18 OCTOBER 2025

Dolphin swimming in the ocean with water splashing around its body.

A dolphin swimming on the water surface with splashes around its body.

Whale Watching Moonshadow TQC Cruises Port Stephens Lee Matthews

Whale tail above the water surface, water cascading off the fin.

Whale tail emerging from ocean water with droplets cascading down.

Group of seals resting on large rocky surface with one seal upright.

Two sea lions floating on their backs with flippers in the air.

What a spectacular day out on the water! Today’s 2.5-hour Whale Watch Cruise aboard the Hinchinbrook Explorer truly had it all — a perfect showcase of Port Stephens’ marine wonders.

Guests were treated to magnificent Humpback Whales, gracefully making their way along the Humpback Highway, surfacing and diving in a breathtaking display of power and beauty. Adding to the excitement, a pod of playful Dolphins joined the show, darting around the vessel and riding the bow waves to the delight of everyone on board.

And just when we thought the morning couldn’t get any better, Cabbage Tree Island offered the finishing touch — our resident Australian Fur Seals were out enjoying the sunshine, some lounging lazily on the rocks while others cooled off in the surrounding waters.

With calm seas, blue skies, and wildlife at every turn, it was one of those picture-perfect days that remind us why Port Stephens is such a special place for whale watching.

Join us aboard Moonshadow-TQC Cruises and experience the magic for yourself — where every cruise is a new adventure!

Photo Credit: Lee Matthews Photography