Inclusivity & Accessibility
Environmental sustainability, inclusive tourism and accessible experiences for everyone.
Nature and Sustainable Tourism Certified
Port River Cruises places strong value on ensuring our business is dedicated to environmental sustainability and provides tours that are inclusive and accessible to people from all walks of life. We are pleased to have been granted our ecotourism certification and to be a Sustainable Tourism Accredited Business.
To learn more about making your business environmentally friendly and ecotourism, visit Ecotourism Australia .
Sustainability Protocols
MMIP Compliant
We follow strict guidelines in all interactions with dolphins. Safe viewing practices, speed limitations and no-follow restrictions are applied on every tour.
Staying Informed
We closely monitor information and updates on the health and welfare of dolphins within the sanctuary and share requirements both on tour and through our social platforms.
Energy Efficient
We use energy-efficient lighting within our booths and vessels. Natural light is used wherever possible, and power points are switched off when not required.
Maintain Vessels
All vessels are maintained to high standards following Australian Maritime Safety Authority guidelines and undergo frequent accreditation checks and servicing.
Recycling
Ticket booths, warehouses and offices have recycling bins for bottles, cans and paper. Staff follow recycling protocols and use recyclable products wherever possible.
Digital Footprint
We prioritise digital over paper, with much of our advertising and operational structure online. When printing is required, recyclable paper is used.
Efficient Motors
We have updated vessel motors to be more fuel efficient and use less energy, reducing their environmental impact.
Local Products
To reduce transport emissions and support the local community, we use local products, suppliers and services wherever possible.
Educational Tours
Every tour includes information about the local environment and Dolphin Sanctuary. We also provide Maritime Educational Cruises for school groups.
Support Local Businesses
We encourage visitors to extend their time in Port Adelaide and provide recommendations for local restaurants and experiences.
Being Inclusive
We aim to create welcoming experiences that respect culture, identity and language.
Indigenous Culture
As an Indigenous-owned company, we recognise the cultural significance of the area and incorporate cultural history into our tours.
Cultural Cruises
Working with local Kaurna Elders, we run private Cultural Cruises focused on Cultural Awareness, Cultural Workshops and corporate group functions.
Language Barriers
Our online booking platform offers multiple language options. Our guides are trained to work with guests whose first language is not English.
LGBTQA+ Safe Space
We support the LGBTQA+ community and have worked with LGBTQA+ organisations on specialised tours, events and articles.
Our Accessibility
Please tell our team about any access needs when booking so we can recommend the most suitable vessel and boarding arrangements.
Mobility
Our dock is accessed by a concrete ramp and is approximately 100 metres from parking. All vessels have a mobility step aid, and a secondary dock is available if required.
Wheelchair Access
Our 16-seater has a custom-made wheelchair ramp suitable for non-mechanical wheelchairs. We can also provide a non-mechanical wheelchair for guests to use.
Physical Limitations
We provide two docking areas depending on customer capability. Seats are large and provide sufficient legroom.
Special Requirements
Customer comfort is our priority. Staff are trained to assist when required and can return to the dock if needed during the tour.
Discounted Prices
Discounts are available for concessions, seniors and disability carers. Bookings can be made in person, by phone, email or through our website.
Hard of Hearing
Bookings are available online, by email and live chat. We use onboard microphones and speakers and provide visual information covering key tour points.
Vision Impaired
Staff can assist with boarding and disembarking. Verbal explanations and histories of the sights provide an audible mental map of the tour.
Inclusive & Accessible
Everyone should be able to experience the Port River. Our vessels and wharf are set up so guests of different ages and abilities can board comfortably and enjoy the cruise.
- Ramp access for wheelchairs, with crew assistance for boarding.
- Assistance for guests with mobility needs.
- Toilets located onboard selected vessels.
- Undercover seating with openable windows and shaded deck space.
- Suitable options for different ages, group sizes and abilities.
Accessibility & Mobility FAQs
Helpful information about boarding, mobility assistance and accessible cruise options.
Are Port River Cruises wheelchair accessible?
Accessible options are available. Our 16-seat vessel has a custom-made ramp suitable for non-mechanical wheelchairs. Contact our team before booking so we can recommend the most suitable vessel and boarding arrangement.
Is there ramp access to the dock?
Yes. Our main dock is accessed by a concrete ramp and is approximately 100 metres from nearby parking.
Can I bring a wheelchair onboard?
Selected vessels can accommodate non-mechanical wheelchairs. Please contact our team before booking so we can confirm the most appropriate vessel for your requirements.
Do you provide a wheelchair for guests?
A non-mechanical wheelchair can be provided for guest use. Please let the team know in advance if you require it.
Can I bring a walker or mobility aid?
Yes. Please tell our team about the mobility aid you will be bringing so we can advise on boarding, storage and the most suitable vessel.
Is assistance available when boarding the vessel?
Yes. Crew members can provide boarding and disembarking assistance where appropriate. Mobility step aids are also available on our vessels.
Are there different boarding areas for guests with mobility needs?
Yes. Two docking areas are available depending on individual mobility and boarding requirements.
Are toilets available onboard?
Toilets are available onboard selected vessels. If toilet accessibility is important for your visit, contact our team before booking so we can recommend the most appropriate option.
Can you assist guests who are hard of hearing?
Yes. Commentary is delivered using onboard microphones and speakers, with visual information also available to support key tour points.
Can you assist guests with vision impairment?
Yes. Staff can assist with boarding and disembarking, and guides provide detailed verbal descriptions of sights and local history throughout the cruise.
What should I do if I have specific accessibility requirements?
Contact Port River Cruises before booking and tell us about your mobility, wheelchair, hearing, vision or other accessibility requirements. Our team can then recommend the most suitable vessel and boarding arrangement.