Wild Dolphin Swim Nelson Bay | Dolphin Swim Australia
One of Australia's most unique wildlife experiences — in-water encounters with wild bottlenose dolphins in Port Stephens, Nelson Bay NSW.
See the Wild Dolphin Swim Experience
Watch a short preview of the wild dolphin swim experience in Nelson Bay, Port Stephens.
About the Experience
Port Stephens is home to approximately 160 resident Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins, making it one of the best locations in Australia for wild dolphin encounters. Dolphin Swim Australia operates licensed in-water wildlife experiences allowing guests to snorkel alongside wild dolphins in their natural habitat. This is not an aquarium or captive animal encounter — these are completely wild, free-roaming dolphins who choose to interact.
Key Facts
- Wild, free-roaming dolphins — not captive or trained animals.
- Experiences are weather and wildlife dependent.
- Departs from d'Albora Marina, Nelson Bay NSW 2315.
- All responsible wildlife interaction guidelines are strictly followed.
- Suitable for snorkellers of all levels; basic snorkel equipment provided.
Port Stephens Dolphins
The Port Stephens resident pod is split into two completely separate groups that do not interbreed or interact — a rare behaviour not commonly observed in wild dolphin populations worldwide. Both pods are year-round residents, so there is no off-season. Sighting rates exceed 90% year-round.
Learn more about dolphin & whale watching in Port Stephens →
Frequently Asked Questions
- When do your tours run?
- The season runs from 1 October to 30 April. Tours depart at 6:15am and return at 11am. After April, the boat is used for whale watching through the winter months — so the team is kept busy all year round!
- What is the best time of year to swim with dolphins?
- Any time during the season (October – April) is a great time. The water is actually warmer towards the end of the season, and there are still plenty of dolphins around. The end of the season is just as good as the start!
- Are there less dolphins at the end of the season?
- No! The dolphins are resident in Port Stephens year-round. Sightings are reliable throughout the entire season, and the warmer, calmer late-season water makes for a wonderful experience.
- How much does it cost?
- Wild Dolphin Swim (in the water) is $359 per person. Wild Dolphin Watch (on deck, staying dry) is $109 per person. Infants travel free. Both tickets are on the same tour — swimmers and observers sail together on the same catamaran.
- What does the tour include?
- The tour is fully all-inclusive. You receive all equipment (wetsuit, mask and snorkel), expert training, a full breakfast, professional photos, and a customised underwater video of your experience. They even include champagne and mimosas!
- So how does it all work?
- Tours operate off a 54-foot sailing catamaran. A rope is strung between the two bows, and swimmers hold onto this rope (also attached via a harness) and are slowly towed through the water. The dolphins bow ride on the front of the boat — keeping them extremely engaged, as they love bow riding! Swimmers move through the water as if they are part of the pod.
- Can I come on board just to watch my friends swim?
- Absolutely! The Wild Dolphin Watch ticket lets you stay on the boat and witness the experience from deck — with 360° views and expert marine commentary. The dolphins come so much closer than on a regular dolphin watching tour, and you get to see them interact with humans in the water.
- Are swimmers and observers on the same tour?
- Yes! Both the Wild Dolphin Swim and Wild Dolphin Watch tickets are for the same tour. Some guests swim, others stay on the boat — you decide what feels right for you, and everyone has an unforgettable experience.
- Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
- Swimming and snorkelling skills are recommended but not essential. Despite being called a 'swim', you don't actually swim at all — you simply hang by your arms, relax, hold the tow-rope and watch the dolphins. What matters most is that you're confident trying something new. The team is always there to help!
- Can I bring children onboard?
- Yes, children are welcome! Please contact Dolphin Swim Australia directly to discuss your family's requirements and minimum age guidelines — the team will make sure everyone has the best possible experience.
- We are bringing children — can we take it in turns in the water?
- Please get in touch with the team directly to arrange this. They are experienced at accommodating families and can advise on the best way to organise your group's time in the water.
- What about bad weather or rough seas?
- Tours operate offshore in the open ocean and are subject to conditions. If the ocean is too rough, tours will be cancelled for your safety. The team tries to give as much notice as possible, but conditions can change quickly. If you can, plan to stay in the area for a few days so you have a backup day just in case.
- Is the experience ethical and eco-certified?
- Yes — Dolphin Swim Australia is certified by Ecotourism Australia. They never feed, chase, or lure the dolphins. Every swim follows strict wildlife interaction guidelines backed by years of research and government oversight. The dolphins remain completely wild — free to approach, free to ignore, and free to lead. The operation was monitored for three years by Dr Carol Scarpaci, a leading government adviser on dolphin and whale tour-boat operations.