Tour operator
Go Cultural Aboriginal Tours and Experiences
A Perth-based, Aboriginal-owned company led by Walter and Meg McGuire, offering cultural walking tours, smoking ceremonies and Welcome to Country experiences.
Captain Cook Cruises Perth
A long-established Swan River cruise operator linking Perth city, Fremantle and the Swan Valley wine region, with dining and wine-tasting cruises.
At a glance
- Type
- River cruises
- Area
- Perth CBD, Perth, Australia
- Official site
- captaincookcruises.com.au
Good to know
- Perth to Fremantle cruises
- Swan Valley wine cruise
- Lunch and dinner cruises
- Private charters
Why we recommend it
Captain Cook Cruises has been a fixture on the Swan River, also known as Derbarl Yerrigan, for more than 40 years. Its cruises and charters connect the three areas most visitors want to see: the city centre, the port of Fremantle downstream and the Swan Valley wine region upstream. The company operates four vessels on the river, and a cruise is one of the most relaxed ways to see Perth from the water.
The best-known route is the cruise between Perth and Fremantle. The afternoon sailing takes you down the river past the changing scenery of the Swan, and you can choose a chef-prepared lunch or dinner on board. In Fremantle, cruises stop at the B Shed terminal on Victoria Quay, close to the WA Maritime Museum, giving you time to explore the port city's streets and landmarks before heading back. Packages such as Afternoon in Port, Perth and Port and the Maritime Explorer combine the cruise with extras like access to the Maritime Museum, high tea boxes or cheese boards for a full day out.
Wine lovers can head the other way on the Swan Valley Wine Cruise, which departs the city centre at 10.30am. The cruise includes a tasting of Western Australian wine on board and sails past the city skyline and Optus Stadium before stopping at Mandoon Estate in the Swan Valley, where a wine and macaron pairing is followed by free time to explore the vineyard. On the return journey, complimentary wines and live entertainment are served. Because you do not need to drive, it is an easy way to visit the valley's cellar doors.
The cruises suit couples, families and anyone who prefers a gentle pace to a packed itinerary. Lunch and dinner cruises are also offered, and the company runs customisable private charters for celebrations, corporate groups and events.
Check the company's website for current schedules, prices and departure points before you plan your day, and book ahead online. Combining a cruise to Fremantle with a visit to the Maritime Museum or Fremantle Markets, and a train back to the city, makes a full and varied day.
Captain Cook Cruises Perth FAQs
Where do Captain Cook Cruises go?
Its cruises connect Perth city, Fremantle and the Swan Valley wine region along the Swan River.
Can I cruise from Perth to Fremantle?
Yes. An afternoon cruise sails from Perth to Fremantle with a choice of chef-prepared lunch or dinner on board.
Where do cruises stop in Fremantle?
Services from Perth stop at the B Shed terminal near the WA Maritime Museum.
What is the Swan Valley Wine Cruise?
A cruise departing the city at 10.30am with wine tasting on board and a stop at Mandoon Estate for a wine and macaron pairing.
How long has the company operated in Perth?
It has been on the Swan River for more than 40 years.
Are private charters available?
Yes. Customisable private charters are offered.
Are there combined packages?
Yes. Packages include Afternoon in Port, Perth and Port and the Maritime Explorer.
Do I need to book?
Booking ahead is recommended; check schedules and departure points on the website.