Encounter Bay

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Top 10 attractions in Encounter Bay

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The Big Duck Boat Tours

The Big Duck Boat Tours

2.9

In Victor Harbor, you can also board The Big Duck to cruise the Southern Ocean! The Big Duck is an 11.3 m rigid inflatable boat (RIB) designed specifically for the conditions of the Southern Ocean. The boat is equipped with comprehensive safety gear and sun protection, features comfortable seating, and can reach speeds of up to 40 knots. The Big Duck operates almost year-round, departing from the Granite Island Causeway next to Victor Harbor, taking you to experience the full charm of the Southern Ocean. Along the coastline, The Big Duck takes you out into the open sea. Among the nearby rocks, long-nosed fur seals and Australian sea lions lazily bask in the sun, while petrels and shearwaters follow along the way. Dolphins sometimes join in the fun, racing The Big Duck to see who has the stronger sprint! Along the way, the staff will provide detailed explanations about the whale history of South Australia, the formation of the granite, and the wildlife encountered during the trip. Additionally, from June–September each year, when South Australia enters winter, massive Southern Right Whales and Humpback Whales migrate from the cold Antarctic waters to the warmer waters of the Fleurieu Peninsula. The Big Duck is a government-licensed whale watching vessel. Experienced staff will guide everyone through the shallow breeding grounds to observe Southern Right Whales and Humpback Whales, watching these giants rise and play in the water right beside you.

Victor Harbor · 3.3 km from Encounter Bay

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Featured Culture & history in Encounter Bay

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Adelaide Jurlique Farm 1.5 hr guided tour: Explore the farm + brand story
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Duration: 1.5 hrs
English
Free cancellation
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FromNZD 50.14
Adelaide Highlights Audio Tour: Cultural and Historical Landmarks
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Duration: 2 hrs
English
Free cancellation
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20% off
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FromNZD 12.76NZD 15.95
Adelaide Highlights, Hahndorf & McLaren Vale Wine Tasting and Sightseeing Tour
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4.9/5
· 88 reviews
Duration: 8 hrs
Free cancellation
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52 consecutive positive reviews
FromNZD 168.82
Port Adelaide: Dolphin and Ships Graveyard Cruise
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4.6/5
· 21 reviews
Duration: 1.5 hrs
Free cancellation
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FromNZD 108.34
Adelaide Gems in a Day: Hahndorf, Glenelg Beach & City Tour
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5.0/5
· 10 reviews
Duration: 6.5 hrs
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FromNZD 158.81
Adelaide: Sunset Rooftop Tour at Adelaide Oval
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4.9/5
· 25 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
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25 consecutive positive reviews
FromNZD 166.11
Adelaide: Rooftop Climbing Experience of the Adelaide Oval
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4.9/5
· 41 reviews
Duration: 2.5 hrs
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41 consecutive positive reviews
FromNZD 153.81

Featured Day tours in Encounter Bay

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McLaren Vale North: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
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5.0/5
· 49 reviews
Duration: 5–8 hrs
English
Free cancellation
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49 consecutive positive reviews
FromNZD 123.04
McLaren Vale North Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Tour
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5.0/5
· 72 reviews
Duration: 7 hrs
English
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72 consecutive positive reviews
FromNZD 125.66
McLaren Vale Wine Tasting, Sights & Glenelg (half-day Afternoon)
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4.7/5
· 135 reviews
Duration: 6 hrs
Free cancellation
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94.1% of travelers recommend
FromNZD 111.29
90 Minute Port Adelaide Dolphin & Ships Graveyard Cruise
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4.8/5
· 17 reviews
Duration: 90 mins
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FromNZD 110.58
Adelaide Hills: Jurlique Farm Tour
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4.9/5
· 9 reviews
Duration: 1.5 hrs
Free cancellation
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FromNZD 49.22

Featured Food & drink in Encounter Bay

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The Blending Bench & d'Arry's Verandah Degustation
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Duration: 210 mins
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FromNZD 516.53
Barossa Valley Food & Wine Tour
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4.5/5
· 263 reviews
Duration: 8 hrs
Free cancellation
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32 consecutive positive reviews
FromNZD 224.92
Adelaide: Highlights, Hahndorf & McLaren Vale Wine Tasting
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4.9/5
· 118 reviews
Duration: 9 hrs
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49 consecutive positive reviews
FromNZD 166.11
National Wine Centre of Australia: Australian Wine Guided Tour
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Duration: 30 mins
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FromNZD 31.85

Featured Outdoor & sports in Encounter Bay

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Victor Harbor and Fleurieu Peninsula Tour
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4.7/5
· 37 reviews
Duration: 8 hrs
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97.3% of travelers recommend
FromNZD 187.23
Adelaide: Tandem Skydiving over Lake Alexandrina
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5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 2–4 hrs
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FromNZD 368.12
From Adelaide: Victor Harbor & Southern Highlights Day Tour
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4.5/5
· 4 reviews
Duration: 8 hrs
Free cancellation
FromNZD 189.50
Adelaide: Surfing Lesson at Middleton Beach with Equipment
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FromNZD 72.65
Kangaroo Island: Day Tour from Adelaide
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Duration: 16 hrs
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FromNZD 500.71

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What travellers say about Encounter Bay

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林荫大道水至清August 11, 2019
4.0
I think many people who come to Victor Harbor want to see this place. There is a bridge connecting this small island to the mainland. The most famous thing on the bridge is the horse-drawn tram. There seems to be a place to see penguins. You can climb up to the observation deck to overlook the sea. The scenery is nice.

Granite Island

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Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Encounter Bay?

Don't miss these attractions in Encounter Bay: Victor Harbor Horse Drawn Tramway, Urimbirra Wildlife Park, and The Cockle Train. If you like Culture & history, try Small group climbing experience at Adelaide Stadium, Australia + professional guide + clothing + equipment. If you enjoy Day tours, try McLaren Vale North: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour.

You can give The Blending Bench & d'Arry's Verandah Degustation and Barossa Valley Food & Wine Tour a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include McLaren Vale North: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour, McLaren Vale North Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Tour, and McLaren Vale Wine Tasting, Sights & Glenelg (half-day Afternoon). Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of November 11, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Encounter Bay is around NZD 49.22 – NZD 125.66. Rates vary by duration, group size, transport, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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Change and cancellation policies vary by attractions and tours. Please check the product details page for more information.

Ticket prices may vary between weekdays and weekends, as well as during peak and off-peak seasons. When booking with Trip.com, you can also use Trip Coins to get extra savings. For more tips on booking discounted tickets, please visit Trip.com for the latest information.