Port Stephens: Whale Watching Cruise
- Duration
- 2 h 30 min
- Group size
- Up to 150 people
- Guide
- English
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Our take
Moonshadow's whale cruise runs 2.5 hours from d'Albora Marina in Nelson Bay, out past the heads to what the operator calls the humpback highway, from May to November. The listing adds a dolphin and outer island cruise on the way, and there is live commentary throughout. It rates around 4.7, well above the same operator's short dolphin cruise. On our Port Stephens tours page it sits with Imagine's 3-hour sail as the whale and dolphin option.
One couple we watched, The Roving Balys, saw dolphins, humpbacks and fur seals on a single winter trip with Moonshadow, and said the big boat barely moved inside the bay. Outside the heads the swell is bigger, so bring seasickness tablets if you need them, and a layer for the open deck. There is no sighting guarantee. If poor sea conditions cancel the trip, you are offered another date or a full refund. Prams are not allowed on board, and parking at the marina is paid, so arrive 30 to 45 minutes early. Free whale lookouts are in things to do in Port Stephens.
Good for
- Humpbacks and dolphins on one trip in season
- Anyone who wants a big, steady boat
Think twice if
- You want a guarantee. Imagine's 3-hour sail lists one
- You are travelling with a pram
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
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!
From the listing by Moonshadow - TQC Cruises on Viator.
The tour, stop by stop
- Join Moonshadow TQC onboard our 2.5hr Whale Watching cruise venturing out to the ‘Humpback highway’ during the annual Whale migration during May-November. Onboard the Hinchinbrook Explorer or the MV Osprey, you will have amazing viewing opportunities to see our Whales. 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 from your Captain. We also have the chance to see some Australian Fur Seals, Common & Bottlenose dolphins, and exploring some of our outer islands, multiple 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 About 150 min.
What's included
- GST (Goods and Services Tax)
- Live commentary on board
Not included
- Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
- Transportation to/from attractions
Meeting point
Boarding commences 15 minutes prior to scheduled departure time. To avoid the risk of missing the cruise during peak times; please ensure you allow yourself ample time to find parking etc, we do suggest that you aim at arriving to the marina 30 - 45 minutes prior to boarding time of your cruise
Checking in
- Please check with your confirmation email and text sent by Moonshadow TQC for your vessel allocation
- Please note this is an ocean going cruise
- Boarding commences 15 minutes prior to advised departure times, late arrivals forfeit the ticket
Where it ends
Boarding commences 15 minutes prior to scheduled departure time. To avoid the risk of missing the cruise during peak times; please ensure you allow yourself ample time to find parking etc, we do suggest that you aim at arriving to the marina 30 - 45 minutes prior to boarding time of your cruise
Your Viator voucher confirms the exact spot and time.
Good to know
- 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
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 and our things to do in port stephens page, with what each one includes and where it leaves from. How we choose tours.
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