Dolphin Discovery Centre
4.4 (2000 Google reviews)
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The Dolphin Discovery Centre is Australia's premier wild dolphin experience and the most ecologically aware. The organisation is not-for-profit and is committed to tourism, research, education and conservation.
An essential stop for any visitor to the South West region. The centre has a multitude of facilities that will ensure that your visit is both effortless and enjoyable including beautiful ocean views.
The Interpretive Centre showcases a range of themed fish and coral aquariums and the amazing 360-degree Digital Dolphinarium, as well as interpretation of the Koombana Bay environment and its history – geological, indigenous, marine and contemporary. It is an immersive experience, with activity centres, interactive displays, feeding programs and tours that appeal to all age groups. The aquariums tell the story of the region from the freshwater river to the offshore reef and feature the marine plants and animals of the temperate zone. The centre provides a unique experience that uses embedded technology along with natural displays to create a memorable experience for visitors.
With so many dolphins living along the coast, Bunbury and Koombana Bay offer the perfect opportunity for dolphins and humans to meet and interact. The Interaction Zone has been designated as a special dolphin protection area for this very purpose. Under strict license conditions set out by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (BDCA), the Centre has been able to offer a unique interactive experience on the beach right in front of the Centre since 1989. Dolphin Volunteers have been trained to ensure the interaction guidelines are followed and they will always be present on the beach to answer your questions and manage the interaction should dolphins visit the Zone. Naturally, being a wild animal there is no set time, however, the most common visit times are in the mornings of the warmer months between 8 am – 12 noon!
The Dolphin Eco Cruise runs for 90 minutes within Koombana Bay. The vessel provides an excellent viewing platform designed to get you as close as possible to the dolphins – without getting your feet wet! The team will introduce you to the local Bottlenose Dolphins as they interact in their natural environment. Many of the Dolphins seen on the cruise call Koombana Bay their home. They can be seen frolicking, playing, sleeping and feeding during the cruise. The informative commentary from the skipper will keep you updated throughout. Available Thursday - Sunday, bookings essential with 7 days notice.
