Nestled along the serene shores of Western Australia, Mandurah is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural experiences, and relaxed, laid-back vibe. Just an hour’s drive south of Perth, Mandurah combines the charm of a seaside town with the energy of a dynamic city, making it an ideal escape for locals and visitors alike.
From its crystal-clear estuaries and beautiful beaches to the thriving arts scene and mouth-watering local seafood, Mandurah offers a bit of everything for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to outdoor adventures like boating, fishing, and dolphin spotting, or prefer leisurely strolls through scenic parks and art galleries, Mandurah’s appeal lies in its perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
It was when we were here, in Mandurah, that we stumbled upon the perfect date experience: Eco BBQ Boats. Tried and tested, these guys allow you to be the captain of your own Mandurah mini cruise. And what more could you ask for?
What’s involved in a self-drive Mandurah BBQ Boat?
Simply hire a Mandurah BBQ Boat and you’ll be the captain of your own private, eco-friendly mini cruise. Imagine spending quality time with your date, relaxing as you navigate Mandurah’s breathtaking waters at your own pace, soaking in its natural wonders from every angle. With these unique boats, that dream becomes a reality.
Boasting dreamy 360-degree views, a Mandurah BBQ Boat allows you to cruise alongside playful dolphins, surrounded by the state’s pristine beauty. All while enjoying the quintessentially Australian tradition of barbecuing — this time, on the water, complete with drinks, good food, and great company.
Your cruise will depart from Dolphin Quay in the Mandurah Ocean Marina, where the team will meet you at the scheduled time to ensure a safe and seamless start to your journey.
Distinctive doughnut shape
Designed with a distinctive doughnut shape, Mandurah Cruises’ BBQ Boats create an ideal setting for socialising and unwinding. Each boat features a central circular picnic table and a charcoal barbeque, crafted by the world-renowned chef, Heston Blumenthal, to ensure an exceptional culinary experience. While you’re welcome to bring along your favourite drinks and barbecue or picnic essentials, eco-friendly tableware and cooking necessities are thoughtfully provided.
Bring your own
BBQ Boats offer the ideal setting for a leisurely lunch or sunset dinner on the water. Bring along everything you need to cook up a barbecue feast — just select a barbecue as an optional extra when booking. Or, if you’d prefer to skip the cooking, pack a share platter or picnic for an effortless yet delicious feast.
Eco-friendly disposable tableware including plates, cutlery, napkins, cups, tongs, a sharp knife, and a bin bag to keep things tidy are all provided so you can focus on enjoying the journey. Drink-wise, there’s space for a 50 litre esky on the standard boats, while the 10-person boats can fit a 70-litre esky comfortably.
Eco-conscious electric power
The boats run on eco-conscious electric power, which means they are fume-free and operate almost silently, so you can cruise with minimal impact on Mandurah’s treasured marine life. As you navigate Mandurah’s vibrant waterfront — passing luxury yachts and tranquil canals — and anchor at scenic spots to really make the most of the panoramic views, keep an eye out for local wildlife, from dolphins and swans to pelicans and other native creatures.
You don’t even need a skipper’s ticket
One of our favourite parts about the whole affair is that you don’t even need a skipper’s ticket to operate these easy-to-drive BBQ Boats. Merely bring a valid photo ID, and you’ll receive a comprehensive briefing on safety procedures along with a map to guide your journey.
Boat sizes
Whether you’re enjoying a special date night or celebration with your partner, friends, or family, there are two boat sizes to choose from: a cosy six-seater and a spacious 10-seater option. For larger gatherings, up to four boats can be hired to accommodate groups of up to 32 passengers, making it perfect for special occasions like birthdays or functions.
BBQ Boats are available for hire daily during peak season from central Mandurah, but bookings are essential, so secure your spot and get ready for a waterside adventure you won’t be forgetting any time soon.