Swimming with dolphins in Rockingham, Western Australia, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to encounter these intelligent and playful creatures in their natural habitat. Situated just 45 minutes south of Perth, Rockingham is famous for its dolphin population, and several reputable operators offer tours that give visitors the chance to swim alongside these wild animals. Here’s everything you need to know about how to book and what to expect during your dolphin swim adventure in Rockingham.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
How to Book Your Dolphin Swim
Booking a dolphin swim tour in Rockingham is simple, and it’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons (summer months from November to April). Here are the main steps to book your tour:
1. Choose a Tour Operator
Rockingham has several reputable tour companies that offer dolphin swim experiences. One of the most popular operators is Rockingham Wild Encounters, which has been operating dolphin tours for many years and is known for its focus on responsible wildlife interaction.
2. Book Online or In-Person
You can book your dolphin swim online through the operator’s website or by visiting the tour office in Rockingham. Booking online is often the easiest option, as it allows you to secure your spot and receive confirmation via email.
Prices generally range from $200 to $250 AUD per person for the dolphin swim tour, which typically includes equipment, a guide, and transport from the Rockingham foreshore to the dolphin’s location. Tours usually operate from September to early June, depending on dolphin activity and weather conditions.
3. Choose Your Date and Time
Dolphin swim tours typically depart in the morning, around 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m., and last for about 3 to 6 hours. The morning sessions are the best time to spot dolphins, as the seas are often calmer and the dolphins are more active.
It’s important to check availability in advance, especially during weekends and holidays, as tours can fill up quickly.
What to Expect During Your Dolphin Swim Experience
The dolphin swim experience in Rockingham is one of the most ethical and respectful wildlife tours you’ll find. The dolphins are not trained or fed, meaning that all interactions are on the dolphin’s terms in their natural environment. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to expect:
1. Check-In and Briefing
On the day of your tour, you’ll meet at the Rockingham Wild Encounters office near the Rockingham foreshore. After checking in, the guides will provide you with all the necessary equipment, including wetsuits, snorkels, and masks.
Before heading out, you’ll receive a safety briefing and learn about how to interact with the dolphins in a way that’s safe for both you and the animals. The guides are experienced and knowledgeable, and they’ll explain the best practices for swimming with wild dolphins, emphasizing a no-touch policy.
2. Boat Ride to Dolphin Area
Once everyone is ready, you’ll board the boat and head out to Rockingham’s coastal waters, where the dolphins are known to frequent. The boat ride takes about 20-30 minutes, and along the way, the guides will share information about the dolphins’ behavior and habitat. As you approach the dolphins, the excitement builds as you spot them swimming and playing in the water.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
3. Getting Ready for the Swim
Once the boat reaches the dolphin pod, the guides will help you get into the water. The dolphins are wild, so there’s no guarantee of an up-close encounter, but they are often curious and will swim near the group. You’ll hold onto a floating rope and gently enter the water in small groups, staying calm and quiet to avoid scaring the dolphins away.
4. Swimming with Dolphins
The best part of the experience is swimming alongside the dolphins in their natural environment. The dolphins are not trained, so they will come and go as they please, sometimes swimming right next to you or diving beneath the group. The feeling of being in the water with these intelligent creatures is truly magical.
You can expect to spend around 60-90 minutes in the water, with multiple opportunities to swim as the boat moves to different spots to find active dolphin pods. The guides are excellent at spotting dolphins and ensuring that the experience is as memorable as possible.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
5. Return to Shore
After the swim, you’ll return to the boat and enjoy some refreshments as the tour heads back to shore. The entire experience typically lasts 3-6 hours, depending on dolphin activity and weather conditions. Once back on land, you can share stories with your fellow travelers and relive the incredible encounter with Rockingham’s dolphins.
Tips for a Great Dolphin Swim Experience
- Bring a Swimsuit and Towel: You’ll be provided with a wetsuit, but make sure to bring your own swimsuit to wear underneath, as well as a towel for drying off afterward.
- Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Apply reef-safe sunscreen before the tour to protect your skin from the sun while minimizing the impact on the marine environment.
- Don’t Expect to Touch the Dolphins: The dolphins are wild, and touching them is not allowed. The experience is about observing and swimming near them, respecting their space.
- Bring a Camera: Many operators allow you to bring a waterproof camera or GoPro to capture your experience. Some tours also offer professional photography services for an additional fee.
- Prepare for Weather: The weather in Rockingham can change quickly, so bring a light jacket for the boat ride and be prepared for wind or cooler temperatures, especially early in the morning.
- Check the Cancellation Policy: Tours can sometimes be canceled due to bad weather or poor dolphin activity. Make sure to check the operator’s cancellation and refund policy when booking.
What’s Included in Most Dolphin Swim Tours
- Guided Dolphin Swim: A professional guide will lead you through the dolphin swim, ensuring safety and a respectful interaction with the animals.
- Wetsuits and Snorkeling Gear: Most tours provide all the necessary equipment, including wetsuits, snorkels, and masks.
- Boat Ride: Transport to and from the dolphin areas is included in the tour package.
- Refreshments: Some tours offer light refreshments or snacks on board.
Final Thoughts
Swimming with dolphins in Rockingham is an unforgettable experience that allows you to connect with these amazing animals in a natural and ethical way. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable amenities, and the chance to see dolphins up close in their habitat, it’s a must-do activity for nature lovers and adventurers alike.