Giant and Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise in Mandurah

If you’re headed to Mandurah and looking for a way to combine natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and striking outdoor art, this Giant and Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise might just be your ticket. While we haven’t taken this cruise ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a compelling picture of what to expect—a relaxing boat ride packed with dolphin sightings, scenic waterways, and larger-than-life sculptures.

Two things we particularly love are the opportunity to see dolphins swimming right alongside the boat — a hallmark of Mandurah — and the chance to view the unique sculptures made from recycled wood, which not only serve as impressive art pieces but also emphasize environmental awareness. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that guests need to be able to move independently and comfortably around the vessel, including climbing small steps and navigating narrow walkways.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy nature, wildlife, scenic water views, and outdoor art. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo explorers who appreciate a relaxed pace and memorable photo opportunities. If you’re after a leisurely outing that combines wildlife with culture, this cruise could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Dolphin sightings are frequent and close enough to capture on camera according to multiple reviews.
• The scenic waterways include famous canals, wetlands, and large inland estuaries—highlighting Mandurah’s natural environment.
• The large sculptures by Thomas Dambo are unique, made from recycled wood, and are only fully appreciated by viewing from the water.
• The itinerary is well-paced, with stops at the canals, wetlands, and specific sculptures, providing variety and engaging commentary.
• The price point is reasonable considering the length, wildlife viewing, and art; plus, some optional extras like a fish-and-chip lunch are available.
• Guests must be able to move safely on the boat, so it’s best suited for those with good mobility.

This cruise offers a blend of wildlife encounters, scenic waterway views, and outdoor art installations, making it more than just a boat ride. It’s an experience that highlights why Mandurah is such a special destination—its abundant dolphins, vibrant birdlife, and impressive sculptures.

What Makes This Tour Special

Dolphin encounters are front and center here. Reviews repeatedly mention seeing dolphins swimming close, often in the boat’s wake, and sometimes even jumping out of the water. One reviewer vividly recalls, “We saw dolphins repeatedly on the tour, frequently swimming in the wake of the boat and jumping out the water. A beautiful experience.” The guarantee of dolphin sightings adds confidence for travelers eager to witness these playful creatures in their natural habitat.

The sculptures—created by renowned recycle artist Thomas Dambo—are another highlight. Known as the Giants of Mandurah, these larger-than-life figures not only pay homage to the local environment but also promote sustainability by using recycled wood. You’ll see four of these giants, with the seventh sculpture, Seba’s Song, positioned uniquely facing away from land, presenting a full 360-degree view only accessible from the water.

Itinerary Breakdown and What to Expect

Starting at 73 Mandurah Terrace, the tour kicks off at 11:00 am with a relaxed departure time, perfect for mid-morning explorers. The boat itself is described as comfortable, with features like bean bag seats at the front and enough space for guests to move around, making it suitable for most.

First stop — Mandurah Canals: You’ll cruise through the luxurious canals, lined with impressive homes and boats, offering a glimpse of local lifestyle and architecture. The canals are a hallmark of Mandurah’s waterscape, and the experience is akin to floating through a modern-day Venice.

Next — Creery Wetlands and Birdlife: As you exit the canals, you’ll pass the Creery Wetlands, renowned for their bird diversity. Informative commentary enriches this part of the journey, helping you appreciate the ecological significance of these habitats.

Peel-Harvey Estuary: The boat then moves out into this massive inland waterway—a key part of the region’s biodiversity. Covering 136 square kilometers, it’s home to many rare and diverse animal species, making the scenic backdrop both beautiful and ecologically important.

Final stop — Viewing Seba’s Song: This waterside sculpture is a showstopper. Its placement by the water allows for a full 360-degree view, a perspective impossible from land, making it a photographer’s dream. In fact, multiple reviews highlight how special it is to see this giant from the boat.

What Travelers Say

Reviews echo a common theme: dolphins are plentiful and approachable. One reviewer exclaimed, “Pod of dolphins swam alongside boat as we returned to wharf,” while another described the experience as “dolphin delight.” The informative yet lighthearted commentary is also appreciated, making the trip both fun and educational.

People love the scenery, especially the waterways with their upscale homes, the wetlands teeming with birdlife, and the grand scale of the sculptures. A reviewer fondly noted, “Loved seeing the canals and houses,” showing how the scenery adds to the overall appeal.

Some highlights include the comfortable boat, the opportunity to move freely around the vessel, and the beautiful scenery that makes every photo pop. The only slight concern for some travelers is the physical requirement—they need to be comfortable moving around on a boat with small steps and narrow walkways.

Pricing and Value

The tour costs about $54 per person, which is quite reasonable considering it lasts over two hours and includes dolphin sightings, scenic views, and access to exclusive sculpture viewpoints. The optional lunch from Mandurah’s famous Cicerello’s restaurant adds an extra layer of enjoyment, with prices starting at $13.

Reviews frequently mention that the value for money is high—with many guests noting that the experience exceeds expectations, especially given the close dolphin encounters and beautiful scenery. It’s a fulfilling way to see Mandurah’s waterways without the hassle of organizing your own boat trip.

Practical Details

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes, a perfect length for a relaxed outing.
• Group size: Max 40 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.
• Meeting Point: 73 Mandurah Terrace, easy to access via public transportation.
• Booking: Booked on average 15 days in advance, indicating good demand but also availability.
• Weather: The tour relies on good weather; poor conditions may lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
• Accessibility: Guests need to be able to move independently, including boarding and walking on the vessel.

If you’re someone who loves wildlife, scenic waterways, and outdoor art, this cruise offers a well-rounded experience. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate relaxed, scenic outings with plenty of opportunities for photos. Families with children who can move comfortably on boats will enjoy the dolphin encounters and the impressive sculptures.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer dry land activities, this might not be the best fit. The tour’s focus on water-based viewing and the physical nature of moving around the boat mean it’s best for guests who are comfortable with these conditions.

This Giant and Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise is a wonderful way to experience some of Mandurah’s most iconic sights—its lively dolphin population, stunning wetlands, and creative outdoor sculptures. With its relaxed pace, friendly commentary, and the chance to see dolphins swimming so close you could almost reach out, it’s an experience that combines nature, culture, and art effortlessly.

The price reflects very good value, especially for travelers eager to enjoy a memorable water adventure without breaking the bank. The tour’s design makes it accessible for most, and the scenic views are guaranteed to leave lasting impressions.

For those who want to connect with Mandurah’s natural environment and see its art from a new perspective, this cruise is highly recommended. It’s a perfect balance of fun, education, and serenity—an authentic taste of Western Australia’s vibrant waterways.

What is the tour duration?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without feeling rushed.

Are dolphins guaranteed to be seen?
While sightings are frequent and many reviews mention multiple dolphin encounters, the tour offers a “Dolphin Guarantee,” so you’ll have a good chance to see these playful animals.

Is the boat accessible for everyone?
Guests should be able to move independently and handle boarding steps, small stairs, and walkways. It’s best suited for those comfortable on a boat with some physical mobility.

Can I bring my own food?
Yes, you can bring your own lunch, such as a picnic or snacks, and there is an option to purchase a fish-and-chip meal from Mandurah’s famous Cicerello’s restaurant.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the weather, with layers if needed. The boat is open-air, so sun protection or rain gear might be wise depending on conditions.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children should be able to move safely around the vessel. It’s an enjoyable outing for families who can handle a boat ride.

This cruise offers a peaceful yet engaging way to see the best of Mandurah’s waterways—dolphins, wetlands, and giant sculptures included. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, an art enthusiast, or simply after a relaxing day on the water, it’s a trip worth considering.