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Dolphin Watch Eco-Adventures
Cruise Options to see the dolphins & visit beautiful Penguin Island
Dolphin Watch Join us on a 2 hour eco adventure through the ruggedly
spectacular Shoalwater Islands Marine Park in search of
wild dolphins. We have been visiting the local dolphins
since 1989 and offer visitors an intimate look into the
everyday lives and natural behaviours of these fascinating
creatures. We boast a better than 99% success rate and if
you are amongst the unlucky 1% who don’t see any dolphins
during our cruise we will offer you the chance to come again
free of charge*.
Our boat ‘100% Wild’ is ideal for dolphin viewing and brings a real element of adventure to the cruise. It’s a 12.5 metre rigid hull inflatable boat (known amongst boaties as a RHIB). RHIB’s are high performance vessels that are best described as the ‘four wheel drives of the sea’. They are used by organizations such as the Navy, Water Police & Sea Rescue because they’re designed for speed, safety, comfort and to go where other boats can’t!
‘100% Wild’ was designed especially for ecotourism. It provides a superior experience to a conventional boat because you’re closer to the water and there are no barriers separating you from the environment. Covered open air, theatre style seating puts you right in the adventure- seeing the wildlife up close, feeling every thrill and experiencing the beauty of the marine park first hand.
You will be in the safe hands of our experienced skippers and guides who have an extensive knowledge of the marine park and it’s wildlife- they’re dolphin enthusiasts and will ensure your experience is fun, informative and 100% Wild (we even have an underwater microphone to listen in to the fascinating clicks and whistles of their communication). Other local wildlife that may be sighted includes sea lions, sting rays, ospreys, little penguins and over 16 species of sea birds that regularly make special guest star appearances.
Our Dolphin Watch tours cruise past Penguin Island before returning to base- packages are available to visit Penguin Island after your cruise. See the table below for details.
Ex Rockingham Ex Perth CBD Ex Perth CBD Hotel Ex Burswood Hotel
$65
$85
$95
$95
$60
$80
$90
$90
$50
$70
$80
$80
Dolphins & Penguins
(half to full day option)
including
2 hour Dolphin Watch Eco- Adventure
Unlimited ferry transfers to Penguin Island for the day
Penguin feeding at Discovery Centre
Ex Rockingham Ex Perth CBD Ex Perth CBD Hotel Ex Burswood Hotel
$82.50
$102.50
$112.50
$112.50
$76.50
$96.50
$106.50
$106.50
$64.50
$84.50
$94.50
$94.50
Dolphins, Penguins & Sea Lions
(full day option)
including
2 hour Dolphin Watch Eco- Adventure
Unlimited ferry transfers to Penguin Island for the day
Penguin feeding at Discovery Centre
45 minute glass bottom boat cruise
Picnic lunch pack from Pengos Café
Ex Rockingham Ex Perth CBD Ex Perth CBD Hotel Ex Burswood Hotel
$107.50
$127.50
$137.50
$137.50
$99
$119
$129
$129
$83.50
$103.50
$113.50
$113.50
* Concession fare must present seniors or student cards on paying for tour.
* Infants younger than 3 are free of charge.
Departs
Mid September - until the Labour Day long weekend in June.
Closed the rest of June, July and August for winter and December 25th.
Meet at our base at 8.30am.
Perth CBD departures from the Wellington St Tourist Coach Stand depart 7.45am.
Perth CBD hotel pick ups between 7.15am- 7.45am.
Burswood hotel pick ups at 7.15am.
Returns
Self Drive
Dolphin Watch returns to mainland approx. 11am.
Dolphins & Penguins/ Dolphins, Penguins & Sea Lions- your ticket includes unlimited ferry transfers for the day so you can return to the mainland at your leisure.
Ferries depart 10 minutes past the hour 10am- 3pm.
The last return ferry of the day departs Penguin Island at 4pm sharp.
Coach Transfers
Coach departs for Perth at approx. 3.30pm. Passengers must return on the 3.10pm ferry. Coach arrives in Perth approx. 4.15pm.
Dolphin Watch passengers are returned to the mainland at approx. 11am can wait for the return coach departing at 3.30pm or make their own way back to Perth via public transport. There are beautiful beaches, Pengo’s Café and our ocean themed gift and souvenir store to enjoy on the mainland while waiting for the return coach.
Points to Consider
Dress warmly, the wind can be cold even in summer.
Passengers are issued with a weather proof poncho to wear during Dolphin Watch to protect from rain and spray. They are not compulsory but recommended.
Wear a hat and sunscreen to protect you from the hot Aussie sun.
Comfortable shoes/ thongs, bathers and towel are recommended for Penguin Island and you are welcome to bring your snorkelling equipment.
Passengers on the Dolphins, Penguins & Sea Lions package tour are supplied a picnic lunch pack from Pengo’s Café consisting of a freshly made wrap (Chicken and Avocado, Salami BLT or Roast Vegetable (vegetarian)), a bottle of fresh water and a cookie.
We recommend you bring extra drinks (especially in hot weather) and snacks if you wish.
There are no shops on Penguin Island so any extra food or drinks must be purchased before you go. Pengos Café is located next door to Rockingham Wild Encounters base where cruises depart. They have a range of picnic style options to enjoy at Penguin Island, alternatively, your ticket allows you to use the ferry service all day so feel free to come back to the mainland for a dine in meal.
Is This Tour Suitable For Me?
Our Dolphin Watch Eco- Adventures are fun, safe and recommended for people of all ages- the kids will love it! There are some conditions regarding children 4 years or younger, please call us to discuss.
For more information click on Frequently Asked Questions.
Bookings are Essential
Seats are limited so to avoid disappointment you must book ahead.
Phone (+618) 9591 1333
How to get Here
Dolphin Watch Eco- Adventures depart from Rockingham Wild Encounters base at 153 Arcadia Drive (corner of Penguin Road), Shoalwater.
