1 JUNE 2023 | LAUNCH DAY
Today was our official launch day of the 2023 Whale Season here in Port Stephens. This was an incredible with over 260 people joining the Port Stephens cruise operators to celebrate the start of the northern whale migration passing Port Stephens. Official ceremony held at d’Albora Marina with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony by Koori Colours Art Gallery, ribbon cutting and naming of the whale by Mayor Ryan Palmer and Frank Future before boarding out 10am cruise.
Whales galore along Port Stephens, onboard Hinchinbrook & MV Spirit we had 4 whales following us for majority of the cruise who were pec slapping, even sky-hopping and swimming quite slowly which gave everyone onboard ample opportunity to see these magnificent whales. We also managed to see 5 seals on one of Port Stephens outer islands, with two seals jumping into the water and saying hi to the customers on the front deck. Coming back into Port Stephens harbour, we were joined by a group of Dolphins next to Yacaaba headland.
The afternoon cruise had a double break, with Envision even seeing a triple breach. Which is such a promising start for whale season and its great to see whales in good numbers ready for the 2023 whale season.
Photo Credit: Lee Mathews Photography