Step into the calm waters of Koombana Bay with the Dolphin Discovery Centre’s award-winning swim tour. Encounter wild bottlenose dolphins up close while supporting vital marine conservation efforts in Bunbury, Western Australia.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have good swimming ability and comfort in open water, with moderate stamina for floating and snorkeling.
Wildlife
History
Koombana Bay is a key habitat long-recognized by local Noongar people, integral to traditional maritime life.
Conservation
The Dolphin Discovery Centre operates as a not-for-profit focused on research, education, and sustainable interactions to ensure dolphin welfare.
Dolphin Discovery Centre
Step into the calm waters of Koombana Bay with the Dolphin Discovery Centre’s award-winning swim tour. Encounter wild bottlenose dolphins up close while supporting vital marine conservation efforts in Bunbury, Western Australia.
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.
Location
Bunbury, WA
Access to Koombana Bay
Tours Listed
5 experiences
Includes discounted options
Award-winning
Swim With The Dolphins
Recognised swim tour
Wild Dolphins
100+ bottlenose
Live in Koombana Bay
Reserve a Swim With The Dolphins session or a Dolphin Eco-Cruise with guaranteed sightings or a free return; explore the Marine Discovery Centre before or after your tour.
Be a Confident Swimmer
This tour requires independent swimming skills; weak swimmers should consider alternatives.
Dress for Cool Water
Wetsuits are provided, but bring warm clothing for after the swim to stay comfortable onshore.
Respect Wildlife
Dolphin interactions depend entirely on the animals’ willingness—avoid chasing or forcing contact.
Arrive Early
Check in by 7:30am at the Centre to complete briefing and gear up without rush.
Wetsuit (provided)
Keeps you warm and buoyant in cool-to-cold bay waters.
summer|spring|fall|winter
Waterproof camera
Capture memories of dolphin encounters without risking your device.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protect your skin during exposed boat time before and after swims.
summer|spring|fall
Towel and warm clothes
Dry off and warm up quickly after exiting the water.
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