BUNBURY BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Koombana Bay's Wild Stage: A 60–90 Minute Dolphin Eco‑Cruise from Bunbury
A 60–90 minute, eco‑certified boat tour from the Dolphin Discovery Centre that visits Koombana Bay and nearby waterways to observe a resident population of over 100 bottlenose dolphins, with a guaranteed sighting or a free return trip.
Koombana Bay's Wild Stage: A 60–90 Minute Dolphin Eco‑Cruise from Bunbury.
The Dolphin Discovery Centre’s Dolphin Eco‑Cruise puts you on a low, stable vessel in Koombana Bay—home to more than 100 bottlenose dolphins—on a 60–90 minute outing designed to deliver close, respectful wildlife viewing. The craft’s 300‑degree viewing platform and onboard commentary let the skipper point out dolphins as they play, travel, feed and sleep in their natural environment, while the operator runs an Advanced Eco‑Tourism Certified program under a Parks and Wildlife Service WA special license.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Guaranteed wild dolphin encounters
Koombana Bay supports a resident population of over 100 bottlenose dolphins; the cruise comes with a sightings guarantee—see dolphins or return for free—and the skipper’s commentary explains the animals’ natural behaviours.
Stable, flat‑bottom boat with a 300° viewing platform
The tailor‑made, flat‑bottom vessel offers a 300‑degree viewing platform that keeps you close to the action without getting your feet wet, providing stable, wide-angle observation for the duration of the cruise.
Eco‑certified and licensed local operator
The Dolphin Discovery Centre runs an Advanced Eco‑Tourism Certified operation under a Parks and Wildlife Service WA (DBCA) special license, with scheduled departures from Bunbury (up to three daily—check availability).
What the day feels like
What it feels like
You meet in Bunbury, board a low, stable craft and head into Koombana Bay and the neighbouring waterways for a focused 60–90 minute window of wildlife watching. The skipper provides informative commentary while the vessel positions for viewing; dolphins that call the bay home may be seen frolicking, travelling, feeding or resting close to the boat, and the outing is run to maximise sightings while maintaining respectful distance.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this cruise suits—and the key on‑board rule to follow.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
A jacket is advisable year‑round: a light jacket in summer and a warm jacket in winter.
The outing lasts 60–90 minutes; the operator offers up to three departures daily—check the booking calendar for exact times.
Meet at Bunbury (Dolphin Discovery Centre) to board the tailor‑made flat‑bottom vessel; follow crew instructions at all times for safety and to protect the dolphins.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Dolphin Eco‑Cruise?
The cruise runs for 60–90 minutes.
Where do we meet for the cruise?
Departures are from Bunbury; guests meet at the Dolphin Discovery Centre.
Are dolphin sightings guaranteed?
Yes—dolphin sightings are guaranteed or you can return for a free trip.
How many dolphins live in Koombana Bay?
Koombana Bay is home to a population of over 100 bottlenose dolphins.
What should I wear on the cruise?
Bring a jacket year‑round: a light jacket in summer and a warm jacket in winter.
Are there any rules for interacting with dolphins?
Do not approach dolphins and always follow crew instructions to ensure safety and compliance with wildlife protection rules.