From Perth: Margaret River Wine Tour & Wildlife Cruise

Perth to Margaret River: A Full-Day Experience of Wildlife, Wineries, and Coastal Beauty

This 12-hour tour from Perth offers a comprehensive taste of Western Australia’s incredible west coast. For $162 per person, you’ll explore the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, enjoy a wildlife cruise, visit the famous Margaret River region, and sample local wines. The experience is led by knowledgeable guides, with opportunities to see wild dolphins, sea lions, and penguins in their natural habitat, along with stunning coastal vistas and world-class wineries.

What we love about this tour is how it balances adventure and relaxation—starting with an early departure at 6:50 AM, you get a full day packed with memorable moments. The wildlife cruise is a standout, offering close-up encounters with marine animals, complemented by scenic stops like Busselton Jetty and Canal Rocks. Plus, the chance to sample regional craft beers and local wines makes this a delicious, well-rounded adventure.

One possible consideration is the long drive—approximately 7 hours total, with multiple stops—which might be tiring for some travelers. However, the multiple short walks and scenic breaks help break up the journey. This tour suits those who enjoy outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and wine tasting, especially if you’re keen to experience Western Australia’s diverse landscapes in one day.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: You’ll see wild dolphins, sea lions, and penguins in their natural environment.
• Scenic Coastal Views: The tour includes iconic sights like Busselton Jetty and Geographe Bay.
• Wine and Beer Tasting: Visit a Margaret River winery and optionally enjoy craft beer tastings.
• Natural Landmarks: Explore Canal Rocks and Margaret River Mouth, known for their striking rock formations and surf.
• Full-Day Value: Despite the long drive, the wide range of experiences offers great value for travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of WA’s coast and countryside.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides enrich the day with insights into local culture and natural history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the From Perth: Margaret River Wine Tour & Wildlife Cruise

Starting the Day: Early Departure and Coastline Views

Your adventure kicks off at 6:50 AM, with a comfortable pickup from Perth’s tourist bus stop. This early start is essential to maximize the day, but it does mean you should be prepared for a long day on the road. The drive south along the Kwinana Freeway is straightforward, but be ready for about 7 hours of total travel time, including stops and short walks.

What we appreciated is how the journey itself is part of the experience. The coach is a comfortable way to transition from city to coast, and the scenery quickly shifts from urban to rural farmland with glimpses of the Indian Ocean. The multiple stops along the way give you a chance to stretch and take photos of the sweeping views across Geographe Bay and Busselton Jetty—the longest jetty in the Southern Hemisphere.

Shoalwater Islands Marine Park: Wildlife in Action

The highlight for many is the boat cruise around Penguin and Seal Island. The included boat trip offers a front-row seat to Western Australia’s marine wildlife. Expect to see wild dolphins, sea lions, and little penguins frolicking in their natural habitat. According to reviews, guides are knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the experience with interesting facts about the animals and the marine environment.

Birdlife is abundant, with migratory birds, pelicans, and birds of prey creating a lively backdrop. The chance to see dolphins swimming close to the boat is often a crowd favorite, and the cruise offers a peaceful connection to nature—something that’s becoming rare in busy modern life.

However, weather can impact the cruise—if the weather turns hot or inclement, the cruise might be canceled or postponed. While this can be disappointing, the tour provider states that if the cruise is canceled, they will still provide lunch and other activities, ensuring your day remains fulfilling.

Exploring the Margaret River Region

After the marine adventure, it’s time to head further south to the Margaret River region—a place renowned for world-class wineries and natural beauty. En route, you’ll stop at the Busselton Jetty for around 25 minutes, enough to walk out on the jetty and take in the views of the Indian Ocean. Entry costs around $4, but the experience of strolling along the longest jetty in the southern hemisphere or just admiring it from shore is well worth it.

Next, your guide might suggest an optional craft beer tasting—something Margaret River has become quite famous for—adding a little extra flavor to your day.

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The Heart of the Wineries and Natural Wonders

At one of the region’s well-known cellar doors, you’ll get to taste some local wines. The Margaret River wine region is famous for its premium reds and crisp whites, making this stop a highlight for wine enthusiasts. The guide’s insights into the region’s history and terroir enrich the tasting experience, helping you appreciate what makes Margaret River wines so special.

Following the wine tasting, you’ll visit Canal Rocks, where natural rock formations create channels that are perfect for photography and exploring. The rugged scenery here is spectacular and offers a great spot for some quiet reflection or just soaking in the natural beauty.

Then, the tour proceeds to Margaret River Mouth, famous for its powerful surf break and as a venue for the World Surfing League Margaret River Pro. The views here are dramatic—waves crashing against rocky outcrops and expansive beaches stretching into the horizon.

Exploring Margaret River Town & Farm Country

In Margaret River town center, you’ll have some time to browse local shops, pick up souvenirs, or sample fresh local produce. This part of the tour highlights the region’s vibrant local food scene, and it’s an excellent chance to support small producers or grab a snack.

As the tour winds down, you’ll pass through picturesque farmland—keeping an eye out for kangaroos grazing in the fields—before heading back to Perth. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights, with some short scenic stops along the way.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

While the long drive is a consideration, many reviews praise the expert guides who keep the commentary lively and informative. One traveler remarked, “A lovely tour with a small group and several stops. The wildlife cruise and wine tasting were the highlights.” This mix of wildlife, scenery, and regional flavor makes the experience well-rounded and appealing.

The tour’s value lies in the comprehensive coverage—covering wildlife, natural landmarks, wineries, and coastal views—making it ideal for travelers who want to see a lot in one day without the hassle of organizing multiple trips themselves. However, it’s best suited for those comfortable with early starts and long days on the road.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, wine enthusiasts, and those wanting a full day of diverse experiences without the stress of planning. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided insights, as the guides are praised for their knowledge and helpfulness. If you enjoy boat trips, scenic walks, and sampling local produce, you’ll find plenty to love here.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have limited mobility, the long drive and walking involved might be less ideal. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or require wheelchair access, this tour might not be suitable.

Final Thoughts

The From Perth: Margaret River Wine Tour & Wildlife Cruise offers a compelling mix of wildlife encounters, coastal scenery, and regional flavors. With knowledgeable guides, plenty of photo opportunities, and authentic experiences, it provides great value for those wanting to get a true taste of Western Australia’s southwest in just a day.

While it’s a long day, the variety of stops and activities ensures you won’t be bored. Whether you’re into wildlife, wine, or simply want to enjoy Australia’s stunning coastline, this tour is a well-organized way to fit it all into one memorable day.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a fully guided day from Perth, a wildlife cruise on Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, visits to natural landmarks like Canal Rocks and Margaret River Mouth, a wine tasting at a regional winery, and morning and afternoon snacks.

What is not included?
You need to cover your own breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Entry to Busselton Jetty costs around $4, and the cruise may be canceled due to weather, but lunch will still be provided.

How long is the drive from Perth?
The total driving distance is approximately 650 kilometers, with around 7 hours of travel time, including stops and short walks.

Is the wildlife cruise guaranteed?
The cruise is included and typically offers wildlife sightings; however, if canceled due to weather, an alternative plan will be provided, including lunch.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, a jacket, and a reusable water bottle are recommended.

Are children allowed?
Children under 5 years old are not suitable for this tour, and it may not be accessible for wheelchair users.

When should I book?
Booking in advance is advised, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and preferred date.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is there a guide?
Yes, the tour is led by a live English-speaking guide who shares insights and keeps the group engaged throughout the day.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many travelers enjoy the small-group setting, making it easy to meet people and share the experience.

This tour offers a well-rounded slice of Western Australia’s natural and cultural treasures. With thoughtful planning and expert guides, it promises a day full of discovery, relaxation, and authentic moments. Whether you’re keen on wildlife, wine, or scenic drives, this experience delivers plenty of value and memorable sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: