About this tour
A 10-hour private tour from Sydney to Port Stephens showcases dramatic coastal landscapes, sheltered bays and long stretches of sand backed by national parkland. Your local guide drives you through an air-conditioned minivan, stopping at golden beaches and rugged inlets. The region's 150 resident bottlenose dolphins make regular appearances, whilst June–November brings migrating whales. Optional add-ons include boom-net dolphin encounters, sand-dune boarding at Anna Bay and camel rides. Hotel or port pickup included.
Highlights
- 150 bottlenose dolphins resident year-round in the bay
- Seasonal whale migrations June to November
- Boom-net option to get closer to dolphins
- Sand dunes at Anna Bay for boarding
- Camel rides available through local operators
- Mix of beaches, national parks and sheltered bays
- Local guide throughout the day
What to expect
Expect a leisurely day mixing coastal scenery with wildlife spotting. You'll travel between several bays and beaches, each offering different vantage points. Dolphins are frequently spotted from the water—you can watch from the deck or, weather permitting, get closer via the boom net attached to the vessel. Whales are prominent during winter months (June–November). The landscape shifts from sandy beaches to rugged headlands and parkland. Downtime between locations gives you chance to swim or walk. Optional activities like sandboarding and camel rides are run by separate operators, so factor in extra time and cost if interested.
Good to know
Lunch is not included, so pack food or grab supplies in Nelson Bay. Dolphin and whale cruises cost extra and depart separately from Nelson Bay. Sandboarding hire and camel rides are additional fees. Minivan seats small children; infant seats provided. Mandatory temperature checks and hygiene protocols in place.
Tour sold and operated by its supplier via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original AU & NZ Travel summaries, not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.