Dolphin Watching in Australia: Top Cruises by State

Australia is a dream destination for dolphin lovers. With warm currents, thriving marine parks, and rich coastal ecosystems, the country offers year‑round encounters with several dolphin species, including bottlenose, common, and the rare Australian snubfin dolphin. Whether you want a family‑friendly sightseeing cruise, a premium sailing catamaran, or a bucket‑list swim with wild dolphins, there is an unforgettable tour in every state.

This guide brings together Australia’s top dolphin cruises by state, along with insider tips on when to go, how to choose an ethical operator, and what to expect on board. Ready to meet Australia’s most playful locals? Let’s chart your course.

🌤️ Weather Note: Australia's seasons are opposite to the Northern Hemisphere. Summer runs December-February, Winter June-August. Check our destination guides for specific timing recommendations.

Why Australia Is Incredible for Dolphin Watching

Resident pods near harbours and estuaries offer reliable sightings, especially around Mandurah in WA and Jervis Bay in NSW.
Offshore encounters with common dolphins are frequent in the Southern Ocean, Bass Strait, and along the Tasman and Coral coasts.
Several regions host unique species, such as the Australian snubfin dolphin in Broome and the humpback dolphin in Tin Can Bay.
Strict wildlife regulations protect both dolphins and guests, so tours are ethical and well‑managed when you choose reputable operators.

How to Choose the Right Dolphin Cruise

Not all tours are created equal. Use these criteria to find your perfect experience.

Safety and accreditation: Look for experienced skippers, eco‑certified operators, and modern safety gear. In Australia, reputable companies share clear safety processes and adhere to approach distances.
Wildlife ethics: The best tours let dolphins choose the encounter. There should be no chasing, feeding, or crowding. Swim programs use in‑water guidelines that minimise stress to animals.
Vessel style: Choose from stable catamarans, fast eco‑rafts, traditional sailing boats, or intimate RIBs. Smaller groups can feel more exclusive and reduce impact.
Swim vs watch: Swimming offers a thrilling, sensory experience, while watch‑only cruises suit families, photographers, and anyone who prefers to stay dry.
Accessibility and comfort: Check for shaded seating, toilets, onboard commentary, and wheelchair access. Calm waterways are ideal for those prone to seasickness.
Season and time of day: Morning cruises often enjoy calmer seas. Some regions offer better light and activity at sunrise or sunset.
Weather and flexibility: Coastal weather can change quickly. Book early in your holiday window and confirm change or cancellation policies.

Best Time of Year to See Dolphins in Australia

Dolphins are present year‑round across Australia, with peak activity and calm conditions varying by region.

New South Wales: Year‑round in Jervis Bay and Port Stephens. Spring and autumn often bring settled seas.
Queensland: Year‑round in Moreton Bay, Tin Can Bay, and the Gold Coast Broadwater. Summer mornings can be glassy.
Western Australia: Mandurah and Koombana Bay are reliable year‑round. Dry season in the north (Apr to Oct) is best for Broome.
Victoria: Strong year‑round chances in Port Phillip Bay and around Phillip Island. Late spring to early autumn offers the most comfortable conditions.
South Australia: Consistent encounters around Glenelg and Kangaroo Island from September to May, with many tours running all season.
Tasmania: Good year‑round sightings on Bruny Island, the Tasman Peninsula, and Freycinet, with peak calm days in summer.
Northern Territory: Dry season (May to October) is best for harbour and coastal wildlife tours, including snubfin and humpback dolphins.

Pro tip: Dolphins are active social feeders. Calm mornings often deliver gentle seas and great light for photos.

Top Dolphin Cruises by State

New South Wales

NSW blends sparkling bays, clear estuaries, and scenic headlands that are perfect for dolphin encounters.

Jervis Bay Wild, Jervis Bay

Location and vibe: Departing Huskisson, this operator explores a marine park famous for its turquoise water and white‑sand beaches.
Experience: Dedicated dolphin watch cruises with high‑sighting rates, plus seasonal whale watching and scenic Lighthouse tours.
Why book: Resident bottlenose dolphins, calm waters that suit families, and great commentary on local ecology.
Good to know: Morning departures are usually calmer. In summer, bring a hat, sunscreen, and light layers for the sea breeze.

Dolphin Watch Cruises Jervis Bay

Experience: Long‑running, locally owned operator with spacious vessels and experienced skippers.
Highlights: Gentle cruising, a focus on wildlife interpretation, and fantastic photography opportunities in crystal‑clear water.
Who it suits: Families, couples, and anyone who prefers relaxed sightseeing over speed.

Moonshadow‑TQC Cruises, Port Stephens

Location: Nelson Bay, the dolphin capital of NSW.
Experience: Large, stable vessels with indoor and outdoor viewing areas. Some boats feature boom nets for a fun salt‑water splash when conditions allow.
Why book: Port Stephens hosts a well‑known resident population, so sightings are very reliable.
Add‑ons: Combine with an afternoon sand‑boarding tour on the Stockton dunes for a perfect day.

Imagine Cruises, Port Stephens

Experience: Eco‑friendly sailing catamarans that deliver a quieter, more intimate wildlife encounter.
Highlights: Sustainability focus, friendly crew, and relaxed sailing with frequent dolphin bow rides.
Who it suits: Travellers who love the romance of sailing and small‑group experiences.

Byron Bay Dolphin Kayak Tours

Operators: Cape Byron Kayaks and Go Sea Kayak Byron Bay.
Experience: Guided kayak tours in a marine park known for wild dolphins and turtles.
Why include: Not a cruise but a memorable, low‑impact way to see dolphins near Australia’s most easterly point.
Tip: Early tours often enjoy the calmest seas and a golden sunrise behind Cape Byron Lighthouse.

Queensland

From sheltered bays to tropical islands, Queensland serves up some of Australia’s most reliable dolphin experiences.

Tangalooma Island Resort, Moreton Island

Signature experience: Wild dolphin feeding at dusk under ranger supervision.
Access: Day trips by ferry from Brisbane or overnight stays at the resort.
Why book: One of Australia’s most famous dolphin interactions in a beautiful island setting.
Ethics note: Feeding is tightly controlled and limited. Listen closely to ranger briefings and follow all instructions.

Dolphin Wild Island Cruises, Moreton Bay

Departure: Newport or Scarborough, north of Brisbane.
Experience: Full‑day marine safaris into Moreton Bay Marine Park with high chances of dolphins, turtles, and dugongs.
Highlights: Snorkelling over reefs and wrecks, friendly crew, and a relaxed island vibe.
Who it suits: Families and ocean lovers who want a full day on the water.

Noosa Oceanrider, Noosa

Experience: Fast RIB adventure along the Noosa coastline with frequent dolphin sightings and coastal scenery.
Highlights: Thrilling ride, small groups, and a chance to spot dolphins surfing boat wake.
Tip: Book morning sessions when winds are lighter.

Blue Dolphin Marine Tours, Hervey Bay

Experience: Boutique sailing catamaran offering dolphin eco cruises outside the famous whale season.
Why book: Calm waters in the Great Sandy Strait and a personable small‑group feel.
Bonus: The same operator runs one of the area’s top whale tours in winter.

Sea World Cruises, Gold Coast Broadwater

Experience: Scenic Broadwater cruises with regular dolphin sightings, plus premium whale tours in winter.
Highlights: Comfortable vessels, commentary, and convenient departures from Surfers Paradise or Main Beach.
Good to know: The Broadwater is sheltered, so this is a good pick for those who prefer gentle conditions.

Barnacles Dolphin Centre, Tin Can Bay

Experience: Shore‑based, ranger‑monitored feeding of Australian humpback dolphins in their natural environment.
Why include: A rare chance to learn about a less common species in a quiet inlet.
Tip: Arrive early for feeding times and be ready to follow strict protocols.

Whitsunday Islands Wildlife Sightings, Airlie Beach

Operators: Ocean Rafting and Red Cat Adventures.
Experience: Full‑day reef and island tours with regular curveball moments when pods of dolphins appear alongside the boat.
Why book: Stunning scenery, top snorkelling, and a real chance of dolphin encounters as a bonus.

Western Australia

WA is a dolphin paradise, home to some of the country’s best swim encounters and scenic estuaries.

Perth Wildlife Encounters, Rockingham

Signature experience: Swim with wild dolphins in their natural environment.
What to expect: A professional crew, spotter planes or keen dolphin tracking, and guided in‑water interactions where dolphins approach on their terms.
Why book: One of Australia’s most celebrated wild dolphin swims.
Good to know: Wetsuits, masks, and snorkels are provided. Non‑swimmers can often join as observers.

Mandurah Cruises, Mandurah

Experience: Dolphin and Scenic Marine Cruises in the serene Mandurah estuary and canals.
Highlights: A resident population of Indo‑Pacific bottlenose dolphins, with frequent sightings year‑round.
Family factor: Comfortable seats, shaded decks, and calm waterways make this ideal for kids and grandparents.
Extras: Look out for birdlife, blue swimmer crabs in season, and pretty canal homes.

Dolphin Discovery Centre, Bunbury

Experiences: Dolphin Eco Cruise on Koombana Bay and guided swim tours when conditions allow.
Why book: A respected interpretive centre that blends education with responsible wildlife tourism.
Bonus: Excellent exhibits on marine conservation and local ecosystems.

Monkey Mia, Shark Bay

Experience: World‑famous beach interactions with wild dolphins in a strictly managed program.
Why go: A bucket‑list setting in a UNESCO‑listed World Heritage Area with sparkling clear water.
Nearby cruises: Shark Bay Eco Tours and other Denham operators run marine safaris that often encounter dolphins, dugongs, and rays.

Broome Snubfin Dolphin Cruises, Roebuck Bay

Operators: Broome Whale Watching and Absolute Ocean Charters.
Experience: Specialised cruises to view the shy Australian snubfin dolphin, plus coastal birds and striking red cliffs.
Best time: Dry season days from May to October bring superb visibility and gentle seas.

Ningaloo Marine Safaris, Exmouth and Coral Bay

Operators: Ningaloo Discovery, Three Islands Whale Shark Dive, and local eco charters.
Experience: Reef and wildlife cruises where dolphins often join the party, especially on the bow.
Why book: Extraordinary water clarity, manta rays, turtles, and seasonal whale sharks add to the magic.

Victoria

Victoria’s cooler waters are home to resident bottlenose dolphins and lively common dolphins that love to surf boat wakes.

Moonraker Dolphin Swims, Sorrento

Experience: Premium catamaran cruises with options to swim with wild dolphins and Australian fur seals.
Highlights: Expert guides, excellent safety briefings, and a strong conservation ethos.
Why book: Port Phillip Bay is one of Australia’s most reliable places to swim with dolphins in season.

Polperro Dolphin Swims, Sorrento

Experience: A long‑standing, family‑run operator known for small groups and careful wildlife practices.
Vibe: Personal, educational, and ideal for first‑time ocean swimmers.
Tip: Book ahead in peak summer. Swimmers must be comfortable in open water.

Sea All Dolphin Swims, Queenscliff

Experience: Swim and watch tours around Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park.
Highlights: Snorkel with playful seals, then look for dolphins that often appear around cliffs and sandy banks.
Family friendly: Watch‑only options are perfect for younger kids or nervous swimmers.

Wildlife Coast Cruises, Phillip Island

Experience: Seal and wildlife cruises around Seal Rocks, Cape Woolamai, and the San Remo area where dolphins are often spotted.
Why book: Dramatic coastal scenery, abundant seals and seabirds, and regular dolphin encounters.
Photography tips: Keep your camera ready as dolphins can appear quickly on these dynamic coasts.

Wilsons Promontory Cruises, Gippsland

Operator: Pennicott Wilderness Journeys.
Experience: Fast, purpose‑built vessels cruise to granite islands, blowholes, and remote beaches with regular dolphin sightings.
Why book: Pristine waters and a high‑energy ride among some of Victoria’s most dramatic landscapes.

South Australia

SA is known for hands‑down awesome swim opportunities and wild, undeveloped coastline.

Temptation Sailing, Glenelg

Experience: Swim with wild dolphins or watch from the deck of a sleek catamaran just minutes from Adelaide.
Why book: One of Australia’s pioneering dolphin swim operators with excellent safety credentials.
Who it suits: Everyone from confident swimmers to families who want a gentle half‑day on the water.

Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures, Kangaroo Island

Experience: Small‑group wildlife tours with the chance to swim with dolphins in clear, sheltered bays when conditions align.
Highlights: Dolphins, sea eagles, sometimes eagles rays and seals, plus a strong local storytelling element.
Good to know: KI’s waters are exceptionally clear in summer, which makes for gorgeous in‑water visibility.

Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari, Penneshaw

Experience: Fast eco‑rafts explore dramatic coastline and often find pods of dolphins.
Why book: Short, punchy trips ideal for travellers on tight itineraries or those who prefer speed and adventure.

Baird Bay Ocean Eco Experience, Eyre Peninsula

Experience: Swim with Australian sea lions and, when dolphins arrive, enjoy a respectful in‑water encounter.
Why book: Intimate group sizes, pristine waters, and a reverent approach to wildlife.
Tip: Book well in advance. This bucket‑list experience is very popular in peak season.

Tasmania

Wild and cinematic, Tasmania delivers dolphin sightings against a backdrop of sheer sea cliffs and remote bays.

Bruny Island Cruises, Bruny Island

Operator: Pennicott Wilderness Journeys.
Experience: Three‑hour wilderness cruise along towering dolerite cliffs and sea caves, with frequent dolphin sightings and seabirds.
Why book: Award‑winning operator, purpose‑built vessels, and world‑class coastal scenery.

Tasman Island Cruises, Tasman Peninsula

Experience: A thrilling wildlife cruise along the highest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere.
Highlights: Dolphins, seals, albatross, and often penguins hugging the currents near the rock platforms.
Tip: Dress warm, even in summer. The sea breeze can be fresh.

Wineglass Bay Cruises, Freycinet National Park

Experience: Half‑day scenic cruise into Wineglass Bay with regular dolphin sightings in the bay or along the coast.
Why book: Comfortable catamarans, great onboard hospitality, and postcard‑worthy scenery.

Wild Ocean Tasmania, Eaglehawk Neck

Experience: Small‑group wildlife tours with an emphasis on marine life and responsible wildlife watching.
Why book: Passionate local guides, great storytelling, and frequent surprise visits from dolphins.

Northern Territory

The Top End’s warm waters are home to unique dolphin species and vibrant coastal wildlife.

Sea Darwin, Darwin Harbour

Experience: Nature cruises and coastal adventures where you may spot humpback and snubfin dolphins, along with turtles and birdlife.
Why book: Knowledgeable local crew, flexible small‑group trips, and a focus on the harbour’s dynamic ecosystems.
Best time: Dry season brings clear, calm days and glowing sunsets.

Darwin Harbour Cruises

Experience: Sunset and sightseeing cruises on spacious vessels. Dolphin sightings are a bonus rather than guaranteed.
Why book: Relaxed dining and city views with a chance of wildlife on the way.

Tiwi and Coastal Day Trips

Operators: SeaLink NT and local charters.
Experience: While focused on culture and island landscapes, coastal transits can deliver dolphin sightings in calm weather.

What You Will See: Common Species Around Australia

Bottlenose dolphin: The most familiar species around bays and harbours such as Port Phillip Bay, Mandurah, and Jervis Bay.
Common dolphin: Often found offshore in larger superpods, playful and fast, seen frequently around Victoria and Tasmania.
Australian humpback dolphin: A coastal specialist with a distinctive dorsal hump, seen around Tin Can Bay and parts of the Queensland coast.
Australian snubfin dolphin: Shy and charismatic, seen around northern Australia, especially near Broome and the Top End.

What to Pack for a Dolphin Cruise

Soft‑soled shoes, sun‑smart clothing, and a hat with a chin strap
Reef‑safe sunscreen and polarised sunglasses
Light windproof layer, even on warm days
Reusable water bottle and snacks if allowed
Camera with a fast shutter or a phone in a waterproof pouch
Seasickness remedies if you are prone to motion sensitivity
Swimwear and towel for swim tours, plus your own mask if you prefer
Dry bag for valuables

Responsible Dolphin Watching: Do’s and Don’ts

Do choose operators that follow approach distances and never chase pods.
Do keep noise down and movements calm when dolphins are alongside.
Do listen to crew instructions before, during, and after in‑water encounters.
Don’t attempt to touch dolphins or drop into their path.
Don’t feed wildlife. It alters natural behaviour and is illegal without specific permits.
Don’t litter. Pack out everything you bring on board.

Booking Tips and Price Pointers

Book early in peak season. Australian school holidays and summer weekends sell out fast.
Morning departures usually offer the best sea state for comfort and photography.
Ask about swim ability requirements if you plan to enter the water. Some tours require basic snorkelling confidence.
Expect broad price ranges:
- Watch‑only coastal cruises: roughly AUD 60 to 120 per adult, depending on duration and vessel.
- Premium small‑group or sailing experiences: roughly AUD 120 to 190.
- Swim with wild dolphins: roughly AUD 180 to 300 per adult, including gear.
Check what is included. Wetsuits, snorkels, hot drinks, and hotel transfers vary by operator.
Read recent reviews to confirm current sighting rates and service standards.

Sample Itineraries by State

NSW long weekend: Day 1 Sydney to Jervis Bay, afternoon beach time. Day 2 morning dolphin cruise, lunch in Huskisson, and an afternoon walk to the White Sands area. Day 3 head to Port Stephens for a sunset sail.
QLD family escape: Base in Brisbane. Day trip to Tangalooma for snorkelling and dolphin feeding, then a Moreton Bay eco cruise the next day. Finish with a gentle Broadwater cruise on the Gold Coast.
WA south‑to‑north: Start in Mandurah for an easy estuary cruise, then head to Bunbury’s Dolphin Discovery Centre. Fly to Broome for a snubfin dolphin tour and sunset on Cable Beach.
VIC summer sampler: Morning swim with dolphins in Sorrento, lunch in a bayside village, then drive to Phillip Island for an afternoon wildlife cruise and penguin parade after dark.
SA coastal highlights: Swim with dolphins from Glenelg, ferry to Kangaroo Island for a high‑energy ocean safari, then road trip to Baird Bay for a once‑in‑a‑lifetime sea lion and dolphin experience.
TAS wilderness week: Bruny Island cruise for sea cliffs and dolphins, hike on the Tasman Peninsula, then a Wineglass Bay cruise to close with seafood and scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is dolphin watching in Australia ethical?

Yes, when you travel with reputable operators. Australia has strong wildlife protections, and leading companies follow strict approach distances and low‑impact swim guidelines.

Can I swim with wild dolphins?

Yes, in select regions such as Rockingham in WA, Glenelg in SA, and Port Phillip Bay in Victoria. Swims are always subject to weather, water conditions, and dolphin behaviour.

Are sightings guaranteed?

Wild animals decide when to appear. Many operators have high sighting rates and may offer rebooking or vouchers if no dolphins are seen. Check the policy before you book.

Will I get seasick?

Choose sheltered waterways such as Mandurah, Jervis Bay, or the Gold Coast Broadwater. Morning departures and larger, more stable vessels can help.

What is the minimum age for swim tours?

Policies vary. Some require swimmers to be 7 to 8 years old and comfortable in the water. Watch‑only options suit younger kids.

Are drones allowed?

Most tours and marine parks do not allow drones without permits. Always ask first and respect local regulations.

Planning With the Weather

Australia’s coastal conditions can change quickly. To make the most of your tour:

Keep a flexible day in your itinerary to shift your cruise if needed.
Check wind forecasts and book mornings for calmer seas.
Bring warm layers. Even in summer, sea breezes can feel cool.

How to Capture Great Dolphin Photos

Use burst mode to catch jumps and bow rides.
Aim for a fast shutter. On phones, pick “sports” or “action” if available.
Anticipate the movement. Focus just ahead of the dolphin’s last surfacing point.
Keep your lens dry and clean. A microfiber cloth is your friend.

Conclusion: Pick Your State, Pick Your Cruise, and Go

From the turquoise waters of Jervis Bay to the red shores of Broome, Australia’s coastline is alive with dolphin encounters for every traveller. Families love the calm estuaries of Mandurah and Port Stephens. Adventurers flock to Rockingham, Glenelg, and Sorrento for bucket‑list swims. Photographers chase action along Tasmania’s sea cliffs and Victoria’s rugged capes. Wherever you go, choose an operator with strong ethics, book the calmest time of day, and let the ocean set the pace.

Dolphins have a way of turning a good holiday into a story you will retell for years. Pick your state, pick your cruise, and get ready for an Australian marine adventure filled with speed, sparkle, and smiles.

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