dolphin tours western australia

Dolphin Cruise & Views

Western australia’s best value marine tour, see mandurah’s wonders of the water.

Cruise with dolphins and see Mandurah’s most famous highlights on our Dolphin Cruise & Views tour, with  dolphin sightings guaranteed.¹

Take a fun 1-hour² scenic voyage exploring incredible waterways, where around 90  wild dolphins  reside and visit ~ the largest population in WA!

Aboard our comfortable cruise boat, keep your eyes peeled to spot dolphins feeding, resting and playing in their natural environment. Every ticket includes our Dolphin Guarantee, giving you unlimited return trips until you see them! ¹

What a fantastic day! Beautiful cruising to see groups of dolphins. These amazing creatures were swimming right alongside us. Fabulous commentary from the guides. A must for holidaymakers or day-trippers – 10 out of 10! ELAINE MCATEER, GOOGLE REVIEW

 As well as playful dolphins, take in Mandurah’s most breathtaking views:

• Experience firsthand, the magnitude of the city’s magnificent 134km² estuary.
• Travel through iconic Mandjar Bay, with its ancient Moreton Bay Fig tree and accompanying osprey statues.
• See the Waugal-inspired foreshore and celebrated Kwilena Gabi pool from the water.
• Cruise through stunning canals lined with lavish homes.
• Visit Mandurah Ocean Marina to see unique houseboats, luxury yachts and authentic fishing boats.
• Witness protected wetlands of worldwide importance ~ home to pelicans, ospreys, black swans and other amazing water and shore birds, some who visit from as far away as the Siberian Arctic!
• Hear about Mandurah’s flourishing fishing industry, with origins dating back more than 50,000 years.
• See many other nature, heritage and cultural landmarks along the way.

spot dolphins

Every ticket includes our Dolphin Guarantee

PRIME VIEWS

Unique vantage point to see Mandurah’s best views

FUN FOR KIDS

Family friendly ~ Mandurah’s best boating fun for kids!

expert crew

Live commentary by a local Mandurah expert

FOOD & DRINKS

Enjoy snacks and drinks, or Fish & Chips for lunch³ 

FREE PARKING

Free and convenient parking close to departure point

All Aboard Kids

Mandurah’s best family fun.

Our Captain needs your help! Step aboard and steer the boat from our junior Captain’s wheel on the front deck.⁶

Ring our boat bell and peek through giant binoculars to spot Mandurah’s friendly dolphins. You might also see some amazing water birds!

Switch on the fun! Explore our amazing engine room with life-like marine levers and controls.⁶

We had such an awesome dolphin cruise today around the canals. Saw plenty of dolphins, had fish and chips for lunch – so delicious. The crew were very professional and friendly. I came with my daughter and granddaughters and we all totally loved it! Thank you! LINDA JANE, FACEBOOK REVIEW

Our Dolphin Guarantee

See mandurah’s friendly dolphins ~ we guarantee it, tour prices.

best value dolphin tour IN WA

1-hour canal cruise with dolphin guarantee, $32 seniors/students, $30 seniors weekday special, $18 children (free under 3).

Add Fish & Chips for Lunch from Cicerello’s³

•see below for inclusions•

Book online today, what’s included.

• 1-hour² canal cruise with prime scenic views
• Live commentary from a local Mandurah expert
• Guided dolphin spotting
• Snacks on board to buy⁴
• Our Dolphin Guarantee ~ included in every ticket¹
• $1 tea/coffee
• For Kids – Captain steering wheel, binoculars, bell, marine controls, engine room, and more⁶
• Free and convenient parking
• Add  Fish & Chips’ Lunch , fresh from Cicerello’s³
• 10% discount at our souvenir and local artisan Gift Shop
• Friendly, experienced crew as your hosts
• 10% loyalty discount for any Mandurah Cruises’ experience⁵
• Fully licensed bar to purchase drinks⁴
• Buy 1 Get 1 FREE Churros at San Churros Mandurah

Make a Booking

Vessel options.

Travel aboard one of our modern cruise vessels departing from MANDURAH CRUISES JETTY, MANDJAR SQUARE

LARGE VESSEL

Operates daily.

on 80-seater vessel Mandjar, departing at: 10am, 11.30am (lunch option), 1.30pm & 3pm

$39 Adult, $32 Senior/Student, $30 Senior Weekday Special, $18 Child (3-15 years), FREE Children Under 3 years, $88 Family Pass

Note: 10am & 3pm departure times may not operate on weekdays, outside of peak season.

OTHER VESSELS SUPERCAT & LIBBY J

Operates 11am,12:30pm & 2pm during peak periods

on 22-seater vessel Libby J or 45-seater Supercat

Note: There is no Kids steering station or play zones on these vessels. There is no licensed bar on board these vessels. Soft beverages are available for purchase on Supercat only.

Kids cruise for $5 with our Family Pass

Cruise with us.

Travel aboard one of our modern sightseeing vessels ~ Dancing Dolphin and Mandjar ~ departing from MANDURAH CRUISES JETTY, MANDJAR SQUARE

(options may vary on particular days)

10am, 11.30am (lunch option), 1.30pm & 3pm

Kids cruise for $2.50 with our Family Pass

Further details.

¹ Mandurah’s dolphins are wild creatures viewed in their natural environment. While sighting them is likely, it may not occur on every cruise. Our Dolphin Guarantee ~ included free-of-charge in every Dolphin Cruise & Views tour ~ guarantees your dolphin sighting. Cruise as many times as you like until you see them.

See below for Terms & Conditions.

¹ OUR DOLPHIN GUARANTEE T&CS

Our crew will determine whether there was adequate dolphin sighting during your cruise. This will be confirmed to all guests at the end of your tour and noted in our records. It can also be checked retrospectively with our Booking Office. 

Should there be dolphin sighting during your cruise, the Dolphin Guarantee is not valid for return trips. 

Should a dolphin sighting not occur and you wish to use your Dolphin Guarantee to return, you are free to make another booking within 12 months of your original tour date, subject to availability. 

You may return as many times as you wish until you are on a tour where there is a dolphin sighting. 

Return bookings must be made by phone – by calling our Booking office on 08 9581 1242. Dolphin Guarantee bookings are non-transferable and can only be made for passengers who made the original tour booking. 

Once you are on a tour with adequate dolphin sighting, the Dolphin Guarantee is no longer valid. Should you wish to travel on our Dolphin Cruise & Views again, a new ticket must be purchased. As a customer, you receive a 10% loyalty discount for future bookings of any Mandurah Cruises’ cruise or hire experience.⁵ 

Our Dolphin Guarantee is only available for fully-paid bookings with Mandurah Cruises ~ not available to FOC Companion Cardholders. Each customer receiving the Guarantee must have initially booked our Dolphin Cruise & Views tour.

⁵  excludes Christmas Lights and special event cruises.

³ Enjoy a delicious Fish & Chips’ Lunch as you cruise – available only for the 11.30am departure. The following menu choices are available when booking, served to you on board, fresh from Cicerello’s:

• Fish & Chips – $14
• Grilled Fish & Salad (gluten free) – $19.90
• Chicken Nuggets & Chips – $12.50
• Vegetable Spring Rolls & Chips – $12.50 (vegetarian)
• Hot Chips – $7.50

Bookings for our Lunch option close 30 minutes prior to departure. Please contact our Booking office if you would like to add lunch to your booking.

We recommend bringing:

• warm top (it can get cool on the water)

Cruises depart from Mandurah Cruises Jetty , in front of the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre at Mandjar Square. For Google Map Link ~  CLICK HERE

For our Booking Office and Gift Shop, located nearby, click here.

Free all-day parking (no ticket required) is available at the Reading Cinema / Mandurah Performing Arts Centre carpark on Ormsby Terrace. For a parking location map, click here.

For information on how to get to Mandurah and public transport options, please click here.  

Please arrive for boarding 15 minutes prior to your cruise departure time. Please ensure you allow plenty of time to arrive for your tour as our cruises run to schedule and cannot be extended.

Simply bring a print out of your booking confirmation OR present it on your mobile device to board the cruise. Alternatively you can visit our Booking office and we can print your tickets for you.

² The tour duration is 1 hour, however the cruise may be extended to 1.25 hours, depending on conditions.

A number of our boats have wheelchair / walking frame access. Please select this option when booking or call Mandurah Cruises’ Booking office on  08 9581 1242  to discuss which cruise suits your requirements.

The health and safety of our guests and staff is our absolute priority. We follow strict protocols and operate with the highest of health and safety standards to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Guests must show senior/student card on the day of cruise to redeem the senior/student discounted rate.

Online bookings close 30 minutes prior to departure.

Minimum numbers apply for this cruise to operate. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.

Cruises operate in all weather conditions so please dress appropriately.

Click here  to view Mandurah Cruises’ full Terms & Conditions.

New! Mandurah Giant & Dolphin Cruise

Cruise with us for exclusive views of a famous giant of mandurah, mandurah’s dolphins, learn about them ~ before you meet them.

Swim with dolphins in Perth for a truly wild encounter

As a Perth local, I’m constantly amazed at the incredible pristine beauty of our West Australian coastline and the huge array of marine life. A swim with dolphins however, is truly at the top of my bucket list.

While I often see wild dolphins in the ocean, I leapt at the chance to go on the Swim with Wild Dolphins Cruise with Perth Wild Encounters .

Rockingham and the stunning Shoalwater Marine Park is located an easy 45 minutes drive south of Perth. The region is a paradise for nature lovers and in my view, this is one of the most underrated areas of Perth.

Over 200 local dolphins have made these pristine waters their home and have forged a unique bond with their human visitors.

Table of Contents

Who is Wild Encounters?

Getting up close and personal with the beautiful dolphins in Western Australia

Perth Wild Encounters have been operating wild dolphin swims since 1989.  The dolphin swim is a result of a labour of love and created mutual trust with the local dolphin population around Rockingham waters.

You can read more about how this special relationship was established in this in this lovely about us story

The unique encounters with wild dolphins experienced here is a rare opportunity to interact with these beautiful marine animals in their natural habitat and observe their normal behaviours.

What sets the dolphin swim with Perth Wild Encounters apart from other similar experiences around the world, is that the local dolphin population here has not been hand-fed.

These special encounters are only possible because of the trust developed between the animals and the team behind Wild Encounters.

Wild Encounters remains a family business. Along with the Dolphin Swim Cruise, the company also operates cruises and ferries to Penguin Island and Wildlife Tours of the Shoalwater Marine Park .

Our crew on the day was fantastic and it’s obvious that they love doing what they do.

What to expect on the Perth Dolphin Swim Cruise

Perth Wildlife Encounters

The Rockingham dolphin swim tours operates from the jetty off Van Street. The dolphin swim tour includes hotel pickup or you can easily reach the departure point via private car.

Once on the boat, you’re kitted out with snorkel, waist-belt and wetsuit. Squeezing into the wetsuit is the toughest job of the day. After that, you’re on easy street.

The wetsuits are good quality and there’s plenty to choose from to make sure that you get your proper size. You can also bring your own but I recommend a full-suit to keep warm.

After introductions from the crew and safety demonstrations, it’s time to cast off and look for the star attraction of the day – the dolphins!

While we were cruising, the crew assigned us into four coloured coded groups. Each group is assigned a crew member who leads the group with an aqua scooter in the water.

How long it takes to find the dolphins varies from day to day.

This can take anywhere between 20 and 60 minutes. As the animals are completely wild they go about their natural business of fishing, travelling and resting.

What the dolphins will be doing changes with every tour and means that every single interaction with these Rockingham dolphins is completely unique and special.

We were lucky and found a group of beautiful dolphins in 20-minutes. Most incredibly, some of the dolphins were peacefully sleeping and completely relaxed about our presence next to them.

Swimming with dolphins

The beautiful crew on Wild Encounters take plenty of photos of the dolphin swim throughout the day. You can download all the photos after your tour and enjoy the swim with the dolphins. Images: Perth Wildlife Encounters.

Once we sighted the group of dolphins, our skipper stopped the boat and we scuttled around into our groups and got ready to enter the water for our first swim with the dolphins.

The waters around Rockingham are mostly calm and sheltered and there’s no sense of being out on the big ocean. Even less-experienced swimmers felt confident to enter the water and the crew were supportive of anyone that needed extra help.

Sharks were definitely in the back of my mind as I got into the water. However, the team leaders from the crew are equipped with a shark shield. This is a long dangly cable attached to their ankle which acts as a shark deterrent and gives peace of mind.

In reality, though, the whole experience felt very safe. We were always close to an island or bay and on our second swimming spot, the water was less than 2 metres deep and crystal clear.

Once in the water, very little swimming is required. The aim is to create as little disturbance to the water surface as possible and it’s more a case of floating with dolphins rather than swimming.

This means that you don’t have to have snorkelling experience or be an experienced swimmer. It’s a very gentle exercise and accessible to almost anyone, including kids over the age of 6.

Our groups took turns going into the water. While the other team was snorkelling we had ample opportunity to get close up views of the dolphins from the boat. This was almost as good as being in the water.

The dolphins put on quite the show and circled the boat and seemed happy to take some time out of their busy day to interact with us. We also had the privilege to see a mother dolphin with her adorable calf.

Put this on your bucket list. Swimming with dolphins in Western Australia. Image: Perth Wildlife Encounters

We went into the water about six times and swam for a few minutes each time. It was incredible to see the dolphins swim underneath and around us while they were fishing and feeding.

After swimming with the dolphins in two different spots for more than an hour, the group of dolphins swam off into deeper water.

Our skipper made the call to let the dolphins get on with their day. We enjoyed another hour on the boat, eating our lunch and snorkelling in the very clear and shallow waters.

It was a lovely opportunity to get to know everyone on the boat a bit better and enjoy another coffee or cup of tea. We also go to try the aqua scooters which was a definite highlight for the kids in the tour group.

What to bring

The tour includes good quality wetsuits, masks and snorkels. The Swim with Dolphin tour also includes a healthy lunch and tea and coffee throughout the day.

The crew also take loads of photos throughout the day. You can download these a few days after your tour.

Wear your swimsuit before you go with some easy layers over the top. This makes it easy to change in and out of the wetsuit once you’re on the boat.

Bring a towel and plenty of sun protection, as well as a jacket or hoodie on cooler days.

Tour Details

The Swim with Dolphin Tour in Rockingham, Perth runs from September to June. Tours are weather dependent.

Chances of sighting dolphins are very high. On the rare occasion that there is no dolphin sighting, you can rebook for another day.

Recommended age for the Rockingham dolphin swim is 6 years and above.

An alternative option is the Dolphin, Penguin and Sealion Cruise. The cruise lets you see the best of Shoalwater’s marine life without having to get wet and is suitable for smaller children. See details here .

Book a tour

You can easily book a tour with Viator here.

Tours can be cancelled or rescheduled 24-hours before departure.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my full disclosure for further information.

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14 comments.

I don’t blame you I would be worried about sharks too. I’m curious as to what this dangly cable is that works as a shark deterrent? Usually, if there are dolphins around there aren’t sharks so if they suddenly disappear is when I would get worried! I love that this is entirely a wild encounter as they aren’t hand-fed. I also like that lunch is included in the excursion!

Hi Heather, the dangly cable is a shark shield that is meant to deter sharks by emitting electrical impulses from the 2 m long cable. It’s quite common practice for professional and recreational divers to use them. It gives peace of mind and studies show that they are effective as a shark deterrent. It gives peace of mind but the water was so shallow and we were always close to the shore that sharks didn’t really cross my mind anymore once I was in the water.

Being in the water with dolphins sounds like a lot of fun. I wish I had done this when I went to Perth. My kids would have loved it. How amazing to see a mother and calf. I love that the tour provides wetsuits and equipment, as well as lunch.

The kids love this experience and seeing the mother with her calf was a definite highlight. She was very proud to show us her baby.

From your article I can sense that the tour is ethical.. because when I stated reading I did not know something of this kind existed and it could be ethical. I loved reading through your experience and swimming with dolphins does sound like fun!

Hi Ketki, I’ve done lots of tours with this tour company and regularly visit the area and know from first-hand experience that they really live up to their promise of providing an ecologically friendly experience. The founder of the company spent many years interacting with the local dolphin population. Sharing it with the public is for the wider community to have the opportunity to have this interaction with the dolphins and hopefully creates a better awareness of the importance of preserving our marine habitat.

This is going on my bucket list! I have always wanted to swim with dolphins but didn’t want to take part in a caged encounter. How cool this is a possibility!

It really is a wonderful experience. Hope you get to visit sometime soon.

When I was in Perth I definitely considered going further south to Rockingham for a day but with Rottnest Island and Fremantle I just didn’t have the time! Glad to know it’s an area for nature lovers and I’ll try to make it down next time I’m there. It’s reassuring that you don’t have to be an ardent swimmer in order to enjoy this tour. Like Heather, I’m also very intrigued by the shark shield and how it works, but I’m glad that you never felt like you were in harm’s way during your experience!

Thanks for the comment Kevin. You had some great experiences in Perth. Rottnest and Fremantle are definitely some of the highlights on a visit to Perth. Hopefully you can visit another time and I definitely recommend visiting Shoalwater Marine Park and Rockingham.

Book me in!! I would so love to do this tour… thinking now that it’s been far too long since we have been to Perth! I have swum accidentally with dolphins here in New South Wales, but very briefly, to spend more time would be wonderful.

You should definitely come west for ‘research’ purposes. So many fantastic swimming options here, including this one with the dolphins.

[…] Swim with dolphins in Perth for a truly wild encounter […]

Looks amazing, so there is an activity like this in Pert swimming with dolphins. The dolphins are not scared and they are very calm to humans.

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Swim with the Dolphins

An award-winning tour guaranteed to thrill!

Join us for an intimate swim with wild dolphins in their natural environment. Our most popular and exhilarating tour, you will be accompanied by our experienced guide and trained volunteers as you venture into the beautiful open waters of Koombana Bay.  

Dolphin Discovery Centre will provide you with everything you need for your 3-hour adventure , including snorkelling equipment, wetsuits, a snack and drink and our knowledgeable team who are incredibly passionate about Bunbury’s dolphins and all marine life in the bay.

We do guarantee dolphin sightings or you go again for free on the next available trip (subject to availability). As they are wild animals, please understand that a dolphin interaction cannot be guaranteed.

Swim Tour season runs from November to April with tours departing Wednesday to Sunday (weather and skipper dependent) at 7:45am.  

• All children swimming must be aged 8+ and must be accompanied by a swimming adult.
• All participants who are swimming must be independent and confident swimmers. 
• If you book on and you cannot swim or be independent in the water, you will be asked to sit on the boat, no refunds will apply.
• We do supply floatation devices if required, but this cannot negate your ability to swim.
• The Swim Tour must have a minimum number of swimmers to run. We will contact you if we need to cancel or move dates.
• Please make sure you have booked any infants in your group a ticket too.

Every purchase goes towards funding Dolphin Discovery Centre’s essential conservation, education and research projects.

Seasonality

Please note: Tour times are weather and numbers permitting.

What you’ll see

• The dolphins are wild, which makes it extra special as they aren’t performing – just behaving naturally.
• You may see examples of feeding, socialising, jumping and sleeping.
• Feel the buzz of the dolphins’ echo location checking you out!
• Learn how we ID all the dolphins.

What’s included

• 3–4 hour guided swim tour with our experienced guide.
• Wetsuit, mask, snorkel and fins.
• Buoyancy vest, if required.
• Snack on board.
• Water provided.
• After your tour we provide hot showers and changing rooms.

Important info:

• All participants that are swimming must be independent and confident swimmers.
• We do supply flotation devices if required, but this cannot negate your ability to swim.
• Please make sure you have booked any infants in your group a ticket too.
• All children observing must be accompanied by an observing adult.

What to Bring

• Bathers/swim suit.
• Jumper/windcheater (something warm).
• Hat and sunscreen.
• Don’t forget the camera!
• Medication (if you require during a 3-4 hour period).

Booking Info

Passenger numbers.

• Minimum 8 paying Swimmers.
• Maximum 20 Swimmers.
• Maximum 4 Observers.
• All children swimming must be accompanied by a swimming adult.

Save Your Place

To avoid disappointment be sure to book your tour well in advance.

Tour Prices

Refund Policy:

A full refund is available up to seven days prior to your tour.

The swimmer acknowledges that they understand the fact that dolphins are wild animals and travel through the sea as they wish and that the purpose of the Dolphin swim is to attempt to locate a pod/group of dolphins and enter the water with them.  Furthermore, the Swimmer acknowledges that the purpose may not be realised if dolphins are unable to be found or if once found, the dolphins are exhibiting signs of aggression or other behaviours that in the judgement of staff of the DDC would render it unwise to enter the water with them.  If these circumstances occur the swimmer will be offered to go again for free on the next available tour (subject to availability) or refunded back to the observer rate.

In the case of cancellation due to adverse weather conditions or vessel maintenance, we will re-book your tour for an alternative time suitable to you or offer a 100% refund.  When considering cancelling tours our key consideration is your safety and comfort.

Q) What age group is the tour aimed at?

A) 8+ years. All children swimming must be accompanied by a swimming adult. All children observing must be accompanied by an observing adult.

Q) Is previous snorkelling experience an advantage?

A) Yes, absolutely!

Q) Are there any limitations for people with mobility constraints?

A) Access to the boat is via the beach and then a step up onto the vessel to board. Wheelchairs can be placed on board but not wheeled on and we aren’t allowed to lift passengers due to OHS. We do have beach wheelchairs available but, again, are unable to assist in pushing the visitor on sand. Buoyancy Vests are available to use.

Q) Are there change rooms and showers are available?

Q) Is there a toilet on board?

Q) Do kids have to remain seated all the time?

A) No, they are free to move around.

Q) Are we allowed to touch the dolphins?

A) No, it is illegal to touch dolphins in Australia.

Q) Where does the tour depart from?

A) The season runs from November to April, and during the summer months we depart from the beach outside the Dolphin Discovery Centre.

Q) Do I need to take seasick tablets?

A) Completely up to you, but we don’t have seasick passengers very often due to our flat bottom vessel, which is very stable. We try to schedule all tours to suit the weather and we have protected conditions in the Bay.

Q) Do we go out in the open ocean?

A) We predominantly remain in Koombana Bay, however, there are times we travel around to the ocean side of the Bay in search of dolphins.

Q) Will I swim with dolphins?

A) We guarantee that you will see dolphins on the Swim Tour or we offer a refund or we refund your price back to Observer. We don’t guarantee the in water interaction as it depends on dolphin behaviours at the time. However, we have an 80% success rate.

Q) Do you offer package prices with the Interpretive Centre?

A) Discounted tickets to our Interpretive Centre can be purchased on the day of the tour.

Attraction Dolphin Discovery Centre

Tourism Western Australia acknowledges Aboriginal peoples as the traditional custodians of Western Australia and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We celebrate the diversity of Aboriginal West Australians and honour their continuing connection to Country, culture and community. We recognise and appreciate the invaluable contributions made by First Nations peoples across many generations in shaping Western Australia as a premier destination.

Swim with Dolphins WA

You can now swim with wild dolphins from the coastal town of bunbury, in koombana bay just south of perth, western australia’s capital city., swimming with wild dolphins is a once in a lifetime experience.

Dolphins are magnificent marine mammals. Highly intelligent, socially skilled, agile, joyful, and playful creatures, they share many emotional similarities with humans and you’ll receive a wonderful view into their natural habitat with a swimming with dolphins experience by Aussie Marine Adventures.

Why Swim with Dolphins in Western Australia?

Western Australia tops the ranks as one of the world’s best destinations for memorable close encounters with these remarkable wild mammals. We’ve found for the best success, when the bottlenose dolphins are located, a guide will take you in the water to see them. Then the dolphins can choose to initiate an interaction.

As they are wild dolphins, interactions cannot be guaranteed however in the pristine waters of Bunbury’s Koombana Bay with our experienced team at Aussie Marine Adventures, we strive to give you a dolphin interaction that you will never forget.

The Best Wild Dolphin Experience in WA

Providing unique up-close experiences with wild Bottlenose dolphins in the protected waters of Koombana Bay, Bunbury from November to April. Our amazing swimming with wild dolphin adventures set sail from Bunbury WA, which is only a 2-hour drive from Perth.

You can explore the underwater world with a 3-4 hour swim with dolphins, snorkeling in pristine waters and frolicking with the dolphins in their natural environment.

For those who would prefer to keep dry, you can view dolphins from aboard a luxurious vessel, relaxing in comfort while learning about marine conservation from experienced and knowledgeable guides.

• Enjoy a light lunch, drinks and snacks
• High quality snorkel equipment provided
• Experienced crew to guide you on your adventure

Book Your Swim with Dolphins Adventure Today

Aussie Marine Adventures is a multi-award winning eco-tourism operation and we limit the size of our trips to guarantee a high standard of customer service and environmental care. Our experienced crew will ensure you enjoy an unforgettable marine adventure swimming with Dolphins . We offer a huge range of interactive marine experiences including swimming with whale sharks , Humpback Whale swims , manta rays , sea lions ,  plus Coral Viewing from our glass bottom boats , snorkeling ,  scuba diving ,  cage diving with great white sharks , orca tours , and other magnificent marine adventures. We have action packed tours suitable for everyone all over Australia.  Contact us  to book your experience now.

Call or email us about group discounts and specials.

Call: international (+61) 456 407 547    australia 0456 407 547, share this on…, aussie marine adventures.

We are your one-stop-shop for marine animal interaction experiences including Whale Sharks , Manta Rays , Whale Swim , Whale Watching , Orcas , Dolphins , Sea Lions , Turtles , Cage Diving , Scuba Diving , Glass Bottom Boats and Snorkeling Tours. From Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia to the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland, no matter which direction you decide to go around the Australian coast, we'll find a tour that's right for you. Book Now or Get in Contact to find out more.

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Swim with Wild Dolphins

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Here is an adventure that won’t leave your mind for a long time. Come aboard to swim with dolphins in the wild. Yes, you read that right.  Embark on a journey to the secluded beaches and bays of Rockingham and frolic with any of over 200 dolphins that inhabit the area. Cruise comfortably on the luxury custom built vessel.  When silver grey dorsal fins start to appear on the water’s surface, brace yourself for the best swim of your life. Put on your snorkel and mask and zip your wetsuit up. The friendly crew will make sure that you are seated comfortably on the deck, all ready to go.  As soon as the vessel is in the right position and the skipper gives you the green signal, take the leap. Embrace this once-in- a-lifetime opportunity to swim with the friendly acrobats of the sea. These wild dolphins are not trained to do any tricks for you. Instead, have a fun time with them - swimming, splashing, whistling, and laughing.  Remember that this is a wild encounter. Please be respectful and approach the dolphins with caution. The dedicated and enthusiastic crew has nurtured a beautiful friendship with the dolphins, leading to an outstanding success rate of more than 99%. All are welcome to join in and enjoy the adventure. You do not have to be a strong swimmer or prior snorkelling practice. Our professional crew members will introduce you to snorkelling. They will make sure that the nervous or less experienced are at ease throughout the experience.

Cruise Inclusions

• Terms Of Services

Departure Details

Departure Location Val Street

Boards 07:45

Departs 08:00

Returns 14:00

• 3hr to 6hr adventure cruise
• Swim with playful dolphins
• Light lunch served onboard
• Tea, coffee, hot chocolate & water
• Wetsuits, mask & snorkelling gear

Please refer to our full passengers terms and conditions on the following link; https://www.australiancruisegroup.com.au/national-terms-of-services

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32 The Promenade, King Street Wharf, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia

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Temptation Sailing, Glenelg, South Australia © South Australian Tourism Commission

6 places to swim with wild dolphins

Australia's magnificent oceans offer one of the world's ultimate wildlife encounters: swimming with wild dolphins.

By Sheriden Rhodes

These guided encounters, from Australia's west coast to the serene waters of Melbourne's Port Phillip Bay, allow you to swim with curious dolphins in their natural environment.

Port Stephens

Dolphin Swim Australia, Port Stephens, New South Wales ©  Destination NSW

Regarded as Australia's dolphin capital,  Port Stephens  is home to a remarkable dolphin encounter. Most swim-with-dolphin experiences involve floating in the ocean and waiting in a stationary position until the dolphins approach you, but with  Dolphin Swim Australia , swimmers are pulled slowly alongside the dolphins. Participants are attached to a harness and clipped to a tow rope between the twin bows of a catamaran. As the dolphins move playfully through the water, you effectively swim in time with them. 

How to experience it:  Dolphin Swim Tours leave from Dock C of  d’Albora Marinas  in Nelson Bay. Guests are asked to arrive at the dock at 6.15am, so consider spending the night in Port Stephens prior to your tour.

Temptation Sailing, Glenelg, South Australia © Tourism Australia

This wild dolphin encounter operates in the waters off  Adelaide 's favourite beachside town,  Glenelg . Hop on board  Temptation  in your supplied wetsuit, snorkel and mask, hang on to a flotation line, and wait for common and bottlenose dolphins to gather around to play, swimming around and beneath you. Thousands of dolphins call the Gulf St Vincent home, so dolphin sightings are virtually guaranteed.

How to experience it:  Just 20 minutes from Adelaide, Temptation Sailing tours depart from Marina Pier in Glenelg. Tours depart daily during dolphin season at 8.00am and return to the pier at approximately 12.15am.

Moonraker Dolphin Swim, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria © Visit Victoria

Melbourne  is home to a vast harbour – Port Phillip Bay. About 80 frolicking bottlenose dolphins live here, and two local tour operators,  Polperro Dolphin Swim  and  Moonraker Dolphin Swims,  offer wonderful snorkelling experiences. Simply hop into the water and dolphins and Australian fur seals will swim around and beneath you, often in circles. Afterwards, you'll tuck into homemade scones and a warming cup of tea.

How to experience it:  Polperro Dolphin Swim operate tours twice daily during dolphin season from late September to early May. Moonraker Dolphin Swims operate from October to April and offer a range of tours that depart daily from Sorrento Pier on the tip of the  Mornington Peninsula .

Swim with Australia’s most exciting marine life

Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures, Kangaroo Island, South Australia © Tourism Australia

Well known for its incredible wildlife spotting opportunities on land, it's no surprise that Kangaroo Island is also home to marine species living just off its golden shores. Jump into the water with Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures or Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari to swim alongside bottlenose dolphins and even long-nosed seals. 

How to experience it:  If you don't feel like swimming. you can ride along to get incredible shots of dolphins coming near the boat on the Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures Tours.

Dolphin Discovery Centre, Bunbury, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia

In the  Bunbury Geographe  region of  Western Australia , you can swim with wild dolphins under the watchful eye of a marine biologist and volunteers from the  Dolphin Discovery Centre . Venture into the open waters of Koombana Bay, where the curious bottlenose dolphins usually choose to approach swimmers. As in all other locations, encounters rely on dolphins approaching swimmers of their own accord.

How to experience it: Just north of the Margaret River region, the Dolphin Discovery Centre operates swim encounter tours from the beginning of November to the end of April. Swim tours depart daily at 8am.

Rockingham Wild Encounters, Rockingham, Western Australia © Rockingham Wild Encounters

Swim with dolphins on this remarkable tour of the  Shoalwater Islands Marine Park . The knowledgeable crew from  Rockingham Wild Encounters  has, over the years, befriended hundreds of local dolphins that call the area's sheltered bays and islands home. You may see mothers nursing calves, discover how dolphins use stingrays to catch their dinner or simply watch the boys showing off for the ladies. 

How to experience it:  Less than an hour drive south of  Perth , Rockingham Wild Encounters tours are available from early September to early June, though exact dates may vary each year. Tours depart from the  Cruising Yacht Club , and transportation can be arranged from Perth.

Swim with dolphins in Australia

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We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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Home > The Daily Whale > Western Australia Dolphins

Western Australia Dolphins

Western Australia Dolphins can be found along our coastline with today sighting an enormous feeding frenzy as hundreds of birds fed on a giant school of pilchards as three different dolphin species joined in on the feast. A beautiful autumn day as calm seas and light winds made fo a mesmerising journey towards the Perth Canyon. The only distraction was a distant cloud of birds on the horizon and as we approached tiny tuffs of white water could be sighted. Dolphins were porpoising at pace as the ocean exploded to life amongst the calm conditions as the surface buzzed with the rippling effect of thousands of pilchards. Gannets plummeted like bullets into the giant school of fish as Shearwaters and Albatross danced across the surface trying to capture their meal. The offshore Bottlenose Dolphins had much energy as they raced around the school of fish entrapping them closer to the oceans surface as the tornado of birds followed them everywhere.

There was well over one hundred individuals spread over a vast area including young calves enjoying learning the best way to hunt alongside their mums on mothers day. Later in the afternoon we were thrilled to see that all the feeding had caused a commotion which had now attracted the attention of two different species, Common Dolphins and Striped Dolphins. The numbers of dolphins had exploded and as far as the eye could see small groups of feeding individuals could be sighted as 300-500 individuals had now joined the feeding frenzy. Rafts of birds could be seen floating on the surface, with bellies full of fish they were now content to rest for a while as the next wave of birds took over. Western Australia Dolphins are beautiful to see in the wild and today we were split with three different species all working and feeding together. Full bellies meant that many of the dolphins were now in a playful mood as they socialised amongst each other and enjoyed swimming with us for a while as we were completed surrounded by Western Australia Dolphins.

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