Elizabeth Quay (Perth Water)

About Elizabeth Quay (Perth Water)

Elizabeth Quay gives recreational boaters a rare chance to arrive in the centre of Perth by water. The Swan River inlet includes 24 public short-stay boat moorings, surrounded by promenades, restaurants, public art and the city skyline. We think its defining strength is the destination itself: rather than simply securing the boat and leaving, crews step ashore into one of Perth's most recognisable waterfront precincts with food, entertainment and transport immediately available.

These are short-stay public moorings, not permanent marina pens or an overnight harbour. Availability is first dependent on space and then on the current conditions shown onsite. Skippers should review posted limits, vessel-size guidance, event exclusions and any local booking or payment process before relying on a berth. The inlet also supports ferries, cruises and tourism operators, so recreational boats need to keep commercial landing areas and navigation paths clear.

Ashore, the quay rewards even a brief visit. Bars, restaurants, ice cream, open spaces, the island playground, public art and the pedestrian bridge sit within the precinct. Elizabeth Quay train and bus stations are a short walk away, while the Transperth ferry terminal connects to South Perth. Barrack Street Jetty hosts river cruises and services towards Fremantle and Rottnest, adding energy to an already active waterfront.

The public moorings do not amount to a full-service marina. Fuel, pump-out, shore power, showers, laundry, repairs, haul-out and secure long-term storage are not advertised as part of the facility. Plan those needs elsewhere on the Swan River. River levels, wind, wash, ferry movements and temporary event restrictions can all affect an approach, and some major waterfront events introduce exclusion zones announced through official notices.

Our take is that Elizabeth Quay is ideal for a city lunch, guest pickup or short Perth stop rather than vessel servicing or an unattended stay. The 24 moorings make central-river boating unusually accessible, and the shore-side offer is excellent. Check space, signage, weather and current notices before entering, then secure the boat for passing wash. Used as intended, the quay is one of Australia's most enjoyable urban boating destinations for local owners and visiting crews alike.

Services

Elizabeth Quay provides 24 short-stay public boat moorings within its Swan River inlet. They support recreational visits to the central Perth waterfront but are not permanent marina berths. Use depends on available space and the current rules displayed onsite. Ferry, cruise and tourism operations share the precinct, so private vessels must keep designated commercial areas and navigation routes clear.

The shore-side precinct offers restaurants, bars, public spaces, an island playground and excellent public transport. Elizabeth Quay train and bus stations are nearby, while the Transperth ferry operates from the inlet. Barrack Street Jetty hosts scenic cruises and longer passenger services. Public toilets and broader CBD amenities are available around the waterfront.

Do not assume fuel, pump-out, shore power, potable water, showers, laundry, repairs or overnight security at the public moorings. Check posted time and vessel limits, current river notices and event exclusion zones before entry. Approach slowly, allow for ferries and wash, rig fenders in advance and never leave the vessel beyond the authorised short-stay period. Confirm emergency contacts and safe waiting options before the visit.

Ideal for

Perth recreational boaters wanting a short city-centre stop for dining, sightseeing, guest transfers or events, with public transport and waterfront attractions immediately ashore.

What we love

• Twenty-four public short-stay moorings in central Perth.
• Restaurants, bars and attractions directly around the inlet.
• Easy links to trains, buses and the South Perth ferry.
• A memorable Swan River arrival framed by the city skyline.
• An excellent destination for lunch, guests or a brief shore visit.

To keep in mind

These are short-stay public moorings, not overnight marina berths. Check onsite rules and event exclusions. Fuel, pump-out, power and maintenance must be arranged elsewhere, and ferry traffic requires a careful, wash-conscious approach.