Duration:
2h
Port River Cruises would love to host your next function or event. Get a group together and cruise the Port River taking in all the local sights. Beer, wine and soft drink are available to purchase on board.
Operated By:
Port River Cruises would love to host your next function or event. Get a group together and cruise the Port River taking in all the local sights. Beer, wine and soft drink are available to purchase as part of drinks packages or TAB. Bring your own catering. Simply choose between 90-minute or 2- or 3-hour charter options, and a preferred date and time, and we will contact you to confirm your booking. If you want to discuss your options before making the booking please contact 08 7082 9608 or email info@portrivercruises.com.au We cannot guarantee you will see dolphins while within the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary. These are wild animals and are not always present. There is a toilet located onboard If you have mobility issues please contact Port River Cruises on 08 7082 9608. We are able to provide a ramp and different boarding location to make boarding the vessel easier. Wheelchair access is available on our 16-seater vessel. Please call to book on 08 7082 9608. Unfortunately we are unable to cater for mechanical/electric wheelchairs Food is not permitted to be eaten onboard the vessel unless given prior approval.
PLEASE NOTE – 90 PAX CHARTERS ARE ONLY AVAILABLE FOR CHARTERS BOOKED TO DEPART AFTER AUGUST 1ST 2025.
IMPORTANT NOTES
CANCELLATION POLICY
A FULL refund is provided to guests if the tour is cancelled due to minimum numbers not being reached, poor weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances and an alternative time is not established to undertake the tour. As we are providing tours within a river system, the water is very calm.
- NO refund is provided to guests for non-attendance at scheduled tour time
- NO refund is provided to guests who cancel within 48 hours of scheduled tour time.
- Guests can reschedule tour if required, however need to ensure that more than 48 hours’ notice is provided to Port River Cruises via telephone confirmation
- All bookings cancelled within 7 days of scheduled departure, will incur a 50% charge of tour cost, alternatively a credit can be held for you to use within a 18 month timeframe, unless otherwise stated on the booking form.
Thank you for booking with Port River Cruises.
Parking and Transport
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time. We are located on 1 McLaren Wharf in Port Adelaide.
How to find us
Look for the big red and white lighthouse! As we are located along the wharf google maps are not always accurate. When approaching the lighthouse you will see you Ticket Booth directly to the right (it is a large square blue box with Port River Cruises on the back). If you continue to the waters edge and look to your left you will see our dock. Our red and white vessel will be waiting for you or will arrive shortly.
There are several ways to get to us from Adelaide! Please see the attached Parking and Transport pdf for all options. Note – Please be careful to ensure you get off at the correct stop. Public transport is not a one-way connect to Port River Cruises.
If you have any questions regarding your booking please phone Port River Cruises on 08 7082 9608
Share:
Having lived in Adelaide for 30 years it was my first visit real to the Port River. I found it very interesting to learn some of the local history. Captain Jim did a great job engaging all age groups.
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6may
22 Apr 2026
We were lucky to see some dolphins and the captain was all the time pointing them to us. Also the explanation about the old ships and the port was amazing. A rich history for a place that definitely worth a visit.
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Guilherme
19 Apr 2026
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Carol
18 Apr 2026
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janemZ3387KG
31 Mar 2026
It was expertly crewed by very friendly and knowledgeable staff. Very interesting commentary.
We were fortunate to see several dolphins, some of whom played around our boat. It was reassuring to to know the port is a sanctuary for dolphins and they are breeding here and free to return to the ocean anytime.
A bird sanctuary borders the port - some travel from Siberia and the Ships Graveyard stories really bring the maritime history of this part of Australia to life.
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J9248GEeileenc
26 Mar 2026
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Richard
25 Mar 2026
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chrosno3
09 Mar 2026
I did the dolphin and ship wreck river cruise today and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Captain Jim and guide Alex were both excellent. Alex provided lots of information that was of interest to young & old. He had many great stories about how the area has changed, passing under Birkenhead bridges that open to allow ships to sail under them and how and why there is a cemetery of shipwrecks in the river.
We saw lots of dolphins. Jim made sure that people on both sides could get lots of photos. He let the dolphins come to check out the boat and just frolic in the water and catch fish.
The journey to the shipwrecks meant passing through the history of the port with lots of significant sites still being used.
The wrecks were fascinating and that led to the bird sanctuary area which was populated with grey herons, egrets, cormorants etc. An excellent cruise. Highly recommended.
Captain Jim and guide Alex were both excellent. Alex provided lots of information that was of interest to young & old. He had many great stories about how the area has changed, passing under Birkenhead bridges that open to allow ships to sail under them and how and why there is a cemetery of shipwrecks in the river.
We saw lots of dolphins. Jim made sure that people on both sides could get lots of photos. He let the dolphins come to check out the boat and just frolic in the water and catch fish.
The journey to the shipwrecks meant passing through the history of the port with lots of significant sites still being used.
The wrecks were fascinating and that led to the bird sanctuary area which was populated with grey herons, egrets, cormorants etc. An excellent cruise. Highly recommended.
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Helen
05 Mar 2026
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Lynbea
02 Mar 2026
As the weather forecast was for a lovely day and we had time we booked. This process was very easy and the information provided by the company was spot on.
The cruise was fabulous and we saw and learnt things about the Port River that we didn’t already know. Our two young hosts /skipper were professional and friendly.
Definitely a worthwhile tour for visitors to the area. They may have been a little disappointed as we didn’t see any dolphins during the cruise but we can vouch for the fact that we often see dolphins during our walks along the docks.
All in all an enjoyable experience.
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Pathfinder581071
23 Feb 2026
Was a great little trip. We were sailing for almost 2 hours, bonus. Great commentary. Also there were two elderly people in wheelchairs and the crew had no problem safety getting them on and off the boat. Saw a few dolphins and the ships graveyard. The latter was very interesting and we got the history of the ships. I would recommend this trip.
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Fiona
18 Feb 2026
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Fiona
17 Feb 2026
We loved it all and we learnt a lot even though we have lived in Adelaide for decades!
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Susie
13 Feb 2026
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mftlat
02 Feb 2026
Wonderful experience for my partner Susanne & I. The 2 onboard Staff Members were excellent.We felt very safe with the Pilot/ Captain at the wheel. The Narator was well versed in the Georaphy & History of the river & surrounds.We did spot Dolphins albeit briefly. Highly recomend this tour. Best wishes Rod & Susanne
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Rod
19 Jan 2026
Another enjoyable cruise on the Port River. Dolphins submarines ships coffee snacks and very good tour guide and hostess. Thank you State Government’s Coast is Calling vouchers.
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Ahmed
10 Jan 2026
Interesting tour through Port Adelaide with entertaining comments, dolphin spotting at the sanctuary is touching in this environment. The tour guide was very friendly and did a good job! Thanks 😊
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Sabina
05 Dec 2025
Nice river cruise with very knowledgable guide! He went above and beyond to find some dolphins, and we were finally rewarded! Thank you so much for this memorable experience. No pictures of the baby dolphin was so amazed by seeing them in the wild I forgot to make pictures ;-) Nice trip to do with Kids.
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Helen
22 Nov 2025
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Jill
19 Oct 2025
The boys Alex & Jacob were so friendly and great with everyone they made the trip interesting. Thanks you for a great day
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JanetH1049
19 Oct 2025
A very enjoyable 90minute cruise, would recommend.
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maryb747
19 Oct 2025
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Al
16 Oct 2025
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Chris
13 Oct 2025
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Shirl
12 Oct 2025
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Nicole
28 Sep 2025
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Julian
25 Sep 2025
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ngjys222
24 Sep 2025
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PortRiverCruises, Manager at Port River Cruises, responded to this review - 2025-09-27
I can absolutely guarantee to anyone reading this that we always wait until a few minutes after the scheduled departure time. Guests are required to check into the tour 15 minutes before departure which is clearly written on all the confirmation paperwork. If you don’t arrive then, the skipper will phone the customer several times. The team follow up with a final call before departure and if there’s no answer and no attendance - then you’re correct - the boat leaves. As the remaining 30 guests onboard who arrived on time and have been waiting patiently for 15 minutes, have the right to depart on their tour on time. The location is also clearly written on the confirmation with a map. The staff are extremely hard working and ensure the operation operates smoothly, reliably and in the best interest of the customers.
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L
24 Sep 2025
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Odyssey783276
20 Sep 2025
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Cathy
12 Sep 2025
We went with our 4 year old toddler. Highly recommended and toddler friendly.
Captain Jim was amazing. We learnt about history, dolphins and birds. We spotted around 15 dolphins , so close ones as well. Our toddler was given the opportunity to sit on captains chair and wear his cap. Also was given a goody bag to play and a lolli as a appreciation gift. For him adelaide is all about dolphins. He could not wait to share the photos and stories with his kinder friends.
Captain Jim was amazing. We learnt about history, dolphins and birds. We spotted around 15 dolphins , so close ones as well. Our toddler was given the opportunity to sit on captains chair and wear his cap. Also was given a goody bag to play and a lolli as a appreciation gift. For him adelaide is all about dolphins. He could not wait to share the photos and stories with his kinder friends.
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Sanda
26 Aug 2025
Amazing!
Another must do if visiting Adelaide and surrounds!
We did the Dolphin and Ships Graveyard Cruise.
Perfect for all ages, the Captain even lets the children have a go at steering the boat!
Knowledgeable Captain, with lots of interesting facts.
We were lucky to see “Rocket” the resident Dolphin, she played near the boat for ages.
And the Ships Graveyard is fantastic.
Another must do if visiting Adelaide and surrounds!
We did the Dolphin and Ships Graveyard Cruise.
Perfect for all ages, the Captain even lets the children have a go at steering the boat!
Knowledgeable Captain, with lots of interesting facts.
We were lucky to see “Rocket” the resident Dolphin, she played near the boat for ages.
And the Ships Graveyard is fantastic.
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Chelle
10 Aug 2025
We had 3:30 arvo cruise this July. Im telling you because you see how gorgeous the sunset gold ✨️ rays looks. And its perfect if you are into photography. Just a note we were lucky to see loads of dolphins 🐬 🐬 🐬
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Lhakpa
23 Jul 2025
Highly recommended to families with kids! We had a great time in this Port Adelaide Dolphin Cruise, spotted dolphins way out and back. The two crew gave informative and interesting insights about dolphins, maritime history, the harbour, the boats and the ship graveyard. They also handed out kids gift bags which my kid loved!
We are Adelaide local, and never tried this before. I would encourage locals to experience this adventure and you will be surprised with how much fun you will gain!
The weather was beautiful and we could sit on top of this cruise boat and enjoy the view.
We are Adelaide local, and never tried this before. I would encourage locals to experience this adventure and you will be surprised with how much fun you will gain!
The weather was beautiful and we could sit on top of this cruise boat and enjoy the view.
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Yumcha
18 Jul 2025
Had a nice cruise to see graveyard of boats and dolphins. Boat is clean and is easy to see out from multiple places. Managed to spot 3 dolphins at the end of the tour close to the mooring. We didn't manage to go to the Dolphin sanctuary due to the tides. Consider the tides when booking. The river is very ephemeral.
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Claire
07 Jan 2025
Best tour! We’ve seen so many dolphins! What a lucky day. 🤎 Excellent skipper Mr. Chris knowledgable and fun. Highly recommended!
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Anna
06 Jan 2025
Amazing experience. Chris and Tim were very friendly and knowledgeable. Was able to spot dolphins a few times along with the closest ever experience in the wild. The ship wrecks took is back to the old times.
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sohaib
26 Dec 2024
As we use reviews before bookings we wanted to share our experience: Nice Tour with Chris and Jacob, small group and interesting information on the dolphins and harbor.
Even got lucky to see a few dolphins right up to the boat in wild environment (sanctuary only means protected but natural environment). Great experience!
Even got lucky to see a few dolphins right up to the boat in wild environment (sanctuary only means protected but natural environment). Great experience!
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Katharina
22 Dec 2024
We saw three dolphins which was heartwarming.
I’m not sure whether the cruise would be suitable for young children.
We were told a lunch cruise is being planned and we look forward to that in the future.
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Nicola
10 Dec 2024
Train ride to the Port from Adeliade CBD and then a short walk to the Port
The boat drivers were great, very informative and did all they could to ensure that we were comfortable and saw all that was available to be viewed.
We first meet little (not so little) Rocket an orphaned dolphin who has called the Port home and happy there
Then boarded the boat, there were upstairs/outside seats and the drivers ensure that was equally rotated between guests.
Saw the port, told stories, saw shipwrecks, birdlife and some more dolphins feeding.
A great trip and recommend
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prc661, Manager at Port River Cruises, responded to this review - 1970-01-01
We do so love it when Rocket happens to be at the dock when guests come to visit. We have to agree, Rocket is growing up fast which is lovely to see.
We're glad you had such a great time and enjoyed your cruise and our lovely Port. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience and for the 5-stars.
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Annelise
19 Nov 2024
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prc661, Manager at Port River Cruises, responded to this review - 1970-01-01
Thank you for your review
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Niffie123
13 Nov 2024
We highly recommend this cruise. We even got to see 3 groups of beautiful Dolphins. One group was a mother Dolphin and her calf. Another couple of Dolphins playfully swam right up near the side of our cruise boat. Thank you Port River Cruises, we shall be back again 😀
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prc661, Manager at Port River Cruises, responded to this review - 1970-01-01
You are most welcome and we are so glad you had such a great time. The wild dolphins of the sanctuary are an amazing sight to see and we always feel so blessed to have the opportunity to work beside them. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience, we love hearing from our customers.
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Navigate06971080001
10 Nov 2024
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prc661, Manager at Port River Cruises, responded to this review - 1970-01-01
Thank you so much! We're so glad you and the fam enjoyed your time out with us. As a family run business making sure we put on a great show for kids and adults alike is a priority for us and it is always great to hear we get it right! Thank you again for reviewing.
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Tatiana
03 Nov 2024
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prc661, Manager at Port River Cruises, responded to this review - 1970-01-01
Thank you for the fantastic review! We're glad you had a great time.
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Sightseer06211061738
29 Oct 2024
This was a smaller boat than the last time we went a few years ago. Sam and his partner were great and kept people informed about things on the way. But, don’t expect to see dolphins jumping out of water and dancing (kids get disappointed easily) because for us it was very hard to even have a glimpse of a dolphin. The boat graveyard was interesting.
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Nishant
11 Oct 2024
Highly recommend a tour if your in the area and have a chance to head out.
We had captain Chris and he was a wealth of knowledge, super friendly and definitely had a good sense of humour!
We really enjoyed our tour out to ship wrecks, we were lucky to see Rocket before boarding and after so we got a super close view of a dolphin! Will definitely book again if we are ever in the area.
10/10 amazing service and definitely a great tour on offer for the area. The kids absolutely loved it and would definitely have loved to go again!
We had captain Chris and he was a wealth of knowledge, super friendly and definitely had a good sense of humour!
We really enjoyed our tour out to ship wrecks, we were lucky to see Rocket before boarding and after so we got a super close view of a dolphin! Will definitely book again if we are ever in the area.
10/10 amazing service and definitely a great tour on offer for the area. The kids absolutely loved it and would definitely have loved to go again!
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Kerryn
23 Sep 2024
I recently enjoyed a Father’s Day cruise in Adelaide, and it was a memorable experience from start to finish. The setting was perfect for a relaxing day out on the water, offering great explanations about the history of the port. The tour guide was well knowledgeable of the history while we enjoyed the stunning views. Overall, the Adelaide Father’s Day cruise was a fantastic way to celebrate the occasion. It was a delightful experience. I highly recommend it for anyone looking to enjoy a special day on the water.
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Daliana
01 Sep 2024
Fantastic tour today! Wednesday 14th august , I can't remember the tour guys name but he was fantastic! Very knowledgeable and friendly my son and I thoroughly enjoyed this 😍 highly recommend! Lots to see and enjoy
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Ellie
14 Aug 2024
Really enjoyed the 90 minute port river dolphin & ships graveyard tour today. Got to see some dolphins up close, and really enjoyed the history behind the ships graveyard and the port more generally. Great value for money, would recommend 👌
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Joanne
31 Jul 2024
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Contenttravellers03
12 Jun 2024
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prc661, Manager at Port River Cruises, responded to this review - 2024-06-16
Thank you for the lovely review and the compliments for Richard! We are so glad you enjoyed your time out with us. Thank you for sharing your experience, its sounds like it was a very busy tour out!
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Carolyn
10 Jun 2024
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prc661, Manager at Port River Cruises, responded to this review - 2024-06-16
We look forward to seeing you again when you do! Thank you for sharing your experience and we are so glad you and the little ones enjoyed your time out with us.
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Jeremy
02 Jun 2024
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prc661, Manager at Port River Cruises, responded to this review - 2024-06-16
That's probably Rocket, its one of his favourite spots to hang you, much to our teams delight. Thank you for the review, we really appreciate it.
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Jinee
26 May 2024
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prc661, Manager at Port River Cruises, responded to this review - 2024-06-16
Now that is a great day of dolphin sightings! We love it when that happens. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us and for the lovely review.
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Jenni
17 May 2024
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prc661, Manager at Port River Cruises, responded to this review - 2024-06-16
That's so great to hear! We're glad you had such a good time and thank you for leaving such a nice review.
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K9246BVjoannep
11 May 2024
We did enjoy the cruise. The ships graveyard was interesting and our hosts were knowledgeable. The dolphins were a bit shy when we went.
Only downside...it is expensive for what it is and no food or drinks are available.
We've been on previous cruises on the Port River on a much bigger boat, where you could buy lunch, drinks, etc and that cruise was much cheaper in price.
Only downside...it is expensive for what it is and no food or drinks are available.
We've been on previous cruises on the Port River on a much bigger boat, where you could buy lunch, drinks, etc and that cruise was much cheaper in price.
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Wendy
10 Apr 2024
A very relaxing, informative river cruise up the Port Adelaide River and around Garden Island. Great seeing the Ships' Graveyard, the loading of grain ships and the restoration of other vessels. The captain of our tour was friendly, easy going and full of maritime knowledge. Water provided on board, as well as sunscreen. It was lovely standing out on the bow and the cabin with all glass windows provided great viewing opportunities. We even saw a dolphin which swam right past the boat.
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Ruth
09 Mar 2024
We had a very relaxed and fun tour, our host/captain was Chris and he was very friendly and knowledgeable about the area, he could answer all the questions posed to him by us and other passengers. We saw a few dolphins and were able to have a 5 minute stop to see if we could spot them again before moving on, which was very nice of him! He also gave us a recommendation for lunch which we went and had after the tour which was delicious, thank you Chris! ????
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Alisha
01 Feb 2024
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maljonas01
16 Jan 2024
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Van
16 Jan 2024












































