Port Stephens’ Nelson Bay delivers reliable dolphin watching experiences through two standout tours. The longer 2-hour cruise includes swim time and boat slides, perfect for families wanting extra adventure. A shorter 1.5-hour Marine Park tour focuses purely on dolphin spotting with expert narration. Both operate year-round with consistently high success rates for dolphin sightings.
We especially recommend the 2-hour cruise for its excellent value and added activities, while the Marine Park tour stands out for its educational component and shorter duration.
Check out these top tours to meet Nelson Bay’s friendly bottlenose dolphins:
Key Points
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The Dolphin Watch Cruise from Nelson Bay offers a 2-hour cruise with opportunities to spot dolphins, as well as onboard activities like slides and a spa tub.
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The Dolphin Watching Cruise in the Port Stephens Marine Park provides a 1.5-hour experience with a focus on spotting resident Bottlenose Dolphins and offering live commentary from the captain.
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Both dolphin watching tours depart from Wharf 1 in Nelson Bay, with boarding beginning 30 minutes prior to departure, but they are not suitable for non-swimmers or pets.
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The Dolphin Watch Cruise and Dolphin Watching Cruise offer a range of onboard amenities, including a licensed bar, entertainment, and safety measures for a comfortable and eco-friendly experience.
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The dolphin watching tours in Nelson Bay have received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with customers praising the staff, educational experience, and activities, making them a must-do for travelers visiting the area.
Port Stephens: Dolphin Watch Cruise With Swimming & Slides
For those seeking to catch a glimpse of the dolphins that call Port Stephens home, the Dolphin Watch Cruise with Swimming and Slides provides an ideal opportunity.
This 2-hour cruise departs from Nelson Bay and costs from $30.61 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Along with the chance to spot dolphins in their natural habitat, the cruise offers onboard facilities like slides, a boom net, and a spa tub, as well as a licensed bar.
Passengers can also enjoy stunning views of the Eastern harbor, Tomaree, and Yacaaba headlands while listening to informative commentary. The meeting point is Wharf 1, 40 Victoria Parade, Nelson Bay, with boarding starting 30 minutes prior to departure.
While not suitable for non-swimmers, pets, or baby carriages, the cruise is highly recommended, with an overall rating of 4.5/5 from 174 reviews praising the staff, educational experience, and fun activities.
Read our full review: Port Stephens: Dolphin Watch Cruise With Swimming & Slides Review
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Port Stephens: Dolphin Watching Cruise
What better way to experience the captivating marine life of Port Stephens than a dolphin watching cruise? For just Kč 654 per person, you can embark on a 1.5-hour cruise and spot the resident Bottlenose Dolphins in the Port Stephens Marine Park.
The cruise takes you around the Eastern Harbour, offering stunning views of the Tomaree and Yacaaba Headlands, while the captain provides live commentary.
The cruise experience is further enhanced with a boom net, allowing adventurous passengers to get up close and personal with the water. And for those who prefer to stay dry, a licensed bar on board offers snacks and drinks.
The cruise is suitable for most travelers, although it’s not wheelchair-accessible. Guests are advised to bring sun protection and swimwear, as the tour may get wet.
With an impressive overall rating of 4.5/5 from over 600 reviews, this dolphin watching cruise is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the stunning Port Stephens region.
Read our full review: Port Stephens: Dolphin Watching Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Port Stephens offers two excellent dolphin watching tours. The Dolphin Watch Cruise with Swimming & Slides provides an interactive experience, while the Dolphin Watching Cruise offers a more traditional sightseeing option. Both tours provide chances to see the resident bottlenose dolphins that frequent the region’s waters. Visitors can choose the tour that best suits their interests and preferences for an unforgettable dolphin encounter in Nelson Bay.