13 SEPTEMBER 2025

Whale's tail splashing in the ocean water.

Whale surfacing in the ocean, partially visible with dorsal fin above water.

Humpback whale's dorsal fin emerging from the ocean waves.

Whale tail splashing in the ocean water.

Whale tail splashing water as it dives into the ocean.

Whale tail splashing in the ocean against a bright blue water background.

Whale tail splashing in ocean water with blue sky background.

Whale Watching Moonshadow TQC Cruises Port Stephens Lee Matthews

Humpback whale tail splashing in the ocean.

Our morning cruise aboard the Hinchinbrook Explorer started off quietly on the whale front, but patience soon rewarded our guests. A pair of adult Humpback Whales were spotted logging peacefully on the surface, their calm presence reminding us of the serenity that comes with life on the water.

By the afternoon, Port Stephens truly came alive with sunshine and activity along the famous Humpback Highway. Close to Boondelbah Island, we encountered a magical sight: a Humpback mother, her calf, and a female escort traveling south. Guests were treated to a heartwarming display as mum appeared to be teaching her calf some tail-slapping techniques. The little one did its best to copy her – a playful and educational moment in nature.

After the lesson, it was time for rest. The whales rolled lazily on the surface, flashing their striking white bellies, glowing beneath the aqua water and captivating everyone onboard.

As if that wasn’t enough, the journey home brought a delightful surprise – a pod of dolphins escorting us back through the headland at Mt Yacaaba, our eagle-eyed skipper spotted one of the resident sea eagles as we came back into port, basking in the afternoon warmth rounding off what was a spectacular spring Saturday on the water.

Join us tomorrow to see what the Humpback Highway has in store – every cruise tells a different story!

Photo credit: Lee Matthews Photography