Perth: Swan River Bridges and City Segway Tour

If you’re after a way to explore Perth that’s both fun and informative, a Segway tour along the Swan River might just be your perfect choice. This 2-hour guided adventure takes you across some of the city’s most stunning spots, with a mix of scenic waterways, city icons, and cultural stories.

From crossing the famous bridges to gliding past the bustling Crown Casino and Optus Stadium, this tour offers a unique perspective of Perth’s vibrant riverside and urban landscape. We loved the idea of seeing multiple highlights without feeling rushed, all from the comfortable seat of a Segway.

Of course, a potential consideration is that it’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues—so it’s best suited for active travelers or those willing to try a new experience. If you enjoy a mix of sightseeing, light adventure, and cultural exploration, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• Scenic views: Glide along the Swan River with breathtaking city and waterway vistas.
• Iconic bridges: Cross the Boorloo and Matagarup bridges for unforgettable photo opportunities.
• Cultural insights: Learn about indigenous pathways and local stories during the ride.
• Convenient itinerary: Combines city highlights, natural waterways, and landmarks in just 2 hours.
• Small group: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and safety.
• All-inclusive audio guide: Listen to commentary via over-ear radios, making it easy to follow along.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Introductory Training

Your adventure begins at Segway Tours WA, located in Perth’s bustling Barrack Street Jetty area. Before you hit the water, an experienced guide will give you a quick training session — don’t worry, even if you’ve never ridden a Segway before, most find it straightforward after a few minutes. They’ll also fit you with a helmet and explain safety protocols, so you can focus on the fun ahead.

The small group size (up to 10 people) is a bonus, allowing the guides to give individual tips and ensure everyone feels confident. Many reviews mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides like Glen, who has a knack for sharing stories while keeping safety top of mind.

Gliding Along the Swan River

Once everyone’s comfortable, you set off along the Swan River, with your guide leading the way. The route is designed to maximize scenic views, so you’ll be riding over natural waterways and enjoying the breeze. You’ll love the visual contrast of the city skyline against the calm water, especially on a clear day.

Expect to cross the Boorloo Bridge to reach Heirisson Island. This is a highlight for many, as you get to glide over a relatively new bridge with impressive views. Reviewers mention that the ride over the bridge feels smooth and exhilarating, providing a real sense of crossing into nature.

Encountering Wildlife and Nature

Heirisson Island isn’t just a bridge crossing — it’s also a spot where you might spot kangaroos and see black swans nesting. The peaceful setting offers a break from city bustle and a chance to appreciate local wildlife in a relaxed environment.

Riders have shared that the experience of spotting kangaroos in their natural habitat, combined with the scenic water views, creates a memorable moment. It’s a gentle reminder of how Perth’s natural beauty blends seamlessly with its urban life.

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Passing Through Burswood Parkland and Major Landmarks

Next, your tour takes you through the lush Burswood Parkland, passing notable sites like the Crown Casino and Optus Stadium. The proximity to these landmarks provides a sense of Perth’s modern entertainment hub. Many riders comment on how fun it is to see these iconic buildings from a new angle while cruising along.

You’ll stop to take photos at the Optus Lookout, which offers sweeping views over the river and downtown. The guide usually shares fun facts about the stadium and casino, enriching your experience with local insights.

Crossing the Matagarup (Serpent) Bridge

Arguably the tour’s centerpiece is the crossing of the Matagarup Bridge, affectionately called the Serpent Bridge due to its distinctive design. As you glide across, you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city and river below. Several reviews highlight how breathtaking this section feels, with many riders describing it as the highlight of the tour.

The bridge itself is a feat of engineering, and riding over it provides a sense of connection between Perth’s natural and urban spaces. The guide often stops here for photos, so be sure your camera or phone is ready.

Exploring Indigenous Pathways and Local Culture

Beyond the bridges and waterways, your guide will introduce you to the culture and stories of indigenous pathways. This part of the tour offers a deeper understanding of the area’s history and significance, adding a meaningful layer to your sightseeing.

Many reviewers appreciate how this segment makes the experience more than just a fun ride — it’s an opportunity to learn about the land’s original inhabitants and their enduring connection to the landscape.

Touring Perth’s Historic and Cultural Landmarks

As the tour winds back toward the city, you’ll pass landmarks like Perth Mint, Cathedrals, State Library, Government House, and the beautifully maintained gardens. The guide’s commentary often includes stories about these buildings, giving you a richer appreciation for Perth’s heritage.

The final stretch takes you through the Stirling City Gardens, where you can admire lush greenery and sculptures like the Boonji Spaceman, Council House, and Law Courts. The mix of natural beauty and civic architecture makes for a well-rounded sightseeing experience.

Wrap-Up and Return

After two hours of fun, scenic riding, you’ll return to the starting point. Many riders mention how smoothly the experience flows, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions or just enjoy the views.

Practical Details and Tips

Pricing offers good value considering the inclusions: a guided, all-ages-friendly activity that covers a broad area of Perth’s highlights. The small group size enhances safety and interaction, making it a personalized experience.

What to bring includes a camera, comfortable clothes, and closed-toe shoes — essential for safety and capturing memories. The tour discourages backpacks, bags, alcohol, drugs, or bare feet, which are standard safety precautions for this type of activity.

Timing varies based on availability, so it’s wise to book ahead. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Limitations include that children under 12, pregnant women, and individuals with mobility issues aren’t suitable for this tour, which is important to keep in mind when planning.

The Sum Up

This Swan River Bridges and City Segway Tour offers a fantastic way to see Perth’s top sights with minimal effort and maximum fun. It seamlessly combines scenic waterway views, iconic bridges, and cultural stories, all within a manageable 2-hour window. Plus, the small group size and expert guidance make it a safe and engaging experience.

It’s particularly well-suited for active travelers, couples, or small groups looking for a unique, interactive way to explore the city’s highlights. The mix of natural beauty, city landmarks, and indigenous storytelling gives it a well-rounded appeal that’s hard to match.

If you love stunning vistas, easy adventure, and learning about local culture in a laid-back setting, this tour is likely to leave you with memorable images and stories to share.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guide provides a training session to ensure everyone feels comfortable riding the Segway before heading out.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, covering a scenic route along the Swan River and city highlights.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety and comfort during the ride.

Can I bring a backpack or bag?
No, backpacks and bags aren’t allowed, likely for safety reasons during the ride.

Are children under 12 allowed?
No, this activity isn’t suitable for children under 12 years old.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
People with mobility impairments are not suited for this activity, so it’s best to check with the provider if you have concerns.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Crossing the Boorloo and Matagarup Bridges, viewing Optus Stadium, exploring indigenous pathways, and passing city landmarks like Perth Mint and Government House.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of scenic waterways, iconic bridges, Indigenous stories, and city landmarks, all experienced from the fun perspective of a Segway.

How many people are in each group?
Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience and individual attention.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In essence, this Perth Segway tour strikes a nice balance between sightseeing, gentle adventure, and cultural storytelling, making it a memorable way to discover the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: