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1.5hr Dolphin Discovery Cruise

Guests soak up the stunning surroundings aboard the vessel
Dolphin spotted gracefully swimming in the water
Guests pose for a photo aboard the vessel
Adorable resident dolphins of Port Stephens
Guests soak up the stunning surroundings aboard the vessel
Dolphin spotted gracefully swimming in the water
Guests pose for a photo aboard the vessel
Adorable resident dolphins of Port Stephens

From $46

Multiple departures available

  • 1.5hr dolphin discovery cruise on the ‘Moonshadow V’
  • See the resident Bottlenose Dolphins at play
  • Captain’s fun and informative commentary
  • Twist & Twirl Slide straight into the boom net
  • Live underwater cameras to stream dolphin activity
  • Snacks & drinks are available on board for purchase
  • BYO food and drinks not allowed
  • Free return cruise if dolphins are not sighted (no refunds)
  • *If for any reason the ‘Moonshadow V’ cannot be operated, another vessel will be substituted. In this instance, the boom net and underwater cameras will not be available
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About This Experience

Depart from Nelson Bay on the popular 1.5hr Dolphin Discovery Cruise, Port Stephens' most-loved on-water experience. The ‘Moonshadow V’ cruises through one of Australia's most celebrated dolphin habitats, you'll venture out in search of more than 160 resident wild bottlenose dolphins that call this bay home. With boom net rides, live underwater cameras and expert Captain's commentary woven in, this cruise is a front-row seat to one of nature's most playful shows.

The Dolphin Discovery Cruise Experience

Your Port Stephens dolphin discovery cruise begins when the vessel clears the marina and heads into the Eastern Harbour, which is a thriving dolphin habitat, not a marine park. As you cruise in search of the pod, sweeping views of the Tomaree and Yacaaba headlands unfold on either side, a dramatic natural backdrop to your experience. Amidst this, the thrill of spotting fins cutting through the water, unprompted and untamed, is something no theme park can replicate.

When the dolphins are located, the Captain brings the cruise to life with fascinating insights into the pod's behaviour and the unique ecology of Port Stephens. Footage from live underwater cameras is streamed on board, turning a sighting into an immersive encounter.
Once you've had your fun watching the dolphins, it's time to get into your swim gear… because on the return journey comes another highlight. Boom nets are lowered into the water, and you are free to jump in to enjoy the thrills and spills of riding the waves. It’s a great way to end the experience on a high – are you ready to book your dolphin discovery cruise from Port Stephens now?

Who Is This Experience Suited For

This experience is best suited for visitors and families with children as it combines the excitement of spotting wild dolphins with fun onboard activities – a great choice for relaxed wildlife experience in Port Stephens. 

Cruise Details

Location Dock C, d’Albora Marina, Teramby Road, Nelson Bay

Departure Boards Departs Returns Duration
1 10:15 10:30 12:00 1hr 45min
2 13:15 13:30 15:00 1hr 45min
 

  • 1.5hr dolphin discovery cruise on the ‘Moonshadow V’
  • See the resident Bottlenose Dolphins at play
  • Captain’s fun and informative commentary
  • Twist & Twirl Slide straight into the boom net
  • Live underwater cameras to stream dolphin activity
  • Snacks & drinks are available on board for purchase
  • BYO food and drinks not allowed
  • Free return cruise if dolphins are not sighted (no refunds)
  • *If for any reason the ‘Moonshadow V’ cannot be operated, another vessel will be substituted. In this instance, the boom net and underwater cameras will not be available

  • Experience the beauty of Port Stephens, the Dolphin Capital of Australia;  home to 160+ wild Bottlenose Dolphins 
  • A rare, immersive view of dolphins from below the waterline with live streaming of dolphin activity underwater  
  • Captain's live commentary with entertaining and educational storytelling throughout the cruise
  • Boom net rides suitable for adults and children (accompanied by adult) for an exciting in-water experience

  • Adult Price

    from $46

  • Child (4 - 14 years)

    from $28

  • Infant (0 - 3 years)

    from $8

  • Family (2 adults + 2 children)

    from $120

  • Senior/Student/Concessions

    from $41

Dock C, D'Albora Marina, Nelson Bay NSW 2315, Australia

Google Map - CLICK HERE

Boarding commences 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. During peak periods, we recommend arriving 30–45 mins early to allow time for parking.

  • 10:30am/1:30pm/3:30pm: Depart the marina and head out into the Eastern Harbour of Port Stephens
  • En Route: Cruise in search of resident wild Bottlenose Dolphins; enjoy views of the Tomaree and Yacaaba headlands; licensed bar and snacks available on board
  • En Route: Once dolphins are located, enjoy the encounter as the Captain shares insights into pod behaviour and Port Stephens' unique marine ecology
  • En Route: Get into your swim gear; boom net activates on the return journey to the marina
  • 12:00pm/3:00pm/5:00pm: Return to D'Albora Marina, Nelson Bay
*The 3:30pm departure operates only during school holidays, excluding winter.

1.5hr Dolphin Discovery Cruise (this package): Dolphin sightings in the harbour + boom net on return journey. No open-water swimming. Ideal for families, younger children & relaxed cruisers.

2hr Splash & Slide Cruise (see alternate package): Dolphin sightings in the harbour + open-water slide into the sea + boom net on return. Recommended for confident swimmers. Not suitable for very young children.

1hr Dolphin Watch Express (see alternate package): Small-group eco-cruise with 360° views, dolphin spotting and expert commentary. No water activities. Fast, focused, intimate. November to May.

Not sure which to choose?
If your group includes little ones or non-swimmers, the Dolphin Discovery Cruise is your go-to. If your group is up for a bigger adventure in the water, step up to the Splash & Slide. If you want a quick, high-quality dolphin encounter with the best possible viewing setup, the Dolphin Watch Express is your pick.

  • Cancellation requests must be submitted via email to help@australiancruisegroup.com.au
  • Refunds, where applicable, will be processed to the original payment method.
  • No correspondence will be entertained for cancellations made after the free-cancellation period.
  • A ‘no-show’ refers to any confirmed passenger who fails to board the vessel prior to scheduled departure. Please note, we make every effort to ensure our cruises depart on time. It is highly recommended that all passengers are ready for boarding 15 minutes prior to the stated time.
  • An individual booking is defined as all bookings having less than 10 passengers on a single E-ticket. Individual bookings require full payment at time of booking.
  • Up to 4 days prior: Full refund
  • Within 3 days: 100% cancellation fee
  • Group bookings are defined as all bookings for 10 or more passengers on a single E-ticket. Group bookings can be made with a partial payment of 20% as deposit. The balance amount must be paid 7 days before the cruise date. 
  • Up to 7 days prior: Full refund
  • Within 6 days: 100% cancellation fee

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Baby prams are not permitted on board. Collapsible strollers are permitted but must remain in the main cabin area; crew will advise on storage at boarding
  • Toilets are available on all vessels (some via stairway access)
  • Smoking is not permitted on board

Can children use the boom net?
Yes. Children 1.1 metres and taller can use the boom net unattended. Children under 1.1m are welcome on the net when accompanied by an adult.

What happens if dolphins aren't sighted?
Port Stephens' dolphins are wild, so while sightings are very common, 100% success cannot be guaranteed. If dolphins are not located, we offer a complimentary return voucher (non-transferable, standby basis). Refunds are not issued if dolphins are not sighted. 

Which vessel will I be on?
Our friendly staff can advise the current operating vessel, but vessels may be changed without notice due to scheduling or passenger numbers. If you have a preference (Moonshadow V for the slide and underwater cameras), please enquire at the time of booking.

Is food and drink available on board?
Yes. A licensed bar and snack food are available on board for purchase. Please note that BYO food and beverages are not permitted.

Are there toilets on board?
Yes, all vessels have male and female toilets. On some vessels, toilet access is via a stairway.

Is smoking allowed?
No. Smoking is not permitted on board any of our vessels.

  • Amenities: The boom net and underwater cameras are available only on ‘Moonshadow 'V'— the vessel on which this experience is operated.
  • Vessel substitution: If for any reason the ‘Moonshadow V’ cannot be operated, another vessel will be substituted. In this instance, the boom net and underwater camera experience will not be there.
  • Boarding:  Passengers should ensure they are at the vessel 15 minutes before departure; during busy periods, aim to arrive 30–45 minutes early
  • Paid parking: Available at D'Albora Marina (Nelson Bay) and Victoria Parade from 8:30am–4:30pm (up to 4 hours at the Marina; up to 8 hours on Victoria Parade). 
  • Free parking: Available on Laman Street, Church Street and Magnus Street, all within easy walking distance. Pay by card, coin or the Park'n Pay app; your number plate is your ticket.
  • Cancellation Policy: Full refund up to 72 hours (local time) before cruise date. After 72 hours: 100% cancellation fee applies

What To Bring
  • Comfortable casual clothing and footwear
  • Swimmers and towel if you plan to use the boom net
  • Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen 
  • Camera  
  • Dress warmer during winter months 

Please refer to our full passengers terms and conditions on the following link;

https://www.australiancruisegroup.com.au/national-terms-of-services

From $46

Multiple departures available

  • 1.5hr dolphin discovery cruise on the ‘Moonshadow V’
  • See the resident Bottlenose Dolphins at play
  • Captain’s fun and informative commentary
  • Twist & Twirl Slide straight into the boom net
  • Live underwater cameras to stream dolphin activity
  • Snacks & drinks are available on board for purchase
  • BYO food and drinks not allowed
  • Free return cruise if dolphins are not sighted (no refunds)
  • *If for any reason the ‘Moonshadow V’ cannot be operated, another vessel will be substituted. In this instance, the boom net and underwater cameras will not be available
Send Enquiry Book Now

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