Summary
We arrived in Port Lincoln to take on some of our most adventurous activities in South Australia.
While we may not have been pushing ourselves to our limits or huffing and puffing up any mountains, it was here that we hopped into some of the most daring waters on earth.
Swimming in Australia often conjures thoughts of sharks; it’s the first concern many people mention. Most locals thought we were crazy to enter the sea here, but we had several excursions planned off the coast.
Our first trip took us to Baird Bay for an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Swimming with Dolphins – South Australia
We’ve swum with dolphins before, and it is one of the most uplifting and beautiful experiences on earth.
The only notable difference with swimming in Baird Bay, South Australia, is that these waters are known to be shark territory and they are quite cold!
When we asked our captain about the water temperature, he replied it was a chilly 16 degrees Celcius! For those used to Fahrenheit, that’s 60 degrees.
Upon spotting the dolphins and receiving the signal to jump in, I wasn’t sure if I was more concerned about the cold or the potential for becoming a meal for a great white shark.
Before our swim, we had a quick briefing in which we were instructed to stay close to our guide, who was wearing a shark deterrent.
This device emits an electronic pulse meant to discourage sharks. However, we were warned that drifting too far away could make us easy prey.
Interestingly enough, the more we pondered it, the more we found it didn’t entirely make sense.
If sharks and dolphins utilize similar sonar for navigation, how could this deterrent possibly scare off the dolphins? It’s advisable to let go of such thoughts, and so we jumped in.
Each time we’ve experienced swimming with dolphins, we are reminded to act quickly as the dolphins arrive.
Dolphins are playful creatures, but they have short attention spans, so timing is key — otherwise, you risk missing your moment. We followed directions and plunged into the chilly water.
It is often said that if dolphins are around, sharks will not be a concern. However, this notion has been debunked multiple times. Dolphins and sharks inhabit the same waters and share similar food sources, but sharks are by no means afraid of dolphins.
Both species often share the same habitat. Dolphins can defend themselves against the threat of sharks, including Great Whites, and they are truly formidable when it comes to protecting their young.
In the ocean’s food chain, dolphins are certainly deserving adversaries.
While swimming with dolphins in New Zealand, I actually observed a shark swimming directly beneath me.
It was large and inquisitive, yet thankfully nothing occurred. Our captain didn’t believe me, but we have encountered enough sharks previously to be well aware of how they appear; he seemed unfazed.
See video of us swimming with sharks.
In any case, I’m here to recount our dolphin escapades, so let’s move on to the dolphins.
As mentioned, we’ve been fortunate to have two occasions to swim with wild dolphins: once in Honduras and once in New Zealand. However, neither came close to the experience we had in Baird Bay, South Australia. We had never witnessed dolphins linger around us for so long.
The dolphins dove, turned, jumped, and even vocalized underwater, allowing us to hear their sonar while snorkeling.
Their eyes radiate purity and intelligence. When you swim with dolphins, it feels as though they connect with you at a deep level, almost as if they can read your thoughts. Many believe that dolphins can sense your heartbeat, and when in the water with them, that belief intensifies.
The more relaxed you are and the more you engage with them, the more they wish to interact.
The unique aspect of the Baird Bay experience is its wild nature. Having never swum with dolphins in an enclosed environment, I’m uncertain if I would ever choose to do so.
Here in the bay, it’s entirely up to the dolphins whether they want to play or not. If they’re uninterested, they will simply swim away.
Both our captain and guide affirmed that this was one of the best encounters they had ever witnessed, and we believed them. We had never observed dolphins so eager to stay near humans. Their enjoyment of our presence was evident, and we reveled in theirs as well!
Stay tuned for video footage from our dolphin swim in New Zealand and South Australia coming soon.
For further information on swimming with dolphins, visit BairdBay.com – Adult swims cost $140 (AUD). Observing from the boat without swimming is $100 AUD.
The Australian Dollar currently holds parity with the US Dollar.
Whether seeking thrilling travel adventures or looking to simply enjoy unique animal experiences, exploring the ocean alongside dolphins can be a highlight of any trip.
