Adelaide is a standout destination for anyone who loves wildlife and the sea. Its proximity to the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary and diverse coastal waters make it a prime spot for dolphin watching tours. What really sets Adelaide apart is the variety of ways you can experience these playful creatures—from serene kayaking trips through mangroves to lively boat cruises. We particularly like the Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tour for its intimate wildlife encounters and expert-guided approach, offering a peaceful paddle through ancient ecosystems where dolphins often make surprise appearances. Whether you’re after a quiet paddle or a high-seas adventure, Adelaide has options to fit your style.
Quick Overview
This list covers a broad spectrum of Adelaide dolphin experiences, including kayak tours like the Dolphin Sanctuary Eco Kayaking Tour, small-group paddles through mangroves, and guaranteed wildlife cruises such as the Wild Dolphin Watching Cruise. For those who prefer active adventures, kayaking and swimming options are available, while boat cruises offer a relaxed way to see dolphins in their natural habitat. The variety means you can pick something suited to your activity level, budget, and interest—whether that’s a family-friendly paddle, a wildlife photography trip, or an immersive marine experience.
1. Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tour Adelaide
At number 1, the Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tour Adelaide offers a peaceful, small-group paddle through Port Adelaide’s mangrove forests. With a duration of about three hours, this tour is perfect for active travelers wanting an up-close experience with dolphins in their natural environment. No previous kayaking experience is necessary—your naturalist guide will provide gear, safety instructions, and insight into the ecosystem. What’s special here is the chance to paddle past shipwrecks and among ancient mangroves, while keeping an eye out for playful dolphins passing through the sanctuary. Reviewers love the personalized attention and the expert knowledge shared by guides like Lewis, who makes the experience memorable. This tour suits those who enjoy gentle paddling and wildlife watching in a quiet, natural setting.
Bottom line: If you want an intimate, eco-friendly outing with knowledgeable guides, this is an excellent choice—peaceful, informative, and full of chances to see dolphins.
2. Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary and Ships Graveyard Kayak Tour
Ranking second, this Dolphin Sanctuary and Ships Graveyard Kayak Tour combines the thrill of dolphin spotting with a fascinating history lesson. Over roughly three hours, you’ll paddle through calm waterways, receiving a brief kayaking lesson before heading out. The tour’s highlight is the opportunity to explore the Shipwrecks of the Graveyard, hulking relics protruding from the water—perfect for photos and maritime enthusiasts. The small-group format (max 14 people) makes for a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Reviewers mention the mangrove scenery as “like being on another planet,” and many are excited to spot Port River dolphins darting nearby. This trip is ideal for families, beginners, or those interested in both wildlife and maritime history.
Bottom line: A well-rounded option—combining dolphin sightings, shipwrecks, and mangrove exploration—great for curiosity-driven travelers.
3. Adelaide: 4-Hour Guaranteed Wild Dolphin Watching Cruise
Number 3 is the Guaranteed Wild Dolphin Watching Cruise, which takes you out on a large catamaran for a 3.5-hour journey along the coast. This tour guarantees sightings, meaning if no dolphins are spotted, you’ll receive a full refund—an assurance that appeals to travelers wary of weather-dependent trips. Expect to see bottlenose and common dolphins weaving through the Adelaide gulf waters, with panoramic coastal views enriching the experience. The cruise is known for its relaxed pace and the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful coastline as you look for playful dolphins. Reviewers appreciate the smooth ride and the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a comfortable, reliable dolphin encounter with scenic coastal views.
4. Adelaide: 4-Hour Swimming with Dolphins Experience
At number 4, the Swimming with Dolphins Experience offers an unforgettable chance to actually swim alongside wild dolphins. This 3.5-hour trip combines a coastal cruise with a snorkeling adventure, allowing you to get up-close and personal with these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. The tour is popular, with many reviewers describing the experience as “unforgettable” and “thrilling.” The guide ensures safety and enriches the trip with insights into dolphin behavior. The price reflects the exclusive nature of the experience, making it suitable for travelers seeking more than just viewing. This is best suited for confident swimmers and those comfortable in open water.
Bottom line: For an intimate wild dolphin encounter, this tour delivers a memorable adventure, especially for water lovers.
5. Adelaide: Dolphin Sanctuary Eco Kayaking Tour
Number 5 features the Dolphin Sanctuary Eco Kayaking Tour, emphasizing eco-friendliness and wildlife interaction. In just three hours, you explore mangrove-lined creeks, often spotting dolphins, birds, and marine life along the way. The tour is highly rated for its peaceful environment and the knowledge shared by guides with a focus on sustainability. Small groups and included gear make it accessible for beginners. Reviewers note the calm waters and the opportunity to see playful dolphins in a serene setting. This option is perfect if you want to combine wildlife watching with an environmentally conscious experience.
Bottom line: A tranquil, eco-focused kayaking trip ideal for nature lovers wanting a gentle introduction to marine ecosystems.
6. Port Adelaide: Dolphin and Ships Graveyard Cruise
Number 6 offers a shorter, 1.5-hour Port Adelaide Cruise perfect for those with limited time. It combines wild dolphin sightings with exploration of the Ships Graveyard, a fascinating site with sunken vessels and maritime relics. This cruise also covers the International Bird Sanctuary, giving birdwatchers a chance to see various species. The small-group atmosphere makes it informative and relaxed, with friendly staff sharing stories of Adelaide’s maritime past. Reviewers praise the informative commentary and the chance to see dolphins close up.
Bottom line: Compact and informative, this cruise suits travelers who want a quick but rich maritime wildlife experience.
7. 90 Minute Port River Dolphin & Ships Graveyard Cruise
At number 7, this 90-minute cruise offers a quick yet comprehensive glimpse into Adelaide’s dolphins and maritime history. With live commentary from the skipper, you’ll search for bottlenose dolphins and photograph the rusting hulks in the Ships Graveyard. This trip’s convenience—multiple departure times—fits well into a busy schedule. Reviewers love the friendly crew and the chance to see dolphins in the wild. It’s a good pick for travelers wanting a shorter outing without sacrificing the highlights of wildlife and history.
Bottom line: A perfect option for a quick, informative tour that still offers the chance of dolphin sightings and shipwreck photography.
8. Dolphin Sanctuary and Ships Graveyard Kayak Tour
Number 8 is another kayak-centric tour, focusing on exploring the Dolphin Sanctuary and Ships Graveyard. This 3-hour guided paddle emphasizes finding Port River dolphins and discovering sunken ships. It’s ideal for those who want a quieter, more immersive experience with marine wildlife and historical wrecks, with a small-group setting and full safety gear provided. Many reviewers highlight the tranquility of the waterways and the opportunity to see dolphins playing nearby.
Bottom line: Quiet, educational, and wildlife-focused, this tour appeals to paddlers who want a mix of marine life and shipwreck exploration.
9. Wild Dolphin Swim Cruise
Ranking ninth, the Wild Dolphin Swim Cruise is for the adventurous. This 4-hour experience departs from Glenelg Marina and guarantees you’ll get into the water with dolphins, with all equipment supplied. Led by marine biologists, it offers a rare chance to swim beside wild dolphins—a true highlight for wildlife enthusiasts and confident swimmers. Reviewers describe the experience as “unforgettable,” emphasizing the close encounters and “seeing dolphins in the wild so close and personal.” The price is higher but reflects the unique nature of swimming alongside these creatures.
Bottom line: For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this tour is perfect for confident swimmers wanting an active, immersive encounter.
10. Adelaide: Dolphin Sanctuary Mangroves Kayak Tour
Number 10’s Mangroves Kayak Tour is a family-friendly 1.5-hour adventure that emphasizes the natural beauty of the Dolphin Sanctuary. Paddling through mangrove channels, you’ll have chances to see dolphins, long-nosed fur seals, and Australian sea lions. The tour is praised for its peaceful environment and the stories shared by guides. It’s suited for all ages and fitness levels, making it a great choice for families or casual paddlers. Reviewers note the tranquil waters and the opportunity to see dolphins up close.
Bottom line: Quick, accessible, and educational, it’s perfect for families wanting a laid-back wildlife experience.
11. Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary Mangroves Kayaking Tour
This Mangroves Kayaking Tour offers a 90-minute escape into Adelaide’s ecological haven. Small groups, safety equipment, and expert guides make it accessible, especially for first-timers. Wildlife, including dolphins, birds, and marine plants, are abundant. Reviewers mention how easy and scenic the trip is, with some lucky enough to see dolphins in action. It’s suitable for those seeking a brief but rewarding paddle in peaceful waters.
Bottom line: Short, scenic, and wildlife-rich, this tour is a top pick for casual paddlers or those with limited time.
12. Wild Dolphin Watch in Glenelg
Number 12 offers a Wild Dolphin Watch from Glenelg, a seaside town close to Adelaide. Over about four hours, watch for dolphins playing in the open waters of Holdfast Bay. Marine biologists guide and commentate during the trip, which is a hit among those interested in marine life. The dolphins often interact with the boat, creating memorable moments. Reviewers describe it as “a fabulous experience,” praising the educational commentary and dolphin sightings.
Bottom line: A longer, well-guided trip suitable for marine life enthusiasts wanting to see dolphins in the wild.
13. Adelaide: Dolphin Sanctuary 1 or 2-Person Kayak Rental
Number 13 provides a flexible option with Kayak Rentals. For around $26, you can explore at your own pace within the Dolphin Sanctuary, with equipment and maps included. It’s perfect for those who want to set their schedule and discover the mangroves or look for dolphins independently. Reviewers mention the confident feeling after instruction and the freedom to explore as highlights.
Bottom line: Best suited for self-sufficient paddlers who prefer a customized experience.
14. Port Adelaide Walking Tour and Dolphin Cruise
Finally, the Walking Tour combined with Cruise offers a comprehensive 3-hour exploration of Port Adelaide’s history, street art, and maritime landmarks. Starting with a 90-minute walk, the tour reveals stories of Port Misery and traditional sailmakers. It concludes with a scenic dolphin cruise along the Port River, where marine wildlife and shipwrecks are the main attractions. While reviews are limited, the combination of land and water makes it appealing for those who want a varied experience.
Bottom line: A good choice for history and wildlife lovers who enjoy a mix of walking and cruising.
$107.27 per person
How to Choose the Best Dolphin Watching Tour in Adelaide
When picking your ideal tour, consider your budget, activity level, and interests. Want a peaceful, eco-conscious paddle? The Dolphin Sanctuary Eco Kayaking Tour offers a gentle, wildlife-rich outing. For those seeking a guaranteed dolphin sighting with scenic views, the 4-Hour Cruise is a reliable pick. If swimming with dolphins is on your bucket list, the Swim Experience provides an unforgettable, hands-on encounter—perfect for confident swimmers.
Timing also matters: summer months tend to bring more dolphin activity, so booking early for popular tours like the Wild Dolphin Swim Cruise is wise. Whether you’re after a relaxing boat ride, an active paddle, or an immersive marine experience, Adelaide’s dolphin tours cover all bases.
Final thoughts
From quiet kayaking adventures to exciting boat cruises, Adelaide offers a rich array of dolphin experiences for every type of traveler. If you want an intimate eco-journey, the smaller kayak tours are perfect. For a more relaxed day with guaranteed wildlife sightings, the dolphin cruise cruises are ideal. And for those craving close encounters, swimming with dolphins provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whatever your choice, early booking is recommended during the warmer months when dolphin activity peaks. Dive in, and enjoy the playful dolphins of Adelaide—your adventure awaits.