[Eco Tour] Port Stephens Whale Watching with Moonshadow Cruises | New South Wales
Get up close and personal with whales on one of our unforgettable whale watching cruises! We depart from Port Stephens
- See the awesome power of a Humpback whale, an 18-meter long and 40-ton behemoth, up close
- Cruise Port Stephens and its outer coastal islands with the chance of seeing other species including seals, dolphins, and local Port Stephens bottlenose dolphins
- Don't miss a second with the vessel's two viewing decks that allow for 360-degree views
- This ECO Certified Advanced tour ensures the tour is committed to environmental best practices
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transport | Sightseeing cruise |
Product Info
— What You Can Expect —
- Port Stephens Whale Watching Cruise
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 and the cruise includes bonus dolphin and outer island cruising – two 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.
As an ECO Certified Advanced eco tour experience, this Port Stephens cruise has a crew at the helm that can help you understand local preservation and sustainability efforts relating to the humpbacks.
Onboard commentary will inform you all there is to know about the humpback whale while making sure you don't miss out on any sightings!
Don't miss out on incredible views of the gentle giants, with the cruise also providing potential dolphin, seal, and other animal sightings
Purchase Notice
What to Bring
- Comfortable casual clothing & footwear
- Sunglasses, hat & sun cream is recommended • Camera
- Dress warmer for winter months
- If you or any member of your party experience or feel they may experience motion sickness, it will be highly recommend consulting your pharmacist regarding sea sickness medication
Reminders
Please arrive at the designated location 30 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Failure to arrive on time or no show will result in full cancellation fee
Please check confirmation details for dock number before departure
Please note that dolphins and whales are wild animals. We cannot guarantee you will see them. The operator's commitment is to provide the best experience of the day without compromising the safety of passengers or wild animals. If you cannot see the dolphins or whales on the day, no refund will be given
Please leave a contactable mobile number to ensure cruise company staff will be able to notify you in case of poor weather conditions
Smoking is not permitted on any of the vessels at any time
Please note bring any drinks or illegal substances or smoking are not permitted onto the vessel
The cruise company reserves the right to amend departure times, directionand vessel allocation at any time
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 3 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–2 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.
FAQ
Mid-May to mid-November is the prime season for whale watching in Port Stephens. During this period, thousands of Humpback whales migrate along the coast, offering excellent viewing opportunities as they travel to and from warmer waters. Early season (May-July) sees them heading north, while late season (August-November) is ideal for spotting mothers and calves journeying south.
While whales can be spotted throughout the day, some suggest morning cruises can offer calmer waters and potentially more active whales. Afternoon trips can sometimes provide beautiful lighting for photography, especially closer to sunset. Ultimately, sightings depend on the whales' natural movements, which are unpredictable. Many tour operators offer both morning and afternoon departures to suit various preferences.
This cruise offers a unique opportunity to witness the majestic Humpback whales and other marine life like dolphins and seals up close in their natural habitat. The vessels are designed with multiple viewing decks for 360-degree observation, ensuring no moment is missed. Being an ECO Certified Advanced tour also means you're participating in an environmentally responsible and educational experience, enhancing its value beyond just sightseeing.
The Moonshadow Cruises vessels are specifically designed to enhance the whale watching experience. They typically feature two spacious viewing decks, providing guests with unparalleled 360-degree panoramic views of the ocean. This design allows for optimal opportunities to spot whales and other marine life from various vantage points, ensuring comfort and clear sightlines throughout the journey.
During a whale watching cruise from Port Stephens, the primary focus is observing the majestic Humpback whales as they migrate. Beyond these impressive giants, you may also have the chance to spot other fascinating marine animals. Common sightings include playful bottlenose dolphins, which are residents of Port Stephens, and various species of seals often seen around the coastal islands.
Port Stephens whale watching cruises depart from locations within Port Stephens, such as Nelson Bay. The vessels then navigate out into the open waters of the Pacific Ocean, generally cruising along the outer coastal islands. This area is part of the Humpback whale's migration path, providing excellent opportunities to encounter them as they travel north or south.
Moonshadow Cruises' whale watching tours are ECO Certified Advanced, signifying a strong commitment to environmental best practices. This certification ensures that tours operate with minimal impact on marine life and their habitats. Guides often provide educational commentary about whale conservation and responsible wildlife viewing, promoting awareness and respect for the ocean ecosystem.
To book a Port Stephens whale watching cruise, you can easily use an online platform like KKday. Booking through KKday offers convenience, allowing you to select your preferred date and time from various available departures and receive instant confirmation. This streamlined process ensures a hassle-free reservation, giving you peace of mind before your adventure.
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