Two excellent dolphin-watching options await in Jervis Bay’s pristine marine park. The 4.5-star Boom Netting and Dolphins Tour combines wildlife spotting with the unique thrill of riding in a trailing net. For a more traditional experience, the 1.5-hour Dolphin Cruise delivers reliable dolphin sightings along the scenic coastline. Both tours offer wheelchair access and necessary safety equipment. I especially recommend the Boom Netting tour for its combination of adventure and nature watching – it’s the best value for your travel dollar. While engine fumes can occasionally be noticeable, these well-run excursions consistently deliver close encounters with Jervis Bay’s resident bottlenose dolphins. Let’s explore the top dolphin tours available.
Key Points
- The Jervis Bay Boom Netting and Dolphins Tour offers a highly-rated 1.5-hour cruise with a maximum capacity of 150 travelers, ideal for first-time boom netters.
- The tour provides opportunities to see bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat within the Jervis Bay Marine Park, along with other New South Wales wildlife.
- The tour prioritizes safety and accessibility, with specialty equipment and wheelchair-accessible transportation available, though not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with back issues.
- The cruise departs from Currambene Street in Huskisson, offering on-board food, drinks, and restroom facilities, with prices starting from $23.21 per person.
- While the majority of reviews praise the dolphin sightings and stunning landscapes, some customers have expressed disappointment in the lack of dolphin encounters or perceived shorter-than-expected tour duration.
Jervis Bay Boom Netting and Dolphins Tour
The Jervis Bay Boom Netting and Dolphins Tour offers an exciting opportunity to experience the wonders of Jervis Bay. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars with a Badge of Excellence, this tour is ideal for first-time boom netters of all ages and abilities. Participants can expect to see dolphins and other New South Wales wildlife during the cruise.
The tour departs from Huskisson, with check-in at the Fishermens Wharf Cafe 30 minutes before departure. The maximum capacity is 150 travelers, and the tour includes complimentary tea and coffee, with alcoholic beverages available for purchase.
Safety and accessibility are prioritized, with specialty equipment and wheelchair-accessible transportation and surfaces. However, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with back problems. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and service animals are allowed.
Participants should come prepared with swimwear, protective clothing, and other essentials. While the tour generally receives positive reviews, some have noted issues with engine fumes and lack of dolphin sightings.
Read our full review: Jervis Bay Boom Netting and Dolphins Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Jervis Bay Dolphin Cruise
Aboard the Jervis Bay Dolphin Cruise, travelers embark on a thrilling 1.5-hour excursion to spot playful bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat.
Exploring the Jervis Bay Marine Park, the cruise provides dramatic views along the New South Wales South Coast. The tour is wheelchair accessible and family-friendly, suitable for all ages.
Departing from Currambene Street in Huskisson, the cruise welcomes guests to check in 30 minutes prior at the Portside Cafe.
With a maximum capacity of 150 travelers, the boat offers food, drinks, and restroom facilities. Visitors are advised to dress warmly due to cooler temperatures on the water.
While the majority of reviews praise the dolphin sightings and stunning landscapes, some note disappointment in the lack of dolphin encounters and shorter duration than expected.
Priced from $23.21 per person, the Jervis Bay Dolphin Cruise allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and flexible booking options.
Read our full review: Jervis Bay Dolphin Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Pet the Dolphins During the Tour?
No, you can’t pet the dolphins during the tour. Dolphin watching tours are designed to observe the animals in their natural habitat without disturbing them. Touching or approaching the dolphins is typically not allowed for the safety of both the animals and the participants.
How Close Can I Get to the Dolphins?
You can’t get too close to the dolphins during the tour. Most operators maintain a safe distance of about 50 meters to avoid disturbing the animals. However, you’ll still be able to see and observe the dolphins in their natural habitat.
Are There Any Restrictions on Feeding the Dolphins?
There are strict regulations regarding feeding wild dolphins. Visitors are not permitted to feed the dolphins, as this can disrupt their natural behaviors and have negative impacts on their health. Dolphin watching tours will provide information on responsible viewing guidelines.
Do the Tours Operate in All Weather Conditions?
Most dolphin watching tours operate year-round, weather permitting. While some companies may cancel trips in severe conditions, they generally run in light rain or wind. Visitors should check with the tour operator for any weather-related restrictions or cancellations.
What Is the Best Time of Year to See Dolphins?
The best time to see dolphins is typically during the summer months when they’re more active and closer to shore. Sightings are generally higher from December through February, though they can be spotted year-round with some luck.
Recap
Jervis Bay offers two excellent dolphin watching tours. The Jervis Bay Boom Netting and Dolphins Tour provides a unique opportunity to observe dolphins up close. Alternatively, the Jervis Bay Dolphin Cruise offers a more traditional boat-based experience. Both tours provide ample chances to see these magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat. Visitors to the area shouldn’t miss the chance to witness the playful antics of Jervis Bay’s dolphin population.