Self-Drive BBQ Boat Hire Mandurah – Group of 3-6 People

Imagine calmly cruising through Mandurah’s stunning canals and waterfront, all while your friends or family are chilling around a central BBQ with panoramic views. For just $69, you can take control of WA’s only donut-shaped electric boat for approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. This experience offers a relaxed way to explore Mandurah’s award-winning Ocean Marina and scenic Venetian Canal at your own pace.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its combination of eco-friendliness and social fun. The electric boats are whisper-quiet, fume-free, and designed for ease of use—no boat license required, just a valid driver’s license. We love how it turns boating into an accessible, laid-back activity perfect for gatherings. Two standout features are the center-mounted BBQ, designed by renowned chef Heston Blumenthal, and the 360-degree views that put you in the middle of it all. One thing to keep in mind is that food and drinks are not included, so bring your own picnic or snacks. This experience suits groups of friends or families looking for a relaxed, unique outing with plenty of room for socialising and wildlife spotting.

Key Points

• Self-driven adventure: No license needed, just your driver’s license.
• Eco-friendly cruising: Electric boats are quiet and emission-free, perfect for wildlife.
• Flexibility & socialising: Bring your own food and drinks for a personalized outing.
• Wildlife & scenery: Spot dolphins, swans, pelicans, and gorgeous canals.
• Group friendly: Options for 6 or 10 people, ideal for small groups or larger parties.
• Booking & availability: Book at least 24 hours in advance; available daily during peak season.

The experience begins at 1 Spinnaker Quays, where you’ll meet your friendly briefing team. Once onboard, you’ll receive safety instructions, life jackets (including for children), and a quick rundown on how to operate your boat. The donut-shaped design isn’t just a funky look—it offers a 360-degree viewing platform that makes everything feel more open and immersive.

The Boat Design & Comfort

The boat’s central picnic table and BBQ are the stars of the show. Chef Heston Blumenthal’s charcoal BBQ is ready for your use—just bring your own food and drinks. If you want to elevate your meal, an optional $30 fee covers the use of charcoal, making it easy to prepare grilled fare on the water. The circular layout encourages socialising, so everyone can face each other and enjoy the scenery.

Scenic Waterways & Wildlife

As you cruise, you’ll glide past Mandurah’s glamorous yachts, waterfront residences, and vibrant canals. The quiet electric motors ensure you don’t disturb the environment, and you’re likely to see wild dolphins, swans, and pelicans along the way. Travelers have mentioned that the wildlife sightings are a real highlight, especially dolphins swimming alongside your boat or jumping out of the water.

Flexibility & Personalisation

One of the biggest draws is how much control you have over your day. Want to stop for a swim? Find a peaceful spot to anchor and enjoy your lunch with a view. Prefer to cruise and soak in the scenery? Keep moving at your own pace. The Bluetooth music system allows you to set your own playlist, making the journey even more personalized.

The Practicalities

The boats are easy to operate, requiring no special license — just a valid driver’s license, and you’re good to go. The operators, like James and others, provide a briefing on safety and navigation, which most find straightforward. The maximum capacity is 6 people per boat (or 10 for the larger option), making it ideal for intimate gatherings or small groups.

Booking & Availability

Bookings are essential, especially during peak seasons. You’ll need to plan at least 24 hours in advance. The experience is available every day, which offers flexibility for weekend or weekday get-togethers. Since weather can impact the trip, the provider offers full refunds or rescheduling if poor weather cancels your outing.

While this tour is relatively new with no reviews yet, the concept has received positive comments in related experiences. Travelers appreciate the ease of use, noting that simple instructions and friendly staff make it accessible even for beginners. The fact that no skipper’s license is needed encourages spontaneous fun.

The delicious food and tapas aspect, especially with the BBQ, adds to the enjoyment. Bringing your own food means you can tailor your meal—whether it’s seafood, burgers, or veggie skewers—while soaking up the views and wildlife.

At $69, this activity offers great value for a laid-back day on the water. Compared to traditional boat rentals that often require licenses or guides, this self-drive option emphasizes independence and flexibility. The eco-friendly design means you’re doing your part to protect Mandurah’s beautiful marine environment, which is increasingly important for eco-conscious travelers.

The included safety gear, disposable tableware, and Bluetooth system make it a hassle-free day. When you factor in the opportunity to relax with friends, enjoy the scenery, and maybe even spot dolphins, it’s a memorable experience that’s worth every dollar.

This experience is best suited for small groups of friends or families who enjoy a casual, social outing. It’s great for those who want a hands-on adventure without the hassle of learning how to operate a boat. Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts will especially appreciate the chance to see dolphins and other native fauna up close. If you’re looking for a fun, eco-friendly way to explore Mandurah’s waterways while grilling your own food, this is a winner.

Do I need a boat license to drive the BBQ boat?
No, you don’t need a boat license—just a valid driver’s license. The boats are designed for easy, safe handling by beginners.

How long is the experience?
The rental lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to cruise, relax, and enjoy your meal.

What should I bring?
Bring your own food, drinks, and eco-friendly tableware. The boat includes a BBQ (with an optional $30 fee for charcoal), and you can listen to your own music through the Bluetooth system.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes, life jackets are provided for children, and the relaxed pace makes it suitable for families.

Are there options for larger groups?
Yes, aside from the 6-seater, a fleet of 4 boats can accommodate up to 32 passengers—perfect for bigger parties.

How do I book?
Bookings are made online, with a minimum notice of 24 hours. During peak season, availability is daily, but early booking is recommended.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The operator offers full refunds or rescheduling if poor weather cancels your trip. Always check the weather forecast before booking.

Can I stop and anchor anywhere?
Absolutely. You’re encouraged to find a scenic spot to anchor and enjoy your food or a quick swim.

The Self-Drive BBQ Boat Hire in Mandurah offers a refreshing way to experience the city’s waterways. It combines eco-friendly cruising, personal control, and social fun into one memorable outing. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a laid-back day on the water, this tour provides a unique perspective on Mandurah’s natural beauty.

While it’s simple and straightforward, that’s part of its charm. It appeals to those who prefer an authentic, unstructured experience—a chance to create your own adventure with friends or family. The opportunity to see wildlife, enjoy stunning scenery, and grill your own food makes it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a relaxed yet engaging day by the water.

If you’re after a fun, eco-conscious activity that’s easy to book and suited for small groups, this self-drive BBQ boat tour might just be your perfect Mandurah memory-maker.

Note: Always check availability and weather conditions before confirming your booking.