13 JUNE 2026
What an incredible Saturday on the water for our whale watching guests!
The day began with absolutely perfect sea conditions, providing ideal viewing opportunities as our vessels headed out into the sparkling waters of Port Stephens. It didn’t take long before we were treated to an unforgettable spectacle, with our very first sighting of the day proving to be one for the record books.
A young Humpback Whale stole the show, launching itself clear of the water more than 40 times as we travelled alongside it. Every breach was met with cheers and excitement from passengers, creating an atmosphere that can only be described as a true “Breach Fest”!
As if that wasn’t enough, our crew spotted additional pods of whales further offshore, many of which were also displaying energetic breaching behaviour. Everywhere we looked there seemed to be whale activity on the horizon.
Adding to the excitement, a pod of Oceanic Dolphins appeared, leaping gracefully through the waves and seemingly chasing schools of fish. The ocean was absolutely alive with activity.
Our afternoon 1:30pm Whale Watch Cruise continued the excitement, with passengers delighted by a pair of Humpback Whales that spent considerable time at the surface. The duo showed off their striking white bellies as they rolled playfully through the water and repeatedly pec-slapped the surface, sending sprays of water into the air.
Throughout the afternoon, multiple whale pods could be seen in the surrounding area, with the occasional breach erupting in the distance as a reminder that whales were everywhere around us.
As we cruised towards Boondelbah Island, our original pair of whales joined forces with several others, forming an affiliate pod. The energy levels quickly escalated as the group became increasingly active, treating passengers to an extraordinary display of head lunges, powerful tail throws, and spectacular breaches.
Days like today remind us why the annual Humpback Whale migration is one of nature’s greatest spectacles. With whales continuing to move through the region in excellent numbers and displaying such active behaviour, there has never been a better time to join us on the water.
Photo credit: Lee Matthews Photography