Looking for dolphins in Perth? Western Australia’s capital delivers excellent wildlife encounters right from its doorstep. The standout experiences include two clear winners: the guided wild dolphin swim tours, which bring you face-to-face with these intelligent creatures, and the comprehensive Shoalwater Islands Marine Park cruise, offering reliable dolphin spotting alongside sea lions and seabirds.
We particularly love the 4-day coastal loop that includes Monkey Mia, Kalbarri, and the Pinnacles – it’s the best value for serious wildlife enthusiasts. For a shorter adventure, the combined snorkeling and seafood tour earns top marks for mixing wildlife encounters with local flavors.
Let’s explore Perth’s finest dolphin watching options…
Key Points
- The 4-Day Coastal Loop Tour from Perth offers a personalized experience with guided bush walks and optional activities like dolphin cruises.
- The Swim With Wild Dolphins Tour in Rockingham provides the opportunity to interact with dolphins in their natural habitat.
- The Dolphin and Sealion, Seafood Snorkel Adventure in Shoalwater Islands Marine Park combines snorkeling, marine life spotting, and a gourmet seafood lunch.
- The Dolphin and Wildlife Cruise With Lunch from Hillarys Boat Harbour offers a 6-hour tour with sightings of bottlenose dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds.
- Most dolphin tours in Perth cater to families, emphasize eco-friendliness, and receive positive feedback for their friendly staff, high-quality gear, and memorable experiences.
4-Day Coastal Loop via Monkey Mia Dolphins Kalbarri & Pinnacles
The 4-Day Coastal Loop via Monkey Mia Dolphins, Kalbarri, and Pinnacles is a popular guided tour that takes visitors on an immersive journey along Western Australia’s stunning coastline. Departing from Perth, the tour offers a maximum group size of 23 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
The tour includes 3 nights of accommodation, with entrance fees to the iconic Pinnacles and Monkey Mia. Guests can enjoy guided bush walks, with optional activities like Kalbarri abseiling and a Monkey Mia dolphin cruise. The tour’s expert road crew provides informative commentary, enhancing the overall experience.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible and not recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions or back problems, it caters to a range of ages, with children welcome when accompanied by an adult. Guests are advised to bring appropriate gear and a 1.5L water bottle, as the tour involves moderate walking.
The 4-Day Coastal Loop has received an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 17 reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable and friendly guides, as well as the breathtaking scenery and wildlife encounters.
Read our full review: 4-Day Coastal Loop via Monkey Mia Dolphins Kalbarri & Pinnacles Review
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Perth: Swim With Wild Dolphins Tour
Offering a truly unique wildlife adventure, the Perth: Swim With Wild Dolphins Tour allows visitors to enjoy the natural habitat of over 200 local dolphins.
Located just a 50-minute drive south of Perth in Rockingham, this 6-hour excursion features a 3-to-6-hour cruise, depending on dolphin sightings. Priced from $194.35 per person, the tour includes a luxury boat, wet suits, snorkeling gear, experienced guides, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
Participants can choose to swim with the dolphins or stay dry onboard, while enjoying gourmet-style platters featuring fresh local seafood. The tour also provides introductory snorkeling lessons and complimentary photos uploaded to Flickr.
With a minimum age of 6 years and basic swimming skills required, the experience is suitable for families. Reviewers praise the tour’s organization, friendly staff, and high likelihood of seeing large dolphin pods, making it a must-do activity for visitors to Perth.
Read our full review: Perth: Swim With Wild Dolphins Tour Review
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Dolphin and Sealion, Seafood Snorkel Adventure
Situated within the breathtaking Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, the Dolphin and Sealion, Seafood Snorkel Adventure invites visitors to embark on an immersive encounter with the diverse marine life of Perth’s coastal waters.
The tour includes snorkeling, marine life spotting, and exploration of limestone reefs, catering to both beginners and experienced snorkelers. Participants will savor a gourmet seafood platter lunch served on board and have the opportunity to capture complimentary photos of their experience.
The tour departs from a convenient meeting point and returns to the same location, with a start time of 8:00 am. Accommodating a maximum of 22 travelers, the Dolphin and Sealion, Seafood Snorkel Adventure offers a personalized and intimate experience.
Priced from $99.24 per person, the tour features a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior, as well as a reserve now, pay later option. Positive reviews highlight the stunning snorkeling, friendly and knowledgeable guides, and the high-quality gear provided, ensuring a memorable and successful marine adventure.
Read our full review: Dolphin and Sealion, Seafood Snorkel Adventure Review
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Perth: Dolphin and Wildlife Cruise With Lunch
Immersing visitors in the natural wonders of Perth’s coastal waters, the Perth: Dolphin and Wildlife Cruise With Lunch invites travelers to embark on an unforgettable marine adventure.
At 6 hours in duration, this guided tour offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience, combining dolphin and wildlife watching with a delightful lunch.
Departing from Hillarys Boat Harbour, the cruise takes guests on a journey through the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, renowned for its diverse marine life.
Travelers can expect to spot playful bottlenose dolphins, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds in their natural habitats.
The on-board commentary provides valuable insights into the local ecology and conservation efforts.
Midway through the tour, guests are treated to a delectable lunch served on the boat, allowing them to savor the fresh seafood and stunning coastal views.
This immersive experience is priced at $194.35 per person, making it an attractive option for those seeking an in-depth exploration of Perth’s captivating aquatic realm.
Read our full review: Perth: Dolphin and Wildlife Cruise With Lunch Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Tours Suitable for People With Disabilities?
The tours are generally suitable for people with disabilities, with accommodations and assistance available upon request. However, specific accessibility details may vary, so it’s best to inquire directly with the tour operators.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Guests are typically allowed to bring their own food and drinks on dolphin watching tours. However, it’s best to check the tour operator’s policies as some may have restrictions or offer on-board refreshments for purchase.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds if the tour is cancelled due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Most tours also offer flexible rescheduling options if guests need to change their booking.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Dolphin Watching Tours?
Most dolphin watching tours don’t have age restrictions, but children may need to be accompanied by an adult. Operators typically recommend the tours for all ages, though very young children may find the boat ride challenging. It’s best to check with the specific tour provider.
Can I Bring My Camera and Take Pictures During the Tours?
Most dolphin watching tours encourage guests to bring their cameras and capture photos of the majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Photographers are typically allowed to take pictures throughout the duration of the tour, subject to the tour operator’s guidelines.
Recap
Perth offers a range of captivating dolphin watching tours. From immersive swims with wild dolphins to scenic cruises showcasing these majestic creatures, there’s something to suit every traveler’s interests. Whether you’re seeking an intimate encounter or a broader wildlife experience, these tours provide unforgettable opportunities to witness the beauty and grace of dolphins in their natural habitat along Western Australia’s stunning coastline.