Adelaide’s dolphin watching scene is refreshingly straightforward and memorable. The standout option is the Wild Dolphin Watch Cruise, a comfortable 3.5-hour catamaran journey offering prime viewing of thousands of dolphins in their natural habitat. I’m impressed by the shorter Port River Cruise, which packs both dolphin spotting and fascinating shipwreck history into 90 minutes. For active travelers, the Mangrove Kayaking Tour delivers a more intimate experience, letting you quietly glide past curious dolphins while exploring hidden waterways. These tours are well-organized, informative, and surprisingly affordable. Let’s check out the best dolphin watching experiences Adelaide has to offer.
Good To Know
- The Wild Dolphin Watch Cruise from Glenelg offers a 3.5-hour catamaran experience to spot thousands of dolphins in Holdfast Bay, with wetsuit and snorkel rentals included.
- The Port River Dolphin & Ships Graveyard Cruise provides a 90-minute small group tour with informative commentary by a knowledgeable crew member and scenic views.
- The Wild Dolphin Swim Cruise allows for a unique opportunity to swim with dolphins in their natural habitat, accommodating up to 50 travelers aged 9 and above.
- The Dolphin Sanctuary Mangroves Kayaking Tour offers a 90-minute guided exploration through mangrove-lined creeks, providing an ecological interaction with dolphins.
- The Maritime and Dolphins Cruise in Port Adelaide is a popular 90-minute option for dolphin-watching, with a maximum capacity of 32 passengers and mixed reviews.
Wild Dolphin Watch Cruise
One popular dolphin watching tour option in Adelaide is the Wild Dolphin Watch Cruise, which departs from Glenelg.
This 3.5-hour catamaran cruise offers visitors the chance to spot thousands of dolphins in Holdfast Bay. The tour includes wetsuit, snorkel, and mask rental, as well as onboard commentary and the opportunity to swim with the dolphins.
While the cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, it does allow service animals. With 297 reviews and a 4.5-star average rating, the Wild Dolphin Watch Cruise is a highly recommended way to get up close with the local marine life.
However, some guests have experienced weather-related issues affecting the swimming portion.
Read our full review: Wild Dolphin Watch Cruise Review
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90 Minute Port River Dolphin & Ships Graveyard Cruise
Visitors to Adelaide can explore the Port River’s rich maritime history and spot local dolphins on the 90-Minute Port River Dolphin & Ships Graveyard Cruise. Priced from $57.59 per person, this small-group tour (maximum 15 travelers) offers an informative commentary from the knowledgeable crew, including guide Sam.
Guests can enjoy viewing dolphins, learning about Australia’s port history, and taking in the coastal scenery. While some found the shipwrecks lacked character, the overall experience is highly rated, with 94% of 182 reviews recommending the cruise.
Confirmation is provided at booking, and flexible cancellation/rescheduling policies allow for convenient planning. Whether you’re interested in dolphins, maritime history, or sightseeing, this cruise provides an engaging way to experience Port Adelaide.
Read our full review: 90 Minute Port River Dolphin & Ships Graveyard Cruise Review
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Wild Dolphin Swim Cruise
For those seeking a truly unique wildlife encounter, the Wild Dolphin Swim Cruise offers an unforgettable opportunity to swim alongside these captivating marine mammals in their natural habitat.
Located in Adelaide, Australia, this 4.9-rated tour welcomes up to 50 travelers aged 9 and above. Included features are a dolphin sightseeing cruise, wetsuit and snorkel gear, live commentary, and hotel transfers.
Guests can also purchase food and drinks onboard. With a 97% recommendation rate, this cruise departs at 8 AM from the Temptation Sailing marina in Glenelg.
Bookings are available with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Wild Dolphin Swim Cruise Review
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Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary Mangroves Kayaking Tour
The Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary Mangroves Kayaking Tour offers a captivating 90-minute excursion through the serene mangrove-lined creeks, home to a diverse array of marine life, birds, and the iconic Port River Dolphins.
Led by knowledgeable guides, guests can interact with the dolphins in an ecologically responsible manner while learning about the local wildlife and plants.
The tour accommodates small groups of up to 12 people and boasts a Badge of Excellence and a 4.6 rating from 26 reviews.
With all equipment provided and a moderate fitness level required, this tour is an excellent opportunity to explore the sanctuary and potentially spot the elusive Port River Dolphins.
Read our full review: Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary Mangroves Kayaking Tour Review
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90-Minute Maritime and Dolphins Cruise in Port Adelaide
A 90-minute Maritime and Dolphins Cruise in Port Adelaide offers travelers a chance to witness the area’s iconic Port River Dolphins in their natural habitat.
The cruise departs from the Port Adelaide Lighthouse, accommodating a maximum of 32 passengers. Onboard, guests will find a restroom and accessibility for wheelchairs and strollers.
The cruise returns to the meeting point, providing a convenient start and end location. While the cruise has received mixed reviews, with an overall rating of 2.0 out of 5, it remains a popular option for those seeking a dolphin-watching experience in the region.
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, ensuring a seamless planning process.
Read our full review: 90-Minute Maritime and Dolphins Cruise in Port Adelaide Review
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Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tour Adelaide
Offering a unique and immersive experience, the Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tour in Adelaide allows adventurers to explore the serene waterways of the area while searching for the region’s iconic Port River Dolphins.
Rated 96% recommended with a Badge of Excellence, this 3-hour tour takes groups of up to 16 participants on a guided journey through the picturesque mangroves.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to spot not only dolphins but also seabirds and shipwrecks.
While the tour requires a moderate fitness level, it’s suitable for couples and families, providing all necessary equipment and amenities for a comfortable and memorable experience.
Read our full review: Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tour Adelaide Review
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Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary and Ships Graveyard Kayak Tour
Adventurers seeking a unique glimpse into Adelaide’s natural and maritime heritage can embark on the captivating Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary and Ships Graveyard Kayak Tour.
With a rating of 4.8/5 from 239 reviews, this 2.5 to 3-hour guided experience allows participants to paddle through the tranquil waters, spotting dolphins in their natural habitat and exploring the eerie shipwrecks of the Garden Island Ships’ Graveyard.
Suitable for all skill levels, the tour includes equipment and an expert guide who provides insights into the local ecology and history.
Priced starting at $49.08 per person, this immersive adventure is highly recommended by 96% of travelers.
Read our full review: Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary and Ships Graveyard Kayak Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Adelaide’s best dolphin watching tours offer a range of options, from river cruises to kayaking adventures. These tours provide the opportunity to spot the resident bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat, the Port River and Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely cruise or a hands-on kayaking experience, there’s a dolphin-watching tour to suit your preference and budget.