Enjoy the scenic highlights of the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park and keep a look out for the wildlife! This 60 minute glass bottom boat cruise takes place in the ruggedly spectacular coastlines of Penguin, Seal & Bird Islands and takes advantage of the best wildlife spotting opportunities of the day. Wild dolphins, rare Australian sea lions, pelican rookeries, and birds of prey are regularly sighted and our friendly crew will get you right amongst the action!
The cruise concludes on Penguin Island allowing for a 30 minutes guided wildlife walk of Penguin Island, providing exclusive insight into the local penguins, the spectacular landscapes and the natural history of the island and if you have more time then you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, exploring the nature trails or just relax and enjoy the beautiful nature reserve. Before returning on the ferry at your own leisure.
Inclusions
- 60-minute cruise around the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park
- Return ferry transfers to and from Penguin Island
- 30 minute guided wildlife walk of Penguin Island, providing exclusive insight into the local penguins, the spectacular landscapes and the natural history of the island
*Complementary photos from your cruise uploaded to Flickr for you to share!
Exclusions
- Transfers from Perth or Fremantle Hotels
- Meals
Highlights
- Seeing rare Australian sea lions on the beach at Seal Island
- Seeing wild dolphins at play (although sightings are regular, they are not guaranteed as our cruise is restricted to inside Shoalwater Bay)
- Explore the rugged islands and viewing nesting pelicans, cormorants and spotting other sea birds that live in the park
- Drifting over seagrass meadows and limestone reefs spotting fish and other marine life through the glass bottom
- Viewing the fossilized remnants of ancient tuart forests
Seasons
- Tour runs from 15 September to 6th June (except Christmas Day)
Time
- Tours depart at 9.15am, 11.15am and 1.45pm from Penguin Island
- Please allow enough time for your 5 minute ferry transfer to Penguin Island (9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm or 1pm - must be pre-booked with operator) prior to cruise departure
- Ferries depart from Penguin Island at 10.10am, 11.10am, 12.10pm, 1.10pm, 2.10pm, 3.10pm or 4pm
Departure Location
- Ferries depart to Penguin Island from the corner of Arcadia Drive and Penguin Road, Shoalwater
Transfers
- Transfers from Perth and Fremantle are not available for this tour, you will need to make your own transport arrangements to Shoalwater Bay (approximately 45 minute drive south of Perth)
What To Bring
- Dress warmly, the wind can be cold even in summer
- Wear a hat and sunscreen to protect you from the hot Aussie sun
- Comfortable shoes/thongs, bathers and towel are recommended for Penguin Island and you are welcome to bring your snorkelling equipment
- We recommend you bring extra drinks (especially in hot weather) and snacks if you wish
- There are no shops on Penguin Island so any extra food or drinks must be purchased before you go. Pengos Café is located on the mainland for breakfast or coffees etc. There a range of picnic style options to enjoy at Penguin Island, alternatively, your ticket allows you to use the ferry service all day so feel free to come back to the mainland for a dine in meal
Additional Information
- Please note children under the age of 3 are not permitted on this tour
- The Department of Parks and Wildlife has a current Penguin Island alert due to maintenance/ construction to beginning on the 28th of January 2025 for up to 8 weeks. Please keep in mind partial Island closure. See link for more information: https://alerts.dbca.wa.gov.au/home/index#eecd5011-cac0-4b8d-a493-81316379846f
Booking Information
- Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
- Ferry transfer from Shoalwater to Penguin Island must be pre-booked. After you have made your booking, operator contact details will be listed on your voucher
- Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the tour
- For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher
Annabel Tolios
Rockingham Wild Encounters
We hope you can join us as we cruise around the ruggedly beautiful Shoalwater Marine Park and encounter wild dolphins, rare Australian sea lions and little penguins..
“It is recommended to wear a warm, weather proof jacket as it can get cool even in summer. There are some fantastic picnic spots on Penguin Island, so take some lunch with you as there are no shops or cafes on the island.”