The Best Boat Rentals in Perth

Most private Swan River cruises in Perth run roughly A$250–A$450 per hour for smaller vessels, with larger party boats and luxury yachts typically A$500–A$900+ per hour depending on capacity, fit‑out, and day of the week. Full‑day ocean trips to places like Rottnest or Carnac Island commonly work out to about A$300–A$1,000 per hour depending on boat size, route and inclusions, while shared sightseeing cruises can be around A$60–A$120 per person. Rates usually include a professional skipper and crew, standard safety gear, fuel for river itineraries, an onboard sound system, and use of fridges or eskies; many boats also include a BBQ and basic galley equipment. Extras can include ice, catering, BYO fees or licensed bar service, premium cleaning, jetty pick‑up surcharges from certain locations, and island landing fees on ocean itineraries. Exact pricing and inclusions are shown on each Getmyboat listing, so you can compare options at a glance.

You’ll find comfortable river cruisers and party boats for larger groups on the Swan River, stylish motor yachts for celebrations, classic wooden launches, modern sailing yachts for breezy afternoon sails, and offshore‑capable charter boats for day trips to Rottnest or Carnac. Many vessels are set up for entertaining with spacious decks, shade, Bluetooth sound systems, and BBQs, while others focus on coastal cruising with tenders and snorkel ladders for island stops.

Most renters opt for a captained charter because it removes all the stress of navigating local wind, tides and speed zones and makes hosting much easier. If you want to drive yourself, Western Australia requires a Recreational Skipper’s Ticket to operate a recreational vessel with a motor over 6 hp, and you must be at least 14 years old to hold one. Self‑drive options are generally smaller river boats; ocean trips are typically skippered. If you’re coordinating an event or visiting from interstate/overseas, a captained booking is usually the easiest path to a smooth day.

Common meeting points include Barrack Street Jetty at Elizabeth Quay in the CBD for Swan River cruises, East Street Jetty in East Fremantle “between the bridges,” and Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour and Sardine Jetty for coastal and island trips. Many operators also use Mends Street Jetty in South Perth, Mosman Park/JoJo’s Jetty in Nedlands, and Hillarys Boat Harbour in the north. Your confirmation message will specify the exact pier number and any parking or loading tips.

On the Swan River you’ll glide past the city skyline and Kings Park escarpment, the Bell Tower and Elizabeth Quay, the arches of Matagarup Bridge near Optus Stadium, and the South Perth foreshore. Downriver, you’ll pass riverside mansions, sandbars like Point Walter, and historic Fremantle. Offshore days add clear‑water bays at Rottnest or Carnac Island, with opportunities to spot Indo‑Pacific bottlenose dolphins in the river and sea lions resting on Carnac’s beaches offshore. Sunsets over the Indian Ocean are a Perth classic.

For self‑operated hires, Western Australia requires a Recreational Skipper’s Ticket (RST) to operate a recreational vessel with an engine over 6 hp. Only the person in charge needs the RST, and visitors with an equivalent licence from another state or country can typically use it for short stays. If you book with a captain, no licence is required for guests—you can simply relax and enjoy.

Yes—families are welcome on most boats. Every charter carries lifejackets for all passengers, and you can request child and infant sizes ahead of time to ensure the best fit. Skippers will brief everyone on safe seating and moving about the deck; prams are usually fine on larger river vessels but check space when booking. For ocean trips, operators may set minimum age suggestions based on forecast conditions.

BYO is common on private charters, and many boats provide eskies, basic galley gear and a BBQ; some also offer full catering and drinks delivery so everything is chilled and ready when you arrive. Policies vary by vessel—some restrict straight spirits or glass during lively events, and a few boats run licensed bars instead of BYO—so confirm your plan in the booking chat. Remember that the skipper must remain under WA’s 0.05 alcohol limit at all times, and responsible service rules apply onboard.

Some private charters will consider well‑behaved dogs on river cruises with prior approval, but many shared tours do not allow pets. If you’re heading offshore, note that Rottnest Island and its surrounding marine reserve do not permit domestic animals at all, even if you’re just landing for a swim or lunch. If pets are approved on your boat, bring a lead, a towel, a water bowl, and plan shade breaks.

Perth enjoys sunny weather most of the year, but wind can pick up—especially the afternoon “Fremantle Doctor” sea breeze in summer—so morning departures are often the calmest. If conditions are unsafe, your skipper will reschedule or cancel; otherwise, light rain or breeze usually doesn’t prevent a river cruise. On Getmyboat, weather cancellations follow the owner’s stated policy, and many offer a rebook or refund if the captain calls it off for safety. For the smoothest experience, watch the forecast and keep group messages flexible by an hour or two.

Absolutely. Boats on the Swan River are designed for easy hosting with open decks, Bluetooth sound, BBQs and chilled eskies, and many operators include crew to help with set‑up and pack‑down. Event planners love simple meet‑points like Barrack Street Jetty, clear per‑hour pricing, and the option to add catering, ice and decorations. For milestone celebrations, consider a golden‑hour cruise that finishes after sunset back at Elizabeth Quay for effortless guest departures.

Peak boating season runs from late spring through autumn, roughly October to April, with December to February the busiest months. Weekdays and morning departures offer calmer water and the best availability; weekends, public holidays and summer evenings book out earliest. Notable dates that affect demand include New Year’s Eve on the Swan River, Australia Day on or near January 26 with evening drone/fireworks shows over the river, Easter long weekend, school holidays, and WA Day in early June. If you’re planning for a major event day, reserve several weeks in advance and lock your preferred jetty pick‑up early.

Barrack Street Jetty at Elizabeth Quay is the easiest CBD meeting point with public transport access and short‑stay loading zones. If your itinerary heads toward Fremantle or the islands, East Street Jetty in East Fremantle and Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour are efficient for boarding, with more parking and quick access to open water. North‑of‑river groups often use Mosman Park/JoJo’s Jetty or Hillarys Boat Harbour; your captain will recommend the best jetty for your route and group size.

Yes. Private charters regularly visit Rottnest for swimming and beach time, and Carnac Island for wildlife viewing. Expect bright, clear water, quokkas on Rottnest (on land) and Australian sea lions resting on Carnac’s beaches offshore. Skippers maintain safe distances from wildlife and may limit landings depending on conditions and conservation guidelines. For island days, bring sun protection, reef‑safe sunscreen, towels, and extra water; plan an early start for smoother seas and more time in the bays.