Perth Wildlife Encounters operates four custom built vessels designed to provide customers with the best and safest wildlife experiences possible. All vessels are built and operated to survey under the USL Codes which are regulated in Western Australia by the Department of Transport on behalf of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.
APOLLO 3 - OUR DOLPHIN SWIM BOAT
Launched in August 2008 ‘Apollo3’ is the result of 20 years of dolphin swimming experience. It is the sixth vessel that Terry has built for the cruise and he reckons that he has finally got it right! At 15.5 metres in length and 4.8 metres in beam it comfortably accommodates a maximum of 44 passengers and 7 crew and cruises at 18 knots. ‘Apollo3’ features a huge rear swimming platform with ladders running across the full width of the transom making access to the water nice and easy. A rear helm station on the fly bridge provides additional passenger safety. It allows our skippers to manoeuvre the vessel in reverse to stay right next to the action. A continuous stream of salt water heated by the vessels engines keep our intrepid swimmers nice and warm before and after entering the water. There is also plenty of hot fresh water for teas and coffees. The vessel has 2 unisex toilets and plenty of under seat storage for comfortably stowing hand luggage.
Sealion Express
Multi-level purpose built cruise and snorkelling vessel for limited cruise numbers of 24 Pax. The upper deck ensures room for all with a large open layout, offering unobstructed views. It was made for getting you amongst the action, with an open air area that puts you right in the adventure- seeing the wildlife and experiencing some of the best coastal scenery in Western Australia!
The unique top deck offers never seen before viewing vantage points across the islands and bays. It takes wildlife spotting and photography to the next level in safety. The eco-focused low engine noise and minimal vibration, especially from the top deck which is virtually silent, offers a relaxing and calming experience to immerse in nature.
The deck space provides ample seating with dining tables, offering a unique seafood dining experience. Ten metres in length and a wide four metre beam, built on a catamaran style hull, the Sealion Express is very stable and roomy. For the snorkellers, a custom built passenger access ladder makes for easy water entry to enjoy the best swimming spots in the bay. This vessel offers a superior experience to enjoy the most out of your wild encounter!
The Penguin Express
Launched December 2007 you can’t mistake the ‘Penguin Express’- just look for the two giant penguins on the sides! The vessel represents a major improvement on the old ferry ‘MV Penguin Island’ which when retired in 2006 was believed to be the oldest running ferry in Western Australia. The ‘Penguin Express’ comfortably carries 75 passengers and 2 crew. It features sliding glass windows all round so guests can stay warm and comfortable regardless of the weather. The whisper quiet 4 stroke 90 hp engines get you to the island in approximately 5 minutes, so with departures leaving hourly from 9am- 3pm, getting to Penguin Island is easy and more enjoyable than ever!
Queanbeyan- Our Glass Bottom Boat
The Queanbeyan is our 12 metre glass bottom boat that was refurbished and relaunched in September 2006. It is the ideal vessel for exploring the ruggedly beautiful environment of the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. The glass bottom allows guests a ‘fishes view’ of the sea grass meadows and limestone reefs while the vessels shallow draft and 360 degree topside viewing is perfect for getting up close to the islands for a fantastic view of the sea lion colony and pelican rookery. The vessel can seat 49 passengers and 3 crew comfortably and also makes an ideal party boat for special events.