Polperro Dolphin Swim
Polperro's dolphin swim tour puts participants in the water alongside wild bottlenose dolphins in Port Phillip Bay, departing from Sorrento Pier in groups of up to 12. Encounters are guided by licensed marine naturalists who position swimmers near dolphin pods while the RIB holds station nearby. The tour runs year-round, though summer and autumn offer the warmest water temperatures.
At a glance
Check availability — Polperro Dolphin Swims
Pricing and availability are managed directly by the operator. Booking through the link below confirms your place directly with Polperro Dolphin Swims.
Book this tour →What happens on this tour
After a briefing at the pier covering safety, marine mammal interaction rules, and what to expect in the water, the group boards the rigid inflatable boat and heads out into Port Phillip Bay. The crew uses knowledge of regular dolphin movement patterns to locate pods, typically within 20 to 30 minutes of departure. When a pod is found and conditions allow safe entry, swimmers enter the water with snorkel, mask, and wetsuit (provided). Dolphins are not baited or directed, so interaction depends on the animals' interest, but pods in the Bay are habituated to the vessel and frequently approach curious swimmers. Non-swimmers and younger observers (children under 8) can remain on board and watch from the vessel. After the swim session, the boat may relocate to a second pod before returning to the pier. Total time on the water is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
Who this suits
Families with children aged 8 and above who want a genuine, unscripted wildlife encounter rather than a themed attraction. Confident swimmers who are comfortable in open water with a snorkel. Guests who understand that wild dolphin encounters are not guaranteed but who appreciate the difference between a managed interaction and a zoo-style experience. Suitable for adults travelling without children who want a close-up wildlife experience in a small group.
Who should look elsewhere
Families with children under 8 who specifically want to swim, as the minimum swim age is 8 years old (younger children may observe from the vessel, but cannot enter the water). Guests who are not comfortable in cold, open water: Port Phillip Bay temperatures sit around 13 to 16 degrees Celsius in winter and spring, and up to 22 degrees in peak summer, and wetsuits are provided but the cold is real. Anyone seeking a passive, seated sightseeing experience rather than active participation.
Booking intelligence
Tours operate year-round with multiple departures daily in peak season. Summer and autumn offer the most comfortable water temperatures and the highest dolphin activity near the pier. Book at least a week in advance in December through February, when tours fill quickly. The operator provides wetsuits, masks, and snorkels, so participants need only bring a towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. Arrive at Sorrento Pier at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure for the shore briefing. Cancellations due to weather or sea conditions are handled by the operator, usually with a reschedule or full refund.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum age for swimming on the tour?
The minimum age to enter the water is 8 years old. Children under 8 are welcome on board the vessel and can watch encounters from the RIB, but cannot participate in the swim. Adults accompanying non-swimming children will also remain on the vessel during in-water sessions unless another adult is present to supervise the child on board.
What happens if no dolphins are found?
Dolphin sightings are not guaranteed on any individual tour. The operator's guides have detailed knowledge of dolphin movement patterns in the Bay and sighting rates are high, but wild animals cannot be directed. If no dolphins are encountered, the operator's policy is to offer a complimentary re-booking rather than a cash refund. Check the current policy on the booking page, as terms can be updated seasonally.
What should I bring, and is equipment provided?
Wetsuits, masks, fins, and snorkels are all provided and included in the tour price. Bring a towel, a change of clothes, sunscreen, and any motion sickness medication if you are prone to it on small vessels. Leave valuables at your accommodation or in a locker at the pier if available. The RIB is an open boat with no cabin, so dress for outdoor conditions on the day.
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