1 JUNE 2026
Today marked the official celebration of the start of the 2026 Whale Watch season, and what a fantastic way to begin another exciting year on the water with Moonshadow-TQC Cruises.
Monday morning greeted us with clear blue skies, calm seas, and perfect whale-watching conditions as passengers boarded MV Hinchinbrook Explorer and MV Osprey for our first official Whale Watch Cruises of the season.
Departing Nelson Bay, we cruised through the stunning entrance to Port Stephens and headed past the iconic headlands towards Fingal Island. Before long, we located several pods of migrating Humpback Whales making their way north along Australia’s famous “Humpback Highway.”
While our first whale encounters were relatively relaxed, the action soon picked up. One particularly curious Humpback Whale surprised everyone onboard when it suddenly surfaced right alongside the bow of the vessel, providing an unforgettable close-up encounter for passengers gathered on the front deck.
Wildlife sightings weren’t limited to whales. Our crew reported a growing number of Australian Fur Seals returning to the region, with five seals spotted resting on the rocks around Cabbage Tree Island. Guests watched as one energetic seal slipped from the rocks and dived gracefully into the ocean below.
Adding to the excitement, scattered groups of Offshore Common Dolphins were also sighted in the area, delighting passengers as they travelled through the crystal-clear waters surrounding Port Stephens.
Just when everyone thought the day couldn’t get any better, a spectacular sighting unfolded on our journey home. In the distance, against the backdrop of the historic Fingal Island Lighthouse, a Humpback Whale launched itself clear of the water in a breathtaking breach, providing the perfect finale to an incredible morning at sea.
Bird enthusiasts onboard were equally rewarded, with a majestic Brahminy Kite soaring overhead as it rode the coastal air currents above the vessel.
The signs are already promising for another memorable whale season. With increasing whale numbers moving along the coast, growing seal colonies, dolphin sightings, and abundant birdlife, there has never been a better time to experience the natural wonders of Port Stephens.
We look forward to welcoming many more guests aboard throughout the 2026 Whale Watch season and sharing these incredible wildlife encounters with you.
Photo credit: Lee Matthews Photography