Each cruise line will offer their guests a selection of carefully curated shore-excursion programs, matched to the ship schedule. Highlights might include visits to spectacular capes, coastlines and bays, vineyard and winery tastings, enjoy local produce from paddock to plate or the option to explore ancient caves or a working lighthouse. These options are best to book in advance of a visit through the ship to make the most of a stay.
Busselton Highlights
Snorkel or paddle under the famous 1.8km Busselton Jetty, catch a train to its end and visit the underwater observatory, or peruse galleries and workshops filled with work by local artists. The self-guided Busselton Heritage (Walking) Trail takes in several fascinating cultural sites and heritage buildings, including the old courthouse and bonds stores, as well as the Busselton Museum located at the original town butter factory. For a small fee you can download the audio tour to your smartphone and listen to stories from times gone by, as well as access historic imagery and video.
Drinks & Eats
There’s also a great range of places to eat and drink to sample the best of local produce, wine or craft beer. From the timeless enjoyment of fish and chips by the sea, authentic crepes enjoyed alfresco bistro style, classic country pub fare, craft brews by the bay, and local ice-cream with milk sourced from a local dairy. Wine stores and local breweries are also accessible on foot from the cruise landing point.
For a taste of the region all under one roof head to Origins Market, where you will find stalls providing tastings of local wine, honey, baked goods, fresh juice, gelato, and much more, along with food trucks and vendors serving a wide range of international cuisines. Busselton Central offers a number of alfresco eateries from a morning coffee and brunch to sushi or gastro pubs.
If your ship arrival co-coincides with the local Sunday market day, you also have a chance to speak to local farmers and buy seasonal produce direct.
Getting Around Busselton
Busselton is a flat, compact town ideal for walking and exploring on foot. The main high street, shopping and dining district are all within a 5-20min (2-7 blocks) of the cruise tender arrival area.
There is plenty to see and do so make sure you pick up a copy of the Discover Busselton walking guide and map from the visitor information team on arrival.
For larger ship visits, with more than 1,000 passengers aboard, a complimentary City Hopper bus will be in service from 10am – 3pm*. Hop on and hop off at some of the key points of interest around Busselton town centre.
*Subject to change according to ship schedule.
Transport
Being regional, public transport between towns and points of interest is limited and infrequent. Booking a shore excursion to catch some of the regional highlights is the best way to guarantee making the most of your time ashore.
Private, tailored days out with a local, knowledgeable guide will take you to see some of the best of the region, before dropping you back to the foreshore with plenty of time to re-board the ship.
Taxis or car hire can be another great option, but are best arranged prior to your visit to avoid disappointment.
