7 SEPTEMBER 2026
Monday morning on the water – not a bad way to start the week!
After departing Port Stephens, MV Osprey turned right at the Fingal Island Lighthouse and headed south in search of whales. It wasn’t long before we encountered a playful humpback making a splash at the surface.
Then came the highlight – an incredible four breaches directly in front of the boat! After its energetic display, the whale settled down and continued its journey south.
Our crew soon spotted more splashing farther ahead, so we cruised towards Fingal Bay to investigate. These humpbacks treated our passengers to an impressive series of tail slaps before changing direction and beginning to swim north.
As we travelled alongside them back towards the lighthouse, two whales suddenly surfaced remarkably close to MV Osprey, surprising and delighting everyone onboard. It was a breathtaking encounter and a wonderful reminder that every whale-watching cruise is completely unique.
After saying goodbye to the whales, we headed towards Cabbage Tree Island, where we found two fur seals relaxing on the rocks at the island’s northwestern point.
But the excitement wasn’t over yet!
While cruising back into the bay past Dolphin Rock, a pod of our local bottlenose dolphins raced towards Osprey and joined us at the bow. Passengers gathered on the front deck were treated to an unforgettable close-up view as the dolphins surfed the bow wave, showcasing their incredible speed, agility and playful nature.
Four spectacular breaches, tail-slapping humpbacks, two resting fur seals and a thrilling bow-riding dolphin encounter – what an extraordinary Monday morning in Port Stephens!
Every day on the ocean brings something different. Join Moonshadow-TQC Cruises and discover what might be waiting beyond the headlands on your next adventure.