13 SEPTEMBER 2026
What an incredible morning on the waters of Port Stephens!
Our whale-watching cruises were greeted by five to six Humpback Whales scattered just north of the Fingal Island Lighthouse. Among them was one particularly playful juvenile who stole the show.
The young whale put on an energetic display in front of the Hinchinbrook Explorer – breaching, rolling across the surface and repeatedly slapping its powerful pectoral fins against the water, creating spectacular bursts of white water.
A sizeable pod of Common Dolphins also arrived and appeared keen to interact with the juvenile. However, the young whale seemed far more interested in continuing its playful splashing, giving passengers a wonderful opportunity to watch two of the region’s most captivating marine species together.
Over near Cabbage Tree Island, the local seals were making the most of the beautiful spring weather, relaxing and soaking up the sunshine.
Passengers travelling aboard our Express Whale Cruise on Envision experienced the closest of close encounters when two Humpback Whales began “mugging” the boat – whale-watching terminology for when whales approach and remain close to a stationary vessel.
The pair circled and investigated Envision several times before launching into an unforgettable surface display featuring:
- Spectacular breaches
- Powerful head lunges
- Pectoral fin slaps
- Impressive tail lobs
Just when passengers thought the experience couldn’t get any better, our skipper received word that a Humpback mother and calf had been sighted near the Fingal Bay Spit.
As the mother cruised steadily along, her calf enthusiastically practised its breaches beside her – much to the delight of everyone onboard.
From playful juveniles and curious dolphins to breathtaking breaches and a mother-and-calf encounter, today delivered another extraordinary reminder of just how special the annual Humpback Whale migration is in Port Stephens.
Every cruise offers something different, and you never know what remarkable behaviour may be waiting beyond the headlands.
Join Moonshadow-TQC Cruises and experience the excitement of whale watching in Port Stephens for yourself!
Photo credit: Lee Matthews Photography