Port Stephens 3 Hour Whale and Dolphin Watch Cruise
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Group size
- Up to 45 people
- Guide
- English
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Our take
Imagine's whale sail is the standout in-season trip on our things to do in Port Stephens guide, and the whale and dolphin option on our Port Stephens tours page. It runs three hours on 'Imagine', a 54 ft sailing catamaran, heading offshore for humpbacks from May to November with dolphins and seabirds on the way. The group is capped at 45, far fewer than the big motor cruisers. It rates around 4.9.
It is the only Port Stephens trip that lists a whale guarantee, but neither listing spells out the terms, so ask the operator what it gives you before relying on it. Tea and coffee, informative commentary, and wind jackets and blankets are supplied, which matters on a cold open deck. Alcohol, snacks and marina parking are extra. It meets at the Dock C gate at d'Albora Marina in Nelson Bay; go down the ramp and the white catamaran is about 50 metres along on the right. Arrive about 15 minutes before, plus time to park.
Good for
- Whale watching in a smaller group on a quieter boat
- Couples and families staying in Port Stephens
Think twice if
- You get seasick. Three hours outside the heads is a long time
- You are visiting from December to April
Written by SydneySide Tours from the listing, traveller reviews and the videos behind our comparison pages. Checked October 2026. How we review tours.
From the operator
3 hour Whale Watch tour onboard 'Imagine', a 54ft Sailing Catamaran, purpose designed as a model for eco-tourism. She offers a covered foredeck as well as a comfortable downstairs cabin and bar.
Sail with 'Imagine' - so quiet you can hear the Whales breathe!
From the listing by Imagine Cruises on Viator.
The tour, stop by stop
- Head offshore with us to witness the incredible Humpback Whales as they swim and play. Keep your eyes peeled for Dolphins and flocks of oceanic Seabirds, and get ready to snap a photo of the Fur Seals lazing on Cabbage Tree Island. About 180 min.
What's included
- Restroom on board
- Coffee and/or Tea
- Whale Guarantee
- Wet-Weather/Wind Jackets and Blankets
- Informative Commentary
Not included
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Parking Fees
- Snacks
Meeting point
Imagine is located at Dock C gate at the D'Albora Marina at Nelson Bay. Go down the ramp and approx. 50 mtrs on your right hand side see our white catamaran. PLEASE ARRIVE APPROXIMATELY 15 MINUTES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE TIME, FOR BOARDING. You may need to allow some additional time to find parking.
Checking in
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time, for boarding.
Where it ends
Imagine is located at Dock C gate at the D'Albora Marina at Nelson Bay. Go down the ramp and approx. 50 mtrs on your right hand side see our white catamaran. PLEASE ARRIVE APPROXIMATELY 15 MINUTES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE TIME, FOR BOARDING. You may need to allow some additional time to find parking.
Your Viator voucher confirms the exact spot and time.
Good to know
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
How refunds and weather cancellations work is on our booking help page.
How it compares
We compare this tour with the other options on our port stephens tours page, with what each one includes and where it leaves from. How we choose tours.
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