, but alcohol is not permitted.
What’s the best time of day for whale watching?
Both the 10am and 2pm cruises offer good chances of sightings. Mornings are generally calmer on the bay, while afternoons offer warmer conditions and sometimes more surface activity.