TERMS & CONDITIONS

  • You agree to comply with all NSW waterways laws and regulations, including speed, wake, lifejacket, alcohol limits, no drug use and navigation rules.

  • You must not exceed the vessel’s maximum passenger or load capacity.

  • You must not sub-let or assign the vessel.

  • You will carry and maintain all safety equipment on board.

  • You will comply with all safety briefings, instructions and pre-departure checks provided.

CONDITIONS FOR HIRE & USE

  • Boating involves risks (capsizing, collision, weather, drowning, injury, damage).

  • You release the Owner/Operator from liability except in cases of gross negligence or wilful misconduct.

  • You indemnify the Owner/Operator for losses or claims caused by your misuse, negligence, or breach.

RISKS, RELEASE, AND INDEMNITY

DAMAGE, LOSS, AND BOND

  • You are responsible for damage or loss (excluding fair wear and tear).

  • A bond applies for damage, cleaning, fuel, or late fees.

  • Return vessel in same condition.

  • Contact Owner/Operator immediately in case of breakdown (0419631988).

TERMINATION AND RETURN

  • Owner/Operator may end hire early due to unsafe conditions, breach, or weather.

  • Late returns: $50 per 15 minutes.

  • You confirm you are fit and competent to operate the vessel.

  • Required NSW licence must be held if applicable.

  • No unlicensed, impaired persons, or children under 15 may operate.

COMPETENCE AND FITNESS

GENERAL

  • Governed by NSW law.

  • Invalid clauses don’t affect remainder.

  • This is the entire agreement.

  • Must comply with NSW marine mammal laws.

  • Approach distances: Whales 100m (300m with calf), Dolphins 50m (150m with calf).

  • No chasing, encircling, separating, or cutting across groups.

  • If approached, engine neutral, no sudden moves.

  • No feeding, touching, or swimming with them.

DOLPHIN AND WHALE WATCHING

WHERE TO FIND US

Location:

Wharf 7, 40 Victoria Parade

Nelson Bay NSW 2315

We’re at the last jetty on the breakwall from Nelson Bay foreshore beach (near Dolphin Watch Café).

Just enter "Nelson Bay Boat Hire" into your navigation app.

 

FAQ

GENERAL INFORMATION

  • We’re located at Wharf 7, 40 Victoria Parade, Nelson Bay NSW 2315

  • No boat license is required! Our boats are easy to operate, and we’ll provide a full safety and driving briefing before you head out. However, you do need to be 18 years or over to skipper the vessel.

  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, snacks, swimmers, and your phone or camera. We provide all safety gear and lifejackets.

    Don’t forget to bring the $200 damage & security bond.

  • Yes – all our hire rates include fuel, so there are no hidden costs.

  • Absolutely. You’re welcome to bring your own picnic, snacks, and drinks (no glass or excessive alcohol, please).

BOOKINGS & PAYMENTS

  • You can book online through our website by clicking the button Book a Boat.

  • Full upfront payment is required at the time of making your online booking.

    • It is free to cancel any booking with 24 hours or greater notice prior scheduled booking. A full refund will be provided on payments that are cancelled outside of 24 hours before a scheduled booking.

    • A 50% refund will be provided for any booking cancelled or postponed with up to 12 hours notice prior to booking date.

    • If a booking is cancelled or postponed within 12 hours prior to the scheduled booking, no refund is applicable.

    • If a booking is cancelled by our Team at Nelson Bay Hire and Watersports due to unsafe weather conditions a full refund of payment will be provided.

    Please note: Wet Weather is not necessarily unsafe weather therefore standard Cancellation policy is applicable.

SAFETY & REQUIREMENTS

  • Yes, all hires include lifejackets, safety gear, and a briefing on local boating rules and conditions.

  • All Children are welcome onboard, However if your child is less than 1yr old please check with us first as they must be fitted with a suitable lifejacket, of which our smallest is typically for 6months+ size (min 45cm chest circumference).

    Please note: NSW Maritime recommends not to bring any children under 1 year onto an open boat unless necessary, so we recommend following this if at all possible.

  • Yes, drivers must be 18 years or older with valid photo ID.

  • Safety is our priority. If conditions aren’t suitable, we’ll reschedule or refund your booking, if you are already on the water and your hire period has commenced and the weather becomes unsafe then we will ask you to return to the dock and will refund the remainder of your hire period.

BOAT & WATERSPORT OPTIONS

  • We offer a range of self-drive hire boats, from small runabouts to larger pontoon-style cruisers — perfect for fishing, exploring, or relaxing.

  • Yes! We have stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and other fun watercraft available for hire.

  • Absolutely. Half-day and full-day options are available, depending on the vessel.

  • Most of our boats come with sun canopies or biminis for comfort and protection.

LOCAL EXPERIENCE

  • You can explore stunning spots like Nelson Bay Beach, Duchies  and other hidden coves in the Bay Area. We’ll provide a local map and safety boundaries. You can not travel past the Fly Point Marker.

  • Yes! Fishing is allowed on the boats. Just remember to bring your fishing license if required.

  • Yes – we also offer guided watersport sessions and local boating experiences. Ask our team for current options.

ACCESSIBILITY & EXTRAS

  • Yes, public parking is available nearby at the metered 9 hour Carpark at 40 Victoria Parade Nelson Bay, just beside Dolphin Watch Cafe or free parking in the streets adjacent to Victoria Parade.

  • Small and medium well-behaved dogs are welcome on our Tinny and Runabout boats. Please note this on your booking. If there is any mess or damage caused by the dog, there will be additional cleaning or repair costs.

  • Yes, our gift vouchers make a perfect present for anyone who loves being on the water.

GREEN IS OUR GOLD

Every visit to Port Stephens is an opportunity to help protect the place that makes it so special. Whether you're boating, fishing, or simply enjoying the bay, we encourage all guests to take their rubbish and belongings home, dispose of fishing line responsibly, respect marine wildlife, avoid disturbing sensitive habitats such as seagrass beds, and follow local boating and fishing regulations. Together, these small actions help preserve our waterways so they can be enjoyed by future generations.