Adventure brief
ORCAELLA: Snubfin Dolphin Eco Cruise
Set sail on Broome Whale Watching’s eco cruise through Roebuck Bay, home to Australia’s largest snubfin dolphin population. Encounter dolphins, turtles, manta rays, and even a refreshing swim in a boom net on this unique wildlife journey.
Roebuck Bay, located near Djugun in Western Australia, is a coastal haven internationally recognized for its ecological richness and vibrant marine life. Broome Whale Watching offers the ORCAELLA: Snubfin Dolphin Eco Cruise, a three-and-a-half-hour morning odyssey that dives into the heart of this thriving ecosystem. Known for hosting Australia’s largest population of snubfin dolphins, this bay provides a rare and intimate glimpse into the lives of these enigmatic creatures, often seen socializing, spit fishing, or cruising solo through the turquoise waters.
The cruise traverses the diverse waterways and the iconic Simpson Beach coastline, revealing not just dolphins but also bobbing turtles, graceful manta rays, and migratory seabirds sweeping overhead. The vibrant seagrass meadows beneath the surface sustain this network of life, earning Roebuck Bay status as a Ramsar-listed Marine Protected Area since 2015. This status reflects its global importance as one of Western Australia’s most biologically diverse mudflat systems.
Broome Whale Watching’s eco cruise stands out for its blend of wildlife immersion and comfort. The catamaran "Orcaella" boasts multiple viewing decks, cushioned seating, and shaded areas. Guests enjoy expertly guided commentary, fresh morning tea including jam and cream scones, and the chance to swim in a boom net—a unique feature that offers a hands-on encounter with the bay’s warm waters and panoramic Kimberley coast.
Emphasizing sustainable tourism and environmental respect, the tour enriches visitors' understanding of local conservation efforts and marine biodiversity. It caters to all ages, making it a must-do for nature enthusiasts, families, and travelers seeking a memorable wildlife adventure along Western Australia’s rugged coastline.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Arrive Early for Check-Inessential
Plan to arrive at Entrance Point at least 20 minutes before departure to complete check-in and safety briefings.
- 02Bring Sun Protectioninfo
Wear a hat, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen to protect yourself during the open-deck cruise.
- 03Prepare for Agility at Boardingwarning
Beach boarding requires a reasonable level of agility as there is no jetty access; wear slip-off shoes like thongs.
- 04Swimming in Boom Net Requires Competencewarning
Swimming is optional but requires competent swimming skills and fitness; children under 12 need adult supervision.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Sun Hat
Protects from sun exposure during the open-deck cruise.
EssentialSunscreen
Essential for skin protection on sunny mornings out on the water.
EssentialSwimsuit and Towel
Needed if planning to swim in the boom net during warmer months.
spring|summer|fallBinoculars
Enhances wildlife viewing and birdwatching opportunities throughout the cruise.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Turtle Rock – a quiet spot within Roebuck Bay frequented by turtles, Seagrass meadows which are vital feeding grounds sustaining bay ecology
Local fauna
Snubfin dolphins, Manta rays
Historic heritage
Roebuck Bay has been an important maritime hub, historically used for pearling and trade, now a protected Ramsar site since 2015.
Mindful exploration
Broome Whale Watching operates with strong commitments to sustainable tourism, educating visitors on the ecological significance of Roebuck Bay’s marine life.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Front deck of Orcaella for dolphin close-ups, Upper deck vantage point for panoramic bay views, Near Turtle Rock for turtle shots
- Subjects
- Snubfin dolphins, Manta rays, Seabirds in flight
- Best times
- Early morning, Golden hour, Calm midday
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Are there restrooms on board?
Yes, the catamaran 'Orcaella' has one unisex toilet available for guests.
Is shade available during the cruise?
Yes, there is shaded seating on the front, back, and top decks of the vessel.
How often are snubfin dolphins sighted?
Most cruises report successful dolphin sightings, though the number and behavior can vary day to day.
What other wildlife might be seen on the cruise?
Guests often see turtles year-round, manta rays seasonally, and occasionally dugongs and various seabirds.
Is swimming in the boom net mandatory?
No, the boom net swim is optional and only available when water conditions are safe.
Are children allowed on the cruise?
Yes, the tour welcomes all ages, but children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult if swimming.