A Guide to Crab Fest Weekend

Crab Fest is Mandurah’s most significant event that attracts visitors from across the State, all keen to get a taste of the lifestyle, location, culture and—most importantly—the famous blue swimmer crabs that are unique to the region. Mark your calendars (18th & 19th March) and get ready to experience the best of Mandurah and the Peel region at Crab Fest.

Crab Fest: A Celebration Of Culture & Cuisine

A Guide to Crab Fest 2023

Crab Fest is Mandurah’s most significant event that attracts visitors from across the State, all keen to get a taste of the lifestyle, location, culture and—most importantly—the famous blue swimmer crabs that are unique to the region. The weekend-long event is full to the brim with fresh food, live performances, children’s entertainment, cooking demonstrations, celebrities and more! Mark your calendars (18th & 19th March) and get ready to experience the best of Mandurah and the Peel region at Crab Fest.

After a 3-year break due to the pandemic, this much-anticipated celebration is set to take place on 18th & 19th March 2023. Held annually on the 3rd weekend in March in the beautiful coastal city of Mandurah, Crab Fest is a true feast for the senses, offering a wide range of activities for all ages to enjoy.
Channel 7 Mandurah Crab Fest 3

With the tasty Blue Swimmer Crab a local speciality around the shores of Mandurah, you can get your claws on plenty of fresh, regional shellfish products to enjoy alongside the Peel’s best brewers and wineries, plus pop-up food stalls for every taste.

It’s not all just about the crab through. Despite the name, Crab Fest features a huge range of activities for all ages. From iconic Australian entertainer Vanessa Amorosi on the Main Stage, to celebrity TV chef and author ‘Fast Ed’ Halmagyi cooking up a storm on the Spud Shed Cooking Stage, and from kids activities to family entertainment, workshops and displays.

Channel 7 Mandurah Crab Fest 2

This year, My Kitchen Rules’ season 12 contestants and Albany locals Dave and Che will be bringing the heat to Crab Fest as they recreate the dish that afforded them a score of 10/10 on the show: Crispy Skin Barramundi with Hot Thai Green Curry Sauce and Garlic Rice. 

Read more about everything Crab Fest on the Crab Fest website.

While the festival itself is free, there are also ticketed events available for those looking for a more exclusive experience. 

Getting to Crab Fest is easy. Catch the train to Mandurah. FREE shuttle buses running all weekend will meet you and bring you to the heart of the festival.

More experiences on Crab Fest weekend

There’s so much to do at the festival but also in and around Mandurah during the Crab Fest weekend. Explore further to discover the activities you’ll want to include in your itinerary. 

Luxury Crab Fest Cruise by Mandurah Boat Charters

Crab Fest Cruise with Mandurah Boat Charters

One of the best ways to take in Crab Fest is by boat!  Step aboard the lavish floating limousines that cruise along the Mandurah canals. Where comfort meets class, tour Mandurah’s picturesque waterways and historic canals while experiencing intimate views of the local marine life and vibrant Crab Fest events. The 45-minute canal cruise includes tour commentary as well as the option to BYO drinks and local cuisine from the array of restaurants and pubs supporting Crab Fest.

Prices:

  • $50 per adult (13yrs+)
  • $25 per child (1-12yrs)
  • $0/Free (0-12months)

*Wheelchair access is available and pets are welcome.

Book your Crab Fest cruise here.

Mandurah Cruises $15 Crab Fest Cruises

BC Mandurah Cruises
Dolphin Cruise & Views | Image courtesy of Mandurah Cruises

See Mandurah’s best sights on Mandurah Cruises’ half-hour $15 Crab Fest Cruises which depart every 20 minutes across Crab Fest weekend, between 10am and 5pm.

Cruise Mandurah famous waterways and luxury canals ~ filled with playful dolphins, birdlife and unforgettable scenery!

From the water, take in prime views of Crab Fest’s colour and festivities. Enjoy live commentary from local experts while relaxing in comfort on deck.

Prices:

  • $15 per adult
  • Children under 3 cruise for free

Book your Crab Fest cruise here.

Pirate Ship $15 Crab Fest Cruises

Pirate Ship Crab Fest Cruise 1
The Pirate Ship Mandurah

Join ‘Pete Blackbeard’ and his buckos at Pirate Ship Mandurah for a 30-minute cruise during Crab Fest weekend. Kids can dress as pirates, steer the wheel, ring the bell and fire water cannons.

Or jump aboard the ‘White Pearl’, a skippered luxury charter seating up to 19 passengers. Cruise around Mandurah’s waterways for 30 minutes for only $15 pp.

Purchase your tickets on board the ship departing from the jetty out the front of ‘The Bay Cafe’ on the Eastern Foreshore, opposite 9 Mandurah Terrace.

BBQ Boat Crab Lunch

BBQ Boat Crab Lunch Cruise Crab Fest 2023

Captain your own Mandurah mini cruise this Crab Fest weekend, on board Western Australia’s only donut-shaped electric boats. Devour a delicious cooked crab lunch (recommended), or bring a picnic or barbecue lunch to enjoy, while cruising Mandurah’s breathtaking Ocean Marina and Venetian Canal. Your own unique way to experience Channel 7 Mandurah Crab Fest 2023!

Book your 1.5-hour BBQ Boat Crab Lunch for up to 6 people here.

Book your 1.5-hour BBQ Boat Crab Lunch for up to 10 people here.

Soulmate Charters

Soulmate Charters Mandurah Crab Fest Cruise

Soulmate Charters’ Crab Fest Cruise is another great option to explore the waterways during Crab Fest weekend. Their relaxing 45 minute cruise will take you around the Mandurah town waterways, the marina and Mandurah’s canal homes. And with a little bit of luck you’ll even spot some dolphins.

If you haven’t explored Mandurah’s much-hyped ‘Giants of Mandurah’ attraction yet, join Soulmate Charters on their popular 45-minute Giants Scenic Cruise all day on the Saturday (18/03), with tours running hourly from 9am – 3pm. Departing from the Port Bouvard Marina in Dawesville, you will visit one of the most famous Giants, ‘Seba’s Song’. This Giant faces away from land, contemplating the waters – the only Giant to do so. He can only be sighted in full by boat.

Book your Soulmate Charters cruise here.

Scenic Giant Cruise with Soulmate Charters
Seba's Song' by Thomas Dambo, Giants of Mandurah

Crab Fest Fireworks Cruise

Fireworks Cruise

See the spectacular Saturday night fireworks of this year’s Crab Fest, while cruising Mandurah’s sparkling waterways.

Watch in style on board Mandurah Cruises’ 1-hour cruise, as the night sky ignites in bursts of colour. Fun for the whole family, you’ll enjoy prime viewing of this much-loved event.

Prices:

  • $35 per adult 
  • $20 per child (3-12yrs)
  • $10 (under 3 years)

Book your Crab Fest Fireworks Cruise.

The Tourist Fun Train

If you would prefer to explore Crab Fest on land, then Tourist Fun Train’s Big Toot has a seat ready and waiting for you. Touring the whole weekend on the 18th and 19th of March, the Big  Toot train travels throughout the city, allowing you to hop-on and hop-off as you please! This is a great option if you want to explore the wide range of events happening in Mandurah or, you simply need to rest your feet.

Due to busy crowds, the Little Toot train won’t be running. 

The Bike Kiosk

Hiring e scooters from the Bike Kiosk

Make the most of the glorious Autumn weather by hiring a bike or scooter from The Bike Kiosk. With a wide range catering to all needs and requirements, you’ll be able to safely and effortlessly cruise from one festivity to another! Or book a ‘Ride the Giants’ e-bike tour and cycle through the untouched ends of greater Mandurah where nature flourishes and behemoths protect the waterways. 

Hire your e-scooter or e-bike here.

Peel Produce Market

Peel Produce Market

On the Saturday of Crab Fest, the Peel Produce Market, located at Leprechaun Reserve in Dawesville, is running a huge artisan market in conjunction with the Park Run’s 8th birthday celebration. Expect to see fresh and seasonal produce, handmade homewares, delicious foods and lot of colours as Mandurah’s wide variety of talented makers, sowers, bakers and doers join forces to make this one of the biggest markets Mandurah has ever seen. 

Mandurah Museum

Mandurah Museum

Whilst you’re soaking up the culture of Mandurah during Crab Fest, you might begin to wonder about Mandurah’s history. Satiate your hunger for knowledge by making a stop at the Mandurah Museum 11 am – 3 pm on Saturday or Sunday. The museum showcases the rich heritage of Mandurah and the Peel region, with a diverse collection of exhibits, artifacts and interactive displays that bring the past to life. From the first settlers to the present day, the museum takes visitors on a journey through the history of the area, highlighting the events, people, and industries that have shaped its unique identity. 

King Carnival

If you’re looking for a way to truly excite and delight your kiddies, a stop at the King Carnival is a must during Crab Fest. At King Carnival, there will be all of your favourite carnival rides and games (including the clowns), fun and delicious show bags (starting from $5) as well as the Mandurah Ferris Wheel glowing in all of its glory. A great way to work up an appetite before lunch.

Escape the crowds

As much as we love the liveliness of Crab Fest, we also understand that some prefer to escape the crowds and find a quieter activity. For those who prefer the latter, there are plenty of quiet activities to enjoy during the festival too. 

Stag Watersports

Stag Watersports

If you’re looking for a way to steer clear of the crowds on land, then head to the water! Stag Watersports’ jet skis are available for hire and are a fantastic way to add excitement and adventure to your festivities. Whether you’re a seasoned water sports enthusiast or a first-time rider, the team at Stag offers everything you need to feel confident on the water. 

Book your jet ski experience here.

Kaleidoscope Tours

Kaleidoscope Tours

Kaleidoscope Tours is the perfect opportunity for families, couples and groups of friends to experience a more exclusive and intimate experience in Mandurah during the Crab Fest weekend. For families, book a Giants of Mandurah Tour and marvel at the impressive Thomas Dambo sculptures. For groups of 4 or more, choose the Winery Tour and enjoy a few samples of local wines as you learn about the wine-making process. With knowledgeable guides and a focus on creating unforgettable memories, Kaleidoscope Tours is a must-do activity during the Crab Fest weekend.

Choose your tour here.

Amaze Miniature Park

Amaze Miniature Park 1

Lose yourself in the wonderful miniature world at Amaze Miniature Park. With 70 miniature replicas of well-known historic buildings, you and your little kids will feel like giants as you admire the intricate details of the models. Not to mention, the Park provides a whole day of fun with mazes, mini golf, lego and more. Pack a lunch or purchase from the cafe and you’ll be ready for a whole afternoon of activities at the one location.

Ranger Red’s Zoo

Ranger Reds Zoo

Located on the banks of the Murray River in Pinjarra, Ranger Red’s Zoo is a boutique zoo that offers a hans-on experience. This is perfect for animal lovers and for families who want their little ones to experience something different. Open 9 am – 5 pm over the weekend, it’s worth the ~15-minute drive outside of Mandurah for the visit.

Edenvale Heritage Tearooms

Located at the 130-year-old award-winning homestead, find respite at the Edenvale Heritage Tearooms. Although the charming building alone is a reason to visit, the delicious rustic food makes Edenvale Heritage Tearooms a sought-after destination for brunch, lunch and dessert. Open 8.30 am – 3 pm, we recommend booking in advance to secure your spot.

Dwellingup Treetops Adventure

Treetops Adventure Dwellingup

45 minutes from Mandurah, a thrilling adventure awaits in the midst of pine and jarrah trees at Dwellingup’s Treetops Adventure. Choose from a wide range of activities, including Tree Ropes Course, Zipcoasters, Mountain Bike hire and more. Activities cater to all age groups from 1-5yrs, 8-12yrs, teens, adults and the oldies. Get everyone involved and having fun at Dwellingup Treetops Adventure. 

Crab Fest weekend

Mandurah’s Crab Fest is a weekend of fun for everyone. Welcoming families, couples, groups and solo adventurers, if you’re looking for an exciting weekend away, this is the opportunity you’ve been looking for. Mark your calendars for the third weekend of March and start writing up your itinerary—Crab Fest is just around the corner!

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Best Deals For Seniors In Mandurah

Escape to Mandurah and discover the best experiences for seniors in a city that never gets old. With a focus on affordability and accessibility, Mandurah is ideal for seniors looking for a relaxing holiday, a place to visit with the family or a comfortable weekend trip. With a wide range of activities offered at a discounted rate for seniors, Mandurah has become a popular destination for everyone to explore and enjoy.

Best Deals For Seniors In Mandurah

Where Adventure
Never Gets Old

Escape to Mandurah and discover the best experiences for seniors in a city that never gets old. With a focus on affordability and accessibility, Mandurah is ideal for seniors looking for a relaxing holiday, a place to visit with the family or a comfortable weekend trip. With a wide range of activities offered at a discounted rate for seniors, Mandurah has become a popular destination for everyone to explore and enjoy.

From scenic walks along the coast to relaxing water activities, Mandurah is a popular destination for seniors looking to make the most out of their retirement years. With special discounts for pensioners across both land and water activities, there are plenty of affordable and enjoyable activities in Mandurah, no matter what kind of weekend you’re planning.

Senior-Friendly Activities

Mandurah Cruises

Murray River Lunch Cruise Autumn Deal
Murray River Lunch Cruise | image courtesy of Mandurah Cruises

Mandurah Cruises offers a unique and enjoyable way to explore the Murray River near Mandurah. With several different experiences to choose from, you’ll want to browse their offerings and find the best cruise to suit your preferences.

Running Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, the popular 3-hour Murray River Lunch Cruise includes a delicious two-course lunch for you to enjoy whilst taking in the scenic views of the river. With comfortable seating, easy boarding and a calm river, this activity is perfect for seniors looking for a leisurely and scenic experience. The knowledgeable staff and informative commentary about the local area will also provide an educational aspect to the cruise. On the backdrop of the stunning Murray River, watch dolphins play in the water, admire the diverse birdlife and take in the surrounding wetlands. 

If you’re an animal lover, running daily is the Dolphin Cruise & Views. This tour runs for 1 hour, exploring the incredible waterways that are home to around 90 dolphins relaxing, playing and feeding. Plus, every tour includes the Dolphin Guarantee, where if you don’t spot a dolphin (which is rarely the case) which gives you unlimited returns until you spot the beloved aquatic mammals. 

Giants of Mandurah Tours

Santi Ikto Giant by Thomas DamboPhoto by Duncan Wright image courtesy of FORM Building a State of Creativity
Image: Santi Ikto Giant by Thomas Dambo | Photo by Duncan Wright | image courtesy of FORM Building a State of Creativity

No matter your age, the Giants Of Mandurah always amaze and delight with their impressive structures and marvellous creativity. From the curious mind of the world’s leading recycle artist Thomas Dambo, each sculpture is made from scrap wood and second-hand materials such as plastic and cardboard. Denmark-born, we feel proud to be able to offer such an incredible art installation throughout the city.

Whether you prefer to tour by bike, by boat,  or by coach with Kaleidoscope Tours, Zion Coach Tours or Ready2Roll Charters —we’ve ensured there is a tour available for everyone! Regardless of which tour you choose, you’re guaranteed to have a marvellous time. Just make sure you don’t forget the camera, there are some fantastic scenes you’ll want to capture.

Guided Nature Tours

Salt and Bush Eco Tours Guided Nature Tours
Salt and Bush Eco Tours

Mandurah boasts an abundance of beautiful naturescapes and wildlife. National parks, rivers, wetlands, coves and waterways—if you’re visiting Mandurah, exploring these stunning landscapes is simply a must and there’s no better way than with a guided nature tour.

Salt and Bush Eco Tours provide custom-guided nature experiences from the bushland to the salty waterways in and around the Peel region. Winning Australia’s Top Tour Guide Award (2022), Salt and Bush provide professional naturalist walking tours, kayak adventures, bird-watching explorations and geology tours. Discover all of their offerings here on their website. 

For history buffs, discover Mandurah’s rich history with the Foreshore Heritage Tour. Both free and accessibility-friendly, this is a popular choice for everyone who seeks to discover Mandurah’s historic roots. Running on Fridays and Saturdays at 11am during spring and summer, tour guides provide an informative narration on the past and the present Indigenous culture, pioneer families, art installations and beyond. 

Stag Watersports

Stag Watersports Mandurah Activities
Stag Watersports

Explore the vast Mandurah waterways by taking a ride on a jet ski! Stag Watersports offers safe and stable jet skis for all skill levels to enjoy from the kiddly winks to the more senior members of the family, everyone can enjoy the fun of riding on the water. Starting from Mandurah or Dawesville, choose from a slow passage, medium speed or high-speed tour. Senior discounts are available so be sure to mention your concession card when you book. 

Tourist Fun Train

Big Toot Tourist Fun Train Mandurah
Big Toot | Tourist Fun Train Mandurah

Toot toot! All aboard the Tourist Fun Train, Australia’s only road licensed trackless train! Choose between the Big Toot (60 minute tour) or the Mini Toot (15 minutes) and take a seat on the bright green train as you spot some of Mandurah’s most iconic attractions. Fun for both seniors and little ones, this is a great option for grandparents taking the grandchildren out. Senior, children and family special pricing is available. 

Amaze Miniature Park

Amaze Miniature Park Mandurah
Amaze Miniature Park

A unique must-see attraction featuring a sprawling display of 70 miniature buildings, model trains as well as family-friendly activities such as mini golf, a playground, yard games and pedal cars. Amaze Miniature Park showcases intricate miniature models that are made to scale and meticulously crafted to offer a highly detailed and realistic representation of the subjects. Stop by to marvel at the miniature creations or, bring the grandchildren for a whole day of activities. Concession rates are available.

Eat, Drink & Dine

It wouldn’t be a trip to Mandurah without experiencing the delicious culinary delights found in cafes, restaurants and hotels across the city. Whether it’s savouring fresh seafood dishes, indulging in delicious local cuisine, or trying some of the latest food trends, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Mandurah’s vibrant food scene.

Peel Alehouse

A local favourite of Halls Head, Peel Alehouse caters to seniors by providing a separate menu with discounted prices. Choose from locally sourced Fish & Chips, Salt & Pepper Squid, Seafood Basket or the Lambs Fry & Bacon. With a Bistro and a Sports Bar, choose to enjoy a romantic meal with your better half or, enjoy a pint whilst you watch a game. Located off Old Coast Road and close by the lakes of Collins Pool and the Halls Head coastline, make sure you stop by this iconic for lunch or dinner.

Friar Tucks

Dubbed as “Mandurah’s Home of Irish Hospitality” the traditional Irish family-run restaurant know how to make you feel welcome. As you walk into the interior you’ll instantly feel relaxed with the cosy Irish charm oozing from the decor, wooden tables, pints of Guinness and crowd-pleasing menu (including Pork Bangers and Mash, Dublin Brie and Traditional Irish Soda Bread baked in-house). With a special discounted menu for seniors, this is a popular destination for those looking for a comfortable spot to relax from the day’s activities.

The Cut Tavern

With stunning views of the Dawesville Channel, The Cut Tavern is the ideal spot for lunch or dinner to take in the glorious views of the water. Boasting an impressive food, beer and wine menu, pop by during the week to take advantage of their daily dining specials. On Monday they serve up their mouth-watering Bourbon Ribs, Tuesdays is Steak Day, Wednesdays are for schnitties, Thursdays are for burger and steak sandwiches and Fridays are for digging into fish & chips. 

Murphy’s Irish Pub

Murphy’s Irish Pub is a lively and inviting destination for seniors looking for a fun and relaxed dining experience. The pub is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating, weekly events, sports screening, live music and great views overlooking Mandjar Bay. We recommend taking advantage of their tempting daily deals and chef specials. 

Mandurah Seniors Centre

Indulge in a wide variety of specials at the Mandurah Senior’s Dining Room. For just $12 (for members) and $17 (for non-members), savor a 2-course meal featuring a main dish and dessert, along with a hot cup of tea or coffee. Custom-made meals are also available from 8.30am to 1.30pm. The dining room is located at 41 Ormsby Terrace and provides ample parking spaces for members.

Ravenswood Hotel

Where great value meets great flavour, The Ravenswood Hotel provides delicious dining experiences for seniors every day for both lunch and dinner. At only $16.50 enjoy a satisfying meal accompanied by a refreshing beverage as you take in the stunning views of the Murray River. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a leisurely dinner, or a place to relax with the family, the Ravenswood Hotel is the perfect choice for seniors seeking great food at an affordable price.

Affordable and Memorable Experiences for the Golden Years

Mandurah is the perfect destination for seniors seeking a balance of peace and excitement, all at an affordable price. With an array of discounts and savings available through seniorscard.wa.gov, it’s easy to discover hidden treasures and budget-friendly options in this city. From lodging, and comfortable accommodations to shopping in retail stores, indulging in baked treats and coffee, taking scenic cruises, and even getting pampered with haircuts—Mandurah is brimming with opportunities for seniors to enjoy an economical yet memorable experience.

Get ready to put your senior card to good use, because Mandurah is calling your name! If you’re unsure where to start, chat with our local experts at the Mandurah Visitor Centre who will help you build an itinerary that caters to your holiday. 

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