Mandurah, just about an hour’s drive south of Perth, is a city that practically screams for outdoor fun — especially if that fun involves boating and barbecues. Its calm, scenic waterways make it perfect for self-drive boat adventures, where you can combine relaxing views with the simple joy of cooking your own meal. We particularly like the idea of floating lunch on a private electric boat, which offers a laid-back way to enjoy the marine scenery and maybe even spot some dolphins. With options that cater to groups of all sizes, Mandurah’s BBQ experiences are all about flexibility and fun on the water.
If you’re after a relaxed afternoon with friends or family, one of these self-drive BBQ boats could be your perfect match. Each offers a chance to steer your own vessel and cook your own food, with varying group sizes, durations, and amenities. Whether you want a quick 1.5-hour cruise or a longer, more immersive adventure, Mandurah’s water-based BBQ experiences promise memorable moments — often with dolphins swimming alongside. Check out the options below to find your ideal match.
- 1. Self-Drive BBQ Boat Hire Mandurah – Group of 3 – 6 people
- 2. Self-Drive BBQ Boat Hire Mandurah – Group of 7 – 10 people
- 3. Mandurah: Self-Drive BBQ Boat Hire
- 4. Self-Drive BBQ Boat Hire Mandurah – Group of 3-6 People
- 5. Self-Drive BBQ Boat Hire from Mandurah
- How to Choose the Right Mandurah BBQ Experience
- Concluding Thoughts
1. Self-Drive BBQ Boat Hire Mandurah – Group of 3 – 6 people
At number 1, this affordable, cozy option is perfect for small groups wanting a relaxed experience. For around $69, you get 1.5 hours onboard a comfortable donut-shaped electric boat that seats up to six people. The boat is equipped with a central table and BBQ, making it ideal for a casual day out in Mandurah’s award-winning Ocean Marina. No boat license is required, and the boat is easy to steer, so you won’t need any prior experience.
What makes this option stand out is its simplicity and value. It’s the most budget-friendly choice, and the boat’s circular design makes for a fun social setting. You only need to bring your own food and drinks, and you’re ready to go. The shorter duration suits those who want a quick, enjoyable cruise, with enough time to cook and relax. Reviews are currently unrecorded, but the straightforward setup suggests a user-friendly experience.
Bottom Line: A great pick for small groups seeking a budget-friendly, no-fuss way to enjoy Mandurah’s waterways with a BBQ onboard.
2. Self-Drive BBQ Boat Hire Mandurah – Group of 7 – 10 people
For larger gatherings, the 2-hour cruise for up to ten people hits the sweet spot. This eco-friendly round boat includes everything needed for a day exploring Mandurah’s canals, including an umbrella for shade, a BBQ, and a sound system. You’ll need to bring your own food and drinks — although there’s a small surcharge for charcoal use.
The highlight here is the ability to cruise alongside dolphins and enjoy the sights without the presence of a skipper — you’re in control. With positive reviews and a cost of about $230 per group, it offers more bang for your buck for groups looking for a longer, more immersive experience. The boat’s design and included amenities make it easy to relax, socialize, and cook while on the water.
Who is this for? Larger groups or families wanting to share a relaxed, private experience with dolphin sightings and music. It’s a good balance of self-sufficiency and comfort.
Bottom Line: Perfect for larger groups that want a longer cruise with cooking, music, and dolphin watching.
3. Mandurah: Self-Drive BBQ Boat Hire
If your main goal is a relaxed, eco-conscious adventure, this eco-friendly boat offers a solid choice. For around $197, you get 1.5 to 2 hours exploring Mandurah’s waterways. The boat has all the cooking utensils, cutlery, and safety gear needed, and you bring your own food and drinks.
This tour is unique because it emphasizes sustainable boating while still offering the chance to see local wildlife like dolphins, swans, and pelicans. With a 20-minute safety briefing included, you’re set to captain your own vessel comfortably. Guests have noted the confidence-building safety instructions and the ability to connect their own music via Bluetooth, making it a personalized experience.
If you enjoy wildlife spotting and want a quiet, eco-friendly cruise, this is a good pick. Reviews show a generally positive experience, with some noting how manageable the boat is for first-timers.
Bottom Line: Ideal for eco-conscious travelers seeking a self-driven boat tour with wildlife encounters and flexible timing.
4. Self-Drive BBQ Boat Hire Mandurah – Group of 3-6 People
This donut-shaped electric boat stands out for its unique design and central BBQ. Costing about $69 for 1.5 hours, it’s a fun, comfortable way for a small group to enjoy Mandurah’s Ocean Marina and Venetian Canal.
The boat’s circular layout enhances socializing, and the BBQ in the centre makes it easy to cook while chatting with friends. The boat is described as WA’s only donut-shaped electric boat, adding a touch of novelty. Since it’s easy to operate, no license is required, making it accessible for most.
Review-wise, the absence of specific feedback means we rely on the description and design, but it’s well-suited for groups wanting a quirky, relaxed outing. It’s especially good for those who want to combine boating, eating, and socializing in a compact package.
Bottom Line: A fun, easy-to-use boat ideal for small groups looking for a distinctive experience.
5. Self-Drive BBQ Boat Hire from Mandurah
This larger boat, costing about $228.72 for up to ten people over 2 hours, offers similar features to the previous options but with a greater capacity. It’s perfect for larger family gatherings, corporate outings, or big groups wanting to share a relaxed BBQ cruise. The boat’s circular design with a central BBQ is the same as the smaller model but built for more passengers.
The experience emphasizes self-driving and cooking onboard, with a focus on flexibility. Guests are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks, making it a customizable outing. Like other options, a safety briefing and equipment are included to ensure a smooth experience.
While there are no reviews listed, its capacity makes it a good choice for groups who want to share the cost and experience. It’s a versatile option that balances size, autonomy, and fun.
Bottom Line: Best for larger groups or those wanting to spend more time on the water with friends, complete with a BBQ and self-driving freedom.
How to Choose the Right Mandurah BBQ Experience
When picking the ideal water-based BBQ tour, consider your group size, budget, and what experience you’re after. If you want a quick, budget-friendly outing for a small group, the donut-shaped self-drive boat is perfect. For larger groups, the longer cruise with amenities offers more room and features like music and dolphin sightings.
Eco-conscious travelers will appreciate the eco-friendly model that combines wildlife viewing with sustainable boating. If you want to combine sightseeing with good fun and a little quirkiness, the donut-shaped boat is an excellent choice.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred boat and time slot. Make sure to check whether you need to bring your own food or if there are additional charges for BBQ fuel or utensils.
Concluding Thoughts
Mandurah offers a surprisingly diverse lineup of BBQ-on-the-water experiences that fit all sorts of groups and budgets. For a quick, fun outing, the small donut boat is a no-brainer, while larger groups seeking a longer adventure will find the two-hour eco-friendly cruise and big boat options appealing.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, these self-drive BBQ boat experiences provide a relaxed, fun way to enjoy Mandurah’s waterways. Just remember to bring your food, prepare to have some laughs, and keep an eye out for dolphins. Book early, and you’ll be set for a memorable day on the water with great company and good food.