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.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Live commentary on board
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Transportation to/from attractions
What To Expect
Moonshadow - TQC Cruises
Hinchinbrook Explorer Departing at 10.00am and 1.30pm daily during Whale Watching Season. This catamaran was originally designed to operate in the Southern Ocean waters of the Great Australian Bight. At 30 meters (100 feet) in length she is well at home in the local coastal waters of Port Stephens. She provides you with a very comfortable and safe journey. She has full walk around decks for viewing and large air conditioned indoor areas. MV Spirit Departing at 11.00am daily during Whale Watching Season (and additional cruises available during NSW School Holidays). This catamaran is smaller than Hinchinbrook Explorer at 18 meters, however this intimate vessel is still twin level, with walk around viewing deck with 360 degree views. Being the smaller of vessels you can expect to be still amazed by these magnificent creatures
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
Reviews
114 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
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
Lovely staff and vessel....
Sereena C,
Sep 14, 2025
- Review from Viator
3.00Lovely staff and vessel. A bit long as we tried to find whales. A long time on the boat. Great to see seals, birds and some far sightings of three whales. Might be better to do dolphin cruise as it is shorter.
Stable comfortable whale watching vessel
Sharon P,
Sep 14, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00This boat is a good size as you can move around easily under cover and it feels very stable. There are food and drinks on board and plenty of places to sit upstairs, downstairs, inside or out with opening windows for fresh air. We saw a total of 7 whales including mothers and calves. At 2.5 hours it could be a little shorter but is quite good value. The commentary was interesting, educational and humorous.
Great Whale cruise
colleenr986,
Aug 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an excellent cruise on the Osprey. The captain was very informative and knew everything u needed to know about whales. We were Lucky enough to see whales, dolphins and sea lions. The captain was very respectful when whales were near the boat and slowed so everyone could see these beautiful animals. I was glad we booked with these guys. I would definately go again when visiting the area.
Awesome Experience
MattN793,
Jul 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Captain knowledge and commentary was brilliant. Great service from all staff. Comfortable ride and saw lots of Whales. Thank you Moonshadow.
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