Albatross Swimming Pools

I have been an Albatross customer for over ten years. In that time I recommended them to friends and colleagues without hesitation. I can no longer do so. This is not a review about a single missed appointment or a minor inconvenience. It reflects what I believe to be a fundamental change in how this business operates — particularly in how it… Read more

treats existing customers.

In October 2025, I contacted Albatross to resolve a pool water chemistry issue. It should have been straightforward. Instead, it extended across the entire summer. Early in the process, a staff member told me he wanted to ensure I could enjoy my "beautiful Albatross pool." That never happened. Over the months that followed, messages went unanswered — at one point, eight consecutive messages without reply. I was passed between staff with no one taking ownership. I was told contact had been made when it hadn't. Emails were selectively responded to, with more difficult questions consistently ignored. The quoting process for a lights installation shifted repeatedly — fixed price, then hourly, then bundled, then unbundled, with additional costs introduced late — and at no point was a clear, itemised explanation provided. At every stage I was the one chasing responses, clarifying scope, questioning pricing, and coordinating scheduling.

The original issue — the water chemistry problem I engaged Albatross to resolve — was never resolved through their involvement. I followed their recommendation and installed a new filter and tablet feeder, on the basis that it would address the problem. It didn't. While that equipment may assist with ongoing management, it was not what was needed to resolve the underlying issue. I ultimately had to investigate the cause myself and undertake a substantial water replacement to fix it.

When I attempted to escalate, I was told that all communication to the owner had to go through a single point of contact — the same person who was already part of the issue. I submitted a formal written complaint and requested it be passed on. It wasn't. I followed up. There was still no response. I then sent a registered letter directly to the owner, [Name Removed], to ensure it reached him.

He didn't respond either.

I had previous direct dealings with [Name Removed] during the original pool build, where he was helpful and professional. The absence of any response here stands in stark contrast to that experience.

The lights work was eventually completed — months after it should have been. Even then, no one contacted me to ask whether the original issue had been resolved or whether I was satisfied with the outcome. After more than a decade as a customer, that is where things stand.

I know what the older reviews are describing. I was one of those customers. I know the business they're talking about — because I used to recommend it.

That business no longer exists.

Put an Albatross pool in in 1992 – When Albatross were in Brisbane, we put in an Albatross pool. It has been terrific We have had rwo vinyl liners and a couple of pumps. But we had good service then and we are pleased we bought one from them ( 60000 litres rectangular). Show details

We felt supported through the whole process – Dear Helen, Janine, Graham, Paula and the whole team at Albatross Pools, A huge thank you for your support and professionalism during the entire pool building project. It has been a long haul but we have felt supported by you throughout. We are delighted with the result - a most beautiful pool positioned expertly into our back area. Have not… Read more

taken a dip yet, but by the time the warm weather comes we will be up to speed with pool care and be ready to take a plunge!

If we could pass on one thought which would certainly have helped us as a customer - would be for Albatross Pools to add the price of Plumbing and Electrics to the contract price and then arrange that as part of the construction process. It was a little daunting and confusing liaising with different experts and we would rather have paid one amount to Albatross Pools and them to arrange timing of Trades etc. But we're sure there are added complexities here which we're not aware of making it not feasible for you to do it this way. The Trades you recommended were perfect anyway.

We greatly appreciate all the YouTube videos which have helped us get familiar with looking after the pool. We’ve not yet mastered the Heating App but will ask for some tips when we next come in for a water test.

Huge thanks to Albatross pools. Highly recommended!

Very poor customer service – The pool was not finished yet. After the first-day excavation, my lawn in the front yard was damaged and a tree trunk was cut 90% (I did not know until the next day when the tree was on the ground. Their contractor did not tell me and just installed a short steel pole to hold the trunk upright with tapes!). And a bluestone was broken too which… Read more

I also found out later. When complaining over the phone to them, I was told to read the contract which said they were not responsible for damages". I did raise my concern when I read that clause during contract signing, and the sales said contractor was covered by insurance and any damages would be covered by insurance, which sounded reasonable.

But no, now I am told, I am responsible for any damages caused by their contractors. Is it unfair to the owner? The contractor could do anything he wanted and his only goal is to finish the job asap without the need to take care of the possessions of the owner!

Complete silent when I wrote to Albatross pools. And it has been weeks already. The only thing they did was to invoice me in time, and requested me to pay before they'd move to the next step. And another bill from the excavation contractor today to charge me extra $880 who claimed extra work which I could not quantify and no notice or quote prior to the job.

I am very disappointed with Albatross pools' customer service and no service provider would treat the customers like this!

Love my 10 year old Albatross Pool! – In 2008, after a lot of homework & quotes for a swimming pool I signed a contract with Albatross Pools. What attracted me to Albatross Pools were that they were a family owned company that had a great reputation & had been around for a long time. The previous customers that I had spoken to were positive about this company, so my decision was also… Read more

based on word of mouth. I think this means a lot when you are looking to purchase a pool.

From start to finish Albatross Pools were amazing from the person providing the quote, the people in the office, the pool builders, the people in their stores at Warrandyte & Dandenong. There is not a bad word I could say. They were punctual & stuck to their timelines. The were no hidden costs and their work was amazing & professional.

10 years down the track & they are still professional & friendly. Their knowledge of pools & anything to do with pools is amazing & a clear example of why they have been in business for so long.

I would have to say I LOVE MY ALBATROSS POOL. I love coming home on a hot day & jumping in my pool & just letting life take a step back & relax. There is no better feeling. I also love that it is not a tiled pool to cut your feet. It is lovely & smooth.

A pool is a great investment in family time too. During summer my family spend most of our time together/entertaining. I also find that you don't have to spend all your time cleaning the pool as they are low maintenance.

An Albatross Pool is a work of art in your backyard and does not cost the world. I would highly recommend Albatross Pools

A great company to work with – I give five stars to Albatross Pools. Every step of the process was clearly explained and went according to plan. Each team member that we dealt with at Ringwood and Warrandyte was happy to help and returned all of our calls promptly. Every worker who visited was professional and tidy which was important for us. We also used the recommended… Read more

tradespeople for plumbing, electrical and landscaping who were all fantastic and so easy to work with.

Now that our pool is finished we could not be happier. Special thanks to Anthony for his patience with explaining the filtration system and to the staff at the pool shop for the follow up service.

I would not hesitate to recommend Albatross Pools for making a daunting process run so smoothly, thank you.

Very pleased – Install was a very smooth process from the time install date was locked in, everything was like clockwork. Professional and helpful and a very informative detailed handover. Very please with the end result.

Best of the Best! – I recently purchased a property which come with an Albatross pool. Having never owned a property with a pool, I felt very much out of my depth by the time the property had settled. I decided to call the team at Albatross and was blown away by their support, encouragement and ability to get the job done. Albatross Operations Manager (Peita) was… Read more

able to guide me through what needed to be done over the phone with no fuss whatsoever. In addition to this great service, Ben who oversees the team at the Warrandyte showroom took the time to show me how all the pool equipment operates and provided me with the necessary chemicals to get the pool looking how it should. I cannot speak more highly of the team at Albatross and their high quality service and support. You've found yourself a long term customer in me. Many thanks.

So slow, ruined summer and christmas – The process of installing the pool was so slow despite advertising that it’s an easy process. It’s terrible! It sucks.

Not a good experience – My experience has been not a good one with Albatros. The original quote blew out by thousands and they suggested a filter which did not suit the pool. I was also advised to get heating which has turned out to be a complete waste of money. On completion they also added some 'unforeseen costs' so be very clear and careful at contract stage.

Terrible Service – I attempted to get a pool quote from Albatross by visiting their display in warrandyte. There I was advised that someone would need to come to my site to quote so I provided all my details so this could happen. When no one called me I rang them, however no one answered (and no messagebank!). I then messaged on facebook but no one replied to my… Read more

message. Finally tried again in person at the pool and spa show where the man was very apologetic and assured me someone would follow up (no one did).

The Gold Standard – - Reliable - Accountable - Take pride in their work - Genuine + good people - Very respectfully - Well run company and healthy culture - Manage expectations very well - Would recommend them everytime - Well organised - Experienced - Established history Show details

We Love our Albatross Pool – Got 5 Kids. Dug a Hole. Bought a Pool Kit. Installed it 13 years ago and had a grouse time till my liner split, I'll be calling Justin for help. Show details

The best customer service – Albatross recommended the perfect pool for the area we designated for it. I couldn't fault the construction, we are really happy with it, and the service we have received since has been excellent. Their knowledge of pool construction and ongoing maintenance is also remarkable, any problems we have (which are always our fault) they provide the… Read more

perfect remedy. Our pool requires very little maintenance due to the equipment they suggested, and they are always happy to test the water for me, any time. The staff are very friendly and welcoming, and I highly recommend them. Anyone who is in business knows that sometimes things don't go to plan, and the unexpected hiccups can be frustrating, as well as outside your control, but the best service is that which recognises this and endeavours to provide the best outcome, with a smile. Well done Albatross.

Liner of pool covered by disgusting stain – After spending close to $40,000 on an albatross pool only to be extremely disappointed. The pool is 4 years old and for the last 3 years the pool floor is covered by a massive stained liner which is extremely unsightly. After working extensively with albatross to maintain our water chemistry which was always correct, we were told by staff it is… Read more

neither ours or there fault it's just unfortunate. It is the focal point of our backyard and is a complete embarrassment as all guests comment on it. We have completely wasted including landscaping over $50,000. Albatross tried to find a solution but in the end just wiped their hands with it. I requested a liner change but was told there is no warranty for a stained liner and it would just most likely come back anyway.

Don't be fooled and install one of these pools friends of ours have fiberglass and look amazing all year round!!!

Do Not Buy Through Albatross Pools! – We have bought a house with an Albatross pool installed in 2013. We settled on the house in September 2016 as swam in the pool that Summer. The liner was bulging out due to water behind the liner and the liner had come away in a section near the shallow end. After calling the Dandenong branch in late 2016 twice, I was told each time,… Read more

someone would get back to me. They did not. We then were instructed to call the head office in Ringwood... we did & no reply call.

As Summer ended we had not had a call and closed the pool with no help from Albatross.

We have now opened the pool for Summer 2017-2018 and called Albatross pools again Early November. They said 5 weeks to assist us, they have just called and said they can't see us until next year.

Additionally they said the warranty on the pool is not transferable to the new owner (us).

Shocking service from dismissive staff, it's shameful.

Needless to say the next port of call will be consumer affairs and my solicitor.

I hope you enjoy the Summer dealing with the administration I'm sending your way Albatross.

Cheers,

Tim.

Vacuum seal liners ☹️ – Had albatross fit a pool 9 yrs ago and still having to call them back to fix the ongoin issue with the liner coming un clipped to be honest and fair they do keep coming to fix it but 9 yrs without a solution is frustrating !!!

Happy pool owner – In 2013 we started a project to renovate our property, adding a second story to our Californian bungalow and a pool out the back. We started the pool investigation early, reading all sorts of discussions on pools from owners and learnt there were three in-ground options: fibreglass, vinyl and concrete. Fibreglass was easy to discount on the… Read more

basis that we didn't want a pre-determined shape, we didn't want to have to get the pool shell over some part of the house via crane (meaning it would have to be done before the second story was added), and we also didn't want the experience of the pool floor possibly separating from the ground (an air bubble like feeling) that we'd experienced in some instances in the past. But concrete just seemed to be the predominant option, so we were a little hesitant not to go with the flow. That said, there didn't seem to be informed reasons for going with concrete, except that it was 'the Melbourne way'. So we investigated the two options in parallel, and for vinyl, Albatross was the clear expert in Melbourne, based on a number of internet searches and SPASA awards. There was a lot of material from Albatross on the internet, so I felt well-prepared when I headed out to Warrandyte to check out the pools in person. My memory of my initial meeting with Peita is still extremely positive - we discussed the pros and cons of vinyl versus concrete, the type of design we were contemplating, heating options, and looked at how their displays translated into practice and had been in place for up to 30 years. At this point I found my research bias to vinyl was strengthened, particularly the aspect that ground moves would not be likely to cause leaks (a major concern for me with concrete over the decades we planned to use our pool), the non-reactive nature of vinyl with chemicals and pool equipment and the soft feeling on the floor (rough pool floors are a pet dislike of mine). But I was worried how my wife, kids (and friends) would react to something different from the norm. On initial discussion all three groups were uncertain, with a question on concrete with tiles was a nicer look. But when looking through the display centre, looking at the various colours and how the pools looked and felt from a distance and up close, they were all willing to go with my view. At this point, Peita gave us an indicative quote and we said we'd come back once the rest of the renovations were well progressed (as it happened more than a year later), as we agreed there was sufficient side access that we didn't need to do the pool first and then have construction all around us - indeed this was Peita's strong recommendation as once built the pool would have to be filled and with all the dirt from construction the impact on pipes etc was unnecessarily risky (great advice). However, I did ask about pool and spa heating questions for potentially using the pool year-round, wanting to compare and contrast gas and/or electric reverse cycle and/or solar heating via tubing (and noting we were looking into rooftop solar PV for general power for the house and hence roof space was a premium). Peita didn't claim specialist expertise on the matter, but the investigations she did on this query were above and beyond (hopefully the knowledge gained in this work has been of benefit for future pool owners not just us) and really helped us in the decision to go fully electric. When the time came, in August 2014, to look at the space we had in the backyard, post renovation, Peita came around to our house and was very helpful as we determined where to put the pool, spa, pool lighting and equipment. And then we started working at pace to move/save the bricks from our paved backyard (we wanted to do something ourselves) to make way for the pool.

The building and construction phase when Justin took over with the team was stunning in its speed in late October/November 2014, so much so that we only just remembered to ask for some help moving some favourite fruit trees and tree ferns before the hole was dug, the water pipes installed, the stainless steel sides constructed and the concrete floor poured in what was only a matter of days. But the team was suddenly operating to a timeframe of wanting to help us have the pool operational before Christmas. And they also helped us find a pool fencer (Big John gave us great advice on the fully frameless 'in channel' glass pool fence with nano tech protection, fence safety requirements and managed installation just in time for Christmas, the busiest time for pools) and also the surveyors to identify any initial concerns and then do the final inspection. The construction and tiling of the spa then took over in November and was beautifully done, followed by installation of the pool fence and travetine pavers (fantastic job by Brent at Phipps Parsons) and suddenly with 5 days to Christmas we were to the point of the liner being fitted and the pool being filled, as promised by the team. It was exciting paddling in the pool as the liner sat loosely around the edges and slowly flattened to the shape of the floor and sides as the pressure of the water took hold - and it was somewhat surreal watching the vacuum cleaner just such the air from between the vinyl liner and the walls. But it was such a joy to see the finished product ready for Christmas and all the excited family and friends itching for a first dip. So it was then a tutorial from Geoff on how to operate and we were off. As first time pool owners we won't claim to remember all the intricacies of what we had to do when, despite copious notes, but the support we were given over the phone and in a couple of return trips when we weren't quite sure of what should be done was really great.

So are we happy with the end result? Yes, beyond our already high expectations. Lit up at night the pool just looks exquisite. The 2x2 metre spa is perfect all year round and has been well-used in the 18 months to now. During the day the pool looks hugely inviting (again the colour schemes Peita helped us choose for the liner and the spa tiles are perfect). Our family and friends all love the feel of the vinyl, particularly on the feet, the bespoke design of the spa and steps we designed with Peita works a treat. I also like knowing that if there ever is an issue with the liner (and nothing to date) the repair costs will be a fraction of what would happen if we had cracks emerge in a concrete pool. And in terms of after sales, not only were their responses friendly and fast, but also when we allowed algae to build up, Peita was great with a plan of attack that was highly effective (and taught us a little more about pool maintenance).

So would we recommend a vinyl pool? Absolutely. And would we recommend Albatross for the design and construction? No question that the answer here is yes.

So a little late as a review, but a huge thanks to Peita, Justin, Geoff and the team.

Great company to work with - just what we had hoped for – We found the entire process seamless. We had heard horror stories of hidden and unexpected costs involved in having a pool constructed. We experienced none of these with Albatross. We found the staff extremely helpful throughout the entire process, taking the time and effort to tailor equipment to suit our needs and specific logistical requirements enabling us to be extremely satisfied with our pool (and ancillary equipment)

Great company, great product – The construction of our pool went off without a hitch. The entire process was great and we found all the staff fantastic to deal with. Brian was great during the sales process and once we got underway, Justin and his team were very professional and delivered exactly what they promised and on time. We could not be happier with the end result and… Read more

after hearing some of the horror stories involved with construction of pools from other companies, I highly recommend Albatross pools.

A Perfect Fit – After a visit to the Albatross display centre in Dandenong we were sold. The staff where extremely helpful & made our choice of a pool builder very easy. Albatross deliver exactly what they promise, minimal disruption, wonderful building crew & all the help & advice you could ask for. Our pool was finished "in the gound" inside 3 & half days, not… Read more

what I'd call a disruption! [name removed] & his team where avaliable whenever we needed them beit by phone or a site visit, the builders where extrememly professional & punctual & our hand over team couldn't do enough for us, ensuring we knew exactly what do with our pool. Start date was 14/1/15, first swim was 21/3/15, we are thrilled with what Albatross have done for us.

A great team & a wonderful company to do business with.

Nice result, looks terrific, used just as we had hoped for – We only looked at Albatross as their display centre is at the top of the street. We had a number of visits and finally had enough information to make a decision on the specifications. Staff were helpful and knowledgeable and were patient with our many questions. We wanted the pool to be 3 metres from our living areas, full north-facing, have fresh… Read more ·  1

water and a black liner and retro-fitted into a deck. All catered for. Unfortunately not as big as we wanted, as there was some hidden concrete which added time and cost to the job, most unfortunate. Still, the pool gets heaps of use, is warm and fits beautifully with our home. Next time we will have a bigger one thanks. Albatross also came back to clear dried excess concrete left by the concreter they used. This was appreciated, but leaving the concrete in the first place was not. Make sure you keep calling until they come back to collect it. We are still finding concrete pieces in the garden, which is less than ideal. Calls can take a fair while to be returned, so don't expect an immediate call back. Overall, happy to use them, patient, knowledgeable, a good product, just keep pushing for the clean up to be done.

Loving our new Albatross Pool – We spent a good 6 months researching online and with friends to decide what type of pool to have installed. Do we go tiled or fibeglass? We'd never heard of a stainless steel constructed pool, but so many people recommended Albatross. And the great thing for us was that we were able to construct the exact size and shape poolm we wanted. The… Read more

construction phase was easy, on time and on budget. There was no hard sell, and always easy to catch them on the phone if I had a question. The guys who came to our property were all lovely. Not often that you receive service like this these days.

Just What We Ordered – Our pool is just what we ordered and delivered exactly as discussed and planned. We had many people recommend Albatross who have nearly 50 years in business. They are a most professional company and when they said, "it will happen today", it actually did!! We were kept up to date during every phase of the construction and handover. To Justin… Read more ·  1

and his staff who were most polite and accommodating, our sincere thanks for what you have achieved for us and we will enjoy many happy family times around this pool. We are delighted!!!

My Summer Retreat in my own backyard! – Prior to investing in a swimming pool I spent a few years doing my homework. This was to be a large investment so I wanted to make sure I was doing the right thing. I would attend at pool and spa shows, ring the different pool companies and when signs were up outside homes having pools installed I would make enquiries with the owners to ascertain… Read more ·  1

how happy they were with the company they had chosen. I never heard a bad word spoken about Albatross Pools.

When I first contacted Albatross Pools I found them helpful and friendly and this gave me a compfortable and relaxed feeling straight away. A time was organised with a consultant and he attended at my home for the site inspection. The salesman answered all my questions and provided me with further ideas. Nothing was an issue and they were not in a hurry to sign you up and leave.

I attended at both of Albatross Pools centres and inspected their pools. I found the staff at the centres to be very helpful and friendly. They knew their product well and I was impressed!

Albatross Pools were easy to work with all the way through. They turned up when they said they would and were on time. There was no stress.

From working with the head office during the planning, construction and handover phase was exemplirary. Nothing was an issue, there were no surprises and everything went soomthly. Every person I dealt with was helpful and kept me up to date. They would ring me to see how I was going and if there was anything more they could do. I could not believe the level of customer service. It was unheard of.

I have now had my pool for almost 8 years it is awesome! Other than my home it is my next best investment. I have teenage children and during the summer they have their friends over. It is a great way to meet and know who your children are friends with. I find the pool relaxing. It is not high maintenance with makes it more enjoyable and I can spend more time swimming.

The pool is better than what I ever expected. It is great for my family and we spend a lot of time together which brings us closer together. Summer has become more enjoyable. Who cares if it is hot. I have a pool. From looking at the pools at the centres and to having it in my backyard it is better than I ever thought.

I am extremly happy with my Albatross Pool. I cannot fault the company in anyway. From the start to the finish they have been great. I have never dealt with a company that has turned up on time, completed the job on time with no issues and the after sales and follow up were fantastic. I would recommend Albatross Pools to everyone! There is nothing better than floating around in your own pool, looking at your home and feeling so proud and relaxed. Thanks Albatross! Everything! Can't fault it!

Albatross Pool.....Just Perfect – We always dreamed of having a pool in our back garden and now we can sit back and enjoy the finished product its just perfect. During the planning, construction and handover phase of our pool project, all of our questions were answered. Throughout the construction the installers were to easy to deal with. We find dealing with the pool shop in… Read more ·  1

Warrandyte for our water testing and chemicals efficient and always helpful.

Thank you Albatross for a wonderful pool.

One of the best investments we made in our comfort at home – We have had our pool for around ten years now, through the years of drought and fire, and our ability to cool off each night has been a lifesaver for the family. Maintaining the pool has been very easy throughout this time - something I really appreciated. A side-benefit for me has been the ability, on days of severe or extreme fire danger, to… Read more ·  1

place a fire pump beside the pool and use this water as a reserve should the need arise. Extremely easy to maintain The original filter (cartridge) that was required by Council was not as efficient as the sand filter I subsequently installed when the cartridge filter failed.

Do not recommend – We installed an Albatross pool 13 years ago at a cost of approx. $30,000. At the time it seemed the better option and price but now wish we had paid a little extra and gone elsewhere. Within the last year or so the pool started to exhibit rust causing significant expansion with the tiles band and wall around the steps to expand out wards and fall… Read more

off and now the pool is leaking. This also resulted in the tile paving to crack with the skimmer box almost collapsing in on it self. The end result is after 13 years we are one faced with a $15,000 estimates to repair and an eyesore in our back garden. When we got quotes to repair the pool every tradesman commented on the fact this should not have happened given the age of the pool. The worst is we got Albatross to quote on the repair and had to chase them to get any response or to call us back and also discovered the price difference on a particular liner was greatly over priced.

The correct price difference between liner options was verified with the manufacturer. Albatross response was they would 'honor' the difference. We have been to see other peoples pools who have needed to be repaired for similar issues. We also found a review on another website which states they were also over quoted on the liner price and when they posted the review were offered money by the company to take down the review. I would definitely not recommend and would tell prospective customers to look at pools they have built and not just recent ones or ring up other pool liner repairers to get their feedback on Albatross pools they make a living off by fixing.

Worst service and $15k bill to fix all the problems