Having read plenty of glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, we’re excited to share what makes the Rottnest Island Segway 1-Hour Settlement Tour a standout activity for visitors. This experience offers a unique way to see one of Western Australia’s most stunning islands with minimal effort and maximum fun.
What we love about this tour:
- The ease of riding a Segway after a quick training session, even for complete beginners
- The stunning vistas and photo-worthy spots along the settlement, Bickley Bay, and Bathurst Lighthouse
- The knowledgeable guides, who are both friendly and well-versed in the island’s history and wildlife
- The value for money at just $65 per person for a full hour of guided exploration
One potential consideration: the tour has specific restrictions, such as age and weight limits, and is not suitable for pregnant guests or those with certain mobility issues. If you’re outside these parameters, you might want to explore other island activities.
This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed yet engaging way to see Rottnest Island’s highlights, especially those eager to combine sightseeing with a touch of adventure. Families, solo travelers, or couples who want a guided overview of the settlement will all find value here.
Key Points
- Accessible and beginner-friendly: No prior experience required, with comprehensive training provided.
- Scenic and educational: Combines sightseeing with stories about the island’s history and native wildlife.
- Small group setting: Limited to just 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and safety.
- Convenient meeting point: Close to the ferry jetty, making it easy to include in your island day.
- All safety gear included: Helmets, radios, and instruction ensure a secure experience.
- Flexible scheduling: Tours typically run in the morning and afternoon, allowing for easy planning.
What to Expect from Your Rottnest Island Segway Tour
Once you arrive at the meeting point on Bedford Avenue, just a short five-minute walk from the ferry jetty, you’ll start with a safety briefing and rider training. Don’t worry if you’ve never been on a Segway before — the guides are skilled at making beginners feel confident quickly. As some reviewers mention, the training is “excellent,” and many feel surprised at how natural the Segway feels after a few minutes of practice.
After mastering the basics, your guide will lead you through the Thomson Bay Settlement, the heart of Rottnest Island’s history and activity. Along the way, expect to see key landmarks, such as the white sands of Bickley Bay and the iconic Bathurst Lighthouse, where you’ll get some of the best photo opportunities of the turquoise waters and rugged coastline.
Looking for more options in Rottnest Island? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Stops and Sights
Thomson Bay Settlement is the starting point, where you’ll learn about the island’s past—sometimes controversial stories that shaped its current conservation efforts. The guides, who have won awards and are accredited by the Tourism Council of Western Australia, share insights with a mix of humor and authority, making history engaging rather than dry.
Next, you’ll cruise along the coast, enjoying the sweeping views of the white sand beaches and the native flora and fauna. Many reviews mention how the tour “showed some awesome spots” and that guides like Justin and Jill made the experience informative and relaxed. Expect to hear about the native quokkas, the islands’ adorable marsupials, and other native species often spotted on the island.
The highlight for many is reaching Bathurst Lighthouse, where the stunning vistas of turquoise waters stretch as far as the eye can see. Some travelers comment that the ride over the island’s flat terrain is surprisingly smooth and easy, even for those who initially felt nervous.
The Educational Component
As you ride, your guide will share stories about Rottnest’s complex history—from its use as a convict settlement to its role today as a protected natural reserve. Several reviews highlight how knowledgeable the guides are; one reviewer mentioned that Gill “rescheduled our booking when we couldn’t make the ferry,” demonstrating excellent customer service.
You’ll also get suggestions on other activities on the island, like swimming, snorkeling, or exploring further on foot or by bike, making this tour a perfect introduction to your day.
Practical Details
- Duration: 1 hour, making it easy to fit into a full or half-day itinerary
- Price: $65 per person offers good value considering the personalized guided experience and the included safety equipment
- Meeting Point: Bedford Avenue, next to the Dome Cafe, a quick walk from the ferry
- Group Size: Limited to 10 people, ensuring safety and personal attention
- Age & Weight Restrictions: Suitable for ages 12 and up, weighing between 45 kg and 118 kg (99 lbs to 260 lbs)
- Weather Considerations: The tour operates in most weather conditions, but check for any weather advisories
The Experience from the Traveler’s Perspective
Many past participants find this Segway tour to be a surprisingly easy and fun way to explore. As one reviewer put it, “Traveling on the Segway was much easier than I expected,” which is a sentiment echoed by many. The training phase is often praised for being thorough, making even nervous first-timers feel confident within minutes.
Guides like Justin and Jill receive consistent praise for their friendly, informative approach. One comment mentions that Jill “showed us some awesome spots on the island” and was very safety-conscious, which reassures new riders. The small group size creates an intimate environment where questions are encouraged, making the experience both enjoyable and educational.
The scenic vistas and wildlife sightings are cited as highlights. For instance, travelers love the chance to take plenty of photos and enjoy the tranquility of the island’s beaches and lighthouse views during the ride.
The Value of the Tour
While $65 might seem like a modest expense, the tour offers significant value in terms of personalized guidance, safety, and the chance to see key sights without heavy walking. The included rider training and radio headsets allow everyone to hear the guide clearly, enhancing the experience even further.
Given the positive reviews, it’s clear that the tour’s balance of scenic exploration and educational storytelling makes it a worthwhile addition to any Rottnest itinerary. The fact that many reviewers describe it as the “highlight” of their trip speaks volumes about its appeal.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This activity is a fantastic choice for those who want to see a lot in a short time without the fatigue of walking or cycling. It’s especially suited for travelers who are comfortable with a bit of adventure but prefer a guided, safe environment.
Families with teenagers will enjoy the easy-to-learn Segway rides, while solo travelers or couples can appreciate the small-group setting and personalized attention. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a fun, novel way to learn about the island’s history and wildlife while enjoying the outdoors.
However, it’s important to note the restrictions: pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or travelers outside the age and weight limits might want to explore other options on the island.
Final Thoughts
In the end, the Rottnest Island Segway 1-Hour Settlement Tour offers a delightful mix of sightseeing, fun, and education. The combination of scenic vistas, engaging guides, and the ease of riding a Segway makes it a memorable activity for many. It’s particularly appealing for those looking for a light adventure that doesn’t require much physical exertion but still delivers plenty of fun and insight.
If you want a relaxed yet lively way to explore Rottnest, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s a fantastic way to tick off key sights with a knowledgeable guide by your side, all while experiencing the island from a fresh, fun perspective.
FAQ
Is prior experience needed to ride the Segway?
No, you will receive rider training and assessment so even beginners can feel confident before starting the tour.
What are the age and weight restrictions?
Participants must be at least 12 years old, weigh between 45 kg (99 lbs) and 118 kg (260 lbs), and be able to walk in covered footwear.
Are safety equipment and radios provided?
Yes, all safety gear like helmets and personal radio communication are included in the tour.
How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 1 hour, making it easy to include in a full day on the island.
Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet on Bedford Avenue, next to the Dome Cafe, just a short walk from the ferry jetty.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled tour.
Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, provided children are over 12 and meet the weight restrictions. The tour is suitable for families looking for a fun activity together.
What should I wear?
Comfortable, covered footwear is preferable, especially since you’ll be riding a Segway. Bring sunscreen and a hat if sunny.
What if the weather is bad?
Tours usually operate in most weather conditions, but check in case of heavy rain or storms. The company offers flexible rescheduling options.
To sum it up, for travelers wanting a lively, scenic, and educational glimpse of Rottnest Island without much physical strain, this Segway tour strikes a fine balance. It’s a different way to uncover the island’s beauty, making it a memorable part of your Western Australia adventure.
You can check availability for your dates here: