Monkey Mia Dolphins & Shark Bay Air Tour From Perth

Review of the Monkey Mia Dolphins & Shark Bay Air Tour From Perth

This full-day adventure promises a scenic flight over Australia’s iconic Western coastline combined with a chance to interact with legendary dolphins at Monkey Mia. While we haven’t personally taken it, the details and reviews paint a picture of a memorable day packed with impressive views and authentic wildlife encounters.

Three aspects we love about this experience include the guaranteed window seat for prime sightseeing, the opportunity to get close to dolphins in their natural habitat, and the scenic low-altitude flight back that reveals marine life in Shark Bay. A potential drawback is the price — at over $1,600 per person, it’s a significant investment, but one that could be justified by the exclusive aerial views and unique marine interactions.

This tour seems most suited for travelers who value breathtaking scenery, wildlife lovers, and those seeking a luxurious, curated day out that combines adventure with relaxation. If you’re after an authentic, memorable experience that takes you above the coast and into the water’s edge, this might be the tour for you.

Key Points

• Spectacular Coastal Views: Fly over Shark Bay and rugged coastlines, offering some of the best aerial vistas available.
• Close Dolphin Encounters: Interact with dolphins in shallow waters at Monkey Mia, with feeding included.
• Wildlife Spotting from the Sky: The return flight provides a chance to see marine animals like sharks, dugongs, rays, and dolphins swimming in their natural environment.
• Long, Well-Structured Day: Around 11 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and lunch, making it a convenient full-day activity.
• Private and Intimate Experience: Only your group participates, creating a personalized atmosphere.
• Weather-Dependent: The experience relies heavily on good weather — a potential concern in unpredictable conditions.

Flying Over Western Australia: The Scenic Flight Experience

The adventure kicks off at Kookaburra Air in Jandakot, where you meet your pilot and prepare for an 800 km journey along the coast. The flight, with a guaranteed window seat, offers uninterrupted panoramic views of Australia’s stunning coastline. Expect to see rugged cliffs, sweeping beaches, and the expansive ocean, all from a bird’s-eye perspective.

Traveling in a small, private aircraft usually means more room and better views than larger commercial flights. The three-hour flight provides ample time to take in the scenery, snap photos, and really appreciate the scale and beauty of Western Australia’s coast.

Many reviews highlight the “stunning views,” noting how flying low over the shoreline reveals details often missed from land. One traveler mentioned how the “breathtaking vistas made it worth every penny,” especially with the safety and comfort of a reserved window seat.

Monkey Mia Reserve & Dolphin Interaction

Once on the ground, the focus shifts to Monkey Mia, famous for its friendly wild dolphins. Over the next five hours, you get to see these iconic animals in their natural setting, with some visitors even describing the experience as “magical.” The tour includes feeding the dolphins, which is both an interactive and educational moment, as guides often share facts about dolphin behavior and conservation.

Reviews mention that the dolphins are very accustomed to human visitors but still wild animals, so the experience remains genuine. Many note the relaxed, laid-back atmosphere at Monkey Mia, with the open-air restaurant overlooking the beach offering a perfect spot for lunch.

Along With dolphin interactions, there’s plenty of time to swim, relax on the beach, or explore the reserve. The setting itself is spectacular — soft sands, clear shallow waters, and plenty of wildlife watching opportunities.

The Return Flight: Marine Life in Motion

On the way back to Perth, the scenery changes, but the excitement ramps up. Flying low over Shark Bay, you’re likely to spot marine animals in the water, such as dolphins, sharks, dugongs, and rays. Several reviews note that this part of the flight offers “the best chance to see marine life swimming in their natural environment,” adding an extra layer of appreciation to the trip.

This final leg transforms what could be a simple scenic flight into a dynamic wildlife safari from the sky, giving you a sense of connection with the region’s marine ecosystem.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Transportation & Timing: The tour begins at Kookaburra Air in Jandakot, just south of Perth. The overall experience lasts around 11 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and lunch. The flight segments are approximately three hours each, with a significant chunk of time allocated for beach activities and dolphin interaction.

Price and Value: At $1,672.35, this is not a cheap outing, but it offers a combination of aerial sightseeing, wildlife encounters, and relaxation that many would find worth the cost. The small group setting, guaranteed window seats, and authentic marine experiences contribute to the perceived value.

Weather & Cancellation: The experience is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t favorable, the tour may be canceled, but a full refund or reschedule is offered. The tour requires a minimum of two guests, and it’s best to book well in advance — most bookings are made about 109 days prior.

Additional Tips: Since the experience involves flying, bring layers, sun protection, and a camera with plenty of memory. The open-air lunch spot provides shade and seating, making it comfortable for all weather conditions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who seek a mix of adventure and leisure. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the dolphin encounters and the chance to see marine life from above. Photography lovers will enjoy the stunning vistas and wildlife shots. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a private, personalized outing.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day that combines flightseeing and wildlife, and you’re okay with the higher price point, this tour offers a rare opportunity to see Australia’s marine and coastal environments from both land and sky.

The Sum Up

The Monkey Mia Dolphins & Shark Bay Air Tour from Perth offers a carefully curated blend of scenic flight, wildlife encounters, and beach relaxation. Its standout feature is the breathtaking aerial views of Western Australia’s rugged coastline and marine habitats, combined with the genuine thrill of interacting with dolphins in their natural setting.

While the cost is significant, the experience’s exclusivity, the chance to see marine animals from the air, and the intimate dolphin encounters make it a compelling choice for those who prioritize quality and authenticity in their travel adventures.

This tour suits those who want more than just sightseeing — it’s an immersive day that creates lasting memories of Australia’s wild coast, both from above and in the water.

FAQs

How long is the entire tour?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 11 hours, including flights, beach time, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the scenic flights, dolphin feeding, and a meal at an open-air beachfront restaurant.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book around 109 days ahead due to the popularity of this exclusive experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, including service animals, but it’s best for those comfortable with small aircraft flights and outdoor activities.

Can I see marine animals during the flight?
Yes, the return flight is low enough to spot sharks, dolphins, dugongs, and rays swimming in Shark Bay, adding to the wildlife viewing.

In all, this tour returns a hefty price tag but promises a unique, visually stunning, and wildlife-rich day — perfect for those eager to see Western Australia from a fresh perspective.