Busselton’s 7 Best Cruises And Boat Tours: Which To Choose?

Busselton isn’t just about its famous jetty and stunning coastlines; it’s also a fantastic hub for cruises and boat tours that showcase Western Australia’s marine and cultural treasures. Whether you’re eager to see whales, explore underwater sculptures, or enjoy a gourmet wine cruise, Busselton offers a wide selection of aquatic experiences. We especially love the Whale Watching Cruise for its impressive likelihood of spotting humpbacks, and the Busselton Jetty and Underwater Sculptures Snorkel Tour for its combination of underwater art and marine life—both highlight the region’s rich aquatic environment.

These tours aren’t just about sightseeing—they offer genuine opportunities to connect with nature and local culture in a way that’s both fun and educational. Planning your trip around these water adventures guarantees memorable moments, whether during whale season or in calmer waters for snorkeling and sunset cruises.

Quick Overview

On this list, you’ll find everything from whale watching aboard purpose-built vessels, scenic sunset cruises, underwater sculpture snorkel tours, to specialized wine and food cruises. Some tours focus on marine wildlife, like Whale Watching from Busselton, while others, like the Sip & Savour Margaret River, combine local wines with scenic coastal views. Dive wreck enthusiasts will appreciate the HMAS Swan wreck dive, which offers a fascinating underwater exploration, and for a relaxed family-friendly outing, the Busselton Jetty Sunset Cruise provides a magical evening with swims and drinks in calm waters.

Below, we explore each option to help you decide which water adventure fits your style and interests.

1. Whale Watching Cruise from Busselton, Augusta or Dunsborough

Kicking off our list is the Whale Watching Cruise that departs from Busselton, Augusta, or Dunsborough. This tour is a top choice for those wanting a reliable chance to see humpback whales resting in the bay before their long trip back to the Arctic. With a 4.8/5 rating from 325 reviews, it’s clear this experience resonates with travelers.

The vessel used is a purpose-built, safe and stable boat designed specifically for whale watching. The boats are usually less crowded, ensuring you get a clear view of these gentle giants. With 15 years of whale watching experience and a less-than-10-no-whale tour record, the skipper has the experience to maximize your chances of a sighting. Besides whales, you’ll also see dolphins, seals, and seabirds, adding to the thrill.

This tour runs for 2 to 2.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity. Departures are flexible across three locations to suit your schedule. The tour’s value lies in its high success rate and the chance to witness majestic humpbacks in their natural habitat.

Bottom Line: Ideal for wildlife lovers and families, this cruise offers a high success rate and memorable encounters with whales and other marine life, making it worth the moderate price.

2. Ex-HMAS Swan Wreck Double Boat Dive

For those who enjoy exploring marine wrecks, the Ex-HMAS Swan Wreck Double Boat Dive offers an unforgettable underwater adventure. Sitting 32 meters deep at its deepest point, the HMAS Swan is one of the largest accessible wrecks in the southern hemisphere.

This tour is perfect for divers of all experience levels since the site ranges from just 5 to 32 meters deep. The trip includes all necessary scuba gear, so no need to bring your own, and the boat ride out to the wreck is quick and comfortable. The wreck itself is a fascinating relic of naval history, now home to vibrant marine life, including schools of fish, corals, and even some larger species if you’re lucky.

The approximately 2.5 hours of dive time gives ample opportunity to explore different parts of the wreck. The tour costs around $178.59 per person, which is a fair price considering the equipment, transportation, and the chance to see a major shipwreck up close. Snacks are provided, adding to the comfort of the experience.

One reviewer raved, “Our experience was amazing! The crew were very friendly and knowledgeable about the local wildlife.” The ease of access and the chance to see both marine history and nature make this an excellent choice for adventurous travelers.

Bottom Line: Best suited for certified divers seeking a unique underwater exploration, this tour offers great value for a memorable wreck dive.

3. 2Hr Busselton Jetty Sunset Cruise with Epic Marine Charters

At number 3, the Busselton Jetty Sunset Cruise offers a relaxing way to experience Geographe Bay’s tranquil waters. For $71.01 per person, this 2-hour cruise beautifully combines spectacular sunset views with opportunities to swim, snorkel, or simply relax.

The cruise begins at 5:30 pm and includes a complimentary beverage onboard, with the option to bring your own drinks. The boat gently glides along the heritage-listed, 1.8 km-long Busselton Jetty, allowing views of its impressive timber structure. Once anchored, you’re free to take a dip in the clear waters or enjoy the scenery.

This tour is perfect for families or couples seeking a laid-back evening. The highlight is the opportunity to swim or snorkel in calm, protected waters, making it suitable for all ages and swimming abilities. The relaxed pace and stunning sunset views combine for a peaceful experience that captures the essence of Busselton’s coastal charm.

Bottom Line: An excellent evening outing that provides scenic beauty, light activity, and a chance to unwind with friends or loved ones.

4. Busselton Jetty and Underwater Sculptures Snorkel Boat Tour

The Busselton Jetty and Underwater Sculptures Snorkel Boat Tour offers a family-friendly, guided snorkel adventure. For $71.01 per person, it combines the beauty of marine life around the jetty pylons with the intrigue of the underwater sculptures.

This tour provides all snorkeling gear and expert guidance to ensure a safe, engaging experience for all ages. The guides will point out marine creatures and interesting features of the sculptures, which are designed to promote marine habitat growth and create an artistic underwater landscape. The boat ride is quick and fun, taking you to the best snorkel sites near the jetty.

Most reviewers mention the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, with comments like “The marine life was amazing,” and “The sculptures were fabulous,” highlighting the quality of the experience. The tour’s short duration makes it ideal for those with limited time or families with children.

Bottom Line: Perfect for snorkelers and families wanting an easy, guided underwater adventure with loads of marine life and art.

5. Sip & Savour Margaret River Cruise Ship Shore Excursion

For those arriving via cruise, the Sip & Savour Margaret River offers a full-day tour of the region’s wine, food, art, and surf history. Designed for cruise ship visitors, this 6-hour experience is packed with highlights.

The tour includes tastings at Aravina Estate, where you’ll enjoy gourmet pizza and wine, and Happs Wines, known for its art-filled gardens. You’ll also visit Vasse Virgin for olive oils and skincare samples, and finish with cheese and wine tastings at Windance Estate. Transportation is provided, making the day smooth and hassle-free.

This tour is outstanding for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Margaret River’s culinary scene, with a focus on local wines, artisanal produce, and local art. It’s a bit pricier, but the inclusions—tastings, lunch, and transport—offer good value for a curated day out.

Guests say the experience is “highly enjoyable,” with a perfect balance between food, drink, and scenic stops. It’s ideal for cruise passengers or those with a day to spare exploring the region’s gourmet side.

Bottom Line: Best suited for food and wine lovers with limited time; great for cruisers wanting an easy, all-in-one taste of Margaret River.

6. Dunsborough Eco and Snorkel Boat Tour

The Dunsborough Eco and Snorkel Boat Tour offers a short but lively exploration of the coastline and marine habitat. At $106.87 per person, it is slightly pricier but includes visits to Cape Naturaliste, where you can see seals, dolphins, whales in season, and the iconic lighthouse.

This 2-hour tour is guided by knowledgeable locals eager to share their love for the environment. You’ll cruise past Castle Rock and explore the waters near Eagle Bay—with the option to swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The tour is suitable for most fitness levels, with several stops to enjoy the scenery or observe wildlife.

One reviewer comments, “Our experience was amazing! The crew was friendly and very knowledgeable,” emphasizing the personalized touch. However, with only three reviews and a lower rating of 2.5/5, it’s worth noting that the tour might not be as polished as others but offers authentic natural encounters.

Bottom Line: A good choice for eco-conscious travelers wanting a quick, wildlife-focused tour, especially in whale season, but check recent reviews for updates.

7. Sip and Savour Margaret River Cruise Ship Shore Excursion

Finally, the Sip and Savour Margaret River (2025/2026) offers a curated wine and food experience similar to its earlier version but with a focus on cruise passengers. Spanning about 5 hours 45 minutes, it includes tastings at Happs Wines, Aravina Estate, and Vasse Virgin, with a delicious lunch of gourmet pizzas.

The tour emphasizes local wines, olive oils, skincare, and art, with transportation included. The guide is described as knowledgeable, making the experience lively and informative. Given its price of $157.79 per person, it offers solid value for a comprehensive regional taste.

This trip suits cruise visitors wanting an all-in-one excursion, combining cultural, gastronomic, and scenic highlights. Since it’s designed specifically for cruise timings, it’s a convenient way to see Margaret River without worrying about logistics.

How to Choose the Right Water Tour in Busselton

Picking the best cruise or boat tour depends on your interests and time. Wildlife enthusiasts should prioritize the Whale Watching Cruise, especially during whale season. If underwater art and marine creatures intrigue you, the Underwater Sculptures Snorkel offers a fascinating experience.

For those looking to relax and enjoy scenic sunsets, the Busselton Jetty Sunset Cruise is perfect, while adventurous divers will love the HMAS Swan wreck. Food lovers arriving on a cruise should consider the Margaret River wine cruise for its curated tastings.

Factor in your budget, preferred activity type, and season—some tours are seasonal or depend on wildlife sightings—and book early, especially for popular options like whale watching.

To sum it up, Busselton offers a diverse collection of boating and cruise experiences. Whether you want marine wildlife encounters, underwater art, or a food and wine journey, there’s something for every water lover. For families, the snorkel and sunset cruises are perfect, while adventure seekers will appreciate the wreck dive. Remember to book early during peak whale season or holiday periods to secure your spot on these popular tours. Whatever your interests, exploring Busselton by boat guarantees a memorable, water-based adventure.