Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari provides the ultimate Kangaroo Island wildlife journey and a bucket list experience. Immerse yourself in history, wildlife and spectacular sights. Cruise magnificent ancient coastline viewing dolphins, seals and eagles, or jump in and snorkel with wild seals and pods of dolphins for an unforgettable wildlife experience.

It depends which experience you're joining. Coastal Safari guests meet at Christmas Cove Marina in Penneshaw. Swim with dolphins-seals and view-only snorkelling guests meet at the Kangaroo Island Information Stop at 43 Howard Drive, Penneshaw first, so we can organise wetsuit fitting and a safety briefing before heading to the boat. Departure locations will be on your booking confirmation.

You can choose from our 75-minute Coastal Safari, the 2-hour Swim with Dolphins-Seals snorkelling experience (which also has a view-only option for non-swimmers in your group), or book a private charter. Private charters can be private versions of our Coastal Safari or Swim with Dolphins-Seals, or customised to suit your needs with 1, 2 or 3-hour hire options.

The Coastal Safari runs for around 75 minutes. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure time at Christmas Cove Marina, Penneshaw so you have time to check in, get settled and be ready to board without feeling rushed.

The swim with dolphins-seals runs for 2 hours from departure to return. You will need to arrive 30 minutes beforehand at the Kangaroo Island Information Stop for wetsuit fitting and the safety briefing.

The view-only snorkelling safari runs for around 2 hours. Please note, this option is only for guests who have group members participating in the swim but do not themselves wish to participate. For those not part of a snorkelling group we recommend the 75-minute Coastal Safari.

Our departure times can vary with the season and daily conditions. When you're ready to book, the available times will be shown during the booking process and your chosen time and all instructions on where and when to arrive will be included in your booking confirmation.

It depends which experience you are booking. Coastal Safari online booking closes 30 minutes before departure. Our 2-hour swim with dolphins-seals online booking closes 3 hours before departure. All private charter online booking closes 48 hours before the requested departure time. If you would like to book within these time slots please call our office and we will see if there is room available.

Our Coastal Safaris are for all ages, from infants to seniors. The swim with dolphins-seals has age restrictions — children must be 9 years or older to participate. Children 8 years and older can participate in coastal snorkelling. All children must be accompanied by an adult in and out of the water.

Infants two years old or younger travel free but must be booked on using an infant ticket.

Child tickets are for 3 to 12 year olds.

If you're booking a senior, concession or student ticket, please bring the relevant ID with you on the day just in case our crew needs to check it.

Yes, we have family, senior and concession rates available as ticket types during online booking.

Yes, gift cards are available. They make a lovely gift for visitors, locals, families, wildlife lovers or anyone planning a trip to Kangaroo Island.

You can contact our team by phone on 08 7082 9607 or by email at bookings@kioceansafari.com.au. We're happy to help with bookings, tour options, accessibility questions or anything you're unsure about before joining us.

No worries at all. If you have an overseas number or WhatsApp is not the best way to reach you, please make sure we have your email address and any alternative contact details so we can keep you updated. Please make sure you provide an email that you will be checking while you are on holiday.

If you're having trouble finding the meeting point, please call us straight away. We'll help guide you to the right location so you can get to your tour as smoothly as possible.

Yes, we're happy to help with luggage storage during your tour. We have storage available at the Kangaroo Island Information Stop, just up the road from Christmas Cove Marina. Please get in touch to organise this with staff.

You can reschedule your booking if required but must provide more than 48 hours notice via telephone. If your booking is more than a week away, an email request is also acceptable.

We certainly hope you'll see dolphins, and many guests do. They are wild animals though, so every day on the water is different and sightings can't be guaranteed. Our staff know our local wild dolphin pods, seals and birdlife very well and work hard to ensure you have a fantastic experience on the water.

The swim tour is designed around the best wildlife opportunities on the day. Depending on conditions and animal behaviour, you may have the chance to swim or snorkel near dolphins, seals or coastal marine life, but exact encounters can vary.

If dolphins are nearby but not interested in interacting, we'll respect their space. Our crew will never force an encounter, and we'll focus on giving you the best wildlife experience the conditions allow.

Dolphins are often seen on our tours, but they are wild and free-moving and we do not promise a sighting on every trip. Our crew are experienced and knowledgeable about local dolphin pods and will do everything possible to give you the best experience on the day.

Seal sightings can be a real highlight, but they depend on the season, conditions and where the animals are on the day. Numbers peak during winter and are at their lowest from November to January. Our crew know the best spots and will work hard to find them for you.

Dolphins can be seen at different times of day, so there isn't one guaranteed best time. Our staff are very experienced and know our local wild dolphin pods well. They work hard to ensure you have a fantastic time out on the water.

Seal numbers peak during winter and are at their lowest from November to January. Our crew are very experienced and know the best viewing areas for each season.

Whales may pass through the area from May to October, but sightings are always a bonus rather than something we can promise. If they appear, it's a very special moment.

On the Coastal Safari you may see dolphins, seals, sea birds, eagles, whales during winter and other coastal marine and birdlife, along with beautiful cliffs, coves and Kangaroo Island scenery.

On the swim and snorkel safari you may encounter dolphins, seals, fish, seabirds and other marine life. What you see depends on the day, conditions and animal behaviour.

No, we don't chase or pressure wildlife. Our crew follow respectful wildlife practices and let the animals choose whether they come close or interact.

Dolphins can move around, but our crew know the local waters well and will look in the areas where they are commonly seen on the day.

Seals are usually found around coastal areas and haul-out spots, depending on conditions. Our crew will take you to the most suitable viewing areas for the tour you're on.

Seal numbers and activity can change with weather, swell, food availability and the season. Some days they are very active, and other days they may be quieter or further away.

Sometimes dolphins are visible but not in the mood to swim with people. If there are very young calves (neonates) with the pods it is also unsafe to enter the water. When that happens, we'll enjoy watching them respectfully from the boat and continue looking for the best experience available.

No. There are many different pods that frequent the waters where we snorkel and we have no way of knowing which pods we might see on the day and whether they will be willing or accessible for swims. It's part of the wonder of meeting wild animals!

When the wildlife is active and conditions line up, it can be incredible. Our crew will help you make the most of the moment while keeping the animals' wellbeing and everyone's safety front of mind.

No, feeding dolphins, seals or any wildlife is against marine wildlife interaction regulations in South Australia.

No, touching dolphins or seals is not allowed. If wildlife comes close, please enjoy the moment respectfully and give animals plenty of space.

The safari includes your boat experience, equipment fitting (wetsuit, snorkel, fins and gloves), safety briefing and the chance to swim or snorkel in beautiful coastal waters when conditions and wildlife behaviour allow. Please bring your own bathers, towel and a warm jacket.

Please bring your own towel for after the swim. A warm jacket or change of clothes is also a good idea, especially on cooler days.

Swim guests meet at the Kangaroo Island Information Stop at 43 Howard Drive, Penneshaw, 30 minutes before your safari departure time. That's where we'll organise wetsuits and run through the safety briefing before heading to the boat.

Please arrive at least 30 minutes before your departure time so you can be outfitted with your wetsuit and snorkelling gear and undertake a safety briefing.

You will need to have some basic swimming skills as the swims happen in the ocean. We do supply you with a life jacket and swimming noodle if needed.

The swim takes place in the ocean as close to shore as safe. If dolphins are in deeper water, guests do not get in the water — after an observation opportunity your guides will continue looking for them closer to shore.

Children must be 9 years or older to participate in the swim with dolphins-seals. All children must be accompanied by an adult in and out of the water.

Children 8 years and older can participate in coastal snorkelling. All children must be accompanied by an adult in and out of the water.

No, infants and children under 8 cannot participate in the swim. They can be booked as a view-only participant but must be accompanied at all times by a supervising adult who stays on the boat with them. If an adult will not be participating in the swim and will supervise the infant/child under 8, you will need to book an adult view-only ticket.

The water temperature is between 14–15 degrees — expect it to be refreshing! We provide thick wetsuits and gloves so you can participate year round. Wetsuits are compulsory in the water. We recommend kids under 14 get fitted with 2 wetsuits.

Yes, wetsuits are compulsory in the water. The water temperature is between 14–15 degrees.

For some children, especially on cooler days, an extra layer can help them stay warmer. Our crew will help with wetsuit fitting and comfort on the day.

Yes, definitely bring a warm jacket. Even after a great swim, it can feel cool once you're back on the boat.

The swimmer line helps keep everyone together and gives you something secure to hold while in the water. It's there to make the experience safer and more comfortable.

You will need to have enough movement to be able to pull yourself up out of the water onto the vessel. A step is used but some strength is required.

Pregnant guests are unable to participate in our swim with dolphins-seals due to the electronic devices used in the water (shark shields). Pregnant guests are welcome to join our Coastal Safari. Please get in touch to discuss your options.

This activity is not suitable for guests with a pacemaker due to the electronic devices used in the water (shark shields). Please contact us to discuss alternative tour options.

Your safety is our number one priority. In our 14 years of operation, we have never had a shark incident. We employ shark shields both before and aft of the boat, covering the entire swim area. Our crew are highly experienced and keep a constant lookout at all times.

If you get in the water at any stage for coastal snorkelling, seals swim or dolphin swim, you do not receive a refund. Because dolphins and seals are wild animals, refunds are not offered simply because they do not swim with the group. Our crew will always aim to provide the best safe experience possible.

If conditions are not suitable for swimming, our crew may adjust the experience or cancel it for safety. This may involve switching to a Coastal Safari and refunding you the difference in price, or if you do not wish to switch and cannot be rebooked for a different day we will issue a full refund.

Yes, sometimes the experience may shift to viewing or coastal snorkelling depending on weather, wildlife behaviour and safety. Our crew will always choose the safest and most enjoyable option possible and whenever possible will discuss this with you before the tour departs.

Yes, there is a view-only option for guests who would like to join the boat but stay dry. It's a great choice if you're travelling with swimmers but don't want to enter the water yourself.

Yes, non-swimmers may be able to join the same boat as swimmers on a view-only ticket, depending on availability.

We do not carry prescription snorkel masks, so it's best to bring your own prescription mask if you have one.

We carry a range of wetsuit sizes from kids to 5XL Mens.

Very. We operate primarily in the coastal waters around Kangaroo Island and don't go out too deep. Our vessels are custom built for both safety and comfort, and our crew are experienced and hold at minimum their coxswain certifications.

Our Coastal Safari and Swim with Dolphins-Seals operate within coastal waters. The swim with dolphins-seals takes place as close to shore as safe. If dolphins are in deeper water, guests do not get in the water.

If the weather is not suitable, we'll contact you as soon as possible and help arrange another suitable time or explain the available options for your booking.

Yes, wind can make the water choppy and may affect whether swimming is safe or comfortable. Our crew will assess the conditions and make the call with your safety in mind.

You may feel some sea spray on the Coastal Safari, especially if conditions are breezy, so it's best to dress for being on the water. Spray jackets may be available if needed.

It can feel cooler on the water than on land, even on a sunny day. We recommend dressing for the weather conditions and bringing a jacket or warm layer so you're comfortable throughout the tour.

Spray jackets are available for swim participants, but it's still best to bring your own warm layer or weatherproof jacket so you're comfortable on the boat.

We have two vessels. Sea Dragon is our 28-seater custom snorkelling vessel with an onboard hot shower system and ladder access to the water. Force of Nature (FON) is our deluxe 38-seater used for Coastal Safaris and non-snorkelling private charters — fully licensed with an onboard sound system, boat lighting and large, comfortable seats. Both vessels have undercover seating.

Our snorkelling vessel Sea Dragon has a maximum capacity of 28 people. Our Coastal Safari vessel Force of Nature has a maximum capacity of 38 people.

Unfortunately neither vessel is wheelchair accessible. If you have accessibility questions please contact us before booking and we'll do our best to assist.

Boarding is generally straightforward, with passengers stepping down into the vessel via a secure marine pontoon. Our crew are trained to provide assistance as needed.

We are able to provide assistance for most disabilities. There is a step down into the vessels, and snorkelling requires a certain amount of upper body strength and the ability to climb in and out of the boat. We are unfortunately unable to provide wheelchair access. If you have any questions or require additional assistance please get in touch with our office to discuss options.

Yes, life jackets are provided where required. Our crew will explain everything you need to know before the tour begins.

No, we do not provide baby carriers. Infants either need to be seated next to their accompanying adult or be held, depending on age.

We do not provide sunscreen but strongly recommend bringing your own and applying it before boarding. Australia has high UV — we recommend SPF 50+ sunscreen.

We only operate our Coastal Safaris when the weather is perfectly safe, however if you wish to discuss weather conditions in more detail we encourage you to get in touch. Please note that pregnant guests are unable to participate in our swim with dolphins-seals due to the electronic devices used in the water (shark shields).

We are very close! Cruise Ship Tenders on Kangaroo Island land at the Sealink Terminal. Our Coastal Safaris depart from Christmas Cove Marina, and our Swim with Seals-Dolphins meets at the Kangaroo Island Information Stop — both are only a 10-minute walk away!

Our departure points are only a 10-minute walk away from where Cruise Ship Tenders dock. Coastal Safaris depart from Christmas Cove Marina and Swim with Dolphin-Seals meets at the Kangaroo Island Information Stop at 43 Howard Drive, Penneshaw.

Cruise Ship Tenders on Kangaroo Island land at the Sealink Terminal, which is only a 10-minute walk from Christmas Cove Marina.

Swim with Dolphins-Seals meets at the Kangaroo Island Information Stop, which is only a 10-minute walk from where the Cruise Ship Tenders dock.

Our afternoon Coastal Safaris run for 75 minutes and generally depart at 3:00pm, returning by 4:15pm. Christmas Cove Marina is only a 10-minute walk from where the Tenders land. We recommend making sure Tenders are not leaving until at least 5pm if you do our Coastal Safari. Please tell our crew on the day that you have to catch a tender so they can ensure you return on time.

If you arrive on a cruise ship and cannot get into Penneshaw on your tender on the day, your tour can be cancelled (and you claim costs through travel insurance), or we can hold your credit for use within a 3-year time frame.

Food is only permitted for private charters on Force of Nature. If you need to bring a small snack you are welcome to carry it in a small bag.

Food is only permitted for private charters on Force of Nature. If you need to bring a small snack you are welcome to carry it in a small bag.

We do not provide food. We do recommend bringing a filled water bottle with you. If you need to bring a small snack you are welcome to in a little bag.

Private charters on Force of Nature may include beverages or platters provided by local providers Fat Beagle or Millie Mae's. Force of Nature is also fully licensed and we can arrange drinks onboard per your request.

No, alcohol is not permitted on public tours.

Absolutely. If you need to bring small food or snacks for a medical reason such as managing blood sugar levels, that's completely fine. Your health and safety come first. Please let our team know before the tour so the crew are aware.

A full refund is provided if we cancel your tour due to poor weather and no alternative time can be arranged.

No refund is provided for non-attendance at your scheduled tour time.

Cancellations within 7 days but outside 48 hours will receive a 50% refund. A credit can alternatively be held for use within a 24-month period.

Cancellations within 48 hours will not receive a refund, but a credit can be held for use within a 24-month period.

To reschedule, more than 48 hours notice must be provided by telephone on +61 8 7082 9607.

No refund is provided for non-attendance at your scheduled tour time. If you need to move your booking please provide more than 48 hours notice via phone call.

Yes, guests can reschedule if required, however more than 48 hours notice must be provided to Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari via telephone confirmation.

Cancellations within 7 days but outside of 48 hours will receive a 50% refund.

No refund is provided for cancellations within 48 hours, however a credit can be held for use within a 24-month period.

If you arrive on a cruise ship and cannot get into Penneshaw on your tender, your tour can be cancelled and you can claim costs through travel insurance, or we can hold your credit for use within a 3-year time frame.

If anything changes with your tour, we'll contact you using the details on your booking. Please make sure your phone number and email address are correct and accessible while you are on holiday.

Yes, if we cancel a tour we will provide alternative days and times that you can book on instead.

Some departures may need minimum numbers to go ahead. If a tour is affected, we'll contact you and help with another suitable option.

If boating is safe but swimming is not, we may adjust the experience to a Coastal Safari and refund the difference in price. If you do not wish to switch and no suitable alternative time can be found, we will issue a full refund. Whenever possible our team will contact you beforehand to discuss the options.

Absolutely. Private charters are a wonderful option for families, groups, celebrations, corporate outings or a more personal Kangaroo Island experience. We have options for private Coastal Safaris, Snorkelling Charters or Private Cruises for 1, 2 or 3 hours. A booking request can be made online via our website.

We have two vessels. Sea Dragon is our 28-seater custom snorkelling vessel with an onboard hot shower system and ladder access to the water. Force of Nature (FON) is our deluxe 38-seater used for Coastal Safaris and non-snorkelling private charters — fully licensed with an onboard sound system, boat lighting and large, comfortable seats.

Music is possible on our coastal safari vessel Force of Nature, which has an onboard sound system.

Our coastal safari vessel Force of Nature has boat lighting installed.

Our sister company Kangaroo Island Coachlines is available for bus transfer requests. We can contact them to provide you with a quote.

Catering requests are dependent on what is currently on offer through our two catering providers Fat Beagle and Millie Mae's. You are welcome to BYO catering on a private charter (food only).

Yes, private charters can often be customised. Tell us what you'd love to see or celebrate, and we'll help shape the experience around your group, the weather and what's practical on the day.

Yes, private snorkelling charters are available. They're a great option for groups who want a more personal experience on the water.

We'd be happy to talk this through with you. In some cases, a support companion may be accommodated with a special booking arrangement, but we need to confirm this before you book so everything is set up correctly for your tour.

Our team is happy to help with anything not covered above. Please call us on 08 7082 9607 or email bookings@kioceansafari.com.au and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.