1 NOVEMBER 2026
Today’s whale watching with Moonshadow-TQC Cruises brought two very different experiences, with a quiet morning followed by an afternoon of spectacular breaches and close encounters.
Despite our crew’s best efforts, passengers aboard the 10am Whale Watch Cruise did not sight any whales. We know everyone looks forward to that first glimpse, and we shared our passengers’ disappointment. A small pod of oceanic dolphins near Shark Island provided a welcome wildlife encounter along the way.
The 1:30pm Whale Watch Cruise aboard Hinchinbrook Explorer enjoyed greater success. After passing through the Port Stephens headlands, we cruised south towards One Mile Beach, where we found a humpback mother and her calf in water approximately 80 metres deep.
The calf soon became active, practising its breaching with plenty of youthful enthusiasm. Mum joined in with around three impressive breaches of her own, appearing to show the little one how it’s done!
The curious calf also approached the vessel at times, giving passengers a wonderful close-up view and a chance to appreciate these remarkable animals.
Throughout the afternoon, pods of oceanic dolphins joined us intermittently, bow riding the pressure wave as we cruised along. Their speed and playful movements added another highlight to an already memorable trip.
Days like today remind us that every cruise offers a different experience. Wildlife moves freely, and sightings can vary considerably between departures. From dolphins near Shark Island to a humpback calf practising its breaches, there was plenty to appreciate on the waters off Port Stephens.
Thank you to everyone who joined Moonshadow-TQC Cruises today – we loved sharing these moments with you.
Photo credit: Lee Matthews Photography