The Baird Bay Experience, formally known as Baird Bay Ocean Eco Experience, is celebrating the return of its wild sea lion and dolphin swim tours, now enhanced with a regionally inspired lunch prepared by an acclaimed chef, alongside a stunning new accommodation offering on the beautifully rugged coastline of the Eyre Peninsula.
As doors for the new season open, guests are invited to immerse themselves in these aquatic adventures complemented by culinary delights and enjoy the tranquil luxe of the newly renovated villas, which is now under the ownership of The Tailor.
Leading the Baird Bay team is renowned guide Brendon Bevan, coming to the business having previously managed some of Australia’s leading premium lodges, including Arkaba Conservancy, Bamurru Plains and Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef to name a few. With more than 25 years of guiding experience and his roots in game lodges across Africa, Bevan will impart on guests his true appreciation of the natural world and passion for conservation.
“Our wild sea lion and dolphin swims offer intimate and respectful wildlife encounters in the pristine waters of Baird Bay. These tours are a cornerstone of our commitment to sustainable tourism and provide an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the natural world up close,” he said.
Bevan is joined by his wife and experienced lodge manager, Kat Bevan, who brings to the team extensive expertise across luxury and outback lodges in Australia, including playing a founding role in the development of Bamurru Plains and establishing the Arkaba Walk at Arkaba Conservancy. Kat’s deep-seated knowledge and enthusiasm crafting unforgettable experiences that highlight the symbiotic relationship between nature and humanity will ensure guests have inspiring and memorable encounters.
Enhancing this experience, guests will now enjoy a specially prepared lunch that highlights the rich culinary heritage of the Eyre Peninsula, crafted by acclaimed Head Chef Calvin Von Niebel, former Head Chef at Arkaba Conservancy and the Executive Chef and Group Development Chef for Ottolenghi across its seven London restaurants.
“Our culinary philosophy at Baird Bay is rooted in the essence of the Eyre Peninsula — from source to plate,” Von Niebel explains.
“Dining at Baird Bay is an experience set against the backdrop of stunning natural locations with an approach to food that remains simple yet exceptional. We focus on informal dining where the quality of produce and the purity of flavours shine through.”
Complementing the return of the tours are the newly renovated Seaside Villas designed with a chic coastal style, offering guests a peaceful haven of quiet luxury.
Featuring two self-contained villas, a two storey four-bedroom and single story three-bedroom villa, they are joined by a communal outdoor lounge, BBQ area and pool. Emphasising sustainability and local craftsmanship, the renovations enhance the overall guest experience, aligning with the business’ dedication to environmental stewardship. The Tailor acquired the property late last year, sensing an opportunity to enhance the Eyre Peninsula’s appeal as a destination for discerning travellers.Drew Kluska, Founder and Managing Director of The Tailor, said Baird Bay holds a special place for him personally, having grown up in the region and in journey of the business he started more than 25 years ago.
“Baird Bay was the first stop on the very first Australian journey I created for clients back when I started The Tailor in 1998,” Kluska said.
“Having the honour of continuing the legacy of Baird Bay, which Alan and Trish Payne pioneered more than 30 years ago, feels like a full circle moment for me and I cannot wait to connect our guests with the untouched beauty and rich biodiversity of the Eyre Peninsula.
“The renovated villas and the elevated sea lion and dolphin tours, complete with a regionally inspired culinary offering, mark a significant moment for Baird Bay and cements it as a bucket list experience in Australia’s tourism landscape,” he added.
Tours and villa bookings are now open.
The Baird Bay Seaside Villas and tour are fully commissionable to travel advisors. Contact info@bairdbay.com for more information.
The Baird Bay Seaside Villas are also available for all-inclusive buyouts, which include full use of the property, dedicated guides, private chef, and a tailored experience program akin to your own private lodge in a coastal fishing village.
