Iconic Port River Dolphin Explorer to Leave Port Adelaide with a smaller vessel in tow

After 30 years the iconic boat is about to run its final Port River tour, but owners say there will still be a way to get up close and personal with local marine life.

After 30 years of cruising the Port River, owners of the Dolphin Explorer have announced Saturday will be its last day of operation after the vessel was sold.

Owners Chris and Alison Mitchell said the 700-people capacity vessel, which has been a familiar sightsince 2005, will be moving away from Port Adelaide.

The couple said they decided to sell their third and largest vessel to take a well-earned rest, but they would resume cruises with a smaller, 49-passenger vessel dubbed Explorer II in the near future.

The new vessel is purpose-built to take people to Garden Island, nearby mangroves and historic attractions such as shipwrecks.

The 'Explorer 2' which is due to begin operating cruises in the near future. Picture supplied

The Dolphin Explorer which began tours in 2005. Picture Supplied

“We really enjoy cruising the Port River and sharing the wonderful history with all who join us. We want to thank everyone for the ongoing support over the past 30 years,” the couple said in a statement.

They are currently in the process of notifying and cancelling cruises booked beyond Saturday.

The Dolphin Explorer was built in Gilman. When weather permitted, it cruised out of the Port River breakwater and down to Semaphore.