FAQ

Question and answers for our services

General questions

How long is the cruise?
As we are a private charter vessel, we can create cruises to fit any time scale required. Our standard package is a three hour cruise with a four hour package. This allows for guests to comfortably arrive and exit. Additional cruising hours are available.
Where does the vessel cruise?
Your vessel will depart from Barrack Square, travel west under the Narrows bridge past the Old Swan Brewery and into Matilda Bay. Our journey takes us past the University of Western Australia and the Royal Perth Yacht Club towards the Raffles Hotel at Canning Bridge, the captain will then steer her down river before it is time to turn around and return to Perth. The journey follows the same route returning to the city and your students will enjoy the views of Kings Park, the city skyline and river foreshore.
What about stability?
The Crystal Swan has three hulls, one on each side and one in the middle and combined with the massive weight is a very stable boat when cruising. As with all vessels on the water it will move depending on passing boats but any motion is usually very swift and comfortable.
What about guests that may get seasick?
If you have guests that are prone to motion sickness then they will need to take something for the journey. Guests will not suffer from seasickness as the vessel remains on the river at all times.
Is there parking nearby?
We recommend parking at the Perth City Council car park opposite the Perth Concert Hall. This car park is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and is a short 5 minute walk to the jetty.
What is the capacity?
The vessel can comfortably accommodate up to 100 guests on one level for a formal sit down meal (up to 170 guests over both levels) and up to 216 guests for a stand up cocktail style event over both levels.
What if guests want/need to disembark for any reason during the function?
As our valued client you are welcome to alter the cruising timetable/route but unfortunately water taxis are yet to come to Perth so arrangements need to be in place with the Captain prior to departure to ensure guest satisfaction.
What if it rains? Is windy? Storming?
As we are fully enclosed, rain is no problem but the wind can be an issue due to the box shape of the boat. Marine Safety places a restriction on the vessel departing the jetty if the winds are 30 knots or stronger although your event will continue at the jetty until the winds subside or the function concludes. Unfortunately this can happen and therefore is included in the terms and conditions sent to all clients prior to booking.
The Master of the vessel will determine if conditions are safe or unsafe.

Booking

What do I do to make a booking?
Simply use the contact us form and send through your details. One of our events team will be in touch as soon as possible. The more information you can give us surrounding what kind of event you are looking to throw the more we can help.
Do I get to inspect before my event?
We invite everyone who is looking to have an event on the Crystal Swan to come in and have a site visit with one of our team. The vessel is truly unique and something you have to experience to get the full immersion.
What should I do if I want to book a date for my event?
If you are happy then there are two options available; pay the deposit at that time or place a tentative hold for your preferred day. A deposit to secure your booking is then due 7 days after the hold is placed. If a deposit is not received then the date is automatically released, follow up contact is not guaranteed.
What happens after I book?
After you have paid the deposit we will send through a receipt and confirmation form with details as known to date. It is recommended that you visit us some three months prior where we will discuss the arrangements in detail.
Menus with final numbers are due 2 weeks prior to your event with the balance due 7 days prior.
What happens if I cancel?
There is a small grace period of one week, following that you may choose to reschedule another date although if this is not possible, unfortunately the deposit will be forfeited in full.

Event Planning

Will someone help me organise my event?
Yes. We have an experienced event coordinator to assist in planning your event. We suggest a visit to us a few weeks prior to discuss the detail including decorations, timing, menus and final costs.
Who will be on board on the day to organise my event?
Your event coordinator will be onboard at all times to ensure what we promised to be delivered is actually delivered.
The coordinator will help relay your requirements to our chefs, wait staff as well as the DJ to ensure your event is a smooth and memorable occasion.
Do you cater for special diets?
Yes, your event coordinator will enquire early in the planning process if you have any special dietary requirements so that we may be pre
prepared; religious, lifestyle and allergies can all be accommodated as long as we are informed.
Can I bring my own music/band/entertainment on board?
Yes. You are welcome to use our in house system, utilise our Ipod dock, arrange a DJ or even book a live band. If you need any suggestions regarding live music we can also assist. It is best to check on our system a couple of days before your event.
Do you have preferred suppliers for decorations?
Theming for your event can be quite simple as the vessel provides an ever changing view as you cruise down the river.
Your coordinator can provide a list of preferred suppliers and some good advice on who to use depending on your requirements.
Can I bring my own table decorations and audio visual on board?
Yes. We recommend you deliver any decorations on the day and our staff will help set the venue to your instructions.
Are any decorative/ party etc items not permitted?
It is not allowed to fix items, confetti/rice is a no-no, unstable center pieces (they must have a solid base) and candles must be enclosed.
Do you have wheel chair access?
Unfortunately not. The Crystal Swan is not wheel chair friendly although events in the past have included the occasional wheel chair bound guest. There are no disabled toilets onboard and the suitability of the vessel remains at the discretion of the guest concerned.

What embarkation time should I put on the invitation?
We recommend guests arrive 30 minutes prior to the departure time, the Captain may agree to depart after the allocated time but in this case there will be no extension to the cruising time
Who will look after my guests during the cruise?
We all will, and your event coordinator will ensure that guests are happy and well looked after. The staff ratio is around 1:15 with both bars open. Your coordinator will work with you to accommodate any changes or special needs that you may have during the evening.

Menus/Pricing

How much does it cost?
All pricing is available by request however individual quotes are made up for each event depending on: time of year, what type of event (cocktail, plated meal, etc.), what type of beverage package and what other extra things you would like to add on. Due to there being many factors involved we would always recommend sitting down with one of our events coordinators and discussing your budget and how we can best cater for your needs.
What are the pricing inclusions?
Quotation pricing includes the basic needs for all events; tables, chairs, table cloths, crockery, table napkins, cutlery and glassware as well as the appropriate crew levels and wait staff but does not include items that may be particular to your event.
Can I change the menu?
We are very flexible with our menus; so if you wish to make changes we are happy to assist. Changes to the menu may incur additional costs.
Can I bring my own caterers?
Yes. You are welcome to arrange a professional catering company to provide the food, a galley fee will apply and this fee will be determined by the menu chosen. Food cooked and prepared by a non registered outlet will not be permitted.
What about my beverages?
Beverages may be paid for by the following arrangements; cash bar, master tab , standard and premium beverage package.
BYO Beverages is not permitted.

Call 0435909755Book a Viewing