Albany

When you step off your ship at the Albany Passenger Terminal, you will find yourself in a working industrial port area rather than a scenic promenade. For safety and convenience, a free shuttle bus typically operates in a continuous loop to transport passengers the 2 kilometres into the town centre, as the immediate surroundings consist of heavy haulage routes and port infrastructure. However, a dedicated pedestrian footpath and the Ellen Cove to Albany Port Boardwalk are accessible within a 5-minute walk from the terminal. If you choose to walk, within 10 minutes you can reach the start of this scenic elevated boardwalk, which offers immediate, stunning views of Princess Royal Harbour and King George Sound, leading eventually to Middleton Beach.

• Walkability: Central Albany is generally walkable, with the historic precinct, shopping area, and port located close to one another. While the immediate town centre is manageable on foot, some areas like Middleton Beach are a few kilometres away; however, a scenic boardwalk connects the port area to the beach for those who enjoy longer walks with coastal views.
• Public Transport: A limited regional bus service, operated by Love’s Bus Service, connects the city centre with residential areas and key spots like Middleton Beach and Emu Point. Passengers can generally pay the driver in cash when boarding, though it is best to check the Public Transport Authority’s website for the most current fare and timetable information as services are not as frequent as in larger cities.
• Taxis/Rideshare: Local taxi companies, such as Albany City Cabs and Rainbow Coast Taxis, are the primary way to get around quickly, and a free shuttle bus often runs between the port and the town centre on cruise days. While rideshare services like Uber have begun operating in the region, availability can be limited, so booking a taxi or a guided tour is often a more reliable option for reaching outer attractions like the Whaling Station.

• Western Australia does not use a universal transit card like Opal or myki for regional buses in Albany; expect to pay with cash or use contactless payments if available on local TransAlbany services.
• Strict biosecurity laws are in effect; you must declare or dispose of all fresh food, plants, and animal products before disembarking, as even “day tripper” items are subject to inspection and heavy fines.
• Tipping is not required or expected in Australia, as service is included in the advertised price, and all displayed prices already include the 10% Goods and Services Tax (GST).
• Ensure you have a valid passport and have completed your Incoming Passenger Card (IPC) for customs and biosecurity clearance upon arrival.

• The Must-Dos
  • Visit the National Anzac Centre on Mt Clarence to explore the deeply moving stories of the first convoys within a world-class museum overlooking the harbour.
  • Experience the raw power of the Southern Ocean at The Gap and Natural Bridge in Torndirrup National Park, just a 15-minute drive from the port.
  • Explore Albany’s Historic Whaling Station at Discovery Bay, the last station in Australia to cease operations, now transformed into an immersive maritime museum.
• Best Free/Low-Cost Activity
  • Walk the Amity Trail, a 30-minute self-guided heritage tour through the town centre passing convict-era buildings and the replica of the Brig Amity.
  • Stroll along the Ellen Cove Boardwalk at Middleton Beach for spectacular coastal vistas and a chance to spot whales during the winter migration.
  • Hike or drive to the Desert Mounted Corps Memorial on Mount Clarence for a panoramic view of King George Sound and the city.
• Local Hidden Gem
  • Take the Point King Lighthouse walk, a gentle 2-kilometre return track that leads to the ruins of the first lighthouse built on the West Australian coastline.
  • Explore the Vancouver Street heritage precinct, where you can find charming local cafes and independent galleries tucked away in historic cottages.
  • Visit the Old Post Office and its museum to see the exquisite 19th-century architecture and learn about the town’s early communication links to the world.

There is no dedicated free Wi-Fi available at the Albany Cruise Terminal. However, passengers can find free and reliable Wi-Fi at the Albany Public Library on York Street, which is approximately a 15-minute walk from the port. Other nearby options include the Albany Plaza shopping centre and various cafes along the main street, such as Dome Cafe, which offer complimentary Wi-Fi for customers.

The town centre of Albany is located approximately 1 kilometre from the cruise terminal, making it accessible via a 15-minute walk, a short taxi ride, or the free orange CAT bus which stops about 400 metres from the pier. For pharmacies, Amcal Max Albany and Albany Plaza Discount Drug Store are the closest options, situated on York Street and within the Albany Plaza respectively, both about a 10-15 minute walk from the terminal. For supermarkets, Coles and Kmart are located within the Albany Plaza on Albany Highway, while a Woolworths is situated nearby on Lockyer Avenue; all are easily reached within 15-20 minutes on foot or a 5-minute drive from the port.