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Flowing through the heart of the Perth city, the beautiful Swan River is a popular natural attraction for locals and visitors to enjoy a day out boating, fishing and picnicking.

For the best experience on the water, take advantage of the number of exciting boat and ferry options available.

Catch the Perth Ferry to South Perth

Transperth offers a ferry from Perth to South Perth leaving from the Elizabeth Quay Ferry Terminal. You can cross to South Perth in approx. 10 minutes to visit the Perth Zoo and delight in the views of Perth city from the South Perth foreshore.

You can also catch a ferry to Optus Stadium with Captain Cook Cruises or the Little Ferry Co. Escape the crowds on the way to the game, and take it slow by catching a ferry to the game. Both ferry operators provide a different experience. Captain Cook Cruises leaves from Barracks St Jetty or South Perth (your choice) taking advantage of the beautiful river and amazing jetty facilities at the stadium. Choose from a convenient transfer on the River Cat or combine it with an amazing meal at the Reveley and a VIP entry to the Camfield. The Little Ferry Co. provide game day ferry’s, specialising in groups from 6 to 12 guests leaving from Elizabeth Quay. You can even BYO snacks and beverages. 

Private Cruises

For a ferry experience with a difference, Captain Cook Cruises offer a wide range of cruise options from Perth to the Port City of Fremantle or upstream, towards the magnificent Swan Valley wine region.

Boat Moorings in Elizabeth Quay

Recreational boaties can cruise into Elizabeth Quay and park in one of the 24 short stay boat moorings, which are available for public use. While you’re there stop for a drink at The Reveley Bar, grab a bite to eat at V Burger or treat yourself to some delicious Gusto ice cream.

Gondolas in Perth

See Elizabeth Quay from a different perspective with Gondolas on the Swan , on board a venetian style gondola. A gondola ride is a lovely way to celebrate a special occasion, birthday, anniversary, wedding, Valentine’s Day or even a marriage proposal.

Guided Tours on the Swan River

Rottnest Departures

See Western Australia’s very own island paradise with ferries departing Barrack Street Jetty daily. For tourists, the morning ferry departures provide the added benefit of a stunning cruise along the Swan River with commentary from the experienced hosts.

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10 Best Swan River Cruises to Discover Perth's Waterway Beauty

BY Pelago by Singapore Airlines

18 MAR 24 . 5 MIN READ . GUIDES

Best Swan River Cruises in Perth

Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is home to picturesque beaches, quirky cafes, and a unique lifestyle to blow your mind!

Unlike Sydney or Melbourne, Perth is less touristy, which makes it perfect for a laid-back getaway.

And guess what? There’s no better way to discover the beauty of this place than its marvellous cruises!

So, buckle up (or should we say life jacket up?) as we discover the ten best Swan River cruises that promise your holiday filled with joy, awe, and pure delight!

• Swan Valley River Lady Cruise
• Swan River Dinner Cruise With Drinks

Swan River Lunch Cruise

• Swan River Twilight Cruise
• Swan River Gourmet Wine Cruise
• High Tea Swan River Cruise
• Swan River Sunset Cruise
• Swan River Scenic Cruise
• Perth and Fremantle Tour with Optional Swan River Cruise
• Swan River One-Way Cruise

1. Swan Valley River Lady Cruise

Swan valley river lady cruise and winery tour.

Explore the beauty of Swan River on this picturesque two-hour cruise with live entertainment .

Highlights :

• You’ll start your journey with early morning coffee and snacks, followed by wine tasting.
• Stop by two wineries and breweries for wine and beer sampling and a vineyard platter lunch.
• You’ll also enjoy complimentary wine or juice at Houghton Winery.

Unveil everything Swan Valley offers, including beer sampling at a boutique award-winning microbrewery and chocolate tasting at the renowned Whistler’s Chocolate Company.

Address : Barrack Street Jetty, 3 Riverside Dr, Perth WA 6000, Australia ( map )

Ways to Get There: 

• Barrack Street Jetty is easily accessible via various bus routes and the Elizabeth Quay Train Station.
• If you prefer driving, Barrack Street Jetty offers ample parking facilities.

Pro-Tip : Don’t forget to take some pictures from the cruise deck!

2. Swan River Dinner Cruise With Drinks

Swan river dinner cruise including drinks.

Experience the magic of Perth’s nighttime skyline as you embark on a captivating evening cruise .

Picture yourself reclining in comfort, soaking in the twinkling city lights while indulging in a delectable dinner buffet with mouthwatering desserts.

• Enjoy complimentary wines, beers, and soft drinks on this enchanting chartered boat on Swan River
• Enjoy a dinner buffet with dessert on board.The shimmering city lights create a magical ambience for an unforgettable evenin

Address : Barrack Street Jetty, 3 Birdiya Dr, Perth WA 6000, Australia (map)

3. Swan River Lunch Cruise

Embark on an unforgettable Swan River Cruise from Perth to Fremantle , accompanied by fascinating commentary that brings local vibes to this adventure.

Prepare to be mesmerised as you pass by iconic landmarks, including the majestic Bell Tower, the restored Swan Brewery and the grandeur of King’s Park.

Highlights: 

• You’ll get a glimpse of the magnificent mansions that grace the riverbanks and Fremantle’s bustling inner harbour.
• You’ll indulge in a delightful seasonal buffet lunch, followed by a mouthwatering cake dessert, all served onboard.
• And to top it off, enjoy complimentary drinks that will keep your spirits high throughout the cruise.

Ways to Get There :

Pro-Tip : If you want to experience ultimate luxury, try the Swan River Charter Boat Tour.

4. Swan River Twilight Cruise

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Ｐｒｉｓｃｉｌｌａ-Ａｎｎｅ Ｊａｃｏｂ (@prissyanne)

As the sun sets, snap selfies against the mesmerising city skyline while sipping a complimentary glass of house wine, beer or soda.

• Operates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays during December and January
• Get a glimpse of the features of the Perth City skyline
• You can purchase a cheese platter or additional drinks to make the experience even more indulgent.

Address : Barrack Street Jetty, 3 Birdiya Dr, Perth WA 6000, Australia ( map )

5. Swan River Gourmet Wine Cruise

Venture into a unique Australian experience like no other!

Departing from a vibrant capital city by boat, you’ll soon find yourself in an award-winning wine region on the same day.

As you bid farewell to the cityscape, a picturesque landscape unfolds, embracing you in its tranquillity during a leisurely cruise into the upper regions of the Swan Valley.

• Feast on a delectable modern grazing table lunch
• Indulge in a special wine tasting of the finest wines
• Enjoy a delectable dessert on your return journey

As you make your return cruise, be entertained by live performances while savouring irresistible desserts that will satisfy your sweet cravings.

Address : Herne Hill WA 6056, Australia ( map )

• Swan Valley can be reached by taking a train to the Midland Train Station, followed by a short bus or taxi ride to Herne Hill, ensuring a scenic and comfortable journey.
• If you prefer driving, Swan Valley offers well-marked routes and ample parking options.

6. High Tea Swan River Cruise

Round up your favourite people and set sail on an unforgettable adventure with the decadent High Tea Cruise along the Swan River.

Be prepared to feast your eyes on stunning views while relishing delectable food and drinks.

Highlights:

• Sip on speciality coffee or unlimited pots of tea at your leisure for a delightful afternoon of cruising
• Informative commentary that highlights crucial landmarks along the foreshore
• Get a glimpse of the picturesque Perth City skyline

Whether it’s a long-awaited meet-up with friends, a baby shower, or a joyous bridal party celebration, this cruise epitomises a perfect day out.

It’s the ultimate excuse to savour a beautiful afternoon on the river in style!

Address : Swan River, Riverside Drive Perth City Foreshore, Perth, Western Australia 6000 Australia ( map )

• You can easily reach Riverside Drive via various bus routes that pass through the area. Additionally, the Elizabeth Quay Train Station is within walking distance.
• If you prefer to drive, there are parking facilities available in the vicinity.
• For a more eco-friendly and scenic option, you can walk or cycle to Riverside Drive from nearby areas.

Pro-Tip: The parking here will get busy in the evenings and weekends.

7. Swan River Sunset Cruise 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Captain Cook Cruises (WA) (@captaincookcruiseswa)

• Embrace the captivating live commentary as you gracefully pass iconic landmarks like the Crown Casino and Old Swan Brewery.
• Marvel at the glittering waterfront of Claisebrook Cove
• Bring the whole family on the cruise

This cruise is an ideal family affair, making it the perfect escapade for everyone to enjoy the beauty of Perth from a whole new perspective.

8. Swan River Scenic Cruise 

Departing from the heart of Perth city centre, you’ll step aboard your boat and let the adventure unfold.

• Sight of the Bell Tower, the old Swan Brewery building, King’s Park, and the Royal Perth Yacht Club
• Indulge in the live commentary that brings the sights to life, providing you with fascinating insights and anecdotes.
• Stay refreshed with onboard drinks and snacks, ensuring you have all the energy you need for a memorable voyage.
• If you prefer driving, Barrack Street Jetty offers ample parking facilities

9. Perth and Fremantle Tour with Optional Swan River Cruise

Wander through the scenic King’s Park Botanic Gardens, admire iconic landmarks like Town Hall and Elizabeth Quay, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Fremantle Markets.

Don’t miss the chance to relax at the picturesque Cottesloe Beach, too!

• Breathtaking views from Kings Park’s treetop walkways.
• Leisure time at Fremantle Markets to explore.
• Optional Swan River cruise, revealing Perth’s beauty from the water.

Address : Crown Perth Food Court, Great Eastern Hwy, Burswood WA 6100, Australia ( map )

• Crown Perth is well-connected through public transport, with regular buses and the Burswood Train Station providing easy access to the food court.
• For those driving, Crown Perth offers convenient parking options at the food court.

10. Swan River One-Way Cruise

• Enjoy stunning views of the Perth City skyline, yacht clubs and riverside mansions.
• Cruise between Perth and Fremantle for a breathtaking journey
• Live commentary from the captain about the sights along the way

Want to quench your thirst? Drinks are available for purchase from the onboard bar.

With multiple departure timings, select the departure location and time that suits you best. Get ready to embark on a scenic adventure like no other!

Address : Barrack Street Jetty, Perth WA 6000, Australia ( map )

Get, Set and Sail in Perth!

Among its treasures, Perth, the capital city, shines as one of the country’s finest cruise destinations.

So, don’t wait any longer – plan your trip to Australia and embark on the best cruising experience in the world!

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Swan River Cruises

Take a  Swan River Cruise  in Perth, relax on board Southern Image and take in the scenery. Cruise past Kings Park, The University of Western Australia, Old South Perth Mill, Millionaires Row and Point Walter while traveling along the Swan River.

Perth is home to a beautiful waterway, the  Swan River  boasts taking views of the city skyline, unique wildlife such as the Black Swan as well as the many cultural sites along the journey. A river cruise is a great idea for your 21 st birthday, bucks/ Hens or your company XMAS party.

Image dive offers an exceptional charter and Swan River cruise service.

Our experienced crew will not only ensure you have an enjoyable cruise but will also offer commentary on locations as we saunter along. Catering services can be arranged to suit your needs.

To make a reservation or for further information please call Luke on 0417 957 870 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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Article Adventures on and around the Swan River

A mecca for outdoor activities, good times and pristine nature, the sparkling Swan River holds a special place in the hearts of locals.

Meandering from the state’s oldest wine-growing region, past Perth’s twinkling skyline and finally flowing into the Indian Ocean at Fremantle, Derbarl Yerrigan, as the Swan River is known to the Nyoongar people, has charted a course through this beautiful corner of Western Australia for tens of thousands of years.

Framed by expansive blue skies, the river is a source of nourishment for the locals in more ways than one. From some of Western Australia’s best wineries to relaxing walks and action-packed adventures, there are so many things to see and do in and along the Swan.

A scenic journey to the Swan Valley

A boat trip is an enchanting way to travel, and a leisurely cruise up the Swan River delivers you smack-bang in the heart of the Swan Valley, a gorgeous age-old wine region right on Perth’s doorstep. Several operators, including Captain Cook Cruises , the Little Ferry Co and Swan Valley Tours , can get you to ‘Perth’s pantry’ in style.

Find your new favourite drop at world-class wineries like award-winning Mandoon Estate or Sandalford , which has been producing superb wines for more than 180 years. Sample Edgecombe Brothers ‘ rustic cellar door and cafe-restaurant, then taste Funk 2.0 ’s exciting left-of-centre preservative-free wine, beer and cider.

Mandoon Estate

Indulge in delicious fare made to time-honoured recipes, picnic along the riverbank, or spend the day hopping between stylish cellar doors, distilleries and art galleries. The Swan Valley is bursting with food, culture and life.

The most idyllic way to explore Perth’s attractions

The Swan River is your picturesque pathway to exploring Perth and its surrounds.

View the charming port city of Fremantle from a different angle with a scenic cruise down the Swan River from Perth. Climb aboard Captain Cook Cruises for panoramic views of stunning waterfront scenery, magnificent mansions, stylish yacht clubs and picture-perfect Crawley Edge Boatshed, isolated at the end of a sweeping pier. The visual feast is accompanied by insightful commentary, pointing out attractions like the towering cliffs at Blackwall Reach and Point Walter spit – a golden sandbar that stretches 1 kilometre into the river. Disembark at the harbour to soak up Fremantle’s fascinating colonial and maritime history and architecture, art and cultural spaces, and buzzing eating and drinking scene.

Shimmering on the horizon, sun-kissed Rottnest Island is only short trip from Perth’s Barrack Street Jetty or Fremantle’s B Shed – the SeaLink Rottnest Island fast ferry has several daily departures and will get you there in next to no time. Blissfully car-free, Rottnest Island boasts 63 beautiful beaches and 20 white-sand bays, along with nature and cycling trails, shipwreck-strewn coral reefs and secret swim spots like pretty Little Parakeet Bay. But it’s the quirky quokka that really steals the show – these fascinating marsupials can only be found here and in one other corner of Western Australia.

Rottnest Island

Heading to an AFL match, concert or event? Enjoy all the blockbuster action without the traffic – on event days, fans and concertgoers can set sail to the Optus Stadium with Little Ferry Co or Captain Cook Cruises .

Floating the day away

Embrace river life as you float along the Swan River, taking in sweeping views and soaking up the sun.

Gather up to seven of your favourite people, pack a picnic and sail away on a self-skippered electric boat. Departing from Maylands boat ramp, Nauti Picnics is a unique way to take in urban architecture, ancient landscapes and the rugged foreshore at your own gentle pace. Best of all, you don’t need a skippers license.

The creative geniuses behind The Raft have transformed an old fireworks barge into a one-of-a-kind floating bar in the middle of the Swan River. Secure a spot to sample boozy cocktails, bubbles, craft beers, local wines and handcrafted global-inspired bites. A couple of highlights? The party atmosphere and fiery sunsets over Kings Park Botanic Gardens.

Get active by the river

The Swan River is a hub of relaxation and adventure – and, thanks to Western Australia’s sunny days, you can make the most of the great outdoors year-round.

The Swan River Loop, a 10-kilometre walking and cycling trail, is a fabulous way to relax and discover the sights of Perth, and perhaps even spot a duo of black swans. Or join an Aboriginal-led Warrang-Bridil cultural tour , which unpacks the deep cultural and mythological significance the Swan River has for the traditional owners of the land.

For something a little different, traverse the sparkling waters of the Swan River on a waterbike, a cross between a boat and a bike. Perth Waterbike Co can hook you up on on a pedal-powered adventure that provides both fun and sightseeing.

Glide through the unspoilt Canning River wetlands, explore the limestone cliffs of Blackwall Reach or visit the Swan Valley’s Mandoon Estate on a kayak trip with GoGo Active Tours . Or enjoy 360-degree views as you paddleboard along the Swan River’s calm waters at your own pace. Operators like SUP Central WA can tailor your on-water experience to suit your skill level.

For Perth’s locals, the Swan River is a way of life. Discover your own personal Swan River experience when you plan your trip to Western Australia.

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Ellie J Cruising into Claisebrook Cove on a Twilight Cruise

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If you’d like to design your own bespoke river cruise, drop us a line at: [email protected] and tell us what you have in mind.

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Regular Ferry Run

Our experienced skippers provide a personalised commentary along the way as we stop off at:

Fare Schedule

Departing Elizabeth Quay every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday at:

10am 12pm 2pm

The full journey takes you from Elizabeth Quay to On The Point and Optus Stadium . We circle into Claisebrook Cove on the way back. The ‘Day Pass’ will provide a return journey back to Elizabeth Quay.

Note, if you are planning stop-offs/pick-ups at various times during the day, you have a couple of options.. 

You can book a Day Pass and speak with your skipper when you hop onboard to advise him or her on the different legs of the journey and your preferred times for return pick up. 

Also, to ensure you don’t miss out on your preferred schedule you can book separate one-way legs of your journey, eg Elizabeth Quay to Optus Stadium departing @ 12pm and, Optus Stadium to Elizabeth Quay departing @ 2.45pm

Keep your eyes peeled for any of our resident dolphins, pelicans, cormorants and beautiful native Black Swans as we head upriver. We’re the #1 boat tour in WA for a reason – let us show you why.

Winter Warmer Cruise

A smooth, quiet and intimate cruise on our beautiful river in the winter with the stars and city lights reflecting off a mesmerising, serene stillness – I challenge any city in the world to match the magic of Perth at night [from the river].

Twilight Cruise

A smooth, quiet and intimate cruise on our beautiful river as the sun is setting, glass of wine in hand surrounded by friends and family.. no, it doesn’t get better than this.

Mandoon Wine Cruise

This is a very special way to celebrate our river and beautiful Swan Valley wine region. Relax onboard our boutique little solar electric ferry as we cruise upriver from Elizabeth Quay toward the beautiful Swan Valley Wine Region.

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Woman charged with murder in crash that killed young brother and sister at birthday party.

Associated Press

This booking photo provided by the Monroe County, Mich., Sheriff's Office shows Marshella Chidester. The Michigan woman was arraigned Tuesday, April 23, 2024, on second-degree murder and other charges after prosecutors say she drunkenly smashed her SUV into a boat club that was hosting a child's birthday party, killing the 4-year-old birthday boy and his 8-year-old sister and injuring several other people. (Monroe County Sheriff's Office via AP)

BERLIN TOWNSHIP, Mich. – A Michigan woman was arraigned Tuesday on second-degree murder and other charges after prosecutors say she drunkenly crashed her SUV into a boat club that was hosting a child's birthday party, killing a young brother and sister and injuring several other people.

Marshella Chidester, 66, did not enter a plea to the eight counts she faces in Saturday's tragic crash at the Swan Boat Club in Monroe County, about 30 miles (48 kilometers) south of Detroit.

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During a court hearing that was livestreamed, Chidester’s right arm was in a cast from just above the elbow to her fingers.

She has been jailed since the crash and the judge set her bond at the $1.5 million prosecutors requested after relatives of some of the victims asked him to set it at that level.

In arguing for the $1.5 million bond, prosecutor Jeff Yorkey told the court that Chidester has had substance abuse issues that were corroborated by her friends and family.

Defense attorney Bill Colovos asked the judge to set Chidester's bond at $100,000. He said she only had a glass of wine and a bowl of chili four hours before the crash, and that she has suffered since November with “epileptic-type seizures in her legs.”

“This is not a monster, ” Colovos said. “It's horrible what happened, but there are some things we don't have control over.”

Colovos added that prior to Saturday’s crash, Chidester had no traffic tickets or police record.

Yorkey responded that there was no indication that Chidester suffered a seizure before the crash and that testing showed her blood alcohol level was “significantly over the legal limit.”

If Chidester posts bond, she will be required to forfeit her passport, have no alcohol, wear a tether and not drive. A probable cause conference has been scheduled for April 30 followed by a May 6 preliminary examination.

Chidester is a former commodore at the boat club, The Detroit News reported.

The crash killed 8-year-old Alanah Phillips and her 4-year-old brother, Zayn Phillips, the sheriff's office said. Their mother, Mariah Dodds, and another sibling were among the injured.

The party was for the 3-year-old child of Dodds' friend, according to a Detroit law firm representing Dodds' family in a lawsuit against Chidester and the tavern where she reportedly was before the crash.

Dodds suffered broken ribs, a collapsed lung, cuts and bruises, according to the law firm. Her surviving son suffered broken legs, broken ribs and a fractured skull.

Raquel Smouthers told the court that she was at the party and witnessed the deaths of her nephew and niece.

“They were sitting at that table eating, and this woman crashed her car through this building destroying all of our lives," a nearly inconsolable Smouthers said. "Nobody should ever have to go to a birthday party thinking that they’re gonna die.”

The boat club located off Swan Creek near Lake Erie is a membership-based organization that hosts holiday parties and other events, and provides docking space for members who own boats, according to its website. The club also advertises on social media that members can rent the clubhouse or pavilion for personal events including birthday parties.

This story was updated to correct that the children's aunt's name is Raquel Smouthers, not Smothers, and that the party was for a child of one of Mariah Dodds' friends, not for Zayn.

Associated Press researcher Rhonda Shafner in New York contributed.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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