If you’re after a way to see Rottnest Island that’s both active and engaging, the Rottnest Coastal Explorer Tour offers a lively, memorable experience. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews highlight its perfect blend of stunning scenery, friendly guides, and a dash of adventure—all at a reasonable price.
What we love about this tour: first, the knowledgeable guide Amelia who’s praised for her patience and vibrant personality. Second, the chance to see diverse landscapes, from inland salt lakes to pristine coastal bays. Third, the fun of riding a Segway, which turns exploring into a playful, effortless activity.
A potential consideration: the tour’s two-hour duration means you’ll want to pace yourself and be comfortable with a bit of balance on the Segway. This experience is ideal for active travelers or those keen to add a unique twist to their island visit. Overall, it’s perfect for anyone looking to combine sightseeing with a dose of adventure and some great photo ops.
Key Points
- Balanced itinerary that covers inland salt lakes and stunning coastal bays
- Expert guides like Amelia provide helpful and friendly assistance
- Fun, easy-to-operate Segways make exploring accessible and exciting
- Views of pink lakes, white sands, and picturesque bays create fantastic photo moments
- Small group size (up to 10 travelers) ensures personalized attention
- Value for money given the variety of stops and included equipment
A Detailed Look at the Rottnest Coastal Explorer Tour
Looking for more options in Rottnest Island? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Starting Point and First Impressions
The tour kicks off at the Segway Tours office in WABedford Ave, where your adventure begins with a quick check-in and gear-up. The process is straightforward, and the staff is generally friendly and efficient, setting a relaxed tone. The use of a Segway and helmets—both included—means you’re ready to roll right away. With most travelers booking about 28 days in advance, it’s clear this is a popular choice, and for good reason.
The small group size (max 10) promises a more intimate experience, and the mobile ticket makes the process smooth, with minimal fuss.
Exploring the Salt Lakes
Next, you head inland to the Salt Lakes, an often overlooked part of the island. This area is special because of its unique flora and fauna, plus the chance to glimpse the famous pink salt lake—which turns pink every summer. One reviewer described it as a “gorgeous summer spectacle,” so if timing allows, viewing it during this season might be a highlight.
Traveling through this less-visited inland section, you’ll enjoy a different perspective compared to the usual coastal scenery. The salt lakes are not only scenic but also educational, as your guide shares insights about the island’s environment. It’s about 40 minutes of this inland ride, giving you time to absorb the tranquility and snap some great photos.
Coastal Bays and Beaches
Following the salt lakes, the tour takes you to Parakeet Bay and Little Parakeet Bay. These spots are perfect for a short break, where you can park the Segways and walk onto the beach. Expect clear waters, white sands, and an almost untouched feel—ideal for those Instagram moments.
Next, the route passes Geordie Bay, another stunning stretch. You’ll ride past its views before stopping at the Geordie Bay General Store and Café—a popular spot for a quick snack or drink. Although food isn’t included, many find this a good chance to refuel.
The Picturesque Sights Continue
Continuing along the coast, the Longreach Bay and The Basin are next. The latter’s white sands and calm waters make for perfect photos, and our source mentions that you’ll stop here for a brief photograph. These bays are the quintessential Rottnest postcard scenes, and you’ll love the opportunity to capture them.
Wrapping Up Near the Lighthouse
The tour concludes with a scenic drive past Bathurst Lighthouse and along Thomson Bay, heading back to the starting point. The lighthouse adds a historic touch, and its views are ideal for one last photo. The entire journey, just under 2 hours, offers a comprehensive snapshot of Rottnest’s diverse landscapes.
Equipment and Guides
Having a friendly, knowledgeable guide like Amelia who is praised for her patience is a major plus. She reportedly adjusted well to participants’ needs, including helping a guest struggling with the Segway. The gear provided was reliable, and helmets safety was emphasized.
What Travelers Say
Positive reviews highlight how guides make a difference—their vibrancy and patience turn the tour into a fun and relaxed experience. One reviewer called it a “perfect guided tour that was sweet,” emphasizing the welcoming atmosphere. Another mentioned that despite their wife struggling with the Segway, the guide’s patience kept the experience enjoyable.
The value is clear: for $115.72 per person, you get a well-rounded, scenic tour led by engaging guides, with all equipment included. It’s a compelling option for those wanting a light adventure combined with sightseeing.
Practicalities and Tips
Since most travelers book 28 days in advance, don’t delay to secure your spot. The 2-hour duration is ideal for travelers with limited time but wanting to see a lot. Keep in mind, food and drinks aren’t included, so plan a quick snack break at the end or bring some water with you.
Most travelers can participate, and the tour’s manageable group size enhances the experience. The activity is near public transportation, making access straightforward.
Why This Tour is Worth Considering
A rotating mix of inland salt lakes and breathtaking coastal bays sets this tour apart from typical island excursions. The small group size and friendly guides ensure a personal touch, making the whole experience feel more like exploring with friends.
The fun of riding a Segway adds an element of playfulness to your exploration, especially for those who might find walking tiring or want a little extra thrill. The stops at geographical highlights like the pink salt lake and The Basin make for fantastic photo moments, while the coastal vistas promise tranquility and beauty.
The value for money is evident, considering the variety of sights covered and the equipment provided. Plus, the free cancellation policy offers peace of mind, adaptable to changing travel plans.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy active sightseeing, and those curious about Rottnest’s diverse landscapes. If you’re fond of guided experiences with friendly, knowledgeable hosts, this is a perfect fit. It’s also suited for small groups and couples seeking a relaxed but engaging way to see the island.
Those interested in photography will appreciate the scenic stops, while families or groups with older children might find the Segway fun and manageable. However, those wary of balancing on a Segway or with mobility issues might want to consider other options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers. Guides help you get comfortable with the Segway before starting, and safety gear is provided.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, covering inland salt lakes, bays, and scenic viewpoints.
What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the use of the Segway, helmets, and the guide’s assistance throughout the tour.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there’s an opportunity to buy snacks at Geordie Bay’s café.
How many people are in each tour?
Tours are limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.
What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Wear closed-toe shoes for safety.
Is the tour available year-round?
While not explicitly stated, the pink lakes typically turn pink in summer, so seasonal timing can enhance the experience.
Can I participate if I’ve never used a Segway before?
Absolutely. Guides assist with equipment and provide instructions, making it suitable even for first-timers.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Segway Tours office in WABedford Ave and ends back at the same location.
Final Thoughts
The Rottnest Coastal Explorer Tour offers a uniquely fun and scenic way to explore Rottnest Island’s diverse environments. With knowledgeable guides, an easy-to-operate Segway, and spectacular stops along the way, it’s a fantastic choice for active travelers who want more than just a traditional sightseeing tour.
Whether you’re captivated by the chance to see the pink salt lakes, the tranquil bays, or just looking for a lively way to discover the island’s highlights, this tour ticks many boxes. It balances adventure with comfort and delivers impressive value for money, especially considering the variety of sights covered in just two hours.
If you’re eager to add some fun to your Rottnest visit, appreciate intimate group settings, and love snapping scenic photos, this experience deserves a spot on your itinerary. Just remember to book early and prepare for a delightful ride through one of Australia’s most beautiful islands.
In summary, the Rottnest Coastal Explorer Tour is a well-reviewed, engaging way to see Rottnest’s natural beauty from a new perspective. Friendly guides, scenic stops, and the thrill of riding a Segway combine to create a memorable day out. Perfect for those wanting to combine sightseeing with a touch of adventure, it’s an experience that’s both accessible and worthwhile.