A Tale of Two Whale Watches – Today on the Humpback Highway 🐋🌊

What a difference a few hours can make when you’re whale watching in Port Stephens! Today was the perfect reminder that no two whale watching cruises are ever the same. From a quiet juvenile encounter in the morning to an action-packed afternoon filled with breaching and pectoral fin slaps, the humpbacks certainly kept us guessing.

We started the day with beautiful sunny skies, calm conditions and just a light breeze ideal conditions for heading offshore in search of migrating humpback whales. Guests onboard Osprey were fortunate to encounter a juvenile humpback making its way steadily along the coast, taking dives of around four minutes before returning to the surface. It was a peaceful encounter that gave passengers the opportunity to simply enjoy watching this magnificent animal travelling through its natural environment.

Our afternoon cruise was a completely different story! We encountered a pod of three humpback whales heading south between Cabbage Tree Island and Broughton Island. These whales were relaxed and inquisitive, coming in close to the boat and treating passengers to some fantastic displays. Pectoral fin slaps and spectacular breaches had everyone onboard excited as the whales launched themselves from the water an incredible reminder of just how quickly things can change on the Humpback Highway.

That’s the magic of experiencing humpback whales in their natural environment. One cruise can bring a peaceful encounter with a single travelling whale, while just a few hours later the ocean can come alive with breaching, fin slapping and curious whales approaching the vessel. Every day is different, every cruise tells a different story, and Mother Nature is always full of surprises. We can’t wait to head back out and see what the next day on the Humpback Highway has in store! 🐋🌊💙