Rottnest Island: Segway Fortress Tour & Quokka Encounters

Summary

Segway ride to Rottnest’s military ruins, beaches & quokkas

You’ll roll past Rottnest Island’s WWII forts and empty beaches by Segway with a local guide who knows every twist in the track. There’s time for laughter (and maybe a wobbly turn), stories about old barracks, and close-up moments with quokkas who run this place now. It’s part history lesson, part coastal adventure—definitely not your usual island tour.

What’s the experience like?

“If you see a quokka, just let it come to you — they’re the real bosses here,” said Dave, our guide, with that half-grin Aussies seem born with. We’d barely rolled off the jetty at Thompson Bay before I realized how weirdly fun it is to glide along on a Segway. The air smelled like salt and eucalyptus, and there was this low hum from the wheels — kind of soothing, actually. I kept catching glimpses of turquoise water between the trees, but Dave had us zigzagging up towards Bickley Battery first. He pointed out old concrete bunkers hidden in the scrub. “This was all about defending Fremantle Harbour back in the day,” he said, tapping one of the gun emplacements with his boot. I tried to imagine soldiers up here in the wind — hard to picture now with all the birds chattering overhead.

The Segways handled the rougher tracks better than I expected (I’m not exactly known for my balance). At Jubilee Hill lookout we stopped for a breather; sunlight bounced off the sea so bright I had to squint. Someone asked about those odd white stones scattered around — apparently leftover from when Kingstown Barracks was full of troops. There’s something strange about mixing war history with such peaceful views. Paterson Beach was next, sand squeaking under our tires as we paused by Henrietta Rocks. A couple of quokkas hopped by — one sniffed my shoe and then just stared up at me like I owed it lunch or something.

I’ll admit: I laughed out loud more than once trying to steer around a pothole or two (sorry Dave). He radioed tips into our earpieces so nobody got lost or wiped out — honestly, even if you’ve never touched a Segway before, you’ll get the hang of it after their quick training session at the start. The whole thing felt relaxed but somehow still packed in loads: military ruins, wild coastline, those little moments with curious quokkas that stick in your head later on. Back at Thompson Bay I found sand in my socks and didn’t really mind.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Rottnest Island by Segway

• Go off-road on Segway
• Visit Bickley Battery gun emplacements
• See Jubilee Hill Observation Post
• Enjoy Thompsons Bay beach
• Explore Paterson Beach and Henrietta Rocks
• Visit Kingstown Barracks
• Meet Rottnest’s famous Quokkas

Top questions

Is this Rottnest Island Segway tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, rider training is included and all fitness levels are welcome as long as you meet age and weight requirements.

What sites do we visit on this Fortress Adventure Tour?

You’ll visit Thompson Bay, Bickley Battery gun emplacements, Jubilee Hill Observation Post, Paterson Beach & Henrietta Rocks, plus Kingstown Barracks.

Are children allowed on this Rottnest Island Segway tour?

Guests must be at least 12 years old and accompanied by an adult if under 18.

Is safety equipment provided for the Segway ride?

Yes, all safety equipment is included in your booking.

Do we get to see quokkas during the tour?

Yes, there are opportunities to see Rottnest’s famous quokkas along the way.

How long does this Fortress Adventure Tour last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but expect several stops over key sites across Rottnest Island.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; tours start from Rottnest Island itself.

Can pregnant guests join this Segway tour?

No, pregnant guests are not permitted due to fall risk.

What’s included

Your day includes full rider training before setting out on your Segway adventure around Rottnest Island with an experienced local guide leading the way. All safety equipment is provided along with personal radio communication so you can hear stories as you go—just bring your sense of humor (and maybe some sunscreen).