25 JULY 2026
What a spectacular way to kick off the weekend in Port Stephens! Bathed in beautiful winter sunshine and greeted by improving sea conditions, today’s whale watching delivered an unforgettable experience for everyone onboard with Moonshadow-TQC Cruises.
Our crew reported sightings of approximately 20 Humpback Whales spread across numerous pods throughout the day. It was one of those magical days where it was almost impossible to know which direction to look! One pod would erupt with a breathtaking breach, while another would be tail-lobbing in the distance. Turn your head one way and you’d catch a whale launching clear out of the water—look the other way and another pod was putting on an equally impressive display. The ocean was alive with whale activity from every angle.
Passengers aboard our afternoon Hinchinbrook Explorer Whale Watch Cruise were also treated to calmer seas as the swell continued to ease, making for fantastic viewing conditions.
The highlight of the afternoon came with our very first whale sighting- a mother Humpback Whale and her incredibly young calf. Our experienced crew estimated the calf to be only around one week old, with its tiny dorsal fin still folded over, a telltale sign of a newborn whale.
To ensure the wellbeing of the pair, we admired them respectfully before continuing our search for other whales. But just as we slowly cruised away, the little calf surprised everyone by launching itself out of the water in a series of playful leaps and jumps alongside its mother.
It was one of those heartwarming “aww” moments that left smiles on the faces of every passenger and crew member onboard – a beautiful reminder of just how special whale watching can be during the migration season.
With sunshine, calmer seas, and whales putting on a spectacular show, today was another incredible day on the water in Port Stephens.
Whale watching season is in full swing, and every cruise offers something unique. Whether it’s powerful breaches, playful surface displays, or unforgettable encounters with mothers and newborn calves, you never know what nature has in store.
We look forward to welcoming you onboard soon to experience the magic for yourself!