Dunsborough is a favorite stop along Western Australia’s southwest coast, and for good reason. Its stunning coastlines, clear waters, and laid-back vibe make it a perfect place for active adventures and unique experiences. Among the many options, we especially like the Dunsborough: Geographe Bay Eco & Snorkel Boat Tour for its scenic beauty and wildlife spotting, and the HMAS Swan Wreck Scuba Dive for those looking for a bit of underwater history. For travelers wanting a creative twist, the Create Your Own Signature Fragrance Experience offers a fun, hands-on activity. Each of these tours provides a different way to enjoy Dunsborough’s natural and cultural attractions.
If you’re after a quick, scenic adventure, the boat tour to Cape Naturaliste combines coastline views with chances to swim and see local marine life. More adventurous souls might prefer exploring the HMAS Swan wreck, which offers a maritime history lesson beneath the waves. And those wanting a more creative break can craft a custom perfume, making for a memorable souvenir. Take a look below for detailed descriptions of each experience, along with practical tips to help you choose the best fit for your trip.
1. Dunsborough: Geographe Bay Eco & Snorkel Boat Tour
At number 1, this boat tour from Dunsborough offers a fantastic combination of scenic cruising and marine exploration. The tour lasts just 2 hours, making it an easy addition to any day. Departing from Western Australia, the tour heads out to Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, providing spectacular views along the coast. The boat itself is designed with eco-friendliness in mind, ensuring that your experience is as sustainable as it is memorable.
What sets this tour apart is the chance to swim and snorkel in pristine waters, exploring underwater rock formations and ecosystems teeming with life. You’ll probably spot playful seals, dolphins, and during the right season, whales. Birdwatchers will enjoy seeing seabirds soaring overhead as the boat glides past Castle Rock, Meelup Beach, and Eagle Bay. The knowledgeable crew shares insights about the region’s geology and wildlife, making this a relaxing yet educational outing.
The value here is strong: for just two hours, you get a scenic cruise, wildlife viewing, and time in the water, all aboard a vessel that emphasizes eco-conscious travel. It’s perfect for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a snapshot of Geographe Bay’s beauty. The limited review score of 4.2/5 reflects solid satisfaction, especially for nature lovers.
Bottom Line: A short, scenic tour offering wildlife, coastal views, and snorkeling — ideal for those wanting a quick, nature-filled excursion.
2. Busselton / Dunsborough: HMAS Swan Wreck Scuba Dive
Number 2 on our list is the scuba diving experience at the HMAS Swan wreck, rated 5/5 by a single reviewer, indicating high satisfaction. This tour lasts about 4 hours and is geared toward divers eager to explore one of the largest shipwrecks in the Southern Hemisphere. The wreck was deliberately sunk as an artificial reef, making it accessible and safe for divers of all levels.
Starting at Quindalup Boat Ramp, the tour includes a short boat ride of around 15 minutes each way. Once at the wreck, you’ll enjoy two guided dives — each about 45 minutes — exploring the sunken vessel that now teems with marine life. The crystal-clear waters of Geographe Bay make visibility excellent, revealing colorful schools of fish, coral encrusted decks, and the ship’s structure itself, which has become a haven for marine creatures.
What makes this experience especially appealing is the opportunity to combine rich maritime history with underwater adventure. Divers appreciate the ease of access and the chance to explore a significant wreck that’s been partially encrusted with marine growth. The tour is best suited for certified divers, but operators can arrange equipment rentals if needed.
The main drawback? It’s a half-day commitment, and non-swimmers will need to look elsewhere for their fun. Still, for underwater explorers, this is a must-do.
Bottom Line: A well-organized, accessible wreck dive for certified divers that offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history beneath clear waters.
3. Dunsborough: Create Your Own Signature Fragrance Experience
Rounding out our list is the Create Your Own Signature Fragrance Experience, rated 5/5 from one reviewer. This 2.5-hour workshop is perfect for those who want to take home a personalized keepsake from their trip. In this hands-on session, you learn about the art of perfumery, from layering top, middle, and base notes to blending your own unique scent.
The workshop features a selection of over 50 ingredients sourced from around the world, allowing you to craft a luxurious 30ml bottle of Eau De Parfum. The instructor guides you through the process, sharing tips on scent balance and composition. Afterward, your private formula is stored on file so you can reorder or re-create your signature fragrance later.
What makes this experience special is the personal touch — it’s not just about smelling nice, but about understanding how fragrances work. It’s great for anyone looking for a creative, relaxing activity that results in a tangible souvenir. The limited review base means it’s a niche activity, but the high rating suggests those who try it love it.
Ideal for design-minded travelers, couples, or anyone seeking a memorable, sensory experience, this workshop offers a different kind of fun in Dunsborough.
Bottom Line: A creative workshop that results in a custom perfume, perfect for those wanting a personalized, fragrant memento of their trip.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Dunsborough
When deciding between these experiences, think about your interests, time, and travel style. If you’re eager for a short scenic cruise with wildlife, the Eco & Snorkel Boat Tour offers a great introduction to the coast. For a more immersive underwater adventure, the HMAS Swan Wreck Scuba Dive provides a chance to explore a significant wreck and see marine life up close. Meanwhile, those with a creative streak or looking for a unique souvenir might prefer the Create Your Own Signature Fragrance workshop.
Budget-wise, the boat tour and fragrance workshop are shorter and likely more affordable, while the wreck diving involves gear rental and certification requirements, adding to the cost. Consider your fitness level and diving experience—if you aren’t certified, the wreck dive isn’t suitable. Timing also matters; marine wildlife tours are often best in spring and summer when animals are more active.
Booking early is advised for the fragrance workshop and wreck dives, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot. Check availability ahead of time and consider combining tours if you have a full day. Each of these options offers a distinct way to connect with Dunsborough’s natural beauty and local culture.
Final Thoughts
Dunsborough offers a surprising variety of tours that can suit many interests and travel styles. Whether you want a quick boat trip to enjoy wildlife, an underwater adventure exploring a historic wreck, or a creative workshop to craft your own scent, this region delivers. For those seeking a straightforward scenic experience, the eco boat tour is hard to beat for its combination of beauty and wildlife. For adventure lovers, the wreck dive is a highlight, and for more relaxed, memorable moments, the fragrance-making session provides a lasting keepsake.
We recommend considering your personal interests, budget, and time constraints when choosing among these. All three experiences promise authentic, engaging ways to enjoy Dunsborough beyond just sightseeing. Remember to book early during peak seasons to ensure your place, and enjoy the diverse adventures Western Australia has to offer.