Discover Bottlenose Dolphins on the Dolphin Eco-Cruise in Koombana Bay

Read the full experience

Set in the vibrant coastal city of Bunbury, Western Australia, the Dolphin Eco-Cruise offers a captivating 60-minute journey into Koombana Bay, home to over 100 bottlenose dolphins. This protected marine sanctuary provides a rare chance to observe these intelligent and playful creatures as they interact within their natural environment. The cruise operates from the Dolphin Discovery Centre, a respected hub for marine education and eco-tourism, making it a standout experience along Australia's southwest coast. Koombana Bay is renowned for its calm, sheltered waters, perfect for close dolphin encounters without the rough sea conditions often found elsewhere. The specially designed flat-bottomed vessel boasts a 300-degree viewing platform, allowing guests panoramic views while staying dry and comfortable. This thoughtful design enhances wildlife-watching opportunities, ensuring visitors can see dolphins frolicking, feeding, traveling, or resting just meters away. The Dolphin Eco-Cruise is more than just a boat ride; it’s an immersive marine experience. Each voyage is led by knowledgeable skippers who offer expert commentary on dolphin behavior and local ecology, enriching your understanding of these charismatic marine mammals. With up to three departures daily, the tour is flexible yet intimate, limited to a maximum of 28 passengers to maintain a personal connection to the wild world around you. A key highlight is the cruise's commitment to responsible eco-tourism. Operating under a special license from Parks and Wildlife Service WA (DBCA) and being Advanced Eco-Tourism Certified, the tour balances close viewing with respectful distance, ensuring minimal impact on dolphin activities. Visitors are instructed not to approach the dolphins and to follow crew guidelines, preserving this precious wildlife interaction. Bunbury itself offers a charming base for adventurers. Located about two hours south of Perth, it’s accessible and comfortable for travelers who want to pair ocean exploration with regional culture and dining. Before or after your cruise, take time to stroll Bunbury’s foreshore, visit local cafes, or explore nearby beaches. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family seeking memorable moments, or a nature lover eager for a unique Australian marine adventure, the Dolphin Eco-Cruise promises an inspiring day on the water. Guaranteed dolphin sightings (or your next cruise is free) add a reassuring touch to this unforgettable encounter. Packing a light jacket is recommended year-round due to coastal breezes, and accessibility is carefully considered, with a flat boarding step and accommodations for wheelchair users (though with some limitations). On-board toilet facilities and weather-dependent schedules further enhance this smooth, visitor-friendly outing. Experience Bunbury’s oceanside charm and the magic of wild bottlenose dolphins with the Dolphin Eco-Cruise—where natural wonder meets responsible adventure.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

60 minutes.

Fitness level

This cruise requires minimal physical exertion and is accessible to most fitness levels.

Frequently asked questions

Are dolphin sightings guaranteed?

Yes, the cruise guarantees sightings of bottlenose dolphins, or you can book a free repeat cruise.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?

The vessel has a flat boarding step, and wheelchairs can be lifted on board, though there is no ramp in winter departures.

What should I bring?

A light or warm jacket depending on season, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended for comfort.

How long is the cruise?

The Eco-Cruise lasts approximately 60 minutes.

Are there restroom facilities on board?

Yes, the boat includes an on-board toilet for passenger convenience.

How many people are on each cruise?

Each departure limits the group to a maximum of 28 passengers for an intimate experience.

Local insights

Wildlife

Bottlenose dolphins
Seabirds like the Australian pelican

History

Koombana Bay has long been a traditional fishing area for local Indigenous communities, whose stewardship continues to influence conservation efforts.

Conservation

The Dolphin Eco-Cruise operates under strict eco-tourism guidelines, ensuring minimal disturbance to marine life while educating the public on marine preservation.

About Dolphin Discovery Centre

Dolphin Discovery Centre in Bunbury, Western Australia, is a marine education and wildlife tourism provider focused on encounters with wild bottlenose dolphins in Koombana Bay. The centre operates the Marine Discovery Centre, featuring themed aquariums with species such as sharks and octopuses, interactive displays, feeding programs, guided tours, and a 360-degree Digital Dolphinarium. Visitors can learn about marine life through exhibits and scheduled educational experiences. Dolphin Discovery Centre runs guided wildlife tours including the Dolphin Eco-Cruise, a 60-minute eco-tour with a 300-degree viewing platform on a stable vessel. The Dolphin Eco-Cruise advertises encounters with over 100 bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat and offers a guaranteed dolphin sighting or a free return cruise. The centre also offers a Swim With The Dolphins experience, described as an award-winning tour that provides opportunities to swim with wild bottlenose dolphins under the guidance of experienced staff who support marine conservation, research, and education. Swim participants receive provided gear and access to facilities. Discounted listings for the Marine Discovery Centre and Dolphin Eco-Cruise are available as specific product options. All activities take place in and around Koombana Bay and the centre emphasizes education, conservation support, and responsible wildlife viewing. Guides provide expert commentary during cruises, and the Dolphin Eco-Cruise typically lasts 60 minutes in Koombana Bay. Programs and displays at the Marine Discovery Centre are suitable for visitors of all ages and school groups.

Base locationBunbury, Western Australia

Tours offered5+

Specialtywater-activities

Adventure tips

Wear a light jacketCoastal winds can be cool even in summer, so dress in layers to stay comfortable during your cruise.

Arrive early for check-inPlan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to collect your ticket and get ready for boarding.

Follow crew instructions around dolphinsMaintain a respectful distance and never attempt to touch or feed the dolphins to ensure their safety.

Use sun protectionBring sunscreen and a hat as the boat’s open design exposes you to sunlight during the cruise.

Recommended gear

Light jacket: Protects against coastal breezes and varying weather during the cruise.
Warm jacket: Keeps you comfortable in cooler months on the water.
Sunscreen: Sun protection is important despite being on water, especially during spring outings.
Binoculars: Enhances wildlife viewing when dolphins are further from the boat.