If you’re dreaming of sharing water with playful wild dolphins in a relaxed, natural setting, the Swim With The Dolphins Experience in Bunbury might just be your perfect outing. This tour, run by the Dolphin Discovery Centre, combines adventure, wildlife observation, and a commitment to conservation—all wrapped into about four hours of fun and discovery. Whether you’re an eco-conscious traveler or simply craving a memorable aquatic encounter, this trip offers a rare chance to see and, if luck is on your side, swim with over 100 wild bottlenose dolphins.
What we love about this tour is its focus on ecological awareness and dolphin welfare. Designed by marine biologists, it’s clear that the goal isn’t just a good time but also protecting the ocean’s intelligent residents. Plus, it’s a chance to support local conservation, education, and research initiatives with every booking.
On the flip side, some travelers have noted that, as with any wildlife experience, the level of interaction with the dolphins can vary depending on the animals’ mood and behavior. This unpredictability is part of the charm but also worth considering if your top priority is guaranteed close contact.
This tour fits best for those who love nature, enjoy water activities, and are eager to learn about marine life in a responsible way. It’s suitable for most travelers, from families to solo adventurers, who want a genuine, eco-friendly dolphin experience.
Key Points
- Wildlife Encounters: Swim and observe wild bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Expertly Designed: Created by marine biologists prioritizing dolphin welfare and ecological sustainability.
- Supports Conservation: All profits go to marine research, education, and conservation projects.
- Flexible Experience: If you don’t see dolphins, you can redo the tour for free, weather permitting.
- Accessible & Convenient: Located at the Dolphin Discovery Centre, with short travel distances and a mobile ticket option.
- Authentic and Educational: Guided by knowledgeable hosts and volunteers, with opportunities for animal identification and behavior observation.
An In-Depth Look at the Bunbury Dolphin Swim Tour
You can also read our reviews of more dolphin watching tours in Bunbury
Setting the Scene: Bunbury and Koombana Bay
Bunbury’s Koombana Bay offers calm, shallow waters that are ideal for this type of adventure. Its protected nature makes it a safe environment for both swimmers and dolphins, minimizing environmental impact. The tour begins at the Dolphin Discovery Centre, a well-known local hub dedicated to marine education and conservation. From this starting point, the boat leaves from a convenient beach location right in front of the Centre, making it easy to access without fuss or long transfers.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
Starting bright and early at 7:45 am, the tour usually lasts around four hours. The early start is strategic—dolphins are often more active in the morning, and the bay is typically calmer. Once on board, you’ll be greeted by experienced guides and volunteers who are passionate about marine life.
The first part of the trip involves a comfortably-sized boat trip out into the bay. Most reviews note that the vessels are roomy and well-maintained, with plenty of space to sit back and enjoy the scenery. The calm waters offer excellent visibility, so even if you don’t jump in right away, you’ll still have the chance to see the dolphins frolicking around.
The core of the experience is entering the water to swim with wild dolphins. The guides use sightings and animal behavior cues to determine when it’s safe and appropriate to enter the water. When dolphins are nearby and show interest, you’ll be guided into the water—sometimes by yourself, sometimes in small groups. This unpredictability is part of the thrill; as one reviewer said, “you are going into the water and the dolphins may choose to interact with you,” emphasizing that nature has its own agenda.
The Dolphin Encounters: Wild and Unpredictable
What makes this tour special is that the dolphins are completely wild. Unlike captive dolphin swims, here you’re sharing space with animals that decide on their own terms when to engage. Some lucky swimmers have described encounters where dolphins come close, swim alongside, or even under their legs during the swim. Others have observed mother-calf pairs, male alliances, and juvenile curiosity.
A common theme in reviews highlights the respect for wildlife. Participants are encouraged not to chase or force interactions, enhancing both safety and the well-being of the animals. This approach is why some reviews note that the dolphins may not always swim directly with you—a key consideration for those expecting a guaranteed up-close encounter.
The Conservation Angle
All profits from the tour go toward marine research, education, and conservation. The team documents dolphin populations, identity, and behavior during each trip, making it both a tour and a research expedition. Participating helps fund these critical programs, turning a fun day into an act of support for marine ecosystems.
Equipment and Comfort
The tour provides all necessary gear—snorkels, masks, fins, and wetsuits—so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own unless you prefer. Many reviews point out that the wetsuits help keep swimmers warm, especially since water temperatures can be cool. A snack and drink are included, making the experience comfortable and relaxed.
Group Size and Accessibility
The maximum group size is 22, which fosters a more intimate and personal experience. The tour is designed to be accessible, with most travelers able to participate. Public transportation makes it easy to reach the meeting point, and the mobile ticket system streamlines check-in.
Pricing and Value
At around $99.64 per person, this experience offers good value—especially when you consider that a marine wildlife encounter in the wild is priceless. The fact that the tour includes expert guidance, equipment, and supports conservation adds to its worth. Several reviewers describe it as “well worth the cost,” with some noting that the experience exceeds expectations.
What Past Participants Say
Reviews paint a generally positive picture. Many emphasize the knowledge and friendliness of the guides and volunteers. Comments like “well-trained volunteers guiding us and sharing their knowledge in dolphins” and “the crew were very knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly” highlight how much the staff contribute to a memorable trip.
Several reviewers mention the thrill of seeing numerous dolphins and swimming with them—some describing it as “incredible” and “a once-in-a-lifetime experience.” Others appreciate the calm, safe environment, which makes even those new to snorkeling or wildlife encounters comfortable.
However, a few reviews note that dolphin sightings and interactions can vary. One reviewer pointed out that their experience did not fully match their expectations, mainly because of limited dolphin interaction. This variability is inherent in wildlife tours and underscores the importance of patience and understanding the unpredictability of wild animals.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for travelers who value authentic wildlife encounters over scripted attractions. It suits nature lovers, eco-conscious travelers, families, and even solo travelers eager to support marine conservation. It’s perfect if you want to connect with wildlife responsibly—remember, the dolphins choose how they interact, not the guides.
If you’re looking for a calm, educational, and memorable adventure that leaves a positive mark on local conservation efforts, this tour hits the mark. Conversely, if guaranteed close contact with dolphins is your top priority, keep in mind that the wild animals set the pace.
The Sum Up
The Swim With The Dolphins Experience in Bunbury combines the thrill of a wildlife encounter with a responsible approach that respects the animals and their environment. Its focus on conservation, education, and genuine interaction makes it a meaningful choice for travelers wanting more than just a tourist photo.
You’ll love the knowledgeable guides, the chance to see a large pod of dolphins, and the overall feeling of contributing to marine research efforts. The tour’s relaxed pace and well-organized setup make it accessible for most, offering a memorable, eco-friendly adventure.
While the unpredictability of wild dolphins can be a surprise, that’s part of the charm—every trip is unique. Whether you swim with dolphins or simply watch them play, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for these intelligent, free-ranging creatures and the importance of protecting their ocean home.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately four hours, starting at 7:45 am, including travel time, dolphin sightings, and the swim.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and with all equipment supplied, it’s accessible for many. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns, but generally, families and solo travelers enjoy it.
What if I don’t see dolphins during my trip?
If dolphins aren’t sighted or don’t interact during your tour, you’re entitled to go again for free—weather and availability permitting.
What equipment is included?
All necessary gear, including snorkels, masks, fins, and wetsuits, is provided, helping keep you warm and comfortable in the water.
How many people are on each tour?
The maximum group size is 22, ensuring a more personal experience and better observation opportunities.
Can I cancel if the weather turns bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The tour relies on good weather, and in case of poor conditions, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund.
In the end, this tour offers an authentic, responsible, and genuinely exciting way to connect with Bunbury’s marine life. Even if dolphin encounters vary, the overall experience—educational, supportive of conservation, and deeply respectful of wildlife—is a real treasure for those looking to make a meaningful ocean adventure.