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2hr Splash 'N Slide Dolphin Cruise

Enjoyable water slide activity on the vessel
Guest enjoying the boom net and the water slide
Guests observe a dolphin in the water
Resident Bottlenose Dolphins spotted in the waters of Nelson Bay
Enjoyable water slide activity on the vessel
Guest enjoying the boom net and the water slide
Guests observe a dolphin in the water
Resident Bottlenose Dolphins spotted in the waters of Nelson Bay

From $51

Multiple departures available

  • 2hr Splash N Slide dolphin watching cruise in Port Stephens
  • Two-level boat with walk-around decks to see the bottlenose dolphins
  • Slide, splash and swim – exciting waterslide and boom net swimming
  • Captain’s fun and informative commentary
  • High success rate – complimentary return cruise if no dolphins are sighted
  • Licensed bar on board to purchase drinks and snacks
  • BYO food or beverages not permitted
Send Enquiry Book Now
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About This Experience

Step aboard MV Spirit and prepare for the most action-packed dolphin adventure in Port Stephens. The Splash 'N Slide Dolphin Cruise takes you through the harbour and into the open waters of one of Australia's most spectacular marine playgrounds. With over 160 resident Bottlenose Dolphins calling Port Stephens home, this cruise combines dolphin encounters with heart-pumping water fun — a waterslide that drops you straight into the sea, boom net rides and expert commentary from your Captain.

The Splash 'N Slide Cruise Experience

From the moment the boat clears the wharf and heads east, the scenery alone is worth the trip. The twin-level catamaran offers walk-around viewing decks to scan the waters for dolphins or simply soak in the beauty of the Tomaree and Yacaaba headlands. As the Captain's live commentary brings the experience to life, keep your eyes on the water, the dolphins rarely keep you waiting long.

The first sighting of a dorsal fin breaking the surface is always exciting. And suddenly, you’ll find yourself cruising alongside a pod of wild bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. Often curious and playful, they can be seen leaping through the water or swimming effortlessly beside the vessel, offering unforgettable encounters that make Port Stephens one of Australia's premier dolphin-watching destinations.

After you’ve had your fill of the dolphins, the boat moors for the ‘splash ’n slide’ experience. The waterslide drops and sends you twisting and plunging into the blue waters of Port Stephens, an experience that draws endless squeals from everyone. If you prefer to stay closer to the boat, you can use the boom net on the return trip to the marina.

So, make your next Port Stephens outing one to remember. Book your Splash & Slide Dolphin Cruise today and enjoy dolphins, slides and endless fun on the water. 

Who Is This Experience Suited For
This experience is curated for confident swimmers, groups of friends and families with older, confident kids who want more than a sighting. Available from November to April, it's the ultimate warm-weather experience on the water in Port Stephens.

Cruise Details

Location Wharf 1, Cruise Passenger Terminal, 40 Victoria Pde, Nelson Bay

Departure Boards Departs Returns Duration
1 09:45 10:00 12:00 2hr 15min
2 12:45 13:00 15:00 2hr 15min
3 13:15 13:30 15:30 2hr 15min
 

  • 2hr Splash N Slide dolphin watching cruise in Port Stephens
  • Two-level boat with walk-around decks to see the bottlenose dolphins
  • Slide, splash and swim – exciting waterslide and boom net swimming
  • Captain’s fun and informative commentary
  • High success rate – complimentary return cruise if no dolphins are sighted
  • Licensed bar on board to purchase drinks and snacks
  • BYO food or beverages not permitted

  • Up-close dolphin encounter in a bay that is home to 160+ resident wild Bottlenose Dolphins 
  • Slide off the deck and splash straight into splash into the blue waters of Port Stephens
  • Hang over the bow of the boat on a boom net ride for a rush of wind and ocean spray
  • Views of Tomaree & Yacaaba headlands, some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in New South Wales

  • Adult Price

    from $51

  • Child (4-14 years)

    from $31

  • Infant (0-3 years)

    from $8

  • Family (2 adults + 2 children)

    from $135

  • Senior/Student/Concessions

    from $46

Wharf 1, Cruise Passenger Terminal, 40 Victoria Parade, Nelson Bay NSW 2315, Australia

Google Map - CLICK HERE

*Boarding commences 15 minutes prior to departure. During peak periods, allow 30–45 minutes for parking. 

  • 10:30am/1:30pm/3:30pm: Depart the marina and head out through the outer harbour into the open waters of Port Stephens
  • En Route: Cruise east towards the Tomaree and Yacaaba headlands in search of resident wild bottlenose dolphins; enjoy live Captain's commentary and licensed bar and snacks on board
  • En Route: Dolphins located. Enjoy the encounter as your Captain shares fascinating insights into pod behaviour and the marine ecology of Port Stephens
  • En Route: Head to the mooring and get into your swim gear; waterslide opens for splashers; boom net available for those who prefer the net experience
  • 12:30/3:30/5:30pm: Return to Wharf 1, Cruise Passenger Terminal, Nelson Bay
*The 3:30pm departure operates only during school holidays, excluding winter

2hr Splash & Slide Cruise (this 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.

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

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 is up for a bigger adventure in the water and includes confident swimmers, the Splash 'N Slide Cruise is your go-to. If your group includes little ones or non-swimmers, step back to the Dolphin Discovery Cruise. 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

  • Baby prams are not permitted on board. Collapsible strollers are permitted in the main cabin area only; crew will advise on storage at boarding
  • Waterslide and boom net recommended for confident swimmers and guests 1.1m+ in height (unaccompanied); under 1.1m permitted on boom net with an adult
  • Toilets available on all dolphin discovery boats; some via stairway access
  • Smoking is not permitted on board

Q: Can children use the waterslide and boom net?
Children 1.1 metres and over can use the waterslide and boom net unaccompanied. Children under 1.1m are welcome on the boom net when accompanied by an adult. The waterslide is recommended for confident swimmers.

Q: Do I need to be able to swim to join this cruise?
You don't need to be a swimmer to enjoy the cruise and the dolphin encounter. However, the waterslide drops you into open water, so we strongly recommend it for confident swimmers only. Non-swimmers are welcome on board and can enjoy the boom net and all other aspects of the cruise.

Q: What happens if dolphins aren't sighted?
Port Stephens' dolphins are wild and free. While sightings are very frequent, 100% success cannot be guaranteed. If dolphins are not located, we offer a complimentary return voucher (non-transferable). Refunds are not available for dolphin no-shows.

Q: Which vessel will I be on?
This cruise primarily operates aboard ‘MV Spirit’, a stable 60-foot catamaran. Our staff can advise the current operating vessel, but vessels may change without notice due to scheduling or passenger numbers. Please enquire at booking if you have a strong preference.

Q: Is food and drink available on board?
Yes. A licensed bar and snack food are available throughout the cruise. BYO food and beverages are not permitted.

Q: When does this cruise operate?
The Splash 'N Slide Dolphin Cruise runs November to April only. Outside of this season, we recommend the 1.5hr Dolphin Discovery Cruise, which runs year-round.

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

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

  • Operational season: This cruise operates November to April only. For year-round dolphin cruising, see the 1.5hr Dolphin Discovery Cruise.
  • Vessel: MV Spirit is a 60-foot stable catamaran with twin walk-around all-weather viewing decks, a large waterslide and boom net.
  • Boarding: Passengers should be 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

  • Swimmers and towel – essential for the waterslide and boom net
  • Comfortable casual clothing and footwear
  • Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen 
  • Camera 
  • Dress warmer in cooler months of the season (November/April)​

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

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

From $51

Multiple departures available

  • 2hr Splash N Slide dolphin watching cruise in Port Stephens
  • Two-level boat with walk-around decks to see the bottlenose dolphins
  • Slide, splash and swim – exciting waterslide and boom net swimming
  • Captain’s fun and informative commentary
  • High success rate – complimentary return cruise if no dolphins are sighted
  • Licensed bar on board to purchase drinks and snacks
  • BYO food or beverages not permitted
Send Enquiry Book Now

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