Kangaroo Island: Swim with Dolphins & Seals Snorkel Tour

Summary

Swim close to wild dolphins or seals on Kangaroo Island’s coast

You’ll suit up at Penneshaw’s marina before heading out by boat along Kangaroo Island’s coastline to swim near wild dolphins or playful long-nosed seals. With wetsuits and snorkel gear provided, plus local guides who know every cove and story, expect laughter, cold cheeks, and moments where you forget everything else but what’s right in front of you.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was nervous pulling on that chilly wetsuit at Christmas Cove Marina in Penneshaw — you could smell the salt in the air and hear gulls arguing over something unseen. Our guide, Jamie, handed out masks and cracked a joke about how “no one looks cool in flippers,” which broke the ice. There were only about a dozen of us, all shuffling around, half excited, half wondering just how cold 15 degrees really feels when you’re actually in it.

Once we set off along Kangaroo Island’s coastline, I kept scanning the water for a fin or splash. Jamie pointed out a cluster of long-nosed seals sunbathing on the rocks — they looked so lazy until suddenly two slid into the water and zipped around like underwater dogs. When it was time to get in, my heart thumped (maybe from the cold, maybe nerves). The seals swam circles around us, curious but never too close. You could hear them breathing when they surfaced — this little huffing sound that made me laugh inside my snorkel.

I’d hoped for dolphins too (the tour is swim with dolphins or seals depending on what shows up), but honestly, floating there watching sunlight flicker through green water while these wild animals did their thing felt enough. Jamie shared stories about seal families and why some days you see more than others — apparently winter is peak season. Someone tried to say “hello” in dolphin-speak (don’t ask) and we all cracked up. My fingers went numb but I didn’t want to get out just yet.

Back on board, wrapped in a towel and jacket (bring your own if you run cold!), I realized how rare it is to feel both small and welcome at once. If you’re after a day trip from Penneshaw that’s more than just wildlife watching — something where you’re really part of it for a while — this Kangaroo Island swim with dolphins & seals tour sticks with you. I still think about those curious eyes under the water sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Swim with dolphins or seals

• Arrive at Visitor Information Centre
• Get fitted with wetsuit and gear
• Receive safety briefing
• Board 28-seater vessel
• Search for seals and dolphins
• Swim and snorkel with wildlife
• Listen to informative commentary

Top questions

Where does the Kangaroo Island swim with dolphins & seals tour start?

The tour departs from Christmas Cove Marina in Penneshaw.

Do I need my own snorkel equipment for this tour?

No, all snorkelling equipment including wetsuits, masks, snorkels, fins, towels, and life jackets are provided.

Can children join the swim with dolphins or seals tour?

Children over 9 years old can participate in swimming; kids under 14 are double wet suited for warmth.

Is swimming guaranteed with both dolphins and seals?

No—whether you swim with dolphins or seals depends on wildlife activity that day; interactions aren’t guaranteed.

How cold is the water during the tour?

The water temperature is usually between 14-15°C; wetsuits are compulsory to wear for warmth.

What if there are baby dolphins present?

If dolphin pods have neonates (babies), swimming isn’t allowed for safety reasons—you can observe from the boat instead.

Are pregnant travelers allowed on this Kangaroo Island tour?

Pregnant travelers can be on the vessel but cannot participate in swimming activities for safety reasons.

What’s included

Your day includes use of wetsuits (and double suits if needed), masks, snorkels, fins, towels, sunscreen, waterproof jackets for after your swim—and always an informative commentary from your local guide as you explore Kangaroo Island’s coastline by boat before returning to Penneshaw.