Busselton is a fantastic spot for boat tours and cruises because of its stunning coastline, abundant marine life, and iconic attractions like the Busselton Jetty. Whether you’re eager to spot whales, explore historic wrecks, or snorkel among sculptures, Busselton offers a variety of water-based experiences that bring you up close to the region’s natural beauty. We especially like the Whale Watching Cruise for its chance to see humpbacks resting in the bay, and the Busselton Jetty and Underwater Sculptures Snorkel Boat Tour for its family-friendly vibe and marine encounters. These tours highlight the area’s rich marine environment and promise memorable moments on the water.
If you’re planning a trip, you’ll find options that suit different tastes and budgets. For nature lovers, whale watching is hard to beat, while history and adventure seekers might prefer exploring the HMAS Swan wreck. Whatever your interest, Busselton’s tours offer genuine local expertise and the chance to see extraordinary sights just off the coast.
1. Whale Watching Cruise from Busselton, Augusta or Dunsborough
At number one, the Whale Watching Cruise from Busselton, Augusta or Dunsborough is a standout experience. This tour combines the thrill of seeing humpbacks resting in the bay with the chance to observe dolphins, seals, and sea birds, making it a full marine wildlife package. Departures are flexible, with options from three different locations, all close to popular vacation spots, ensuring convenience no matter where you’re staying.
What sets this cruise apart is the boat itself — a purpose-built vessel designed for whale watching, offering stability and comfort. With over 15 years of whale watching experience, the skipper’s track record of fewer than 10 no-whale trips speaks volumes about their expertise. The tour lasts 2 to 2.5 hours and offers an intimate experience, as the boat carries fewer passengers for better views. The cost is quite reasonable at $63 per person, making it a good value for such a memorable outing.
This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a reliable, well-reviewed wildlife experience, especially during whale season. The chance to see humpbacks before they return to the Arctic makes it even more special. Keep in mind that weather can influence sightings, but the experienced crew will do their best to find whales on the day.
Bottom Line: A reliable, well-priced whale watch offering excellent views and a high chance of sightings, suitable for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
2. Ex-HMAS Swan Wreck Double Boat Dive
For those with a passion for underwater exploration, the Ex-HMAS Swan Wreck Double Boat Dive offers an exceptional opportunity. This tour takes you to one of the largest accessible wrecks in the southern hemisphere, the decommissioned naval destroyer HMAS Swan. The boat ride out is quick and comfortable, and once at the site, divers of all experience levels can enjoy exploring this impressive 32-meter-deep wreck.
What makes this dive unique is not just the size of the wreck but the marine life that has made it a habitat. You’ll see an array of marine creatures as you wander through the ship’s corridors and cabins. All necessary scuba gear is included, making it easy to just focus on the experience. The dive itself lasts about 2.5 hours, and snacks are provided, ensuring you stay energized for this adventure.
Rated 5.0/5 based on 19 reviews, this dive is praised for its accessibility and marine encounters. The site’s depth makes it suitable for both novice and experienced divers, and the wreck’s age adds historical intrigue. If you love exploring shipwrecks and marine life, this tour offers good value at $169.09 per person.
Bottom Line: An exciting, accessible wreck diving experience for all skill levels that combines marine exploration with a sense of history and adventure.
3. Busselton Jetty and Underwater Sculptures Snorkel Boat Tour
The Busselton Jetty and Underwater Sculptures Snorkel Boat Tour is a fantastic option for families, first-time snorkelers, and anyone wanting a relaxed underwater experience. This tour includes a guided snorkel around the famous jetty pylons and the new underwater sculptures, making it a perfect mix of natural marine life and artistic installations.
The boat ride out to the jetty is quick, fun, and safe, with an in-water guide pointing out interesting marine creatures and fun facts about the sculptures. The underwater sculptures have been designed for easy viewing and are teeming with marine life, according to reviews, with divers and snorkelers impressed by the fabulous sculptures and the marine animals. The entire tour lasts about 2 hours and costs $67.23 per person, offering good value considering the guided experience.
Rated 4.5/5, the tour is highly recommended for its friendly staff and accessible approach. The safety guidance and equipment provided give peace of mind, especially for families with children or older travelers. The marine environment around the jetty is vibrant, and the sculptures add an intriguing artistic element.
Bottom Line: A family-friendly, well-organized snorkel tour that blends art and marine life, suitable for all ages and experience levels.
4. Dunsborough Eco and Snorkel Boat Tour
Finally, the Dunsborough Eco and Snorkel Boat Tour offers a more natural, eco-focused experience. This tour takes you from Dunsborough to the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, with stops at Castle Rock and Eagle Bay. It features the chance to see seals, dolphins, and whales (seasonal), all while enjoying the pristine coast of Geographe Bay.
The highlight here is the visit to Cape Naturaliste, where you can observe playful seals and seabirds from the boat and then snorkel in clear waters near Eagle Bay. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and costs $100.53 per person. Guided by knowledgeable locals, the trip is praised for its relaxed pace and opportunity to see wildlife in their natural environment.
Although rated lower at 3.0/5, this tour is appreciated by travelers seeking an eco-conscious outing that emphasizes natural scenery and wildlife. The stops near Cape Naturaliste offer great photo opportunities, and the optional snorkel at Eagle Bay is refreshing.
Bottom Line: An eco-friendly, wildlife-centered tour ideal for nature lovers wanting a quieter, more relaxed experience.
$100.53 per person
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Busselton
When deciding which boat tour to book, consider your interests and what kind of experience you’re after. If whale sightings are your priority, the Whale Watching Cruise offers the best chance to see these giants up close. For history and marine exploration, the wreck dive at HMAS Swan gives a unique underwater adventure. The Busselton Jetty Snorkel Tour is perfect for families or those new to snorkeling, while the Dunsborough Eco Tour suits nature lovers wanting a peaceful, wildlife-focused trip.
Also think about your budget — the whale watching is quite affordable at $63, while the wreck dive is more premium at over $169. Timing matters too; whale season peaks from September to November, so plan accordingly. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Busselton offers a diverse range of boat experiences, from exhilarating whale watching to historic wreck exploration and serene snorkeling trips. For a reliable and high-quality wildlife encounter, the Whale Watching Cruise is hard to beat. If underwater discovery appeals, the HMAS Swan wreck dive provides a memorable dive into history and marine life. For families or those seeking a relaxed, artistic underwater experience, the Busselton Jetty and Sculptures Snorkel is an excellent choice.
No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance and considering the best seasons will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable adventure. These water adventures are some of the best ways to appreciate the natural beauty and wildlife of Western Australia — so get ready to make your trip truly unforgettable.