Geraldton stands out in Western Australia for its blend of rugged coastal beauty and unique local industries. Its proximity to the Abrolhos Islands, a marine sanctuary teeming with sea lions, whales, and historic shipwrecks, makes it a natural hub for memorable adventures. We particularly like the Abrolhos Islands 5 Day Cruise because it combines wildlife, history, and snorkeling in one comprehensive trip. If you’re interested in fresh seafood experiences, Geraldton’s lobster tours, like the Lobster Pot Pull, offer a peek into the local fishing culture that’s both fun and educational. For those craving industry insights and tasting opportunities, the behind-the-scenes Ocean Harvest Tour and the Geraldton Behind-The-Scenes Ocean Harvest Tour stand out with exclusive visits to boatbuilders and lobster processing plants.
Whether you’re keen on marine adventures, fishing, or learning about local industries, Geraldton’s tours offer a mix of authentic experiences with a focus on nature, food, and industry. With options suitable for short visits or longer adventures, this coastal town provides memorable moments in every corner.
1. Abrolhos Islands 5 Day Cruise
At number 1 on our list is the Abrolhos Islands 5 Day Cruise, which is often called Australia’s Galapagos for its incredible wildlife and marine environment. This cruise offers a deep dive into Houtman Abrolhos National Park, a chain of 122 coral islands famous for sea lions, whales, dolphins, and seabird colonies. The tour departs from Geraldton, with options to boat out at 5 pm or fly out early in the morning and return by boat, depending on your schedule.
What makes this trip stand out is its focus on active, hands-on experiences. You’ll snorkel and swim among colorful coral reefs, fish for your dinner, and enjoy bird watching on remote islands. You can also explore the wreck of the Batavia, which sank in 1629, offering a glimpse into early European exploration and shipwreck history. The itinerary is flexible, with activities like crayfish pulling (lobster harvesting), wildlife spotting, and even whale watching included across the days. The small-ship experience ensures intimacy and personalized attention, rated a perfect 5.0/5 by travelers who praise its richness and authenticity. Expect a price around $2,947.87 per person — a fair deal considering five days of guided exploration, meals, and all activities included.
Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive, immersive wildlife and cultural voyage, this cruise offers unbeatable value and a chance to see rare marine species, historic shipwrecks, and pristine islands in one trip.
2. Geraldton Lobster Pot Pull
Coming in at number 2 is the Geraldton Lobster Pot Pull, a 90-minute adventure that takes you behind the scenes of Western Australia’s fishing industry. This tour operates on the DHU Force ship, heading out to see the pre-set lobster pots off Geraldton’s coast. The highlight is helping the crew pull the pots, sort lobsters by size, and learn how the Australian rock lobster is harvested and prepared for export.
What makes this tour special is its personalized small-group setting — limited to 12 people — which means plenty of time for questions and hands-on participation. The tour provides stunning views of Geraldton from the water, along with the chance to take home some fresh crayfish. Travelers on this tour often mention how informative and relaxed it is, with one review noting, “It was a succinct tour about boat building and crayfish processing. My elderly dad and brother enjoyed it thoroughly.” The price is around $101.86 per person, making it a unique, affordable way to connect with local industry.
Bottom Line: For a quick, hands-on experience that combines learning, fresh seafood, and scenic views, this lobster pull provides an authentic taste of Geraldton’s fishing culture.
3. Premium Live Lobster Tours Presented Sashimi or BBQ Style
Number 3 on our list is the Premium Live Lobster Tour, offering a three-hour experience focused on catching and enjoying freshly harvested lobsters. This tour is perfect for seafood lovers who want more than just a look at the industry — you get to actually catch your own lobster in the ocean, then choose to eat it as sashimi or on a BBQ, or take some home.
The tour departs daily and runs between 9 am and 12 pm, with a quick check-in 5-6 days beforehand to confirm weather conditions. It’s designed to be accessible for families, as children are free, making it ideal for a relaxed, fun day with loved ones. The guide takes you into the setup where lobster fishing occurs, making it easy to catch your dinner. Travelers appreciate the casual, engaging atmosphere, with one review stating, “All the lobster fishing equipment is set up for you, making catching lobsters a breeze.” The $69 price offers good value, especially considering the culinary experience.
Bottom Line: This tour suits those wanting to learn how lobsters are caught, then enjoy their fresh catch in a delicious, casual setting — perfect for culinary curiosity and family fun.
4. Behind-The-Scenes Ocean Harvest Tour
Ranking fourth is the Behind-The-Scenes Ocean Harvest Tour, which offers exclusive access to Geraldton’s key industries — boatbuilding and lobster processing. You’ll start at Dongara Marine, where you see the construction of multi-million-dollar crayfishing vessels, then visit the Geraldton Fishermen’s Co-operative to observe lobster processing firsthand. The tour wraps up with a tasting of fresh crayfish overlooking the harbor.
What makes this experience stand out is the rare behind-the-scenes access. You’ll see the craftsmanship involved in building the boats used for fishing and learn how they operate in tandem with the lobster industry. The seafood tasting provides a satisfying conclusion and a true appreciation for the local industry. The tour is well-reviewed for its succinct and informative format, with one visitor saying, “My elderly dad and brother enjoyed it thoroughly.” Costing around $39.45 per person, it offers excellent value for a short, impactful visit.
Bottom Line: For those interested in industry, craftsmanship, and seafood tasting in a compact format, this tour offers a rich, insider perspective.
5. Geraldton: Behind-The-Scenes Ocean Harvest Tour
This second behind-the-scenes tour provides more detailed access to Geraldton’s fishing and boatbuilding sectors. It includes visiting Dongara Marine and a lobster processing plant, with a focus on Western Rock Lobster. The tour concludes with a fresh crayfish tasting overlooking the harbor.
This tour is similar to the previous one but emphasizes the personal, guided aspect. It’s ideal for travelers who want a deeper understanding of the industry’s scale and the process behind the seafood they enjoy. The guide provides contextual insights as you walk through the facilities, making complex processes understandable. The tour lasts about 2 hours and is accessible and small-group friendly, with a review noting its suitability for all ages. The price isn’t provided but the focus on exclusivity and behind-the-scenes access makes it a compelling choice.
Bottom Line: For a detailed, industry-focused experience with excellent tasting and insider knowledge, this tour is well worth considering.
6. Abrolhos Islands 5 Day Cruise & Fly from Geraldton
Rounding out our list at number 6 is a more comprehensive 5-day cruise that combines the best of the Abrolhos Islands with a flight from Geraldton. This option is ideal if you’re looking for a full-week immersion in remote islands, with activities ranging from snorkeling and fishing to visiting the Batavia wreck and a pearl farm.
This tour is tailored for those who want an in-depth experience. It includes daily lobster pot pulls, wildlife encounters, and historical site visits, making it a well-rounded exploration of the area. Travelers can purchase pearls from the farm, adding a souvenir to remember the trip. The full-week duration makes it perfect for dedicated explorers rather than casual visitors, and the reviews highlight its comprehensive nature.
Bottom Line: For travelers wanting an extensive, multi-activity exploration with historical and culinary highlights, this cruise offers the ultimate Abrolhos Islands experience.
How to Choose
Choosing among these tours depends on your time, budget, and interests. If wildlife and island scenery are your priorities, the Abrolhos Islands 5 Day Cruise offers a full immersion. For a quick taste of local industry, the Lobster Pot Pull provides a hands-on experience, while seafood lovers might prefer the Premium live lobster for its combination of catching and eating fresh lobster. Those interested in industry and craftsmanship will appreciate the Behind-The-Scenes Ocean Harvest Tour, which offers a deeper cultural insight.
Consider your budget and how much time you want to dedicate. The full-week cruise is ideal for dedicated explorers, while shorter tours suit those with limited time or specific interests. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the 5-day cruise or behind-the-scenes industry visits during peak seasons.
Geraldton offers a surprising variety of authentic experiences that reveal both its natural beauty and local industries. Whether you’re after wildlife, seafood, or industry insights, there’s something for every traveler. For a quick escape or a longer adventure, these tours promise memorable moments. Be sure to plan ahead, and don’t hesitate to try multiple experiences if time allows. Book early, especially for the more popular options, to ensure you don’t miss out on these exceptional adventures.