A day out with Charter 1 is a brilliant way to experience Rottnest Island and the Indian Ocean as a family. Operating from Fremantle on their bright yellow 12.5m catamaran, Capella (often called “The Yellow Cat”), Charter 1 offers a relaxed, small-group sailing experience with plenty of room for kids to move, explore and play. Rather than rushing straight to the island and back, the full-day sail focuses on soaking up the journey itself – turquoise water, marine life and time together out on the ocean.
Families board at Fishing Boat Harbour in Fremantle, where the friendly crew welcome everyone on and run through a clear safety briefing. Life jackets are carried on board, and younger children may be asked to wear them, which is reassuring for parents. The tour is recommended for school-aged kids and up, as it’s a full day on open water, but confident younger sailors may also cope well. Once underway and out in open water, the sails are hoisted and you can settle into your favourite spot – on the stern deck, inside the cabin or on the spacious bow, watching Fremantle slip away behind you.
The full-day Rottnest sail is completely water-based, which makes it feel like a real little adventure. Instead of disembarking at Thompson Bay with the crowds, Capella anchors in quiet, sheltered bays off Rottnest and nearby islands. Kids will love scanning the horizon for dolphins, sea lions and seabirds as you cruise. When the anchor drops, the real fun begins: there’s quality snorkel gear in a range of sizes, plus kayaks, a stand-up paddle board, noodles and, when conditions allow, the famous cargo net that trails behind the boat for a thrilling tow in the water.
Snorkelling is a highlight, with the crew choosing locations to suit the conditions on the day. Over the reefs you’re likely to see schools of colourful fish, coral, starfish and sometimes rays or sea lions cruising by. The crew are used to mixed abilities and are great at helping nervous or first-time snorkellers – including kids – gain confidence in the water. For those who prefer to stay dry, there’s plenty of enjoyment to be had simply relaxing on deck, watching others swim and taking in the scenery.
Food and drinks are generously taken care of. Morning tea usually features fresh fruit, cakes or biscuits with tea, coffee and juice, and a buffet-style lunch of rolls, cold meats and salads keeps everyone fuelled for the day. Tap water and sunscreen are available on board, and you’re welcome to bring additional snacks and drinks, including wine and beer (but no spirits). It’s a relaxed, picnic-on-the-water vibe that suits families perfectly and keeps things simple if you’re travelling.
One of the most memorable parts of the trip, especially for kids and teens, is the cargo net ride. When conditions are right, the net is dropped off the stern and those keen for a bit of adrenaline can hang on as the boat tows them gently through the water. Combined with time spent jumping off the boat, paddling around on the SUP and exploring from the kayaks, it adds up to a full day of easy, screen-free fun.
The return sail back to Fremantle is often powered by the “Freo Doctor” – the afternoon sea breeze that fills the sails and gives everyone a taste of real sailing. Kids are sometimes invited to help raise or lower the sails or sit with the skipper to see how the boat is steered, which adds a special, hands-on element to the day. With guest numbers capped at around twenty-four, the boat never feels crowded and it’s easy to find space to stretch out and enjoy the trip home.
Charter 1 also offers other options that work well for families and groups, including twilight sails from Fremantle, sunset sails and snorkel tours from Rottnest itself, as well as private charters for birthdays, special occasions or work events. Snorkel-and-sail departures from Rottnest can be a great choice for families with younger children, as they avoid the longer open-water crossing from Fremantle.
Because tours are seasonal and weather-dependent, and departures operate on selected dates, it’s important to check the current timetable and availability online. Full-day sails typically run in the warmer months, with an early morning departure and a mid- to late-afternoon return. Charter 1’s website keeps an up-to-date live calendar, and you can book directly there.
For families looking to do something really memorable together – something that feels a little bit special without being stuffy – a day aboard Capella is hard to beat. With an easygoing crew, lots of time in and on the water, and a unique view of Rottnest and the surrounding islands, Charter 1 creates the kind of holiday memories that stick.
Charter 1 Sailing, Fremantle
Address: Sardine/Cicerello’s Jetty, Fishing Boat Harbour, Fremantle WA 6160, Australia
Opening hours: Tours operate on selected dates, primarily between November and April, with full-day sails generally departing in the morning and returning mid-afternoon. Exact schedules and availability vary by season and weather, so check the live booking calendar on the official website.
Official website: https://www.charter1.com.au/
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Jennie McNichol is on a mission to prove there is always something fun to do in Perth. After 11 years in London working in the television industry for the BBC, Jennie moved to Perth in 2010 and founded Buggybuddys to silence the “nothing to do” crowd. Fifteen years later, it is the city’s number one guide for families, packed with daily inspiration and a huge focus on free local activities.
As a mum of two daughters, Jennie has evolved the site right alongside her own family—growing from a toddler-focused resource into a guide that supports parents through every stage, from the early years through to the teens. A passionate advocate for the WA lifestyle, Jennie loves helping families discover the best playgrounds, hidden gems, and budget-friendly days out in the most family-friendly city in the world.
