Port Stephens: Whale Watching Cruise
Overview
Available languages
2 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Port Stephens enjoys an excellent whale season and Moonshadow - TQC Cruises offer two great Whale Watching Cruise options lasting 2.5hrs.
Departing from May to November from Nelson Bay, Port Stephens.
You will never forget seeing the awesome bulk of a Humpback whale, upto 18 metres long and weighing 40 tonnes!
Being the most surface active of all the whales, it is highly likely that you will see spectacular displays - spyhops, pectoral slaps, body rolls and ... the breathtaking breach.
Enjoy entertaining and informative commentary and a bonus dolphin and outer island cruise - Two Cruises for the price of one!
With great viewing decks you can rest assure you're getting the best view of these friendly giants.
Get up close and personal with the Whales!
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor sea conditions, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
Please note this is an ocean going cruise
Baby prams are not permitted on board our vessels. Collapsible strollers are permitted but cannot be taken to areas other than the main cabin of the vessel, upon boarding our friendly crew will advise passengers on where the stroller may be stored.
Please Bring: Comfortable casual clothing and footwear, Sunglasses, hat, Sun Cream, Camera. We recommend dressing warmer for winter months
If you or any member of your party experience or feel they may experience motion sickness, we highly recommend consulting your pharmacist regarding seasickness medication.
What To Expect
Join Moonshadow TQC onboard our 2.5hr Whale Watching cruise venturing out to the ‘Humpback highway’ during the annual Whale migration during May-November. Onboard the Hinchinbrook Explorer or the MV Osprey, you will have amazing viewing opportunities to see our Whales. You will never forget seeing the awesome bulk of a humpback whale, up to 18 metres long and weighing 40 tonnes! Being the most surface active of all the whales, it is possible that you will see spectacular displays – spy hops, pectoral slaps, body rolls and … the breathtaking breach. Enjoy entertaining and informative commentary from your Captain. We also have the chance to see some Australian Fur Seals, Common & Bottlenose dolphins, and exploring some of our outer islands – multiple cruises for the price of one! With great viewing decks (both inside and outside), you can be sure you are getting the best view of these friendly giants. A fully licensed bar is available on board for beverages, and snacks
Options
2.5hr Whale Watching Cruise
2.5hr Whale Watch Cruise: Departing onboard the Hinchinbrook Explorer, leaving from Dock C, d'Albora Marina, Teramby Rd, Nelson Bay
What‘s Included
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Live commentary on board
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Transportation to/from attractions
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
119 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Whale of a time
W5622LEgaryh,Jun 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Did the 10:00 while watching cruise today on the MV Osprey, the crew were friendly and professional. Saw numerous whales breaking the surface and breaching, we got closer to them than we thought we would. Also had dolphins swimming around the boat on the way back. Would recommend this operator to anyone who wishes to explore Port Stephens and beyond.
Outstanding experience
Oliverscampaign,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What an incredible experience with Moonshadow – TQC Cruises. The crew were exceptionally friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable from start to finish. It was obvious that they had a deep understanding of the sea, whale behaviour and the best locations to find them. Their expertise meant we were treated to some truly spectacular sightings, including multiple whales breaching, tail slapping and fin splashing. The crew shared fascinating information throughout the trip, making the experience both educational and exciting. The professionalism and passion of the staff really stood out and made the day unforgettable. I would highly recommend Moonshadow – TQC Cruises to anyone wanting a memorable whale-watching experience
Wonderful afternoon whale watching with dolphins too
452DeborahM,Jun 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Wonderful afternoon whale watching and many dolphins too. The captain and staff kept us well informed and found a small pod which we followed at a safe distance. Although the water was choppy at times they made sure everyone was safe and comfortable. We saw two different types of dolphins playing and jumping near the boat.
Lovely afternoon
Y173EFjames,Mar 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We saw lots of whales. It was a while ago now but I think it was September and the whales were still migrating. It was amazing! Perfect weather and they were swimming right past us. We saw dolphins and seals too which was great
Whales and Dolphins.
T7067FMstephent,Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A very enjoyable experience. Georgous scenery with smooth sailing. Saw whales, dolphins and seals. Friendly staff and passengers. Highly recommended trip.
Amazing experience!
I7649MPmichelleg,Oct 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Loved this cruise! Great vibes! Good energy from the captain and crew. Booked for Whales and seen both dolphins and Whales 😍defs coming back with the whole fam!
A Must Do Experience
D6474EMmichellem,Oct 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Staff excellent, veins excellent beautiful weather and to top it all off saw dolphins and whales what more can you ask for 😊
Whale Watch plus more.
jendaveNewcastle,Oct 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A fantastic Whale Watch Cruise on the Moonshadow TQC mv Osprey. Spacious vessel with plenty of space to move around to take in the views of the Port as you sailed out to sea. Lots of pods of whales that surfaced close to the vessel and a bonus of dolphins as well. The crew were welcoming and the Captain gave a very informative talk about the Whales, the Port and the history of the area and landmarks plus places of interest to visit whilst staying in Port Stephens. Thankyou for a great experience.
Lots of whales and knowledgeable, friendly crew.
285jillk,Sep 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The crew were very helpful and friendly. They were also very knowledgeable. We saw plenty of whales and it was a beautiful trip all round.
Just overwhelming to get that close
williamsP6031LN,Sep 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very slick booking experience. All aspects from booking to cruise just perfect. Boat navigation optimum for whales to enjoy looking at humans, also good for humans to get a good shot of whales with a moderate tele lens
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