Hervey Bay: Dolphin Sailing with AquaMat & Boom Netting
Small boats reach the dolphins. Big tour boats stop at the gate
You board a small-group boat from Hervey Bay, cruise the Great Sandy Strait looking for dolphins and dugongs with an expert guide, then swim in calm waters off Fraser Island or Pelican Bank, with boom netting and the AquaMat as optional thrills. Morning tea and all park fees are included, and you're back by early afternoon.
Step-by-step itinerary
Dolphin watching and water activities
- Join morning dolphin watching cruise
- Look for dolphins, dugongs, turtles
- Swim in calm waters off Fraser Island
- Try boom netting off boat
- Test balance on AquaMat
- Enjoy morning tea on board
What’s included
- Your half-day includes morning tea and coffee, all National Park entry fees, and Wi-Fi on board.
- You'll swim in the calm waters off Fraser Island or Pelican Bank during the warmer months, try boom netting if you want the thrill, and test the AquaMat.
- Bring your own swimmers, towel and hat.
- Everything else is handled.
Times
- Every day 08:30
Before you book
Operated by Blue Dolphin Marine Tours
Prices and times updated today
Traveler reviews
The experience
The boat leaves the dock early enough that the water is still glass-flat, and you're scanning for fins within twenty minutes of casting off from Hervey Bay. Your guide knows where the dolphins move through the Great Sandy Strait. They're out here most mornings, and the small passenger numbers mean you're not jostling for a view or waiting for someone else's camera to clear. The commentary is the kind that sticks: not just "there's a dolphin," but what species it is, how deep it dives, what it eats. Dugongs surface sometimes too, and if the light is right you'll spot turtles.
Once the water warms up (which it does from November through April), the boat cuts the engine and you slip in off Pelican Bank or the shore of K'gari (Fraser Island). The water is clear enough that you see down, and calm enough that even hesitant swimmers feel safe. If you want the rush, there's boom netting: you hold a rope net that trails behind the boat, and the acceleration pulls you across the surface in a way that's equal parts thrilling and slightly ridiculous. The AquaMat is there too if you want to test your balance on an inflatable platform, though most people end up in the water anyway. Morning tea arrives while you're drying off: coffee, tea, and something to eat that tastes better when you've been on the water for a few hours.
The whole thing runs about four hours from pickup to return, which is why it slots into a morning without eating your whole day. National Park fees are already in the price, so you're not sorting that out at the gate. Wi-Fi is on the boat if you need to send a message, though most people just watch the water.
Is this one for you?Right for anyone staying in Hervey Bay who wants to see wild dolphins and swim off Fraser Island without a full-day commitment. The small group size and early departure are what keep the water calm and the dolphins visible, so plan to be up early and back by lunchtime.
More experiences you might like
Top questions
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 14 years); Infant (under 4): free.
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
What time does the boat leave Hervey Bay?
The tour departs early morning to catch calm water and active dolphins. Exact pickup times depend on your accommodation. Confirm when you book.
Can I swim if I'm not a strong swimmer?
Yes. The water is calm and clear, and swimming is optional. You can stay on the boat and watch others, or wade in the shallows near Fraser Island.
Is boom netting safe?
It's designed for all fitness levels and is optional. You hold a rope net as the boat moves gently. It's more fun than risky, but you do get wet.
What's included in the price?
Morning tea, coffee, National Park fees, and Wi-Fi on board. Bring your own swimmers, towel and hat.
How long is the tour?
About four hours from departure to return, depending on dolphin sightings and water conditions.
Do I need to book swimming in advance?
No. Swimming is included during warmer months (November–April). Just bring swimmers and a towel.
What if we don't see dolphins?
Dolphins are common in the Great Sandy Strait, but sightings are never guaranteed. The guide will look for dugongs and turtles as well, and you'll still get the swim and boom netting experience.
Hervey Bay: Dolphin Sailing with AquaMat & Boom Netting
4h · EN
from AU$ 120 per person
≈ US$ 85 in your currency
Next, you choose your date and number of travelers and see the final price.