Private Port Stephens Day Trip from Sydney incl Dolphin Cruise

About this tour

A full-day private journey north from Sydney to Port Stephens, featuring a dolphin-spotting cruise aboard a triple-deck catamaran and exploration of the region's beaches and sand dunes. The 11-hour excursion includes hotel pickup, a drive across the iconic Harbour Bridge, and encounters with over 160 resident bottlenose dolphins. You'll swim from the boat's boom-net, explore Nelson Bay's seaside charm, and take in panoramic views from Gan Gan Lookout across to Newcastle and the Myall Lakes. The return journey to Sydney allows time to decompress after a full day outdoors.

Highlights

• Bottlenose dolphin sightings from triple-deck catamaran
• Swim from boom-net suspended off the vessel
• Gan Gan Lookout with views to Newcastle and Myall Lakes
• Stockton Beach sand dunes, Southern Hemisphere's largest
• Nelson Bay seaside town exploration
• Private hotel-to-hotel transport throughout

What to expect

Departure begins with hotel collection and a scenic drive over Sydney Harbour Bridge, heading three hours north to Port Stephens. Once there, you'll board the Moonshadow, a spacious catamaran with open and covered decks, designed for comfort in any weather. The dolphin cruise offers high encounter rates—the bay hosts over 160 resident dolphins year-round. The boom-net experience lets you dip into the water whilst tethered to the boat, a genuine adrenaline moment. Post-cruise, explore Nelson Bay's beaches and shops, then ascend Gan Gan Lookout for sweeping coastal and inland views. Optional sand-dune 4WD adventures are available separately. Your guide provides context throughout the drive back.

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