Jools Farrell, president of the Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia (ORRCA), said the consequences of approaching a dolphin pod too closely could be tragic, possibly leading to the animals beaching themselves.

"It's important that people using the water are aware of the legal distances they are required to keep away from dolphins and other marine animals like whales and seals, and what to do if a dolphin approaches you," she said.

"If you see a pod of dolphins, do not approach them. Any water vessel, whether its a stand-up paddle board, kayak or tinnie, is required to stay 50 metres away from a dolphin or a pod. That distance is 150m if the pod has calves.

"Dolphins are very curious marine mammals and are known for approaching paddlers and vessels. In this case, you're required to stop until they pass.

"If there is a misadventure, if you get too close, it can cause the animal to become stressed and fatigued which could cause a collision or a dolphin to become stranded on a beach."

The warning comes after two Port Stephens-based ORRCA volunteers reported seeing kayakers getting "way too close" to a pod of dolphins off Soldiers Point, near Bannisters, in October.

The pod was reported to have been sighted in the Soldiers Point area and close to the shore "over a few weeks", Ms Farrell said.

The incident has prompted ORRCA to remind the public about marine mammal approach distances, particularly as summer draws near and more people will be hitting the beach and waterways in Port Stephens.

"There is concern for that influx of tourists into Port Stephens, now that the lockdown has ended," Ms Farrell said.

"Many visitors will likely be heading out onto the water and it's important for them to know what to do if they see a pod of dolphins, which is common in Port Stephens.

"You must respect the animal, know the legal approach distances and if one comes close to you, stop and don't make any sudden or loud noises. Just enjoy the experience."

READ: Learn more about the Port Stephens bottlenose dolphin

As outlined by the NSW Government, all vessels vessels must keep a minimum distance and reduce speed when near marine mammals.

Powerboats, sailing boats and paddlecraft must keep a minimum 50m distance from dolphins and dugongs or 150m if there are calves.

This distance is 100m for whales or 300m if there are calves.

Vessels must travel at a constant slow speed and leave minimal wash within 150m of dolphins and dugongs.

Personal watercraft such at jet skis are required to stay a minimum distance of 300m away from whales, dolphins and dugongs.

All vessels, including jet skis, must keep a minimum distance from seals and sea lions of 10m or 80m if there are pups.

ORRCA will host a full day workshop in Port Stephens on November 20 to introduce prospective volunteers to the organisation and what becoming a licensed ORRCA rescue member will entail.

The workshop consists of a theory component in the morning on whales, seals, dolphins and dugongs and a practical, hands on session in the afternoon on whale and seal rescues and "seal haul outs".

The workshop will run 8.30am to 4.30pm. Those wishing to join are required to become an ORRCA member first. The course fee is $99. No prior experience is required. The location of the workshop will be issued to those who sign up and register.

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