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Enjoy the glorious cruise watching humpback, southern right whales, orcas, minke whales and sperm whales. On an extremely rare occasion, you might be able to spot some killer whales or even blue whales!
Book Whale Watching Cruises
Select Your Experience
- A swift speedboat will zip you to whale hotspots in just 20 mins on this 2-hour Sydney Harbour cruise, maximizing your time as experts share live insights.
- Get up close with whales on this comfy boat, equipped with a roof, so you can watch humpbacks jumping around right next to you, no matter the weather.
- The boat accommodates 64 but hosts just 46 guests per trip, ensuring everyone enjoys an excellent view while the guide shares facts on marine life.
- While on your way to the whales, keep an eye out for iconic Sydney landmarks like the Opera House, enjoying the city's views from the water.
- A swift speedboat will zip you to whale hotspots in just 20 mins on this 2-hour Sydney Harbour cruise, maximizing your time as experts share live insights.
- Get up close with whales on this comfy boat, equipped with a roof, so you can watch humpbacks jumping around right next to you, no matter the weather.
- The boat accommodates 64 but hosts just 46 guests per trip, ensuring everyone enjoys an excellent view while the guide shares facts on marine life.
- While on your way to the whales, keep an eye out for iconic Sydney landmarks like the Opera House, enjoying the city's views from the water.
Inclusions
- 2-hour whale-watching cruise from Sydney Harbour
- Expert commentary
- Small group (max 46 guests)
- Sightseeing guarantee (Get another cruise for free, if no whales spotted)
- Tip: Always keep your eyes on the horizon and look out for a spout of water. This is often the first sign a whale is nearby!
- Safety is a priority. So, this experience is restricted for guests under the height of 120 cm and under the age of 5 years.
- This experience is not suitable for pregnant people and those with back, neck, or limb issues.
- The option for a free cruise, in case no whales are spotted during the original cruise, remains valid for up to 3 years.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Spend 2 hours 45 mins on a Sydney Harbour whale-watching cruise with live commentary from an expert naturalist, perfect for adults and kids alike.
- Aboard a comfortable large vessel, your expert crew will ensure a whale of a time, whether you're snug indoors or soaking up the sun outdoors.
- See humpback whales, Southern Right Whales, and more propel their giant bodies out of the water and crash back with a splash during their migration.
- While the whales are the crown jewel, make sure to catch sight of landmarks like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge as you cruise.
- Spend 2 hours 45 mins on a Sydney Harbour whale-watching cruise with live commentary from an expert naturalist, perfect for adults and kids alike.
- Aboard a comfortable large vessel, your expert crew will ensure a whale of a time, whether you're snug indoors or soaking up the sun outdoors.
- See humpback whales, Southern Right Whales, and more propel their giant bodies out of the water and crash back with a splash during their migration.
- While the whales are the crown jewel, make sure to catch sight of landmarks like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge as you cruise.
Inclusions
- 2-hour & 45-min whale watching cruise
- Marine biologist
- Live informative commentary
- Indoor & outdoor seating
Exclusions
- Snacks & drinks (available for purchase onboard)
- Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for other marine life, such as dolphins, seals, and seabirds. They are often spotted on these cruises.
- The vessel has an indoor area, so the cruise is still set to depart in the rain. The tour may get rescheduled or canceled due to severe weather conditions or other safety concerns.
- These tickets can't be cancelled. However, they can be rescheduled up to 72 hours before the experience begins.
- Jump on a catamaran for 4 hours of whale watching with a tasty buffet and guides sharing intriguing facts about the whales you'll see splashing around.
- Don’t miss out on your hot lunch or breakfast (on weekends), featuring a variety of treats, including options for vegetarians and specific dietary needs.
- Spot humpback whales breaching the surface from multiple viewing decks and get unobstructed views of these majestic beings as they frolic and feed.
- Relax in the indoor lounge with complimentary tea or coffee, or elevate your experience by purchasing your choice of drinks from the onboard bar.
- Your expert marine guide becomes your whale whisperer, filling you in details about their lives, migration patterns, and those gravity-defying leaps!
- Jump on a catamaran for 4 hours of whale watching with a tasty buffet and guides sharing intriguing facts about the whales you'll see splashing around.
- Don’t miss out on your hot lunch or breakfast (on weekends), featuring a variety of treats, including options for vegetarians and specific dietary needs.
- Spot humpback whales breaching the surface from multiple viewing decks and get unobstructed views of these majestic beings as they frolic and feed.
- Relax in the indoor lounge with complimentary tea or coffee, or elevate your experience by purchasing your choice of drinks from the onboard bar.
- Your expert marine guide becomes your whale whisperer, filling you in details about their lives, migration patterns, and those gravity-defying leaps!
Inclusions
- 4-hour whale-watching cruise
- Fully qualified crew onboard
- Live commentary
- Buffet lunch/breakfast
- Tea, coffee & water
- Sightseeing guarantee (Get another cruise for free, if no whales spotted)
Exclusions
- Alcoholic beverages (available for purchase onboard)
- Tip: While capturing the classic bridge and opera house shot, seek unique angles like hidden coves, working harbors, or sailboats gliding by.
- Choose comfort and safety: This experience is not the best fit for children under the age of 5 years.
- The lunch menu can tailored to suit vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free guests with sufficient notice.
- In the unlikely event a whale is not sighted during the cruise, guests can cruise again for free, in the same season.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Spot whales aboard a high-speed catamaran by Captain Cook on this 2.5-hour cruise, complete with live commentary by marine specialists.
- Spot humpback whales breaching up close from the open-air upper deck as you learn about their social behaviors, migration, and spectacular leaps.
- Double win! Enjoy scenic views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House from the viewing decks or cozy up in the indoor lounge with cushioned seats.
- See adorable breach calves take their first leaps, learning the ropes from their majestic parents – a scene straight out of a wildlife documentary.
- Make your adventure even better by adding Taronga Zoo entry or a 2-day hop-on hop-off pass to explore Sydney Harbour at your own pace.
- Spot whales aboard a high-speed catamaran by Captain Cook on this 2.5-hour cruise, complete with live commentary by marine specialists.
- Spot humpback whales breaching up close from the open-air upper deck as you learn about their social behaviors, migration, and spectacular leaps.
- Double win! Enjoy scenic views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House from the viewing decks or cozy up in the indoor lounge with cushioned seats.
- See adorable breach calves take their first leaps, learning the ropes from their majestic parents – a scene straight out of a wildlife documentary.
- Make your adventure even better by adding Taronga Zoo entry or a 2-day hop-on hop-off pass to explore Sydney Harbour at your own pace.
Inclusions
- 2.5-hour whale-watching cruise
- Expert commentary
- Indoor & outdoor seating
- Sightseeing guarantee (Get another cruise for free, if no whales spotted)
- Entry to Taronga Zoo (as per option selected)
- Return rocket ferry back to Circular Quay (as per option selected)
- 2-day hop-on hop-off pass (as per option selected)
- Printed map & highlights (as per option selected)
- Tip: Get some ginger pills with you to combat sea-sickness.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible
- In the unlikely event a whale is not sighted during the cruise, guests can cruise again for free, in the same season.
- Choose comfort and safety: This experience is not the best fit for children under the age of 4 years.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Explore Sydney Harbour's wonders with wild fun at Taronga Zoo and 2.5 hours of whale watching aboard a catamaran, all in one wallet-friendly combo.
- Set sail on a 2.5-hour cruise operated by Captain Cook to spot majestic humpback whales and other sea creatures in their natural habitat, splashing all around.
- Soak up knowledge from your onboard experts as they share facts about humpback migration, their behaviors, and how these giants keep our seas in check.
- Get up close with koalas, kangaroos, and giraffes at Taronga Zoo, and enjoy the seal show where seals showcase their agility and intelligence.
- Challenge yourself on an aerial obstacle course with ropes and ziplines, offering great views of the zoo and Sydney Harbour. It's perfect for families!
- Explore Sydney Harbour's wonders with wild fun at Taronga Zoo and 2.5 hours of whale watching aboard a catamaran, all in one wallet-friendly combo.
- Set sail on a 2.5-hour cruise operated by Captain Cook to spot majestic humpback whales and other sea creatures in their natural habitat, splashing all around.
- Soak up knowledge from your onboard experts as they share facts about humpback migration, their behaviors, and how these giants keep our seas in check.
- Get up close with koalas, kangaroos, and giraffes at Taronga Zoo, and enjoy the seal show where seals showcase their agility and intelligence.
- Challenge yourself on an aerial obstacle course with ropes and ziplines, offering great views of the zoo and Sydney Harbour. It's perfect for families!
Inclusions
Whale Watching Cruise
- 2.5-hour whale-watching cruise
- Live commentary
- Sightseeing guarantee (Get another cruise for free, if no whales spotted)
Taronga Zoo
- Entry to Taronga Zoo
- Return Rocket ferry back to Circular Quay
Whale Watching Cruise
- Tip: If you are lucky you might spot Southern Right Whales, Minke Whales and Blue Whales. Plus, be on the lookout for dolphins, seals, penguins, and sea birds!
- This experience is wheelchair accessible.
- This experience is not the best fit for children under the age of 4 years.
- Pets are allowed on board provided they are restrained in a suitable box, basket, or another container at all times whilst onboard.
- In the unlikely event a whale is not sighted during the cruise, guests can cruise again for free, in the same season.
Taronga Zoo
- Tip: You will be treated with breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour; with boats bobbing about at Sydney Cove, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House.
- Animal costume, ball, balloon, scooter, skateboards, rollerblades, apparatus alcohol, audio equipment, or musical instrument is not allowed inside Toranga Zoo.
- Please refrain from touching animals, feeding animals, throwing objects, damaging structures, or signs, lighting fires, or littering.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Sail away with a small group for 2.5 hours of whale-watching magic! Spot humpbacks up close on a small boat while your guide shares cool ocean facts.
- Enjoy this experience intimately with a small group of just 30 guests, ensuring everyone gets a clear view of breaching whales, tail slaps, and more.
- Learn about Sydney's harbor and whaling history from your marine guides as you sail. It's not just whale watching – it's a floating classroom!
- Your journey begins at Crown Tower's Wharf, sailing past Sydney's famous Opera House and Harbour Bridge, ensuring a scenic experience overall.
- Sail away with a small group for 2.5 hours of whale-watching magic! Spot humpbacks up close on a small boat while your guide shares cool ocean facts.
- Enjoy this experience intimately with a small group of just 30 guests, ensuring everyone gets a clear view of breaching whales, tail slaps, and more.
- Learn about Sydney's harbor and whaling history from your marine guides as you sail. It's not just whale watching – it's a floating classroom!
- Your journey begins at Crown Tower's Wharf, sailing past Sydney's famous Opera House and Harbour Bridge, ensuring a scenic experience overall.
Inclusions
- 2.5-hour whale-watching cruise
- Small group tour
- Expert crew onboard
- Safety briefings
- Sightseeing guarantee (Get another cruise for free, if no whales spotted)
- Tip: Keep your eyes peeled not just for whales, but other marine life too. Dolphins are often spotted.
- This experience is pram/stroller accessible.
- Outside food & drinks, photography with flash & tripods are not allowed.
- In the unlikely event a whale is not sighted during the cruise, guests can cruise again for free.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Hang on tight for a wild ride on an inflatable boat as you zoom off on a 2-hour whale-watching adventure, getting you closer to whales than you ever imagined.
- The journey unfolds with just 21 fellow adventurers, led by a skipper who ensures a personalized experience as you search for these marine giants.
- Your adventure kicks off from Circular Quay or Manly Wharf as you zip past ferries and yachts, feeling the wind in your hair and sea spray on your face.
- Watch whales breach and splash as you enjoy clear views of their playful antics, all while learning about their migration, behaviors, and ocean role.
- Hang on tight for a wild ride on an inflatable boat as you zoom off on a 2-hour whale-watching adventure, getting you closer to whales than you ever imagined.
- The journey unfolds with just 21 fellow adventurers, led by a skipper who ensures a personalized experience as you search for these marine giants.
- Your adventure kicks off from Circular Quay or Manly Wharf as you zip past ferries and yachts, feeling the wind in your hair and sea spray on your face.
- Watch whales breach and splash as you enjoy clear views of their playful antics, all while learning about their migration, behaviors, and ocean role.
Inclusions
- 2-hour whale-watching cruise on inflatable boat
- Pick-up from Circular Quay or Manly Wharf (based on the option selected)
- Expert skipper
- Small group
- Tip: Always keep your eyes on the horizon and look out for a spout of water. This is often the first sign a whale is nearby!
- This experience is restricted for children under the age of 12 years and pregnant women.
- This experience is not the best fit for people with back issues.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Whale watching in the morning, harbor hopping by day – cruise Sydney's gems with this flexible combo that's easy on the wallet and big on adventure.
- Cruise like a local for two days, jumping between six Harbour hotspots at your whim with a flexible pass that allows you to make your own itinerary.
- Navigate with smartphone commentary and a printed map as you visit Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay, Shark Island, Manly, and Darling Harbour.
- Witness the majesty of humpback whales on a Captain Cook-operated catamaran cruise as they breach and splash in their ocean home offering unforgettable views for 2.5 hours.
- Listen to expert commentary as you see whales and other sea creatures from indoor or outdoor decks while cruising past landmarks like the Opera House.
- Whale watching in the morning, harbor hopping by day – cruise Sydney's gems with this flexible combo that's easy on the wallet and big on adventure.
- Cruise like a local for two days, jumping between six Harbour hotspots at your whim with a flexible pass that allows you to make your own itinerary.
- Navigate with smartphone commentary and a printed map as you visit Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay, Shark Island, Manly, and Darling Harbour.
- Witness the majesty of humpback whales on a Captain Cook-operated catamaran cruise as they breach and splash in their ocean home offering unforgettable views for 2.5 hours.
- Listen to expert commentary as you see whales and other sea creatures from indoor or outdoor decks while cruising past landmarks like the Opera House.
Inclusions
Sydney Harbour HOHO pass
- 2-day Sydney Harbour hop-on hop-off pass
- Smartphone commentary
- Printed map & highlights
Whale watching cruise
- 2.5-hour morning whale-watching cruise
- Expert commentary
- Indoor & outdoor seating
- Sightseeing guarantee (Get another cruise for free, if no whales spotted)
Exclusions
- Entry to attractions
Sydney Harbour HOHO pass
- First cruise: 9:15am from Circular Quay-Wharf 6 (weekends & public holidays) & 9:05am from Circular Quay-Wharf 6 (weekdays)
- Last cruise: 6:40pm from Circular Quay-Wharf 6 (weekends & public holidays) & 2:15pm from Circular Quay-Wharf 6 (weekdays)
- Popular stops: Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay, Shark Island, Manly & Darling Harbour
Please click here for the detailed route map and boarding points.
- Tip: Hop off at Watsons Bay for Sydney's best fish and chips at Doyles on the Beach.
- Please complete this form prior to arrival to ensure a smooth check-in and boarding process.
Whale-watching cruise
- This experience is accessible by wheelchairs.
- The Whale Guarantee applies when a whale is not sighted during your cruise. Cruise again in the same season for free on a standby basis confirmed 24 hours prior, subject to availability.
- All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Sydney Harbour HOHO pass
- The entrance level deck of rocket ferries is wheelchair accessible with wheelchair-accessible bathrooms.
- The HOHO pass is valid for two days and commences from the date of the whale-watching cruise.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
5 reasons you should go on a whale-watching cruise in Sydney
Catch majestic Humpback and Southern right whales up close
Your Sydney whale watching cruise options
Cruises for small groups
Average duration: 2h 30m
Average price range: AU$109
- Experience whale watching in an intimate setting, as these cruises only take up to 10 people at a time!
- With onboard live commentary, dive into the wild world of Australia’s whales! If you’re lucky, you’ll also spot dolphins and other Aussie sea animals!
Recommended experiences:
Intimate Small Boat Whale Watching Cruise in Sydney
Luxury Whale Watching Experience with Lunch & Open Bar
Luxury cruises
Average duration: 3h 30m
Average price range: AU$549
- Go on a glamorous whale-watching cruise and experience Australia’s sea life on a royally comfortable ship.
- With open-air viewing decks, an open bar, luxe cushions and lounging areas, as well as a sumptuous BBQ lunch, this cruise takes you on an opulent adventure like no other.
Recommended experience:
Luxury Whale Watching Experience with Lunch & Open Bar
Meals on cruises
Average duration: 2h 30m
Average price range: AU$109
- As you spot humpback and southern right whales on your Sydney whale-watching cruise, grab a bite on deck!
- Keep your preferences ready, as you’ll have to choose between a glorious spread of Brekkie, BBQ buffets or cheese and charcuterie during the Lunch buffet!
Recommended experiences:
Luxury Whale Watching Experience with Lunch & Open Bar
Sydney Whale Watching Cruise with Breakfast or Buffet Lunch
Adventure cruises
Average duration: 2 hours
Average price range: AU$129
- This 2-hour whale watching tour is an extreme adventure on an inflatable boat, perfect for thrill-seekers who want to see humpback whales up close.
- Cruise from Circular Quay, with the chance to spot whales breaching and frolicking, all while learning about them from your expert skipper.
Recommended experiences:
Sydney Whale Watching Cruise on Inflatable Boat
Combo tickets
Average price range: AU$109-AU$125
- Experience whale watching and get a discount on another Sydney experience, like Taronga Zoo or the Sydney Hop-On, Hop-Off bus!
- With combo tickets, get access to an additional experience after you go whale-watching and make the most of your time in Sydney.
Recommended experiences:
Combo: Whale Watching Cruise + Taronga Zoo Tickets
Find the perfect Sydney Harbour whale-watching cruise for you!
Experience name
Duration
Inclusions
Meals included
Customize your experience
Book tickets
Sydney Whale Watching Cruise by Catamaran
2 - 3 hrs
Crew commentary + Whale watching + Viewing decks + Open ocean cruise
No
Choose an Express cruise (2 hrs), Adventure cruise (2.5 hrs), or Discover cruise (3.5 hrs)
Combo: Whale Watching Cruise + Taronga Zoo Tickets
7 hrs
Crew commentary + Whale watching + Entry to Taronga zoo
No
-
Sydney Whale Watching Cruise with Breakfast or Buffet Lunch
2.30 - 4 hrs
Crew commentary in English + Whale watching + Buffet breakfast or lunch + Refreshments
Yes
Choose between breakfast buffet or lunch buffet
Luxury Whale Watching Experience with Lunch & Open Bar
3.30 hrs
Guide commentary + Whale watching + BBQ lunch + Open bar access
Yes
-
Intimate Small Boat Whale Watching Cruise in Sydney
2.30 hrs
Crew commentary + Whale watching + Small group
No
-
Know before you go on a whale-watching cruise in Sydney
Timings
Getting there
What to pack
Safety guidelines
- Best time: The timings of your whale watching cruise will depend on the time slot you pick, but we’d recommend choosing between 11am and 3pm for the best viewing conditions.
- Duration: The average duration of a Sydney Harbour whale-watching cruise is around 1.5-2.5 hours. In case you are unable to spot any whales, your vessel may stay longer on the water, but it’s highly unlikely.
- Best season: The best whale watching season in Sydney spans from May to November, but the most ideal months to visit would be June-July, as northern migration occurs then. You’ll see male whales displaying various behaviors, like breaching, spouting, large dives, and more to entice future mates.
- Train: Arrive at Circular Quay Station, directly connected to the wharf area.
- Ferry: Multiple ferries service Circular Quay. Wharves 2, 3, 4, or 6 are most common for whale watching cruises.
- Light Rail: Circular Quay is a stop on the light rail network.
- Walking: Easily accessible on foot from the city center (15-30 minutes).
- Train: Town Hall Station is a short walk (10 minutes) from Darling Harbour. Wynyard Station is also an option with a slightly longer walk (15 minutes).
- Ferry: Wharves 4 or 5 at Darling Harbour service ferries.
- Walking: Not as central as Circular Quay, but accessible on foot from the city center (20-30 minutes).
- Dress in layers (windproof jacket, comfortable shoes)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
- Reusable water bottle
- Seasickness medication
- Binoculars
- Credit card - To verify your identity
- Listen to the crew: The captain and crew are there for your safety. Pay close attention to their instructions regarding movement on the boat, especially when seas are rough.
- Life jackets: Life jackets will be provided, and you may be required to wear them at all times. Know where yours is located and how to put it on properly.
- Stay seated: While you're excited to see whales, avoid standing on railings or leaning over the edge of the boat. Find a seat and hold on when instructed by the crew.
- Respect the wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from the whales as instructed by the crew. Avoid loud noises or sudden movements that might startle them.
- Sun and sea: Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. The sun reflects strongly off the water, and dehydration can occur quickly.
Your whale watching experience: Learn about whale migration, behaviors and more!
What is whale migration?
Whale migration is the seasonal movement of whales between their feeding grounds in the colder Antarctic waters and their breeding grounds in the warmer waters off Australia's coast. From May to November, thousands of humpback whales can be seen swimming along the Australian coastline, making it a prime time for whale watching in Sydney Harbour.
When does it generally happen?
Whale migration generally occurs in two phases: the northern migration from late May to August, and the southern migration from August to September. During the northern migration, whales head towards warmer waters to breed and give birth. From October to early November, you can witness mothers and their calves swimming closely together on their journey back south.
What whale behaviors can be seen?
On a Sydney Harbour whale watching cruise, you can witness a variety of fascinating whale behaviors. Watch as whales breach, leaping out of the water in spectacular displays. You’ll also see them spouting snot from their blowholes and, if you listen carefully, you might even hear the hauntingly beautiful songs of the humpbacks.
Common species to spot
Humpback whales are the most commonly sighted species during these cruises. However, keep an eye out for other species such as Southern Right whales, blue whales, and occasionally, the elusive killer whales.
Frequently asked questions about Sydney whale watching cruises
What are the different types of Sydney whale watching cruises available?
For your Sydney whale watching experience, you can choose from an express cruise, breakfast/lunch during the cruise, luxury cruises, small group cruises and many more!
Are there any discounts for groups, families, or early bookings?
Yes, children and senior citizens can avail a discount during checkout. Select cruises also offer discounts for large group bookings, which you’ll avail while checking out.
What species of whales will I see?
The most common species you’ll spot are humpback whales, but if you’re lucky, you might get to see southern right whales, killer whales, minke whales and blue whales! You could even catch a pod of dolphins splashing in the water.
What behaviors can we expect to see from the whales?
Common whale behaviors at Sydney Harbour include breaching (jumping out of the water), lobtailing (tail slapping), and spy-hopping (poking their heads out of the water).
What if I don’t spot any whales during the cruise?
If your cruise doesn’t meet the criteria for a successful whale watching experience, i.e spotting at least one whale and at least 2 confirmed sightings from a reasonable distance, you’ll be granted a free ride on another whale watching cruise during the same year!
What is the dress code for the cruise?
There’s no specific dress code, although we’d suggest dressing comfortably and modestly. Carry an umbrella or wear a hat as it’ll be pretty sunny, and get waterproof footwear!
Do I have to buy food on board?
Some cruises come with meals included, and some will require you to buy food and snacks on board.
Are the vessels accessible for guests with disabilities?
Yes, the vessels are fully wheelchair accessible and come with trained staff ready to assist in any situation.
What are the safety measures in place?
Safety is a priority, with all operators adhering to strict guidelines on how close they can approach whales. Life jackets and other safety equipment are provided, and the crew is trained to handle emergencies.