Nelson Bay Tours
Port Stephens: Dolphin Discovery Cruise
4.5

Port Stephens: Dolphin Discovery Cruise

By Moonshadow - TQC Cruises
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The coast of Port Stephens and Nelson Bay is a prime spot for spotting wild bottlenose dolphins. Maximize your chances on this cruise with a local guide and a 99% sighting success rate. Learn more about the magnificent creatures as you watch them swim and play in their natural environment, admire views of the Tomaree and Yacaaba Headlands as you explore the coast, and take a thrilling ride in the boomnet behind the boat.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation

Ages 0-99, max of 250 per group
Duration: 1h 30m
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Live guide: English
More

Highlights
  • Stunning ocean views from the outdoor and indoor viewing areas
  • Spot dolphins in their natural environment: 99% sightings rate
  • Take a ride in the boomnet to see dolphins from a new angle
  • Choice of departure times to suit your schedule

  • Boom-net Rides
  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
What's not included
  • The listed price does not include parking fee applicable along with waterfront
  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Food and drinks
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Transportation to/from attractions
  • Towels & swimming costume for use in the boom-net
  • Lunch


Start:
  • Moonshadow-TQC Cruises Boarding, Dock C, D’Albora Marina, Nelson Bay NSW 2315, Australia
    Boarding commences 15 minutes prior to scheduled departure time. To avoid the risk of missing the cruise during peak times; please ensure you allow yourself ample time to find parking etc, we do suggest that you aim at arriving to the marina 30 - 45 minutes prior to boarding time of your cruise.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    • Not wheelchair accessible
    • Near public transportation
    If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 55194P1

    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
    • Most travellers can participate
    • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
    • Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund.
    • Please note we do not run on Christmas Day
    • Children must be accompanied by an adult
    • Baby prams are not permitted on board our vessels. Collapsible strollers are permitted but cannot be taken to areas other than the main cabin of the vessel, upon boarding our friendly crew will advise passengers on where the stroller may be stored.
    • Please Bring: Comfortable casual clothing and footwear, Sunglasses, hat, Sun Cream, Camera. We recommend dressing warmer for winter months
    • If you or any member of your party experience or feel they may experience motion sickness, we highly recommend consulting your pharmacist regarding seasickness medication.
    • **TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF TRAVEL:** The passenger acknowledges that during the cruise the vessel will be and will remain under the absolute control of the company, and that the direction and control of the vessel and its crew is at all times the sole responsibility of the Master of the vessel. Moonshadow TQC reserves the right to refuse entry of a passenger on the vessel. It is also at the Master's sole discretion to require a passenger to disembark the vessel. Moonshadow TQC reserve the right to cancel or abandon the cruise either prior to or during the cruise, if the Company or Master of the vessel considers that the cancellation is necessary for reasons of weather or in the interest of the safety and well-being of the vessel, its passengers and crew. The Company will not be held liable for any loss or expense incurred by the passengers caused by such substitution or cancellation. Moonshadow TQC does not accept any liability in contract or in tort for any injury, damage, loss, delay, additional expenses or inconvenience caused directly or indirectly by force majeure or other events which are beyond our control, or are not preventable by reasonable diligence on our part including but not limited to; war, civil disturbance, fire, flood, unusually severe weather, acts of God, acts of Government or of any authorities, or failure of machinery (including vessel engines) or equipment or industrial action. Please note smoking is not permitted on any of our cruises. **RISK WARNING:** Care is taken to ensure your safety whilst on board this vessel. However, be warned that there are inherent risks by being aboard any vessel including, but not limited to, movement of the vessel, unpredictable sea conditions, unfamiliar design features such as stairs, coamings and water on decks, slides, boom nets, ancillary equipment used and/or from the vessels etc. Entry onto this vessel is at your own risk. Neither the owner, Master, nor any members of the crew will be liable for any injury to passengers, or damage to passengers property, however occurring. Fares and itinerary are always subject to variation without notice. Moonshadow TQC Pty Ltd reserves the right to cancel or vary the cruise specified and reserves the right to refuse to carry any passenger without stating any specific reason. A Moonshadow - TQC Cruises family ticket is valid for 2 Adults and 2 Children (0-14yrs). All children including infants aged from 0-14 years of age (not inclusive in a family ticket) are charged the child rate. Concession rate includes full time students and Australian seniors/old age pensioners upon presentation of student or seniors card. Once on board a Moonshadow TQC Pty Ltd vessel all persons are under the authority of the vessel's Captain and Company Management, and are expected to conduct themselves in a socially acceptable manner. The law is clear about the Responsible Service of Alcohol and licenced venues are entitled to refuse service to people who are intoxicated, quarrelsome or disorderly. Moonshadow TQC Pty Ltd reserves the right to return to dock and disembark any disorderly passengers without refund. Passengers must not bring any alcoholic beverages or illegal substances onto the vessel. ID may be required to purchase alcoholic beverages. These terms are an integral part of the contract between passengers and Moonshadow TQC Pty Ltd. When your booking/ticket is confirmed, it will be deemed at all times that you have read, understood and accepted the conditions hereof, and agreed to the terms herein contained.
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 250 travellers

    • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

    If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 55194P1

    From
    AU$42.00
    per adult
    Select date and travellers
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    About the operator
    Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
    • Moonshadow - TQC Cruises
      1,101
      Australia
      Joined in November 2010
    • leanne G
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Beautiful Broughton
      Had a fantastic trip to Broughton Island last Sunday. We were lucky to have a lovely sunny day. the island beaches were gorgeous and great swimming and snorkeling. The whole trip was well organised, on time and well run. The picnic lunch was more than enough and very tasty. The crew were informative and friendly and extremely kind and helpful to my friend who was feeling unwell. On return voyage we saw dolphins, sharks and a seal. Would highly recommend this and I would go again next week if I could! Many thanks to the crew.
      Written 9 February 2025
    • N6808XNmoniqued
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Bloody awesome experience!
      This is a must do cruise. We saw common, bottle nose and false dolphins + 2 separate pods of stingrays, something we will never forget. Josh was an amazing tour guide he pointed out where the dolphins and rays were where in the water + where to snorkel to find the turtles he was incredibly passionate about his job and it showed, he even collected rubbish from the island to dispose of into the bins. We would recommend this cruise to any water/nature lover its was a slice of heaven. Bloody ripping Moonshadow tours!
      Written 2 February 2025
    • Melani123
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Highly recommend this cruise. Must try the slide!!
      We went as a family of 6 with older kids/ young adults. Loved the boom net but the slide was the best. Friendly staff who were attentive. I enjoyed the commentary about the dolfins we found in abundance as well as Nelsons bay.
      Written 27 January 2025
    • ellenhE2943WF
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Second Time Tour
      We returned for our second cruise with Moonshadow, after doing the same cruise in January 2024. Second time around was just as good as the first! The crew were all fantastic, friendly and knowledgeable and did a wonderful job. We will be back again next year!
      Written 26 January 2025
    • kkwato
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      A great day out
      This was a great day out for the family, everyone loved it. The lunch was nice and the staff were great. I regret not bringing shade as we walked over the island (0.5km) to the best beach but there was no shade but we still had a great swim etc. The walk is easy. I wore sneakers, my daughter wore CROCS, my husband wore thongs and he even walked back bare foot. We had a hot day which I think you need to fully enjoy it.
      Written 23 January 2025
    • amirmY6289PJ
      0 contributions
      2.0 of 5 bubbles
      No dolphins watch. No life jackets 😞
      No dolphin watch at all. Also, The staff didn't provide life jackets so I couldn't swim. I did not enjoy my time and I am disappointed.
      Written 19 January 2025
    • V3585PLginaa
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Fun and friendly Dolphin eco cruise
      Excellent cruise. Saw plenty of dolphins. Eco adventure awesome. Lots of history in our backyard. Our own educational experience also. Staff are very helpful and Captain is funny. Great tour
      Written 15 January 2025
    • K4565MScatherinec
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great experience - very worthwhile
      Great experience seeing the dolphins in their playground. Staff were knowledgeable and very friendly and polite. Highly recommend.
      Written 12 January 2025
    • stephanietI1926AJ
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Broughton Island Tour - so good!
      We went on the Broughton Island Tour in Jan 2025 with 2 adults and 2 kids aged 6 and 8, and had the best time!! It was well worth the $350ish for an unforgettable experience. The highlights were: - so many dolphin sightings - the kids giggling away in the boom net - snorkeling off the main beach with lots of colorful fish and a sting ray sighting - the commentary from the Capitan and sunny disposition of the crew Something to be cautious of (which is not the fault of the tour company), is the new parking restrictions and costs around the area. It cost us $35 to park in the closest 9hr carpark. A lot of the parking spots nearby are 4hr ones. Make sure you plan ahead of time.
      Written 5 January 2025
    • renaa2025
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Best dolphin cruise
      The staff were so welcoming and lovely to talk too, we saw so many dolphins and they were absolutely beautiful. Our children were so happy and we can confirm it was indeed the best cruise ever. Thanks everyone Rena x
      Written 5 January 2025
    • sarben123
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Highly recommend, fantastic family morning!
      Highly recommend, the crew were amazing and we had a fabulous trip with our family. We saw dolphins and had a fabulous time on the water activities.
      Written 3 January 2025
    • michellenR899ZE
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Awesome
      It was new years morning so it was a relatively small group. The crew were friendly and very informative. Boat was driven smoothly and there were lots of solpin sightings. Captain kept us informed of them and gave commentary on the different dolpins and their normal behaviour. We enjoyed the net and slide. There were many children and their needs were being catered for. My only problem was before the trip at the cafe. The person who was serving was very hung over and was really rude to me. The simple order took a long while too.it was embarrassing and uncalled for.
      Written 1 January 2025
    • 217mirelac
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Fun Fun Fun!!
      Best value experience! Crew super friendly and we actually seen dolphins !!! Kids and adults loved it. Highly recommend it.
      Written 1 January 2025
    • Allanhowieson
      0 contributions
      4.0 of 5 bubbles
      Last night of the year fireworks
      Great unobstructed view of the fireworks on the bay. Also added bonus of dolphins swimming alongside our boat. Staff were great.
      Written 31 December 2024
    • PBettson
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Dolphin slide and splash
      Great value for money, saw dolphins and family enjoyed the water slide. Staff great fun and friendly. Would highly recommend.
      Written 31 December 2024
    See all 1,101 reviews
    These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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    4.5
    4.5 of 5 bubbles336 reviews
    Excellent
    215
    Very good
    83
    Average
    22
    Poor
    6
    Terrible
    10

    Shirley A
    8 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The entire experience, from booking to the cruise itself was without fault. The staff were welcoming, the 1.5 hr cruise ran exactly to schedule. We had great weather and there were quite a few dolphins out to play. The captain is obviously very experienced in locating them and getting close enough to make the experience great for all, including the dolphins themselves. They came to play close when they wanted to. Would highly recommend.
    Written 17 October 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Patric1a
    sydney89 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    There are lots of tourist attractions in port Stephens but few that showed up and opened after a 36 hour power cut and non stop rain. Thanks for giving us something to do with a 4 year old and a hot drink for first time in 24 hours and an iPhone charge. With smiles and happy staff. Saw 2 dolphins but the kids thought they saw hundreds plus a whale and a unicorn so that’s value for money !!
    Written 17 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Hi Thank you for your 5 star review of our 1.5hr Dolphin Discovery Cruise, and glad you managed to see some Dolphins despite the water conditions and glad the kids enjoyed the cruise.
    Written 20 January 2025
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Madeleine N
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Sept 2024 • Family
    One young man made everyone feel welcome on board. He was singing and had vibrant energy. Due to weather conditions we only saw a few dolphins. The boat rocked n rolled in the water quite a bit was a fun journey thank you for the opportunity.
    Written 13 October 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Mohammed Faruk Molla
    1 contribution
    1.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jan 2021 • Family
    I have booked 2 family passes for 1:30 pm cruise, but somehow 1 was 1:30 and other one incorrectly booked 3:30. We have traveled from sydney and found the issue while we were tried to boarding at 1:30. Lady manager Jacky was ruthless, rude and without morality. She rejected us to board together at 1:30, not only that she wanted to charge us for 1:30 booked tickets and not willing to transfer at 3:30. So we could traveled together, we went to their office at Stockton st, old lady in the front desk was already informed my Jacky and was acting like robot. One of worst experiences we have ever had, won’t go again with this money sucking company.
    Written 12 January 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Mr Molla, I appreciate you taking my call recently where I had the opportunity to speak to you regarding your review of our company. I believe your review is unjustified, misleading, and offensive towards our staff as the problem you experienced was of your own making, we did what we could to offer a solution. During our conversation you acknowledge it was your mistake when booking two family passes on two different time slots 1.30pm and 3.30pm on the same day. It was only when you arrived with both families to board the 1.30pm cruise that you realised your mistake. You have then requested that both parties be allowed to board the 1.30pm cruise, and this would have been a perfect solution if only the 1.30pm cruise was not 100% fully booked. Due to COVID-19 our business like so many others are still operating under strict NSW Public Health orders, we are permitted to operate with restricted numbers on all vessels. Our business Plan has been in place and approved by NSW Health and our Local Police command, the crew acted accordingly in not permitting extra passengers on board. As a possible resolution, the crew suggested you wait to see if any passengers booked on the 1.30pm did not arrive for boarding, unfortunately for your party this was not the case and all booked passengers boarded the cruise. You then stated that your entire party should be able to transfer to the 3.30pm cruise with no extra charge. The 1.30pm cruise departed with your booked seats empty and the timing did not allow us the opportunity to resell your unused seats, I do not see why we should again take a hit on the 3.30pm cruise and offer free of charge seats, it was always an option for each family to board their pre-booked cruise. The terms and conditions are advised at the time of booking, 24hrs notice is required for transfers, you agreed to this at the time of booking. You have then proceeded to our office, where you verbally abused our team member, you again demanded a refund or transfer. Our team member did her best to sort out a solution and it was agreed, for a minimal re-booking fee, which represented a significant saving to you, you were re-booked onto the 3.30pm cruise, with the other family in your party. At the time you left our office happy with this offer. During our telephone conversation you stated that you all enjoyed the cruise. It is disheartening to read this review, particularly because you have named and disrespected specific team members on social/public media, they were professional and respectful throughout your aggressive behaviour. You admitted it was your mistake and you have not concisely justified any of your complaints. I agree regarding your decision to not cruise with us again.
    Written 16 January 2021
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Таня К
    Blue Mountains, Australia3 contributions
    1.0 of 5 bubbles
    Dec 2024 • Family
    The experience itself was ok, although they didn't organise the boomnet properly, it was more like to tick the box off. A guy supervising it said to people something like.. it is not your home you need to come out.
    Another "gentleman" was rude as well and got openly arrogant when I showed him my booking number instead of saying my name.
    It will be funny if this people in response on my review will say..sorry but we can't recognise you as one of our passengers and we can't find your booking with us.
    Written 23 December 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Dear Таня К, Thank you for choosing Moonshadow-TQC Cruises for your cruise in Port Stephens. We apologize if you felt that you were not treated with the respect that all our passengers deserve. Our aim is to ensure every passenger has a safe and enjoyable experience, and we regret if we fell short during your visit. Our crew works diligently to manage boarding and boom netting activities with care and efficiency. This is especially the case during the busiest time of the year when we handle fully booked vessels and face the challenge of strong summer northeast winds during boom netting. Safety remains our top priority, and we strive to ensure fairness and enjoyment for everyone on board. While we do not have the crew's perspective on the issues you mentioned, we know they face many expectations and always do their best to provide an excellent service and experience for all passengers. We are sorry that we did not meet your expectations on this occasion. Please know that we genuinely care about providing a positive experience and respect your feedback. Best wishes, Dianne
    Written 26 December 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Lyndylooloo
    Melbourne, Australia20 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    As soon as we left the bay the whales came to it to play! There were many and we were able to watch a mother and her calf frolic for a long period. We then went searching for seals on the rocks ☑️ and then back to the bay where 10 or so dolphins swam and followed our boat. Great day out!
    Written 24 September 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thanks for the 5 star review :) So glad to hear you had a great cruise, and how special you got to see a mother and calf, as well as Dolphins & Seals. Look forward to having you cruise with us again.
    Written 25 September 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    PJN2530
    Goulburn, Australia41 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The cruise was excellent. We went as a family of 6, our kids range from 12 months to 8 years. Every one of us had a ball. We were lucky enough to see loads of dolphins. The staff were very friendly and helpful with info on the dolphins and the local area. The highlight for our kids was the waterslide off the back of the boat into a net. They didn’t want to get off the slide.
    I highly recommend this cruise for people of all ages, especially families with children.
    Written 14 September 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Hi PJN2530, Thank you so much for the lovely review, we are delighted you and your family enjoyed the cruise. We hope to see you again. kind regards, Dianne
    Written 15 December 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    JoshPreston
    Sydney, Australia2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Oct 2020 • Family
    An amazing experience, highly recommended, we have done this many times.

    My daughter dropped expensive glasses off the side of the boat, somehow they landed on the outside of a ledge on the boat, the staff went to amazing lengths to rescue them from dropping into the water. Thank you thank you thank you!!
    Written 8 October 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Hi JoshPrestonk, Thank you for taking the time to write this lovely review, we very much appreciate it. I'm so pleased our crew were able to assist with the safe return of your glasses. Best wishes, Dianne
    Written 14 December 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Dannielle C
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jan 2025 • Family
    The staff on board were wonderful. Full of knowledge about the dolphins, and we were able to see some beautiful little pods even on an overcast day. Boom net ride was fantastic! The staff were helpful with the children and made the experience very fun whilst maintaining high safety standards!
    Written 6 February 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Feline111
    Green Point, Australia60 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Apr 2021
    Although the weather was not the best we took our grandchild on the dolphin watch cruise. It was a great afternoon and we saw several dolphins, and a couple of babies. My granddaughter loved the boom net but was a little apprehensive about the slide which was really enjoyed by kids young and old. Hot food is available on board, and not expensive. We thoroughly recommend Moonshadow dolphin cruise for a great morning or afternoon out on the water.
    Written 8 April 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Hi Feline111, Thank you so much for the great review, we very much appreciate it. We hope to see you again. Best wishes, Dianne Annable
    Written 23 April 2021
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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    Port Stephens: Dolphin Discovery Cruise provided by Moonshadow - TQC Cruises

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