Some people love cruises, others, like me, less so. Unless we’re talking luxury sunset cruise with seafood on the menu. In a culinary-first, blending together flavours and scenery of the world-renowned Margaret River region, Sea West is launching Taste of the Bays, a cruise along the sheltered turquoise waters of Geographe Bay in Western Australia’s South West.
Launching in January 2022, ‘Taste of the Bays’ by South West Cruises is a progressive dinner experience hosted on a 60-ft pleasure boat, cruising the coastline of Geographe Bay from Dunsborough to Bunker Bay.
The half-day afternoon and sunset cruise takes in iconic bays, beaches and landmarks of the region, providing guests with panoramic views as they dine on a seven course feast.
Crafted on board by a private chef, the degustation menu reflects famous flavours of the region, with WA seafood and local produce on show. Each course is paired with premium wine by Margaret River’s Howard Park Wines, plus local boutique beers, cider, a gin cocktail and non-alcoholic choices, all served fully inclusive.
On the menu are Albany Rock Oysters, South West Blue Manna Crab, line-caught local fish, West Australian Sea Scallops, Manjimup Marron, Southern Forests Black Truffle, Margaret River cured meats, Yallingup cheeses and woodfired breads, Cowaramup olives, Bettenay’s nougat and chocolate, and more.
The cruise takes in locations such as Old Dunsborough, Curtis Bay, Castle Rock, Meelup Beach, Point Picquet, Eagle Bay and Bunker Bay.
While anchored in a pristine bay, guests can choose to swim, snorkel or relax on float mats, or simply unwind on board surrounded by a 360-degree palette of nature’s contrasts.
The finale is a golden sunset over the tree-covered ridge of Cape Naturaliste, witnessed from a prime vantage point on the water.
South West Cruises’ launch follows parent company Sea West’s recent season in Broome (as Broome Cruises) and popular cruises at Rottnest Island (as Rottnest Cruises) – I went on the Rottnest Cruise again for the third time just last week. It’s incredible and I can’t wait to experience the similar indulgent delights in the South West.
Starts January 2022
Sea West Managing Director, Myrianthe Riddy said Taste of the Bays was conceptualised to reflect both the land and the sea of the South West.
“This experience will showcase the flavours of the region from the water of the region,” she said.
“The menu’s provenance is richly local. Each course will be created on deck by our chef using WA seafood and produce from some of the best growers and makers in the region.
“The smooth conditions on the water here are rare in WA, as the coast’s curve faces north-east and is sheltered from prevailing winds, making it ideal for wining and dining.”
“It is quite breathtaking to observe this stretch of coastline from the water. It’s a unique perspective that is not often seen by visitors to the South West.”
Myrianthe Riddy, Managing Director, South West Cruises / Sea West
Taste of the Bays commences in the South West in January 2022, running through until April. Cruises will operate 5 days per week (Wednesday to Sunday), from mid-afternoon to early evening, departing from Quindalup, near Dunsborough.
Authentically West Australian, Taste of the Bays is a small group experience, with a maximum of 22 guests on a charter boat built for 37 passengers.
The cruise is fully inclusive, with courtesy coach transfers from local towns provided. Price is $279 Seniors / $299 Adults.
For a full list of tour inclusions and for bookings, visit:
southwestcruises.com.au
08 9586 1136
Social @southwestcruises / #southwestcruises