Whale Watching Cruises

Come and see why Port Stephens is known as one of the best Whale Watching destinations in Australia!

Quick Details

Duration: 2.5 Hours
Ages: All Ages
Availability: 24th May to 2nd November 2025
Times: 10am & 1:30pm
Location: d'Albora Marina, Nelson Bay NSW 2315 - please check your booking confirmation for Vessel departure point
2025 Multi Pass: Are you a lover of Whales like we are?.....check out our 5x Cruise Pass for the 2025 Whale Season. Details below

Whale Season | 24th May to 2nd November 2025

Join Moonshadow TQC onboard our 2.5hr Whale Watching cruise venturing out to the ‘Humpback highway’ during the northern Whale migration during May-November. Onboard the Hinchinbrook Explorer or the MV Osprey, you will have amazing viewing opportunities to see our Whales.

You will never forget seeing the awesome bulk of a humpback whale, up to 18 metres long and weighing 40 tonnes! Being the most surface active of all the whales, it is possible that you will see spectacular displays – spy hops, pectoral slaps, body rolls and … the breathtaking breach.

Enjoy entertaining and informative commentary from your Captain. We also have the chance to see some Australian Fur Seals, Common & Bottlenose dolphins, and exploring some of our outer islands – multiple cruises for the price of one!

With great viewing decks (both inside and outside), you can be sure you are getting the best view of these friendly giants. A fully licensed bar is available on board for beverages, and snacks.

5x Cruise Multi Pass

$ave when you purchase a 5x Cruise Multi Pass for you to use throughout the 2025 Whale Watching Season here in Port Stephens. Valued at $320 (20% off) for 5x Cruises to use of any cruise of your choice. Please note, this Multi Pass can only be used by the Passholder, and cannot be transferred to another person.

**Whales are totally wild marine animal, so 100% sighting success isn’t guaranteed. Refunds aren’t available if whales are not located, but we offer a non-transferable free return voucher (stand-by basis). Terms & Conditions apply**

What to Bring

Comfortable casual clothing & footwear
Sunglasses, hat & sun cream are recommended
Camera
Dress warmer for winter months
If you or any member of your party experience or feel they may experience motion sickness, we highly recommend consulting your pharmacist regarding seasickness medication.

Stand-by vouchers will be issued at crew discretion if whales are not sighted on your cruise. Conditions apply.

Related Cruises & Charters

The Fast & Fun way to explore our Whales off Port Stephens!

Cruise onboard ‘Envision’, our eco-friendly 40ft vessel – straight out to the Whales, less travelling time, more time with these awesome animals. Enjoy your cruise on the smaller boat, lower numbers and 360 degree viewing allowing a better viewing experience.

Come and see why Port Stephens is regarded as the Dolphin capital of Australia!

Join our 1.5hr Dolphin Watching cruise with a high success rate in dolphin sightings, boom net rides, and entertaining commentary. Enjoy picturesque views of the harbour, including the awe-inspiring Tomaree and Yacaaba headlands, a truly memorable and scenic journey.

Historical Cruise Series guided by local Port Stephens legend, historian and author, John ‘Stinker’ Clarke

NEXT DATE | Broughton Island Historical – Wed 10th September 2025

Discover the beauty and learn about the history of Broughton Island, or climb Point Stephens’ Lighthouse on our Fingal Island Historical Cruise, or learn about the fascinating Western Harbour of Port Stephens, with a cruise by local legend, John ‘Stinker’ Clarke!

Whale Watching Cruises

Whale Watching

Nelson Bay Departures | 24th May onwards

Adult

Ages 15+

Senior/Student

With Australian Senior/Student Card

Child

Ages 4-14 | An Adult must be entered before Children

Infant

Ages 0-3 | An Adult must be entered before Infants

Family

2 Adults + 2 Children

5x Pass Multi Pass

Enjoy 5x Cruises for 2025 Whale Season