Margaret River Day Tour With Wildlife Cruise & Wine Tasting

Discover the Best of Margaret River and the WA Coast in One Day

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines wildlife encounters, stunning coastal scenery, and some of Western Australia’s finest wines, this Margaret River Day Tour with Wildlife Cruise & Wine Tasting is a fantastic choice. Priced at around $166 per person, it offers a comprehensive experience that ventures from Perth’s urban energy into the natural and culinary delights of the southwest.

On this roughly 12-13 hour journey, you’ll visit iconic spots like Busselton Jetty and Canal Rocks, cruise through Shoalwater Islands Marine Park to spot dolphins, sea lions, and penguins, and enjoy wine and craft beer tastings at local wineries and breweries. The tour’s highlights include the chance to see wild animals in their habitat, explore spectacular rock formations, and stroll through Margaret River town.

What really makes this trip stand out for us is the guided boat cruise around Penguin and Seal Islands—an authentic wildlife encounter—and the opportunity to sample some of Australia’s best wines at a top-rated winery. The small group size (max 24 travelers) and knowledgeable guides make it feel intimate and personalized.

One potential consideration is the lack of included meals, so you’ll want to bring some snacks or plan to purchase lunch en route. Also, with a packed itinerary, the day moves quickly—so comfort with a long day on your feet and a full schedule is helpful.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate natural beauty, wildlife, and wine in one trip, especially those who enjoy guided experiences with local insights. It’s perfect for first-timers to Western Australia or anyone wanting a well-rounded snapshot of the region’s coastal charm and culinary scene.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Experience wild dolphins, sea lions, and penguins on an engaging boat cruise in Shoalwater Islands Marine Park.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Visit famous surf spots like Surfers Point, and explore natural rock formations at Canal Rocks.
• Wine & Beer Tasting: Sample premium wines at a renowned winery and enjoy local craft beers at a brewery—perfect for lovers of good drinks.
• Authentic Experiences: Small group size and knowledgeable guides enhance the personal touch and insider insights.
• Flexible Exploration: Free time in Margaret River town allows for browsing local shops and sampling regional produce.
• Value for Money: The combination of wildlife, scenery, and tastings offers a rich experience at a reasonable price.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Shoalwater Islands Marine Park

The adventure begins with a boat cruise through the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, which is a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts. We loved the way the boat ride brought us close to Penguin Island, Seal Island, and other wildlife hotspots. The reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and the authentic chance to see animals in their natural habitat. As Priscilla_A mentions, “The day was fantastic, thanks to the great company and our amazing tour guide.” Expect to see dolphins, sea lions, and penguins in the wild—an experience that feels genuine rather than staged.

Busselton and Geographe Bay

Next, the journey takes us further south along the Indian Ocean coast to Busselton, home to the famous Busselton Jetty. Here, there’s a chance for a scenic walk along the jetty, which stretches impressively into Geographe Bay, known for its calm waters and beautiful seascapes. This stop is perfect for stretching your legs and admiring the views. It’s a great way to experience one of Australia’s longest jetties, with plenty of photo opportunities and a relaxed atmosphere.

Surfers Point

A quick stop at Surfers Point introduces you to some of the world’s best surf breaks. Though the stop is only 30 minutes, it’s enough to take in the power of the waves, snap some photos, and imagine the surfing action. Keep in mind, admission is not included, so if you’re a surfing enthusiast, you might want to stay a bit longer or plan accordingly.

Canal Rocks

One of the most striking natural formations in the region, Canal Rocks offers stunning photo opportunities. The rugged rocks carved by the sea create a network of channels that are both dramatic and beautiful. We loved the way this spot allows for a leisurely exploration and offers views that are truly photogenic. The reviews reflect this as well—Linda_W mentions it as “awesome” and “highly recommend it.” Afterward, a visit to the Margaret River Mouth lets you take in sweeping views of the coast and look out for marine life.

Margaret River Town & Wineries

The final major stop is Margaret River town, where you can wander through local shops and sample regional produce. The town offers a relaxed vibe, perfect for a quick browse or picking up souvenirs. We appreciate that tasting options are optional—giving you flexibility to enjoy the region’s culinary delights at your own pace. Several reviews highlight the winery visit as a standout, with one traveler noting a “terrific guide” and excellent wine selections. It’s a chance to taste premium wines in a beautiful setting.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle makes the long day comfortable, and with a maximum of 24 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere. This small group setup means more personalized attention from guides and easier socializing.

Timing and Pace

Starting at 7:00 am from Barrack Street Jetty, the tour lasts around 12 to 13 hours—so be prepared for a full day. The schedule is tight but well-organized, allowing ample time at key stops while keeping the day moving.

Cost and Value

At roughly $166, the tour offers good value considering the included activities like the wildlife cruise, scenic stops, and tastings. Keep in mind, meals aren’t included, so budget for lunch and snacks—though this also gives you the chance to support local eateries, which is a bonus.

Accessibility and Suitability

Most travelers can participate, but the full day involves some walking and boat rides, so it’s ideal for those in reasonable health and with a love for adventure. If you’re traveling with children or older adults, check that everyone’s comfortable with the pace.

Authentic Experiences Based on Traveler Reviews

Several reviews echo the overall satisfaction with the guides and the natural beauty. Richard_C praises “Glenn,” the guide, for being “knowledgeable, funny, flexible, and very thoughtful,” which can make a big difference in how enjoyable and informative the day feels. Linda_W highlights the “cruise, dolphins, and Kangaroos” as high points, emphasizing the tour’s authenticity.

Julie_B appreciated the mix of boat cruise, Margaret River town walk, and natural sights, describing the day as a “great outing” with a nice balance of activities. This variety keeps the experience engaging and highlights the region’s diverse appeal.

The Sum Up

This Margaret River Day Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Western Australia’s coastal beauty, wildlife, and wine culture. It’s a smart choice for travelers eager to see iconic sights without the hassle of planning a multi-day trip. The combination of wildlife encounters, scenic stops, and tastings makes it an excellent value, especially with the small group setting and knowledgeable guides enhancing the experience.

If you’re after an authentic, educational, and enjoyable day that balances natural wonders with regional flavors, this tour is hard to beat. It fits travelers who love a mix of outdoor adventure, wildlife, and good wine, and who appreciate the convenience of a guided day trip from Perth.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 to 13 hours, starting at 7:00 am from Barrack Street Jetty.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a guided day trip, boat cruise in Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, wildlife sightings (dolphins, sea lions, penguins), visits to the coast and natural formations, and wine and beer tastings.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but morning and afternoon snacks are provided. It’s recommended to bring lunch or plan to buy food during stops.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but the full day involves walking, boat rides, and a packed schedule. Those with mobility concerns should consider this.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 24 guests, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Can I customize the stops or experience?
The itinerary is fixed, but guides are known for being flexible and considerate of guest needs.

How do I book or cancel?
Booking is straightforward, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, camera, snacks, and any personal items you might need for a full day outdoors.

Is alcohol tasting included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy tastings at a winery and brewery, providing a good opportunity to sample local beverages.

What’s the best time of year to go?
While the tour runs year-round, the best weather tends to be in spring and fall for pleasant outdoor conditions.

Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a wine enthusiast, or simply eager to see Western Australia’s coast in one day, this tour offers a compelling mix of sights, tastes, and stories—making it a worthwhile addition to your Perth itinerary.