DENHAM SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Big Lagoon BBQ — A small‑group boat escape from Denham into Shark Bay
A four‑hour, small‑group cruise (maximum 12 guests) departing Denham Commercial Jetty that combines coastal wildlife viewing, a secluded beach stop at Big Lagoon and a laid‑back BBQ lunch.
Big Lagoon BBQ — A small‑group boat escape from Denham into Shark Bay.
Adventure brief
Big Lagoon BBQ — A small‑group boat escape from Denham into Shark Bay
Set out from Denham on an intimate, small‑group cruise to Big Lagoon in Shark Bay. With a maximum of just 12 passengers, Perfect Nature Cruises delivers a relaxed voyage through clear, wildlife‑rich waters to a beach accessible only by boat, where you can swim, explore and enjoy a freshly prepared BBQ lunch in a World Heritage‑listed setting.
Located within the World Heritage-listed Shark Bay on Western Australia’s Coral Coast, Big Lagoon offers a rare and secluded stretch of pristine shoreline bordered by turquoise waters and the rusty red soils of Francois Peron National Park. Perfect Nature Cruises delivers an intimate journey here, capping the group size at just 12 guests to maintain an exclusive experience rich with natural beauty and local insight.
Departing from Denham Commercial Jetty, the tour unfolds over four hours, sailing across crystal-clear waters where passengers can spot sea turtles gliding beneath the surface, graceful manta rays, and occasionally reef sharks navigating the shallow channels. Alongside marine wildlife, seabirds circle overhead, painting the sky with bursts of white and black against the endless blue.
Upon arrival, Big Lagoon reveals its quiet charm—a nearly untouched beach accessible only by boat. Guests can swim in calm waters, roam the shoreline, or simply breathe in the serene coastal atmosphere. The centerpiece of the trip is a carefully prepared beach BBQ lunch featuring options catering to gluten-free and vegetarian needs. While savoring local flavors, the guides share stories about Shark Bay’s ecology and the cultural importance of the area, deepening appreciation for this remote habitat.
Perfect Nature Cruises stands out by delivering more than a sightseeing tour—their knowledgeable crew fosters a genuine connection to Shark Bay’s natural wonders while prioritizing sustainable and respectful access. This combination of small-group intimacy, rich wildlife encounters, and peaceful beach moments makes Big Lagoon BBQ a unique entry point into Western Australia’s rugged coastal adventure scene.
Accessible to those with reasonable mobility and open to travelers aged 10 and up, this trip is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an immersive yet relaxed day trip from the nearby town of Denham. With attentive service, well-crafted itineraries, and a focus on minimal environmental impact, Perfect Nature Cruises reinforces Shark Bay’s reputation as an essential destination for nature-based travel.
Route Schematic
Itinerary at a glance
The tour follows a clear timetable of check‑in, cruise, beach time and return, with wildlife watching woven throughout.
Check‑in & boarding (Denham Commercial Jetty)
Arrive at the Denham Jetty for check‑in, meet the crew and receive a short safety briefing before departure.
Depart for Big Lagoon
Leave the jetty and cruise through Shark Bay with onboard commentary on local ecology and history.
Wildlife spotting en route
Keep watch for sea birds, rays, turtles and sharks in the clear waters during the scenic cruise.
Arrive at Big Lagoon
Anchor within Big Lagoon; passengers may swim, relax on the beach or explore the shoreline at their leisure.
BBQ Lunch
Enjoy a freshly prepared BBQ lunch served on board or on the beach around midday.
Leisure time & return cruise
After more time ashore, the boat returns to Denham with further opportunities for wildlife viewing before arriving back at the jetty.
Participants should possess a reasonable level of mobility; boarding involves a step or two and accessing the beach may require walking through ankle‑ to knee‑deep water. The operation is weather dependent and the skipper may alter or cancel the itinerary for safety.
What the day feels like
How the trip feels
Over roughly four hours you move from the sheltered bustle of Denham Jetty into open, wildlife‑rich water before arriving at the quiet expanse of Big Lagoon. The pace is deliberately unhurried: a short safety brief and departure from the jetty, a scenic cruise with guided commentary, an anchorage for swimming and a BBQ, then a relaxed return to shore.
THE ROUTE
A short cruise from Denham to a boat‑only beach
Departing from Denham Commercial Jetty, the tour cruises through Shark Bay’s coastal scenery en route to Big Lagoon — a secluded beach destination reachable only by boat and framed by the turquoise water and red earth of the surrounding park.
THE WILDLIFE
Wildlife on the water: turtles, rays, sharks and seabirds
The calm, clear waters between Denham and Big Lagoon offer frequent sightings of sea birds, rays, sharks and turtles; the crew provide local context and keep an eye out for photographic opportunities during the scenic cruise.
THE MEAL
Beachside BBQ — simple, local and convivial
The trip anchors at Big Lagoon for a freshly prepared BBQ lunch served on board or on the beach, giving passengers time to relax, swim and take in the solitude of this remote stretch of Shark Bay.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour works for — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), a jumper or jacket, swimwear and towel, a refillable water bottle, and any BYO alcohol you wish to consume. A selection of soft drinks and water are included.
The tour is roughly four hours long with boarding and check‑in at Denham Commercial Jetty; check‑in and boarding commence at 09:45 with departure shortly after.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The tour runs for approximately 4 to 4.5 hours, including cruising time, time at Big Lagoon, and lunch.
When does the tour run?
The tour is currently only available during W.A. school holiday periods; private charters can be arranged at other times on enquiry.
Where does the tour depart from?
The tour departs from the Denham Commercial Jetty.
How many people are on the tour?
To ensure a personalised experience, the tour carries a maximum of 12 passengers.
What’s included in the tour price?
The ticket includes a guided boat tour, a freshly prepared BBQ lunch, refreshments and time for wildlife viewing and beach activities at Big Lagoon.
Is swimming allowed?
Yes. Passengers have the opportunity to swim at Big Lagoon; the water is usually calm and clear.
Do I need to bring anything?
Recommended items include sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, swimwear, towel, a refillable water bottle and a camera. BYO alcohol is permitted.
Do I need to be physically fit to join?
You should have a reasonable level of mobility. Boarding the vessel requires a step or two and accessing the beach may involve walking through ankle‑ to knee‑deep water.
What happens in bad weather?
The tour is weather‑dependent. In adverse conditions the skipper may modify the itinerary, delay departure or cancel the tour; if cancelled you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
Are children allowed on the tour?
Children over the age of 10 are welcome but must be supervised. The vessel is a jet boat and can be loud or overstimulating for some children; shade on the back deck is only available while anchored.
Is there a toilet onboard?
Yes, there is a marine toilet onboard for passenger use.
Can dietary requirements be accommodated?
The operator does its best to cater for dietary needs (including vegetarian and gluten‑free options) but ingredient availability is limited in remote areas; notify the operator at booking.
Is alcohol allowed?
BYO alcohol is permitted; responsible service of alcohol rules still apply and passengers are asked to consume responsibly.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-07T20:58:04.943Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.