Mandurah is a lively destination with a surprising variety of tours that showcase its waterways, wildlife, and quirky local charm. Whether you’re after a fun family pirate adventure, a relaxing dolphin cruise, or a gourmet seafood experience, Mandurah has something to offer. I particularly recommend the Pirate Cruise for its lively atmosphere and dolphin sightings, and the Murray River Lunch Cruise for a more laid-back, scenic day with a delicious meal. Many tours include wildlife viewing, like dolphins and birdlife, and some even combine sightseeing with cultural insights. With so many options, you’ll find a tour that fits your schedule and budget, leaving you with memories of Mandurah’s unique coastal vibe.
Quick Overview
Mandurah offers a spectrum of tours — from quick 45-minute pirate adventures and scenic dolphin cruises to full-day river safaris and seafood feasts. For family fun, the Pirate Cruise and Midweek Pirate Ship Scenic Cruise are excellent choices, packed with interactive elements and wildlife spotting. If you’re interested in wildlife, the Dolphin & Giant Sightseeing Cruise and Dolphin Cruise and Views provide guaranteed dolphin sightings along with views of luxury homes and wetlands. For a taste of local cuisine, the Wild Seafood Experience is a top-tier, sea-to-plate adventure. To help you decide, I’ve broken down each tour based on what makes it special, who it’s perfect for, and what to consider.
1. The Pirate Cruise in Mandurah on Viator
At number 1, this 45-minute pirate adventure is a hit for families and anyone wanting a quick, lively experience. Departing from the eastern foreshore, you’ll cruise through Mandurah’s canals on a classic pirate ship. The highlight is the chance to dress up in pirate costumes, ring the ship’s bell, and even steer the wheel, making this a playful, interactive experience. The crew encourages kids (and adults!) to indulge their pirate fantasies, and the onboard telescopes provide marvelous views of dolphins and luxurious canal homes. The reviews praise its fun atmosphere and dolphin sightings, with many noting how suitable it is for young kids and families. It’s perfect if you want a quick, inexpensive taste of Mandurah’s waterways with plenty of photo ops.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or anyone short on time who wants a fun, dolphin-filled cruise with interactive pirate elements.
2. Mandurah: Dolphin and Views Cruise
Number 2 on our list is the 75-minute scenic cruise that guarantees dolphin sightings or you cruise again for free. This tour explores Mandurah’s waterways and canals, with live commentary explaining the area’s highlights—such as luxury homes and birdlife. The tour is praised for its value, with many reviews mentioning successful dolphin sightings and engaging guides. It’s a great choice for those wanting a more relaxed, informative experience that blends wildlife with sightseeing. The mix of calm waters, local landmarks, and wildlife makes this cruise suitable for families, couples, and wildlife enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: A good pick for travelers looking for a longer, relaxing cruise that focuses on dolphins and scenic views, with a strong emphasis on value.
3. Mandurah Dolphin Cruise and Views
Next, the 1 hour 15 minutes dolphin cruise offers an immersive encounter with wild dolphins in their natural habitat. Departing from Mandurah, the tour explores the Creery Wetlands and scenic canals lined with luxury homes. The guaranteed dolphin sightings and in-depth commentary make it popular among wildlife lovers. The review highlights it as a well-organized trip with multiple departures, making it flexible for most schedules. This tour is especially suited for travelers who want to combine wildlife viewing with a bit of local culture.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife fans who value guaranteed dolphin sightings and want an insightful, comfortable cruise.
4. Mandurah Pirate Cruise
Coming in at number 4, this scenic pirate cruise offers a fun, light-hearted way to explore Mandurah’s waterways. It’s similar to the Viator Pirate Cruise but often with more interactive entertainment, including water cannons, pirate stories, and photo opportunities with the captain. With a 4.7-star rating from 186 reviews, guests consistently praise the crew’s friendliness and the fun atmosphere, especially for kids. The cruise takes you past beautiful seaside homes and offers plenty of chances to spot dolphins and waterbirds. The affordability and engaging pirate theme make it popular among families and groups seeking a playful, memorable outing.
Bottom Line: A top choice for families wanting a fun, interactive boat ride with wildlife sightings and pirate antics.
5. Murray River Lunch Cruise
Number 5 on our list is the 4.5-hour Murray River Lunch Cruise, offering a leisurely experience with delicious buffet meals and scenic views. Starting at Mandurah’s Performing Arts Centre, the cruise passes through the Estuary, Creery Wetlands, and Peel Inlet, with the chance to see dolphins and native bird species. The highlight is a visit to Coopers Mill, a historic site, paired with a fresh seafood lunch. Reviewers mention the friendly crew, tasty food, and interesting commentary, making this ideal for those wanting a relaxing day with food, wildlife, and a bit of local history.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers seeking a combination of scenic wildlife viewing, cultural insight, and a quality meal.
6. Mandurah: Murray River Lunch Cruise
This half-day cruise emphasizes wildlife, including dolphins, and passes through the Creery Wetlands and Peel Inlet. It features a buffet lunch and onboard bar, making it perfect for those wanting a more substantial meal while exploring. The dolphins are not always guaranteed, but many reviews note successful sightings. It’s a great choice for those who want a longer cruise with a focus on nature and culture, especially if they enjoy a good meal coupled with wildlife viewing.
Bottom Line: Great for wildlife lovers who enjoy a relaxed cruise with local food and beautiful scenery.
7. Pirate Ship Sundowner Cruise in Mandurah
Number 7, the 1.5-hour Sundowner Cruise, is perfect for sunset lovers. Board the Pirate Ship and cruise around Mandurah’s waterways, including Dolphin Quay and the canals. The highlight is watching the sunset over the estuary, with 360° views and a relaxed, fun atmosphere. You can bring your own drinks and snacks, making it an ideal evening outing. Reviewers praise the spectacular sunset views and friendly crew. It’s suitable for couples or groups wanting a laid-back, scenic evening.
Bottom Line: A top pick for a romantic or relaxing sunset experience with stunning views and a pirate twist.
8. 90 Minute Midweek Pirate Ship Scenic Cruise
Number 8 offers a laid-back, family-friendly cruise avoiding weekend crowds. For around $23, you’ll explore Mandurah’s dolphin quay, wetlands, and canals, with interactive elements like water cannons and the chance to steer the ship. Reviews note excellent fun for kids and informative commentary. The cruise departs from the foreshore and is perfect if you want a relaxed yet engaging experience on a weekday, avoiding the weekend crowds.
Bottom Line: An affordable, interactive option ideal for families or those seeking a quiet, friendly cruise during the week.
9. Mandurah: Dolphin & Giant Sightseeing Cruise
Number 9 features a 2-hour tour focused on spotting wild dolphins and birdlife, with a special view of the Giant ‘Seba’s Song’. The tour includes a fish-and-chip lunch from Mandurah’s Cicerello’s and a cruise through the luxurious canals. The rare sighting of the giant makes this a unique experience, and reviews highlight its excellent wildlife viewing. Best suited for those who want a mix of wildlife, scenic canals, and a relaxed meal.
Bottom Line: For wildlife fans who also love a good lunch and a chance to view an iconic giant.
10. Mandurah Wild Seafood Experience
This sea-to-plate experience is a rare opportunity to haul live Western Rock Lobster and enjoy an 8-course seafood feast. It’s a premium, all-inclusive tour with drinks, oysters, prawns, and sashimi, making it perfect for seafood aficionados. The interactive lobster crabbing is a highlight, and reviews mention the freshness of the seafood and the friendly guides. It’s best suited for food lovers willing to splurge for a true culinary adventure.
Bottom Line: A top-tier experience for serious seafood lovers wanting an immersive, interactive meal at sea.
11. Mandurah: Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise with Tour Guide
Number 11 offers a 1-hour guided boat tour through Mandurah’s canals and waterways, with opportunities to spot resident dolphins and local wildlife. The guided element provides deeper insight into the area, appealing to travelers who want learning along with sightseeing. The reviews commend the friendly guide and the dolphin sightings, making it suitable for visitors who prefer a more informative experience.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for those wanting a quick, guided wildlife and sightseeing tour.
12. Self-Drive BBQ Boat Hire Mandurah
Number 12 is perfect for groups wanting full control—a self-drive electric boat equipped with an onboard barbecue. It’s a fun, relaxed way to explore Mandurah’s canals at your own pace. The reviews praise its ease of use, and the magnificent views make for a memorable day. Bring your own food and drinks for a floating picnic, ideal for families or friends.
Bottom Line: Best suited for groups wanting independence and a personalized experience on the water.
13. Mandurah: 1.5 Hour Sundowner Cruise
This sunset cruise combines relaxation and scenic beauty. Departing in the evening, it offers breathtaking views of the sunset over the Peel Harvey Estuary. You’ll cruise past waterside houses and canals, with the option to bring snacks and drinks. The reviews are glowing, emphasizing the spectacular sunset and the peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for couples or anyone wanting a special evening on the water.
Bottom Line: A romantic choice for sunset lovers seeking a tranquil, picturesque cruise.
14. Mandurah Sunset Cruise
Number 14 is a shorter, equally scenic sunset cruise. With 5-star reviews, it emphasizes beautiful views of the Peel Harvey Estuary and the lights of Mandurah at night. The cruise is perfect for a relaxed evening with family or friends, with plenty of photo opportunities. Bring your own drinks to toast the sunset.
Bottom Line: Excellent for a quick, scenic, and peaceful evening sail.
15. Mandurah: Wild Seafood Experience
Rounding out the list, this 3.5-hour sea-to-plate adventure is ideal for serious seafood fans. It features live hauling of Western Rock Lobster, an 8-course seafood lunch, and beverages. The guaranteed lobster as the centerpiece makes this experience stand out, and the reviews mention the freshness of the seafood and professional guides. It’s best suited for those willing to spend a bit more for a premium, interactive culinary experience.
Bottom Line: For dedicated seafood enthusiasts wanting a memorable, hands-on meal experience at sea.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you’re traveling with kids or want a quick dose of fun, the Pirate Cruise (link) or the Midweek Pirate Ship (link) are excellent options. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Dolphin & Giant Sightseeing Cruise (link) provides a good mix of dolphins and scenic views, while the Seafood Experience (link) appeals to food lovers.
Peak times such as summer months or weekends may fill up quickly, so booking early is wise. Decide whether you want a quick cruise, a full-day adventure, or a romantic sunset—Mandurah’s tour options cater well to all.
Final thoughts
Mandurah’s tours showcase its stunning waterways, abundant wildlife, and unique local culture. Whether you prefer a lively pirate adventure, a peaceful dolphin cruise, or a gourmet seafood journey, you’ll find a perfect match here. The Pirate Cruise and the Murray River Lunch Cruise stand out as top picks for different reasons—family fun versus scenic relaxation. Booking early, especially for popular tours, will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Whatever your interests, Mandurah invites you to explore its waters in style.
Happy exploring and safe travels in Mandurah!