Discover the stunning Shoalwater Islands Marine Park Sanctuary on our family friendly cruise.
Explore the rugged coastlines of Penguin, Seal, and Bird Islands while keeping an eye out for wildlife in their natural habitat.
Cruise the protected waters while we search for wild dolphins, rare Australian sea lions, pelican rookeries, birds of prey and other marine life in their natural habitat.
Our friendly crew will guide you to the best wildlife viewing spots throughout your journey.
Inclusions
- 60-minute cruise around the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park
- Return ferry transfers to and from Penguin Island
- Complimentary photos from your cruise uploaded to Flickr for you to share!
Exclusions
- Transfers from Perth or Fremantle Hotels
- Meals
Highlights
- Spot rare Australian sea lions lounging on Seal Island
- Watch wild dolphins at play - local pods are often sighted
- Cruise past pelican rookeries, cormorants, and other seabirds
- Drift over seagrass meadows and limestone reefs through the glass bottom
- See fossilized remains of ancient Tuart forests
Seasons
- Tour runs from 15 September to 6th June (except Christmas Day)
Time
- Please arrive 30 minutes before your ferry departure (*check if your tour requires a Ferry or if it leaves from the mainland!)
- Ferry Boarding Commences 10 minutes Prior to Departure. Please be Ready at Jetty Entrance.
- Ferries depart daily at 9:15am, 11:15am and 1:15pm from the corner of Arcadia Dr & Penguin Rd, Shoalwater.
- Returns regularly - Check your ticket for return times (no booking required)
- Penguin Island Return Ferries leave at 10:15am, 11:15am, 12:15pm, 1:15pm, 2:15pm & 3:15pm.
Duration
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
- We proudly support conservation efforts and all prices include a 7% Marine Park Levy
- Boat cruise includes viewing of Shoalwater Marine Park Sanctuary and searching for wildlife
- We have a 99.9% success rate of viewing marine and sea bird species, however, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed
- Animals are wild and not fed or trained
- We aim to please! Our Glass Bottom vessel will be used whenever possible. This vessel may be swapped out if absolutely necessary, and we will advise you on day of travel.
Penguin Island Notices - Please read carefully:
- Penguin Island closes on days forecast over 35°C
- Penguin Island will also close from early June until mid October annually due to the Little Penguins' moulting season. These closures are monitored by scientists and dedicated rangers of Penguin Island.
- For more information on Government regulations and updates please visit the Department of Biodiversity and Conservation website (DBCA)
- The removal of the “DBCA Discovery Centre” means live Penguins and rehabilitation ‘feedings’ are no longer a daily occurrence on Penguin island.
- Little Penguins are wild and in their natural habitat. They are naturally nocturnal animals and sightings are rare and not guaranteed.
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.”