Port Stephens Whale Watching Cruise Experience
from
$75
Nelson Bay
New South Wales
1-15
people
price for
1 participant
2 hours
30 minutes
  • • Enjoy Whale Watching in Nelson Bay
  • • 2.5 Hour Whale Watching Cruise
  • • Witness the Most Spectacular Whale Displays
or

Why We Love This Unique Experience

Experience the thrill of whale watching in Port Stephens, where Moonshadow - TQC Cruises offers unforgettable 2.5-hour cruises departing from Nelson Bay from May to November. Witness the majestic Humpback whales, up to 18 meters long and weighing 40 tonnes, as they showcase their surface activities including spyhops, breaches, and body rolls. Enjoy informative commentary and the chance to see dolphins and explore outer islands - it's like getting two cruises in one! With excellent viewing decks, you'll have the best vantage point to get up close and personal with these gentle giants.

Your whale-watching adventure starts at the boarding point in Nelson Bay where you'll embark on either the Hinchinbrook Explorer or the MV Spirit, both offering comfort and safety on the seas. The Hinchinbrook Explorer, originally designed for the Southern Ocean, provides a spacious viewing experience with walk-around decks and air-conditioned indoor areas. Meanwhile, the MV Spirit offers an intimate setting with 360-degree views from its walk-around deck on this 18-meter catamaran. Whether you choose the larger or the more compact vessel, you're guaranteed to be amazed by the magnificent marine life.

Whether you're treating yourself or searching for the perfect gift, a whale watching cruise in Port Stephens is a thrilling experience that promises unforgettable memories. Witnessing these gentle giants in their natural habitat is a unique opportunity that appeals to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. So, surprise a loved one with a gift voucher for this incredible wildlife encounter, where they can witness the beauty and grace of whales in the stunning waters of Port Stephens.

Points Of Interest and Landmarks

  • d'Albora Marina Nelson Bay
  • Nelson Bay Foreshore Reserve
  • Fly Point Aquatic Reserve
  • Fly Point Park
  • Little Beach Reserve
  • Gan Gan Lookout

Check Availability & Book

Experience Overview:

Port Stephens: Whale Watching Cruise

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!

Meeting Point

Moonshadow-TQC Cruises Boarding

Dock C, D’Albora Marina, Nelson Bay NSW 2315, Australia

Dock C, d'Albora Marina, Nelson Bay
Boarding will start 15 minutes prior to departure time

What's included:

  • Live commentary on board

Not included:

  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Transportation to/from attractions

What to expect:

Duration: 2 hours, 30 minutes

Moonshadow - TQC Cruises

Shop 3, 35 Stockton Street, Nelson Bay, 2315, New South Wales

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

2 hours, 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Details & Important Info

Additional Experience Details & Important Information

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.

Cancellations & Refunds

Reservation Changes, Cancellations & Refunds

Changes to reservations for tickets can be made until 3 days prior to the date scheduled. Reservations may be re-scheduled by the operator of the activity due to reasons such as weather, minimum participation requirements, mechanical issues or other interruptions beyond their control.

Organized by

Moonshadow - TQC Cruises

Product SKU: AU-15359-0002
Google Business Profile: Moonshadow - TQC Cruises

What People Are Saying

(56 reviews)

Customers rave about their unforgettable experiences on the whale watching cruises, highlighting a perfect blend of stunning views, abundant marine life, and highly professional crew members. Many reviewers were thrilled to see numerous whales breaching, playful dolphins, and basking seals, all set against the beautiful backdrop of Port Stephens. The boats were noted for their cleanliness and comfort, accommodating all guests with friendly staff, engaging commentary, and even complimentary refreshments. Overall, this cruise promises an exciting and educational adventure, making it a must-do for families and nature lovers alike, with many eager to return for another memorable outing.


Experience Highlights

Exceptional Wildlife Encounters... Friendly and Knowledgeable Crew... Comfortable and Well-Equipped Vessel... Great for Families... Amazing Views and Scenery... Unforgettable Experiences... Efficient Booking Process... Memorable Whale Sightings... Top Notch Customer Service... Smooth Sailing Adventures...

Port Stephens Whale Watching Cruise Experience

(56 reviews)
Nelson Bay
New South Wales
1-15
people
price for
1 participant
2 hours
30 minutes
  • • Enjoy Whale Watching in Nelson Bay
  • • 2.5 Hour Whale Watching Cruise
  • • Witness the Most Spectacular Whale Displays
or

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