Perth’s coastline offers some of the best opportunities in Australia to see dolphins and marine wildlife in their natural environment. Thanks to its sheltered bays, clear waters, and abundant marine life, Perth is a haven for dolphin lovers. We’ve looked at the options and picked the best tours that combine genuine wildlife encounters with comfort and value. Among our favorites is the Swim with Wild Dolphins Day Tour because it offers an immersive, active experience with the chance to snorkel alongside playful wild dolphins, guided by a crew with decades of experience interacting with these intelligent mammals. If you prefer a slightly shorter, more relaxed cruise, the Dolphin, Sea Lion and Penguin Island Cruise offers a family-friendly glimpse of diverse Australian wildlife all in one go.
Whether you’re after a hands-on swim, a wildlife cruise, or a multi-day exploration, Perth’s dolphin tours deliver memorable moments. Now, let’s dive into the details of each top-rated experience to help you choose what suits your style and budget best.
1. Swim with Wild Dolphins Day Tour
At number 1, the Swim with Wild Dolphins Day Tour stands out for its immersive water experience. This six-hour adventure from Perth takes you off the coast of Rockingham, where the crew—who have befriended hundreds of local dolphins over the years—facilitates an intimate encounter with wild dolphins in their natural habitat. The tour includes snorkel gear, wetsuits, masks, and snorkels, making it easy to jump in and enjoy the underwater play of these curious creatures. You can opt for a direct departure from Rockingham or arrange Perth transfers, adding flexibility.
What makes this tour truly special is the crew’s long-standing rapport with the dolphins, which often results in close encounters and playful interactions. Many reviews highlight how safe and personable the staff are, with comments like, “The crew made us feel very safe” and “We saw and swam with so many friendly dolphins.” The inclusive lunch platter and snorkel gear add excellent value, especially given the reputation for seeing dolphins quickly—some groups encounter over 20 animals in a single day.
Bottom Line: If swimming with wild dolphins in their natural environment is your top priority, this tour offers a heartfelt, personal experience that’s hard to beat.
2. Perth: Swim with Wild Dolphins Tour
Ranking just behind number 1, the Perth: Swim with Wild Dolphins Tour also delivers an exhilarating experience with wild dolphins just outside Perth. This six-hour tour emphasizes exploring Rockingham’s bays and islands, with a focus on snorkelling and wildlife observation. One of the key perks here is the inclusion of complimentary photos uploaded to Flickr, so you can relive your dolphin encounter afterward without worrying about taking your own shots.
The tour’s reputation is backed by a strong 4.8/5 rating from 270 reviews, with many travelers praising the friendly crew and the thrill of swimming alongside dolphins. The gourmet-style buffet platter served on board enhances the experience, making it not just a wildlife tour but a relaxing day on the water. If you value a small group, personalized service, and professional guides who help you get the most from your marine adventure, this is a top pick.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want an active, photo-supported adventure with a high chance of seeing dolphins in the wild, combined with excellent onboard hospitality.
3. Perth: Dolphin, Sealion & Wildlife Cruise with Lunch
This one-hour cruise offers a quick, affordable way to see some of Western Australia’s most iconic marine animals. It’s ideal for travelers short on time but eager to glimpse dolphins, sea lions, pelicans, and raptors in the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. The highlight is spotting Australian sea lions lounging on Seal Island, a rare sight for many visitors. The cruise also features a glass-bottom section, so you can see fish and coral without getting wet.
After the cruise, you have the chance to visit Pengo’s Café for lunch, making it a convenient half-day activity. The short duration makes it appealing for families or those planning other activities in Perth. While it may not guarantee close-up dolphin interactions, the variety of wildlife you observe makes it a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.
Bottom Line: A good option for a quick, inexpensive wildlife fix, especially suitable for families or travelers with limited time.
4. Dolphin, Sea Lion and Penguin Island Cruise
Positioned at number 4, this 1 to 5-hour cruise provides a relaxed way to see a variety of iconic Aussie animals. It takes you through the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park to spot dolphins, sea lions, and birds, culminating at Penguin Island, where you can watch a penguin feeding show. The tour’s flexibility allows you to choose the duration, making it adaptable to different schedules.
What sets this tour apart is its family-friendly approach and the inclusion of photos that you can download later. It’s a particularly economical choice at $57.63 per person, offering a good balance of wildlife viewing and leisure. Reviews mention how suitable it is for kids and how enjoyable the short cruise is—ideal for families or those wanting a quick taste of marine life.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, flexible tour great for families wanting to see multiple species with minimal fuss.
5. 4-Day Monkey Mia Dolphins Pink Lake Pinnacles Comfort-Level Tour
Our top multi-day pick, the 4-day Coastal Loop tour, combines wildlife encounters with stunning scenery and cultural highlights. Starting from Perth, it visits Monkey Mia’s famous dolphins, the Pink Lake of Hutt Lagoon, and the Pinnacles Desert. The tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Western Australia, with a mix of nature, wildlife, and unique landscapes.
With a focus on comfort, the tour includes overnight stays and stops at notable locations like Geraldton and Kalbarri. The highlight for many is watching dolphins playing at Monkey Mia—a truly iconic experience. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guide Erin and the diverse itinerary, which balances wildlife, geology, and local cuisine.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventurous travelers seeking a multi-day journey that combines dolphin encounters with extraordinary scenery and cultural sights.
6. Dolphin, Sealion & Wildlife Snorkel Adventure
This 3.5-hour snorkeling adventure is perfect for those who want a more active marine experience. It takes place in Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, where you’ll snorkel around limestone reefs, looking for dolphins, sea lions, and a variety of fish. The crew is equipped to help beginners, ensuring everyone feels comfortable in the water.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of snorkeling with wildlife spotting from the vessel. The inclusion of a delicious seafood lunch on board adds to the appeal. With only 11 reviews and a 4.5/5 rating, it’s a more intimate experience for those who love being in the water.
Bottom Line: For travelers who enjoy snorkeling and want a chance to see marine mammals and birds up close, this tour offers a fun, hands-on approach.
7. Perth: Margaret River 2-Day Wine Tour with Dolphin Cruise
While not exclusively a dolphin tour, this two-day adventure offers a dolphin cruise as part of a broader exploration of Western Australia’s wine country and scenic coast. It combines the famous Margaret River wines, a visit to the Busselton Jetty, and the chance to see dolphins on a cruise.
The focus here is on combining wine tasting, coastal sightseeing, and wildlife viewing in a luxurious setting. The inclusion of the Dolphin Discovery Centre makes it appealing for travelers who want multiple experiences in one package, though it’s better suited for those who also appreciate wine and scenic drives.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers looking for a longer, multi-activity experience, especially those interested in wine and regional scenery along with wildlife.
$1,834 per person
8. Monkey Mia Dolphins & Shark Bay Air Tour From Perth
Our final pick is a full-day aerial tour that combines scenic flightseeing with wildlife encounters at Monkey Mia. With a window seat guaranteed, you fly over Shark Bay and the rugged coast, then land to interact with dolphins in shallow waters. The included lunch and the low-flying return trip offer spectacular views and a chance to see marine life from above and below.
This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a combination of adventure and comfort, with the thrill of flying over some of Australia’s most iconic coastal landscapes before meeting dolphins in person. While it’s more expensive, the unique perspective and comprehensive experience justify the price for many.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want both aerial views and marine wildlife, especially if you’re comfortable with a longer, more involved day.
$1,720.43 per person
How to Choose the Perfect Dolphin Tour in Perth
When selecting the best dolphin tour in Perth, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If swimming with wild dolphins is your top goal, the Swim with Wild Dolphins Day Tour offers an active, close-up experience. For those wanting a family-friendly, shorter encounter, the Dolphin, Sea Lion and Penguin Island Cruise provides a relaxed introduction. If you’re after an extensive exploration of Western Australia’s landscapes and wildlife, the 4-Day Monkey Mia Tour is hard to beat.
Think about whether you prefer snorkeling, wildlife cruises, or aerial views. For example, the Snorkel Adventure suits water lovers, while the Shark Bay Air Tour is perfect for aerial photography and scenery. Also, check the best seasons—most tours operate year-round, but wildlife sightings are often best during milder months.
Booking early ensures you get your preferred date, especially for popular multi-day tours or private experiences. Always confirm whether meals, photos, or equipment are included to avoid surprises.
Final Thoughts
Perth offers a fantastic range of options for dolphin and marine wildlife enthusiasts, from active swimming experiences to scenic cruises and multi-day adventures. If you want a personal, up-close encounter, the Swim with Wild Dolphins Day Tour or the Perth: Swim with Wild Dolphins Tour are excellent choices. For a quick, family-friendly outing, the Dolphin, Sea Lion and Penguin Island Cruise fits well. And if you’re looking to combine wildlife with a broader exploration of Western Australia’s stunning scenery, the 4-Day Monkey Mia Tour is unmatched.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early will help secure your spot—these experiences are popular for good reason. Dive into the marine world of Perth and create stories worth sharing for years to come.