Rockingham has a population of 85,000 and forms Perth's southernmost border. In the 1800s it was a busy port, shipping jarrah and sandalwood. The city fronts onto the sheltered waters of Cockburn Sound and these days is a very popular holiday destination. Garden, Penguin and Seal islands are very close and there is a host of water-related activities to enjoy, including swimming with dolphins.
Rockingham Dolphins offers the once-in-a-lifetime experience of swimming with wild dolphins. Over 17 years of swimming with the pod, a trusting relationship has built up between the dolphins and humans. Terry Howson has spent thousands of hours with them and knows their likes, dislikes, how they respond and react in various situations.
Dolphins enjoy interaction with humans. But during a briefing before heading off for your swim, the crew will point out a few important rules which must be adhered to. You are entering their world.
You cruise to the sheltered shallows of Rockingham's calm bays looking for any of the 180 bottlenose dolphins. Once you spot them, you put on a mask and snorkel and enter the water for the magical experience. Before you know it, you are surrounded by splashing and whistling. Some of the dolphins have names — Logo, Boomerang and Ringo are likely to turn up for food.
Location
Fifty kilometres south of Perth.
Cost
Rockingham Dolphins tours start at $175 per person. Gear, lunch and return transport is included. A towel, sunscreen a warm jacket and your camera. Wear your swimsuit, shirt, shorts and hat. They run between September and May. Prices quoted are correct on November 23, 2006.
More information
Rockingham Dolphins
PO Box 5321,
Rockingham Beach 6168
Ph: 08 9591 1333
Fax: (08) 9528 1715
Website:
www.dolphins.com.au
E-mail:
dolphins@dolphins.com.au
Virgin Blue
Ph: 13 6789
Website: www.virginblue.com
