Mandurah, in Western Australia, is a water lover’s paradise. Its calm inland waterways, shimmering estuaries, and scenic canals make it one of the best places in Australia to enjoy a boat trip. Whether you’re after spotting wild dolphins, cruising past millionaire homes, or indulging in a pirate-themed adventure, Mandurah offers a variety of options that suit every interest and budget. We particularly enjoy the Pirate Cruise because of its lively, family-friendly atmosphere and the chance to dress up as a pirate, which makes it a hit for kids and adults alike. Plus, the Dolphin and Views Cruise stands out for its guaranteed dolphin sightings and scenic storytelling. Check out the full list below to find your perfect boat trip.
Quick Overview
Mandurah’s boat tours cover a broad spectrum, from short and lively pirate adventures to luxurious wildlife cruises and self-drive BBQ boats. You can spend less than an hour on a fun pirate sail or enjoy a leisurely half-day Murray River lunch cruise with a gourmet buffet. For those wanting a romantic evening, sunset and sundowner cruises are available, offering stunning views of the estuary and canal homes. For detailed options, explore each tour description below.
1. The Pirate Cruise in Mandurah on Viator
At number one, the Pirate Cruise is a lively, 45-minute adventure that captures the imagination with a true pirate spirit. This vessel departs from Mandurah’s eastern foreshore and takes you through the city’s inland waterways, with plenty of opportunities for kids to steer the wheel, ring the bell, and dress up in pirate costumes. Expect to see bottlenose dolphins along the way, with telescopes provided for mariner-style viewing. The crew encourages interaction, making it a family favorite. With a 5-star rating from 576 reviews and a very affordable price of $23.05 per person, this tour is excellent for a quick, fun escape. Many reviewers highlight how well-organized and entertaining the experience is, especially for younger children.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families, this pirate adventure offers a memorable 45-minute trip packed with wildlife spotting, costume fun, and playful interaction.
2. Mandurah: Dolphin and Views Cruise
Coming in at number two, this scenic cruise lasts about 75 minutes and promises to deliver guaranteed dolphin sightings or you’ll cruise again for free. This tour showcases Mandurah’s top highlights, including cruising past luxury homes and observing birdlife around the wetlands. The crew provides engaging commentary about the area’s natural and cultural features while you relax on the deck. For just $28 per person, the value is clear—view the waterways and wildlife without feeling rushed. Many travelers mention how the boat is well-maintained and the staff friendly, making it an easy choice for a family or a quiet day out. This cruise is especially suited for those who want a bit of everything, from wildlife to scenic views.
Bottom Line: A balanced tour that brings wildlife, stunning scenery, and informative commentary together—great for relaxed sightseeing with dolphin guarantees.
3. Mandurah Dolphin Cruise and Views
Number three on our list is the Mandurah Dolphin Cruise and Views, which lasts around 75 minutes and costs about $28.48. This cruise takes you on the calm waters of Mandurah, with a strong focus on observing wild dolphins in their natural habitat. The boat visits the Creery Wetlands and scenic canals lined with upscale homes. The commentary enriches the experience, emphasizing the region’s rich birdlife and dolphin populations, which are guaranteed sightings or you cruise again. The tour’s flexibility with multiple departures makes it convenient for travelers. Reviewers mention the boat’s smooth ride and the opportunity to capture great photos. This tour is especially ideal for wildlife enthusiasts or anyone wanting a deeper understanding of the region’s ecological significance.
Bottom Line: A relaxing, wildlife-focused cruise that guarantees dolphin sightings, perfect for nature lovers and families.
4. Mandurah Pirate Cruise
At number four, the Mandurah Pirate Cruise offers a classic 45-minute pirate-themed adventure, rated 4.7/5 from 186 reviews. Departing from Mandurah’s waterways, this lively cruise features onboard entertainment, water cannons, and plenty of pirate jokes. Kids get the chance to steer the ship or take photos with the friendly captain, making it a hands-on experience. The tour focuses on viewing sea-facing homes and spotting bottlenose dolphins and water birds. It’s particularly good value at just $22 per person, with many families praising the crew’s friendliness and the fun atmosphere. The only consideration might be that it’s a shorter cruise, but it’s packed with energetic pirate antics.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families seeking a lighthearted, interactive cruise filled with fun stories, dolphin spotting, and photo opportunities.
5. Murray River Lunch Cruise
Number five, the Murray River Lunch Cruise, delivers a leisurely 4.5-hour experience for about $101.02. It offers a delicious buffet lunch aboard a boat journey along the Murray River**, passing scenic wetlands, island homes, and the historic Coopers Mill**. The cruise includes a stop for a walking tour at the old mill, providing a taste of local history. Many reviews highlight the tasty food and the friendly crew making the trip enjoyable. Wildlife sightings, including dolphins, are possible but not guaranteed. This tour is best suited for those wanting a relaxed, full-day experience with good food and scenic views.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers and history buffs looking for a comfortable, scenic day with wildlife opportunities.
6. Mandurah: Murray River Lunch Cruise
Number six offers a similar experience to tour five but with a slightly shorter duration and more focused on the scenic river environment. It includes a buffet lunch, a stop at Coopers Mill, and a chance to observe dolphins and birdlife. The cruise is highly rated for its relaxing atmosphere and informative commentary, with many reviewers noting the good value for its 4.6-star rating. It’s an excellent option for travelers who want a substantial meal and wildlife viewing in one outing.
Bottom Line: An all-round relaxing cruise combining scenic beauty, wildlife, and a hearty lunch—great for families or couples seeking a laid-back day.
7. Pirate Ship Sundowner Cruise in Mandurah
Number seven is the Pirate Ship Sundowner Cruise, a 1.5-hour evening trip costing $28.52. It’s perfect for watching the sunset over Mandurah’s waterways while enjoying entertainment and the chance to see boats and marina activity. The cruise takes you through Dolphin Quay and the canals, with plenty of opportunities for photos. Many guests love the relaxed atmosphere and the scenic views, especially during sunset. It’s an excellent choice for a romantic evening or a relaxing outing with friends.
Bottom Line: A short, scenic evening cruise ideal for sunset lovers and those wanting a peaceful, picturesque experience.
8. 90 Minute Midweek Pirate Ship Scenic Cruise
Number eight offers a laid-back cruise during the quieter midweek, lasting 90 minutes for $23.09. This pirate-themed trip features interactive elements like water cannons and the ability to steer the ship, making it perfect for families. It departs from the foreshore, passing the wetlands and Mandurah’s marina. Reviewers mention how the quieter timing makes it more relaxed and enjoyable. It’s a straightforward option for those wanting a fun, family-friendly cruise with wildlife viewing, especially dolphins.
Bottom Line: Great for families and those seeking a fun, less crowded cruise that combines wildlife, scenery, and pirate antics.
9. Mandurah: Dolphin & Giant Sightseeing Cruise
Number nine, this 2-hour tour costs $46 and offers the chance to see one of Mandurah’s famous ‘Giant’ sculptures, Seba’s Song, from an exclusive boat perspective. Besides the art, expect wild dolphins and birdwatching along the way. The boat passes through the canals and estuaries, providing excellent photo opportunities. Many reviewers rave about the unique view of the giant sculpture and the chance to see dolphins swimming nearby. It’s a slightly longer, more immersive experience for wildlife and art enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: A distinctive tour that combines wildlife viewing with a rare opportunity to see a famous local sculpture from the water.
10. Mandurah: Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise with Tour Guide
Number ten offers a guided 1-hour cruise, ideal for those who want to learn more about Mandurah while searching for resident dolphins. With a knowledgeable guide providing commentary, you’ll navigate the waterways passing luxurious homes and wetlands. Reviewers appreciate how the guide offers insights into the region’s flora and fauna, making the trip both relaxing and educational. It’s perfect for first-timers or travelers short on time but eager to explore.
Bottom Line: An engaging, informative cruise that combines wildlife spotting with local stories—good for curious travelers.
11. Self-Drive BBQ Boat Hire Mandurah – Group of 3-6 people
Number eleven, this self-drive electric BBQ boat lets you captain your own vessel and enjoy a floating lunch. For $203.05, up to six people can cruise Mandurah’s canals with their own music, food, and drinks. The boat features an onboard barbecue and picnic utensils, making it perfect for a relaxed day with friends or family. Many users mention how easy it is to steer even without prior experience. It’s best suited for groups who want flexibility and the freedom to customize their trip.
Bottom Line: An excellent DIY option for groups wanting a personalized, fun, and scenic lunch on the water.
12. Mandurah: 1.5 Hour Sundowner Cruise
Number twelve, the Sundowner Cruise is a popular 1.5-hour evening trip for $28, featuring spectacular sunset views over Mandurah’s waterways. Guests can bring their own snacks and drinks and enjoy the panoramic scenery from the open-air Pirate Ship. The cruise passes the Mandurah Marina, War Memorial, and Creery Wetlands, with many reviewers noting how peaceful and beautiful the experience is at sunset.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, scenic way to end the day, ideal for couples and small groups seeking a sunset experience.
13. Mandurah Sunset Cruise
Number thirteen offers another sunset cruise lasting 1.5 hours for just $28 per person. This tour takes in canal homes, Mandurah Marina, and the Peel Harvey Estuary, providing fantastic photo opportunities. It’s a straightforward, peaceful cruise designed for a memorable evening with friends or loved ones, with many praising the clarity of the sunset and the tranquil atmosphere. The vessel isn’t licensed, so bring your own drinks.
Bottom Line: An affordable, scenic cruise perfect for unwinding and capturing sunset photos.
14. Self-Drive BBQ Boat Hire Mandurah – Group of 7-10
Number fourteen, this larger eco-friendly BBQ boat for up to ten people offers a 2-hour self-captain experience. It’s well-equipped with a BBQ, picnic utensils, and a sound system. For $230.12, you and your friends can cruise the canals at your own pace, with the option to bring food and drinks to enjoy on board. Many reviewers appreciate the ease of steering and the flexibility of departure times, making it suitable for bigger groups wanting a custom day on the water.
Bottom Line: A great choice for groups seeking independence, scenery, and a floating feast—perfect for celebrating special occasions.
15. Mandurah Sunset Cruise
Number fifteen features a 1.5-hour Sunset Cruise at $28.51 per person. It offers breathtaking views of the canal homes and the Peel Harvey Estuary as you watch the sun go down. Many rave about the peaceful, scenic atmosphere and the opportunity to take beautiful photos of Mandurah’s waterways.
Bottom Line: An easy, relaxing way to end your day with a scenic sunset and tranquil surroundings.
How to Choose Your Mandurah Boat Tour
When selecting the perfect boat experience, consider your budget, interests, and the kind of scenery or wildlife you want to see. For families or kids, the Pirate Cruise or Midweek Pirate Scenic Cruise offers lively fun and interaction. Wildlife enthusiasts should prefer dolphin-focused cruises like the Mandurah Dolphin Cruise and Views or the Dolphin & Giant Sightseeing Cruise, especially given their guaranteed dolphin sightings. If you’re seeking a romantic or peaceful evening, the Sundowner or Sunset Cruises provide spectacular views and relaxing atmospheres. For groups or those wanting a hands-on experience, the self-drive BBQ boats give you control and a delicious meal on the water.
Booking early is advisable during peak seasons, especially for popular sunset or wildlife tours. Also, check if you need to bring your own food, drinks, or costumes—many tours encourage personal touches for a more memorable outing.
To sum it up, Mandurah offers a diverse selection of boat tours and cruises that cater to all tastes and budgets. Whether you want a quick pirate adventure, a scenic dolphin cruise, or a leisurely lunch on the Murray River, you’ll find plenty of memorable ways to explore this beautiful water-based city. For families, the Pirate Cruise or interactive pirate-themed cruises are perfect, while wildlife lovers should prioritize those with dolphin guarantees. Romantic travelers will enjoy sunsets and scenic panoramas, and groups seeking fun and independence will love the DIY BBQ boats. Don’t forget to book early—that way, you won’t miss out on these fantastic water adventures in Mandurah.