As the sun sets over Dunsborough Bay, the usually tranquil waters are devoid of the sleek vessel that once embodied the epitome of luxury and relaxation. The Taste of the Bays Cruise, renowned for its exquisite 7-course degustation menu and expertly paired fine wines and craft beers, has suspended operations, leaving a void in the region’s culinary scene. The reasons behind this sudden halt remain unclear, but one thing is certain – the anticipation builds as travelers eagerly await the return of this exceptional 3-hour journey, which promises to redefine their understanding of the bay’s breathtaking scenery.
Key Points
• The Taste Of The Bays Cruise is currently unavailable, but its usual meeting point is the Dunsborough Bay Yacht Club.
• The cruise typically operates weather permitting and requires a minimum number of travelers for departure.
• The 3-hour cruise features a 7-course degustation menu paired with fine wines and craft beers in a relaxing atmosphere.
• Guests must arrive promptly at 3:00 pm at the yacht club, as the cruise is not wheelchair accessible and has a maximum capacity of 22 travelers.
• Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start time will not be refunded, so it’s essential to plan ahead.
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Cruise Highlights and Features
As the sun begins to set over the stunning Busselton coastline, the Taste of the Bays Cruise sets sail, offering a relaxing and indulgent experience for couples and groups of friends alike.
This 3-hour cruise provides a unique perspective on the region’s breathtaking scenery, with the warm glow of the setting sun casting a romantic ambiance over the entire experience.
The cruise’s small group size, limited to just 22 travelers, ensures a personalized and intimate atmosphere, allowing guests to unwind and soak up the beauty of their surroundings.
With its focus on relaxation and indulgence, the Taste of the Bays Cruise is the perfect way to unwind and create unforgettable memories with loved ones.
Menu and Beverages
With the sun-kissed coastline as a backdrop, the Taste of the Bays Cruise presents a culinary journey that will delight the senses, featuring a meticulously crafted 7-course degustation menu paired with an impressive selection of beverages.
Each dish is carefully designed to showcase the region’s freshest produce and finest ingredients.
The menu begins with a refreshing Rose Mint Fizz Cocktail, followed by a charcuterie board featuring Margaret River cured meats and handmade cheese.
The culinary journey continues with a trio of West Coast rock oysters, seared Abrolhos Island sea scallops, and local line-caught fish of the day.
The meal concludes with a decadent Icon Honey Creamy Crumble or Bahen & Co Chocolate Figs and Bettenay’s Nougat.
Throughout the meal, guests can enjoy an array of beverages, including fine wines and craft beers.
Meeting and Pickup Details
Twenty-two travelers will converge at the Dunsborough Bay Yacht Club, a picturesque meeting point that sets the tone for a relaxing afternoon on the water.
This charming location, situated at 307 Geographe Bay Rd, Quindalup WA 6281, Australia, serves as both the meeting and pickup point.
Please note that there will be no collection from accommodations, so plan to arrive at the yacht club on your own.
Upon arrival, guests will need to step from the beach or very shallow water onto a tender boat, about 30cm high, and then from the tender onto the main boat.
This is an important detail to consider when preparing for your Taste of the Bays Cruise.
Important Cruise Information
The 3:00 pm start time marks the beginning of a leisurely afternoon on the water, with guests expected to arrive promptly at the designated hour to ensure a smooth departure.
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, so be sure to check your email for details.
The cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.
A maximum of 22 travelers are permitted on board.
The cruise operates weather permitting, and a minimum number of travelers are required for departure.
Please be aware that cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start time won’t be refunded.
Cruise Schedule and Timing
After boarding the luxurious vessel at 3:00 pm, guests can expect a relaxing afternoon cruise that unfolds over approximately three and a half hours.
As the vessel glides through the tranquil waters, guests will have ample time to savor the exquisite 7-course degustation menu, paired with fine wines and beers.
The cruise’s leisurely pace allows for a truly immersive experience, taking in the breathtaking views of the Bays while indulging in the region’s finest flavors.
With the sun setting over the horizon, the cruise will come to a gentle close, returning guests to the Dunsborough Bay Yacht Club by around 6:30 pm, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
In the unlikely event that guests need to cancel or reschedule their Taste of the Bays Cruise, they can do so up to 24 hours prior to the experience’s start time to receive a full refund.
However, if cancellations or changes are made less than 24 hours before the start time, no refunds will be issued.
The cruise is weather dependent, and in the case of poor weather, a different date or full refund will be offered.
Plus, the experience requires a minimum number of travelers; if canceled, a different date or full refund will be offered.
Cancellations made up to 24 hours prior to the start time receive a full refund.
No refunds for cancellations less than 24 hours before the start time.
Changes made less than 24 hours before the start time won’t be accepted.
Experience is weather dependent, with alternative dates or refunds offered in case of poor weather.
Experience requires a minimum number of travelers, with alternative dates or refunds offered if canceled.
Traveler Requirements and Notes
Guests should be prepared for a gentle embarkation process, which involves stepping from the beach or very shallow water onto a tender boat and then onto the main vessel. This experience is designed for travelers who are comfortable with gentle walking and stepping onto boats. Please note that infants must sit on laps, and there is a maximum of 22 travelers per tour.
| Age Restrictions | Accessibility | Other Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 18+ for alcohol consumption | Not wheelchair accessible | Infants must sit on laps |
| No age restrictions for tour | Stepping required onto boats | Maximum 22 travelers |
| ID required for alcohol | Good weather required | Confirmation received at booking |
Operator and Accessibility
South West Cruises prioritizes accessibility by implementing various measures to cater to diverse needs.
The meeting point, Dunsborough Bay Yacht Club, provides easy access to the vessel.
Guests are assisted by the crew when stepping onto the tender boat and then onto the main boat.
The operator’s experienced staff are trained to handle special requests and provide support when needed.
The vessel’s design ensures a smooth transition between boats, minimizing obstacles.
Clear instructions and guidance are provided to ensure a seamless boarding process.
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Common questions
Are Swimwear and Towels Provided on the Cruise?
She wonders if swimwear and towels are provided on the cruise, but the tour details don’t mention it, leaving her to assume she’ll need to bring her own to ensure a comfortable and relaxing experience on the water.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Taste of the Bays Cruise?
She cannot bring her pet on the Taste of the Bays Cruise, as the experience’s policy doesn’t accommodate pets, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere for all guests on this luxurious culinary journey.
Is Wi-Fi Available on the Cruise?
She inquires about Wi-Fi availability on the cruise, but unfortunately, it’s not provided on board, allowing her to fully disconnect and indulge in the 7-course degustation menu and breathtaking bay views.
Can I Customize the 7-Course Degustation Menu?
She inquires about customizing the 7-course degustation menu, wondering if dietary restrictions or personal preferences can be accommodated. Unfortunately, the menu is carefully crafted and cannot be altered, but the chef can cater to special requests with prior notice.
Are There Any Activities or Entertainment on Board?
She enjoys a relaxing atmosphere on board, where the 7-course degustation menu takes center stage, although there aren’t specific activities or entertainment scheduled, allowing guests to unwind and appreciate the picturesque views.
Not for you? Here's a few more great experiences in the region
- Self-Guided Ngilgi Cave Ancient Lands Experience
- Busselton Jetty and Underwater Sculptures Snorkel Boat Tour
- Forest Adventures
- Private Barrel Hall Wine Tasting in the Margaret River Region
- Organic Vineyard/Farm Tour
- Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse Fully-guided Tour
- Margaret River Coastal and Wildlife Eco Trip From Busselton or Dunsborough
- Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse Fully-guided Tour
- Full-Day Wine, Beer, Gin, Cider Private Guided Margaret River Tour
- Whale Watching Busselton
- Dunsborough Whale Watching Eco Tour
Final Words
As the sun sets over the Dunsborough Bay Yacht Club, the Taste of the Bays Cruise normally whisks 22 discerning travelers away on a 3-hour gastronomic journey.
Though currently unavailable, this intimate cruise promises to return, offering a sublime 7-course degustation menu, expertly paired with fine wines and craft beers, amidst the region’s breathtaking scenery.
Until then, the wait will be worth it.
