The two classic experiences are a dolphin cruise on the bay and a dune tour on Stockton Bight. If you come from Sydney for the day, a combined tour covers both. In winter and spring, whale-watching cruises leave from Nelson Bay too.
Hand-picked tours & tickets
Day trip Sydney: Port Stephens Dolphins and Dunes Day Tour
A full day from Sydney with a dolphin cruise on the bay and sandboarding on the dunes.
Cruise Port Stephens: Dolphin Discovery Cruise with Boom Net Experience
A cruise from Nelson Bay to find the bay’s dolphins; in the warmer months you can ride in a boom net trailing behind the boat.
Adventure Port Stephens: Worimi Sand Dune Quad Bike Adventure
A guided quad bike ride across the Stockton Bight dunes in the Worimi Conservation Lands. Check age and licence requirements.
Browse All tours and cruises in Nelson Bay
Whale-watching cruises, kayaking, snorkelling and more departures from Nelson Bay, with live availability.
Prices and availability change with season and currency: each link shows the live price on GetYourGuide.
Booking notes
- Dolphins are wild, so sightings are likely but not guaranteed; some operators offer a free re-trip.
- Boom netting usually runs only in the warmer months.
- Dune access by private 4WD needs a permit; tours handle this for you.
- Sun: the dunes are bright and exposed. Bring sunglasses, a hat and water.
