Mandurah, just south of Perth, is renowned for its calm waterways, luxury canal homes, and most impressively, its wild dolphins. Unlike other coastal spots, Mandurah offers a rare chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat while exploring scenic waters and wetlands. We love the Mandurah: Dolphin and Views Cruise for its value and guaranteed dolphin sightings, which means you won’t leave disappointed. Watching dolphins leap through the waterways amid vibrant birdlife makes this spot special. Plus, the live commentary and child-friendly deck make it perfect for family outings. For those craving a more exclusive experience, the Mandurah: Dolphin & Giant Sightseeing Cruise offers a chance to see one of Mandurah’s famous giant sculptures up close, alongside wild dolphins.
If you’re short on time but still want a taste of Mandurah’s aquatic wonders, the 1 Hour Deluxe Scenic Dolphin Cruise delivers a quick, comfortable ride with a great chance to spot dolphins and learn about the waterways. Meanwhile, the Mandurah Dolphin Cruise and Views stands out for its longer duration, scenic stops in wetlands, and luxury canal homes, making it ideal for leisurely exploration. No matter which tour you pick, Mandurah’s waterways promise memorable wildlife encounters and beautiful scenery.
1. Mandurah: Dolphin and Views Cruise
At number one, the Mandurah: Dolphin and Views Cruise offers great value at just $28 per person for a 75-minute scenic tour. This cruise is all about experiencing Mandurah’s waterways and canals with the added bonus of guaranteed dolphin sightings or a free cruise redo. The live commentary from friendly crew members adds an educational touch, making it enjoyable whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just want a relaxing ride. The boat’s design caters to families, with plenty of child-centric activities and an open deck for kids to view the scenery.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of sightseeing, including local landmarks and colorful birdlife, in addition to dolphin watching. It’s especially good for travelers on a budget but unwilling to compromise on quality. Over 800 reviews give it a solid 4.5/5, with many visitors noting how smooth and safe the ride is, and how easy it is to get good photos of dolphins. The tour’s affordable price makes it a smart choice for first-timers or families wanting a reliable, fun experience. Bottom line: If you want a quick, budget-friendly cruise with a high chance of dolphin sightings, this tour is hard to beat.
2. Mandurah Dolphin Cruise and Views
Next on our list is the Mandurah Dolphin Cruise and Views, which lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes and costs just under $30. This tour is a bit more comprehensive, taking you through the Creery Wetlands and luxurious canals — home to some of Western Australia’s most expensive waterside properties. It’s ideal if you want a relaxed pace with multiple scenic stops, including the chance for dolphin sightings (which are guaranteed), and birdwatching in a RAMSAR-listed wetland.
This cruise stands out because of its informative onboard commentary about the wildlife and the region’s history. The tour departs multiple times daily, giving flexibility to fit your schedule. Visitors have noted the smooth boat ride and the ability to move freely on deck for photos, as well as the chance to see wild dolphins and wealthy homes along the canals. The tour’s focus on both wildlife and scenic highlights makes it perfect for those who want to combine wildlife viewing with a leisurely, informative experience.
Bottom line: For a longer, more scenic cruise with guaranteed dolphins and insightful commentary, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to relax while exploring Mandurah’s waterways.
3. Mandurah: Dolphin & Giant Sightseeing Cruise
At number three, the Mandurah: Dolphin & Giant Sightseeing Cruise is a 2-hour adventure that combines wild dolphin viewing with a unique encounter with Mandurah’s iconic giant sculptures. This tour is special because it offers exclusive views of the ‘Seba’s Song’ sculpture, which is only fully visible from the water — not from land. Along the way, you’ll also spot wild dolphins, with some tours including a fish-and-chip lunch at Mandurah’s famous Cicerello’s.
What elevates this cruise is its focus on public art and local landmarks alongside wildlife. The scenic canal cruise takes you past luxury homes and wetlands teeming with birdlife, making it perfect for art lovers and wildlife fans alike. With a 4.7/5 rating from 40 reviews, it’s clear that people appreciate the balance between sightseeing and wildlife. The giant sculptures add a memorable visual element you won’t get on typical dolphin tours.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in both art and wildlife, or want to see one of Mandurah’s most famous sculptures in a unique setting, this cruise offers a rich mix of experiences.
4. Mandurah: Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise with Tour Guide
For those seeking a more intimate, guided experience, the Mandurah: Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise with Tour Guide is a 1-hour cruise that combines wildlife spotting with local storytelling. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour explores the marina, canals, and Creery Wetlands, offering insights into the region’s ecology and history.
Reviewers highlight the friendly guide and the ability to ask questions during the trip. The boat’s size makes it easier to spot dolphins and observe the scenery up close, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a personalized touch. It also offers excellent photo opportunities of mansion-lined canals and native wildlife. The tour is budget-friendly at only $25 per person, making it a popular pick for solo travelers or couples seeking a relaxed, informative cruise.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a guided experience with a focus on wildlife, scenery, and local stories in a shorter timeframe.
5. Giant and Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise in Mandurah
Number five, the Giant and Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise in Mandurah offers a 2-hour 15-minute journey that combines art, wildlife, and wetlands. It’s unique because it includes a visit to Thomas Dambo’s Giants of Mandurah, with exclusive views of the ‘Seba’s Song’ sculpture from the water, which is impossible from land. The cruise also explores Port Mandurah Canals and the Peel-Harvey Estuary, home to diverse animal species.
This tour stands out for its focus on environmental art and wetlands while providing wildlife encounters. Travelers rave about the informative commentary and the opportunity to see the ‘giants’ in their natural setting. It’s ideal for art lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those wanting a fuller picture of Mandurah’s ecological and cultural landscape. With a small number of reviews, the high ratings suggest it’s a specialized experience worth considering for those interested in conservation and outdoor art.
Bottom line: If you’re keen on seeing public art in a natural context and want an ecologically rich cruise, this option offers a distinctive take.
6. 1 Hour Deluxe Scenic Dolphin Cruise
Rounding out the list is the 1 Hour Deluxe Scenic Dolphin Cruise — a short, comfortable ride aboard the White Pearl that packs in scenic views, dolphin sightings, and wetlands all within an hour. This tour explores Mandurah’s inland waterways, which are twice the size of Sydney Harbour, and includes stops at Dolphin Quay and the Creery Wetlands.
It’s a great choice if you want a quick, relaxing experience in a smaller boat where you can get close to the water. Reviews praise the friendly crew and the intimate atmosphere, which makes it easier to spot dolphins and take photos. For around $26, this cruise offers a cost-effective way to tick off wildlife viewing without committing to a longer tour.
Bottom line: If you prefer a shorter, cozy cruise with a high likelihood of dolphin sightings, this is a good pick.
How to Choose Your Mandurah Dolphin Tour
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you’re after value for money and want a guaranteed dolphin sighting, the Mandurah: Dolphin and Views Cruise is hard to beat. For a more scenic, leisurely exploration that includes wetlands and luxury homes, the Mandurah Dolphin Cruise and Views offers a great balance.
If you’re fascinated by public art and want a rare view of Mandurah’s sculptures, the Giant and Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise is the way to go. For those seeking a guided tour with educational commentary, the Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise with Tour Guide is ideal. And if you’re short on time but still want a quality experience, the 1 Hour Deluxe Scenic Dolphin Cruise provides a quick, scenic fix.
Timing is also key — spring and early summer are best for wildlife, but many tours run year-round. Book early, especially in peak season, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Mandurah offers a diverse range of dolphin watching experiences, from quick scenic rides to artful wetlands explorations. The Mandurah: Dolphin and Views Cruise stands out as a reliable, budget-friendly option with guaranteed sightings, perfect for families. For a more immersive experience, the Giant and Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise combines wildlife with public art and ecological highlights, catering to those interested in culture and conservation.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, an art lover, or simply seeking a relaxing day on the water, Mandurah’s tours deliver memorable moments. We recommend booking your tour early to avoid missing out on the best times to see dolphins and other wildlife. With so many options, you’re sure to find a cruise that will make your Mandurah visit truly special.