Jervis Bay is a standout for anyone who loves coastal scenery, wildlife, and crystal-clear waters. The bay’s reputation for seeing dolphins and exploring stunning beaches makes it a prime spot for boat tours. Whether you’re after a quick wildlife encounter or a relaxing cruise along the coastline, Jervis Bay offers options that suit various interests and budgets. We particularly enjoy the 2-hour Jervis Bay: 2-Hour Cruise of Jervis Bay Passage for its scenic sights and chance to see dolphins up close, and the Jervis Bay Dolphin Cruise, which offers a family-friendly way to spot these playful creatures in their natural habitat. For those curious about lesser-known spots, the Hidden Secrets Cruise provides a deeper look at the coastline’s secret beaches and landmarks.
Quick Overview
Our list covers three top-rated boat experiences in Jervis Bay, each with its own charm: a scenic passage cruise, a lively dolphin spotting tour, and an insider’s hidden secrets exploration. All offer a different way to enjoy the bay’s white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and abundant wildlife. Dive in to see which one suits your style — whether you prefer a quick scenic ride or an in-depth wildlife adventure.
1. Jervis Bay: 2-Hour Cruise of Jervis Bay Passage
At number one, this 2-hour cruise offers a practical and sights-focused way to experience Jervis Bay Marine Park. Priced at $59 per person, it appeals through its balance of affordability and remarkable scenery. The tour takes you past Point Perpendicular’s tall cliffs, showcasing some of the most dramatic coastal formations in the area. You’ll also get great views of Hyams Beach, famously known for its world-record white sands. As you cruise, keep your eyes peeled for bottlenose dolphins, who often swim close enough for a good look, providing memorable wildlife encounters.
What makes this cruise stand out is its focus on crystal clear waters and iconic beaches. The boat’s route allows for relaxed viewing, ideal for photographers or those who simply want to soak in the scenery. The commentary highlights local landmarks, making it both educational and scenic. Most travelers find the short duration perfect for a quick taste of the bay without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers who want a compact, scenic experience with guaranteed views of Hyams Beach and the chance to see dolphins, all at a reasonable price.
2. Jervis Bay Dolphin Cruise
For around $35.26, the Jervis Bay Dolphin Cruise gives you a more intimate, wildlife-focused experience, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes long. This tour is especially popular with families and wildlife lovers — it’s designed to maximize your chances of seeing bottlenose dolphins swimming, diving, and jumping right near the boat. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for travelers with mobility concerns.
During the cruise, you’ll explore Jervis Bay Marine Park, with commentary that educates on the marine environment and local ecosystem. Multiple departures in the morning or afternoon allow flexibility in planning your day. Reviewers commend the “informative and friendly crew”, and many highlight sightings of dolphins as the highlight of their trip. Even when dolphins aren’t visible, the cruise offers spectacular views of beaches and coastlines, with some noting that the crew actively tries to find marine wildlife.
Bottom Line: Best suited for families or anyone eager to see dolphins in their natural habitat with a relaxed pace and a focus on wildlife. It offers good value and a memorable encounter with local marine life.
3. Jervis Bay Hidden Secrets Cruise
Coming in at number three, the Hidden Secrets Cruise is a 1 hour 45-minute trip that ventures beyond the usual tourist spots. This tour is perfect for travelers wanting to discover lesser-known beaches and coastline features. Starting from Huskisson Wharf, the cruise offers live commentary pointing out landmarks like Booderee National Park, Murray’s Beach, and Beecroft Peninsula.
For $43.85, the tour emphasizes exploring the coastline where forest meets the sea and searching for dolphins along the way. On a typical day, over 120 dolphins reside in Jervis Bay year-round, so sightings are likely. The cruise also ventures into protected waters of Booderee National Park or Beecroft Peninsula, depending on the weather, providing different perspectives on the area’s natural beauty.
While the experience has a single review rating, reviewers appreciate the informative commentary and the chance to see Elusive coastal landmarks. It’s a good choice for those interested in local secrets and coastal ecology.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a more in-depth exploration of Jervis Bay’s coastline and wildlife, with a focus on discovering hidden beaches and scenic spots.
$43.85 per person
How to Choose
When picking the right boat tour in Jervis Bay, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. If you want a short, scenic cruise that includes dolphin spotting without breaking the bank, the Jervis Bay: 2-Hour Cruise is an excellent pick. Those eager to see dolphins in action and prefer a family-friendly outing might prefer the Dolphin Cruise, especially with multiple departures available. For travelers interested in coastal secrets and exploring less-visited beaches, the Hidden Secrets Cruise offers a deeper look into the area’s natural beauty.
Keep in mind that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but each tour offers a different experience — from quick scenic rides to immersive wildlife encounters. Booking early, especially during peak seasons, is advisable to secure your preferred time slot.
In summary, Jervis Bay’s boat tours cater to a range of preferences. The 2-hour Passage Cruise offers scenic highlights with wildlife viewing, perfect for those who want a quick yet memorable experience. The Dolphin Cruise provides a more interactive wildlife encounter for families and nature lovers. Meanwhile, the Hidden Secrets Cruise offers a chance to explore lesser-known coastal treasures and learn about the area’s natural history.
For most travelers, a combination of a scenic cruise with wildlife watching makes for a memorable visit. If your time is limited, the 2-hour cruise delivers highlights efficiently. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Dolphin Cruise is hard to beat. And for those who love discovering hidden corners, the Hidden Secrets Cruise adds an extra layer of adventure.
Make sure to plan ahead and book your preferred tour early, especially during busy holiday seasons. No matter which you select, Jervis Bay’s waters promise beautiful scenery and wildlife — a true Australian coastal treasure waiting to be explored.