15 OCTOBER 2025
Oh, what a day to be out on the water! Port Stephens truly showed off its springtime charm today with calm seas, sunshine, and plenty of wildlife encounters to delight everyone aboard.
Our morning began with a friendly visit from a pod of local Bottlenose Dolphins near Yacaaba Headland, gliding gracefully alongside the vessel and setting the tone for an incredible cruise ahead. Shortly after, guests were treated to a special sighting — a large sea turtle resting at the surface for several moments, giving everyone a rare and extended look at this magnificent marine creature.
As we continued just beyond the harbour heads, we came across a Humpback Whale mother and her calf, peacefully making their way south. A little further offshore, multiple pods appeared on the horizon — around a dozen whales in total, all heading southbound on their great migration. They spent plenty of time at the surface, providing fantastic viewing opportunities for everyone onboard.
On our way back toward Shoal Bay, the ocean’s energy lifted once more. A heat run seemed to be forming offshore — a thrilling display of surface activity, splashes, and the occasional breaching whale! Just when we thought the morning couldn’t get any better, another mother and calf pair surfaced close to Tomaree Headland, a fitting finale to an unforgettable cruise.
It’s days like these that remind us how special springtime is on the Port Stephens Whale Highway — when the migration continues, the seas are calm, and every cruise feels like a new adventure.
Photo credit: Lee Matthews Photography