In short
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and a light windbreaker.
- Bring polarized sunglasses to cut water glare.
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen and a dry bag if kayaking.
In this article
Packing for the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary requires preparing for coastal conditions. Weather on the water can change quickly. A few specific items, like polarized sunglasses, will improve your chances of spotting dolphins below the surface.
What to wear kayaking at Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary?
Wear clothes that can get wet, a sun hat, and reef-safe sunscreen.
Dress in comfortable layers when paddling the mangrove creeks or the Ships Graveyard. A light windbreaker or spray jacket blocks coastal breezes. Bring a dry bag for personal items and a waterproof camera or GoPro.
Kayak tour operators provide life jackets, paddles, and paddling jackets if required.
How should I dress for a dolphin boat cruise?
Choose comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket.
Boat decks get windy, even on sunny days. A spray jacket or windbreaker keeps you warm while standing on the open deck. Sunglasses and a sun hat are essential.
Bring binoculars. They will help you spot marine life and birds across the Port River estuary.
What to wear for coastal walks and land viewing?
Wear comfortable walking shoes for the boardwalks and waterfront trails.
Flat walking shoes are best if you explore the Garden Island Boardwalk or the 3.5 km Anna-Rennie Loop Path. Bring insect repellent, especially near the mangroves.
Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during your walk.
Why do I need polarized sunglasses?
Polarized lenses cut through water glare, making it easier to see dolphins under the surface.
Glassy, windless days are best for spotting dolphins. However, the sun reflects heavily off the water. Polarized sunglasses reduce this reflection.
Apply reef-safe sunscreen. This protects your skin and the marine environment.
Questions travellers ask
Do kayak tours provide safety gear?
Yes. Guided kayak tours provide the kayak, a life vest, a paddle, and a paddling jacket if required.
Can I bring a camera?
Yes. A waterproof camera or GoPro is highly recommended for kayak tours. If you bring a standard camera, use a waterproof container or dry bag.
What kind of sunscreen should I use?
Use reef-safe sunscreen. This protects the delicate marine ecosystem and the resident bottlenose dolphins.
