Perth: Scenic Seaplane Tour

If you’re looking to see Perth from a whole new perspective, this 30-minute seaplane flight over the city and surrounding sights offers an exciting and memorable way to do it. For $152 per person, you’re treated to a bird’s-eye view of the vibrant Swan River, the impressive Matagarup Bridge, stunning Cottesloe Beach, Kings Park, and the iconic Optus Stadium. The experience begins at Queen Street Jetty, where you’ll meet your pilot, board a small, intimate aircraft, and take off from the calm waters of the Swan River.

What we love about this tour is the combination of adrenaline and serenity — feeling the thrill of a flight with the peaceful, expansive views of the Perth landscape. The low-level flying allows for striking, close-up views of landmarks and natural features. Another highlight: the optional picnic, complete with champagne and flowers, providing a perfect spot to relax after your flight while soaking in the skyline.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from Queen Street Jetty. It’s also a compact experience, so those seeking more extensive sightseeing might want to combine it with other activities.

This adventure is ideal for travelers who love stunning vistas and authentic, small-group experiences. If you’re a fan of unique perspectives or want a memorable highlight to your Perth trip, this seaplane tour is likely to fit the bill.

Key Points

• Short but Spectacular: A 30-minute flight packed with memorable views.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable pilots provide interesting facts and stories.
• Ideal for Small Groups: Limited to 6 participants for a more personalized experience.
• Scenic Highlights: Swan River, Kings Park, Cottesloe Beach, Heirisson Island, and Optus Stadium.
• Optional Picnic: Add a touch of luxury with champagne, flowers, and a grazing platter.
• Weather Dependent: Clear, sunny days will give you the best views; weather can impact visibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Perth Seaplane Experience

We find that experiencing Perth from a seaplane is a refreshing way for visitors to connect with the city’s natural beauty and urban layout. The tour begins at Queen Street Jetty, a straightforward meeting point that’s accessible if you plan ahead. Once onboard, your pilot (a “plane captain” as some reviews call them) becomes your narrator, sharing intriguing facts about each location you fly over. This adds a layer of learning that complements the visual feast unfolding outside your window.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Feel

The flight kicks off with a gentle takeoff from the Swan River, which gives you a rush of excitement as the seaplane lifts into the sky. We loved how low-level flying allowed us to see details often missed from the ground, such as the intricate architecture of Matagarup Bridge and the sprawling greenery of Kings Park. The pilot’s commentary added context, making each landmark more meaningful.

Close to the river, you’ll spot Heirisson Island, home to a surprising number of kangaroos. One reviewer (Weidong from China) noted, “Very nice! Fortunately weather that day was very clear and sunny, so we can have a very nice view from sky high.” The clarity of the weather significantly enhances this experience, as it allows the sprawling city and coastline to sparkle vividly.

Moving along, your view sweeps over the Optus Stadium, a modern coliseum that hosted the 2018 Commonwealth Games and the FIFA World Cup. We appreciated how the pilot’s insights made us appreciate the stadium’s architecture and significance. Then, the flight turns toward Cottesloe Beach, renowned for its warm, turquoise waters and sandy shores. It’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike, and from the air, it looks utterly inviting.

The final leg of the flight takes you over the city’s skyscrapers and Victoria Park Drive, providing a sweeping vista of Perth’s urban sprawl—an impressive contrast to the natural scenery. The helicopter or seaplane experience wraps up with a smooth return to the jetty, leaving you with a camera full of photos and a head full of new perspectives.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Insights

The reviews mention the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views as the main draws. Iris from Singapore pointed out “The seaplane experience was good. It would have been great if there was a sheltered waiting area,” highlighting the small logistical discomfort of waiting outdoors. The overall impression is one of high satisfaction, with travelers loving the personalized attention and spectacular vistas.

The Value of This Tour

At $152, this tour offers an accessible luxury—a quick yet striking way to see Perth from above. Considering the cost of smaller plane or helicopter rides, this is quite a competitive price, especially given the small group size and the knowledgeable pilot commentary. It’s a special treat, particularly for those who want a highlight that combines adventure with scenic beauty.

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The Optional Picnic – A Luxurious Touch

For an extra fee, you can add a picnic with champagne, flowers, and a grazing platter—perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a peaceful moment after your flight. This thoughtful addition makes the experience even more memorable, especially if the weather cooperates.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This scenic seaplane adventure suits travelers who value unique views and are eager for a personalized, small-group experience. It’s perfect for those celebrating a special milestone, or anyone keen to see Perth from a fresh perspective. Nature lovers will enjoy spotting kangaroos and whales (season permitting), while city enthusiasts will appreciate the aerial look at iconic landmarks.

Keep in mind that the experience is weather-dependent—clear skies mean better views—and those with mobility issues or vertigo should consider their comfort level before booking. Since no hotel transportation is included, you’ll want to plan your arrival and departure logistics accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The actual flight lasts about 30 minutes, making it a quick yet impactful experience.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Check-in is at Queen Street Jetty, a central location in Perth.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the seaplane ride with a pilot, and optionally, you can add a picnic experience featuring champagne, flowers, and a grazing platter.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The tour is generally for adults, especially considering the small group size and the nature of the flight. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Yes, pregnant women, people with vertigo, or those over 264 lbs (120 kg) might find this experience unsuitable.

What if the weather is poor?
Flights are weather-dependent; if conditions are unfavorable, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Does the tour operate in the evening?
Typically, the tour is available in the afternoon, which provides the best lighting for photos and views.

Final Words

A seaplane flight over Perth offers a distinctive blend of thrill, beauty, and insight. It’s a compact adventure that will leave you with a new appreciation for the city’s geography and landmarks. The views are stunning, the pilot’s commentary adds valuable context, and the small group setting makes it feel special and personal. Whether you’re celebrating something or simply want a memorable highlight, this tour delivers a glimpse of Perth that’s hard to match.

While weather can be a gamble, clear days unlock the full magic of the experience. It’s best suited for those who love scenic flights, are comfortable with small aircraft, and seek an authentic, less commercialized perspective on the city. If that sounds like you, then this seaplane journey is well worth considering as a highlight of your trip to Western Australia.

You can check availability for your dates here: