Jervis Bay Splash & Sizzle

Thursday, December 4, 2008

Jervis Bay has national parks, charming little towns, creeks and inlets, bays, beaches, mountains, waterfalls and bushwalking. Diving, fishing and just enjoying the water and nature make it a place with something for just about everyone.

It is said to have the clearest waters and whitest sand in the world. The crystal blue water is home to a pod of around 60 bottlenose dolphins and watching them frolicking is one of the major features of the area. Humpback whales migrate south between September and November.

Most times they go to Long Beach on the north-east reaches of the Bay, or Bristol Beach on the southern shores. Hyams Beach is another option, and it has the whitest sand of the lot.

Once Dolphin Explorer has anchored, a floating air pontoon is set up and everyone has the option of swimming to a secluded beach for some fossicking. You may prefer to relax on deck with a drink from the bar!

Then it's time to experience Jervis Bay's spectacular sunset and enjoy a sausage sizzle. Salads, sweets, tea and coffee are served as well.

The Dolphin Explorer Cruises vessel was designed and purpose-built for dolphin and whale watching. The 17m vessel has three decks giving uninterrupted views. The lower deck has indoor and outdoor areas with lounge-style seating in a spacious saloon. The main sundeck wraps around the bridge and gives 360-degree viewing.

The forward-viewing sundeck is most unusual. On most other vessels, only the captain gets the nice views, whereas on this vessel, every passenger can enjoy the views.

A maximum of 75 passengers means uncrowded cruising as you travel between 12-18 knots.

Location

Jervis Bay, two-and-a-half hours south of Sydney.

Cost

Dolphin Explorer Splash & Sizzle three-hour cruises and sausage sizzle are $50 for adults and $27 for children. Family tickets for 2 adults and 2 children are $135. They run between late October and late March. Passengers should take their own snorkelling gear, as none is provided.