29 SEPTEMBER 2026
Spring school holiday fun was in full swing aboard Moonshadow-TQC Cruises today, with good conditions, a pleasant breeze and wildlife encounters that kept our passengers looking in every direction!
Our first cruise of the day found a humpback whale mother, calf and escort just outside the Port Stephens headlands. The calf was particularly lively, treating everyone to tail and fin slapping – a wonderful start to our day on the water.
There was plenty more to enjoy along the way. We spotted a seal on Cabbage Tree Island, while a pod of Offshore Common Dolphins joined us to ride the boat’s bow wave, giving passengers a fantastic close-up view.
The afternoon brought even more whale activity, with multiple pods within close proximity. Near the offshore islands, we encountered several mother-and-calf pairs, including an energetic calf displaying peduncle throws – swinging its powerful tail section up and across the water.
Another pod featured a humpback mother, calf and escort travelling together. This calf was also full of energy, putting on a memorable display of head lunges and breaches. Seeing these young whales launch themselves out of the water was a real highlight for our afternoon passengers!
To round off a wildlife-filled day, we encountered some of our local Port Stephens bottlenose dolphins at Shoal Bay. What a lovely way to finish!
With active whale calves, visiting common dolphins, a seal and our local bottlenose dolphins all making an appearance, today offered plenty of memorable moments aboard Moonshadow-TQC Cruises.
Join us these school holidays and see what the next day on the water brings!
Photo credit: Lee Matthews Photography