What are the different prices for Sydney whale watching cruises?

The prices for whale watching <link linkType="internal" newTab="true" url="" id="tKB94cfJ" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="6837fbb4082d5db8ed1d12ca" text="cruises in Sydney" uid="www.tickets-sydney.com.sydney-harbour-cruises" lang="en" /> vary based on the type of cruise, duration, and inclusions like meals or drinks and start from AU$59 for a 2-hour whale-watching cruise. Premium options with added amenities range from AU$100 and 200 with a luxury small-group whale watching cruise priced at AU$549.

Are there whale watching cruises suitable for kids?

Yes, many Sydney whale watching cruises are family-friendly and suitable for kids. Each cruise features an expert guide with educational commentary, with many cruises also offering snacks and beverages to keep your children entertained and comfortable.

Which whale watching cruises are best for adventure seekers?

For adventure enthusiasts, there are high-speed boats that offer a thrilling ride along with whale watching. There is also an intimate inflatable boat experience that allows you to experience the raw ocean and get as close to the whales as possible.

What is the best time of day for whale watching in Sydney?

The <link linkType="internal" newTab="true" url="" id="LOhJ7b4i" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="6837fbc63f88544475994fa0" text="best time for whale watching" uid="www.tickets-sydney.com.sydney-harbour-cruises.schedules" lang="en" /> in Sydney is usually early morning or late afternoon. These times tend to have calmer seas and better lighting, making it easier to spot the whales. Whales are also more active at the surface at these times.

What is the best season for whale watching in Sydney?

The peak season for whale watching in Sydney is from May to November. During these months, you can witness the annual migration of humpback whales as they travel along the Australian coast. The highest chances of sightings occur between June and August when the whale population is at its peak. However, during the return migration in October and November, there are greater chances for you to spot eager young males breaching.

Can we hear whales singing on the cruise?

While it’s not guaranteed, some cruises, especially specialized whale-watching vessels, are equipped with hydrophones, which allow passengers to listen to the enchanting songs of the whales underwater.

Is it worth going whale watching in Sydney?

With opportunities to observe their natural behaviors and spectacular breaching techniques, whale watching cruises allow you to connect with one of nature’s most magnificent creatures. Learn about their methods of communication, migration patterns and breeding cycles through live commentaries by expert marine biologists. There is also a distant side-benefit of enjoying stunning distant <link linkType="internal" newTab="true" url="" id="phgm6wO9" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="6837fbc886fa2720bf6e8e5c" text="views of the Sydney coastline" uid="www.tickets-sydney.com.sydney-harbour-cruises.attractions" lang="en" />.

What are the chances of spotting whales on a Sydney whale watching cruise?

During the peak season, the chances of spotting whales are very high, with most operators boasting a success rate of over 95%. However, if you can’t spot any whales on your cruise, most cruises will offer you a free return trip.

Can I take photos during the whale watching cruise?

Absolutely! You'll have plenty of opportunities to capture the whales breaching, tail-slapping, and performing other mesmerizing behaviors. However, avoid using the flash as it may startle the whales.

What should I wear for a whale watching cruise in Sydney?

It’s best to dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly out at sea. A windproof jacket, comfortable clothing, and non-slip shoes are recommended. Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen, as the sun's reflection off the water can be quite strong. Take a look at our comprehensive <link linkType="internal" newTab="true" url="" id="oicmrihh" shortCodeType="link" relationTo="pages" documentId="6837fbc53f88544475994f1c" text="planning guide " uid="www.tickets-sydney.com.sydney-harbour-cruises.plan-your-cruise" lang="en" />to prepare for your cruise.

How long do whale watching cruises in Sydney typically last?

Most whale watching cruises in Sydney last between 2 to 4 hours. This duration allows ample time to travel to prime whale-watching locations and observe the whales in their natural habitat.

What if it starts raining before the cruise?

A little bit of rain won’t really mean that your cruise is canceled. Whale watching cruises operate in most weather conditions, except for extreme weather like storms or heavy rain, which can make the sea unsafe. If you’re worried about the rain, get some rain protection for your tour.

Are there any age restrictions for whale watching cruises?

Generally, there are no strict age restrictions for whale watching cruises, but it’s recommended that children under the age of 3 be supervised closely. However, some cruises that use high-speed or inflatable boats may be restricted for pregnant women due to safety concerns.

Are there restroom facilities on board?

Yes, most whale watching boats are equipped with restroom facilities. However, depending on the size of the boat, the number of restrooms may be limited, so it's a good idea to use the restroom before you board.

Sydney whale-watching cruises

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Sightseeing Cruises

Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise

Best for families and tourists who want a convenient way to see Sydney’s must-see landmarks, including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Book this if you want a flexible way to explore Sydney from the water on a leisurely cruise with live commentary.
What’s unique: You’ll pass by sights like the Sydney Opera House and Fort Denison while enjoying your cruise.
Icing on the cake: Upgrade to the afternoon or lunch cruise to enjoy Sydney’s landmarks with a delicious buffet lunch as per your convenience.
Top attractions: Sydney Opera House, Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Luna Park

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1 hr 20 mins - 2 hrs 30 mins

Guided tour

Meals included

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Lunch Cruises

Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise with Buffet Lunch

Best for groups, families, or solo travelers who want a relaxed and enjoyable way to sightsee while savoring a fresh buffet lunch.
Book this if you want a 2-hour cruise around Sydney Harbour with a meal and great views of Circular Quay, the Opera House, and more.
What’s unique: The buffet features Aussie-inspired mains, and an array of salads, sides, and desserts, with gluten-free and vegetarian choices available.
Icing on the cake: The live commentary from the skipper enriches your experience by sharing interesting facts and stories about Sydney.

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2 hrs 15 mins

Meals included

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Dinner Cruise

Sydney Harbour Cabaret Cruise with 3-Course Dinner

A 3-hour Sydney Harbour dinner cruise with a 3-course meal & live cabaret entertainment.

Starting point: Board the paddlewheeler at King Street Wharf for an evening departure on Sydney Harbour.
Everything you get: Enjoy a 3-hour cruise featuring a seated 3-course dinner with restaurant-style table service, reserved seating, and attentive waitstaff. After dinner, watch the one-hour “Voyage of Love” cabaret show with international dance performances. Take in stunning night views of Sydney Harbour, with drinks available for purchase onboard.
Sights covered: Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Barangaroo, Fort Denison, Lady Macquarie’s Chair, Luna Park, and illuminated city skyline views.
Why choose this: A classic Sydney dinner cruise experience combining gourmet dining, theatrical live entertainment, and iconic harbour sightseeing, ideal for couples, celebrations, and visitors looking for a memorable night on the water.
Upgrades: Choose between this classic dinner cruise for a year-round glamorous dining and cabaret experience or the Vivid Sydney dinner cruise during the festival season to enjoy the same 3-course dinner and cabaret show plus spectacular light projections on the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

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Free cancellation

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3 hrs

Meals included

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Sightseeing Cruises

Sydney Harbour Sunset Cruise With Drinks and Grazing Platter

What to bring

ID card or passport: Have your ID card or passport ready for a seamless experience.
Clothing: Bring a light jacket and wear comfortable clothing.

Accessibility

Wheelchair access: This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
Strollers/prams: This experience is accessible by stroller or pram.
Assistance animals: Your guide dogs are welcome on this experience.

What’s not allowed

Smoking: Smoking is not allowed on this experience.

Additional information

Infant seats: Infant seats are available upon request.
Sunset timing: Cruise times are adjusted to coincide with the optimal sunset viewing.
Minimum guests: Cruises are subject to a minimum passenger count of 15 guests.
Group size limit: A maximum of 10 guests may be included in a single booking.

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Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

1 hr 30 mins

Meals included

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Lunch Cruises

Sydney Harbour 3-Course A La Carte Lunch Cruise

Settle into a leisurely afternoon on the harbour with panoramic views from a sightseeing vessel.

Everything you get: Enjoy a 1.5 to 4-hour cruise on a sightseeing vessel while you sit down to a 3-course Australian à la carte lunch, choosing each course from the menu as the harbour skyline drifts past. Stay seated as everything is served to your table.
Why choose this: Works well if you want a midday outing that fits between morning sightseeing and your evening plans in the city.
Upgrades: Choose optional or guaranteed window seating for added harbour views.

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Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

4 hrs

Meals included

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Dinner Cruise

Sydney Harbour Multi-Course Dinner Cruise

Enjoy an evening on Sydney Harbour with live music, skyline views, and flexible dining and seating options aboard the Sydney 2000 super-cruiser.

Starting point: Sydney Harbour boarding point for the Sydney 2000 super-cruiser.
Everything you get: Cruise aboard the air-conditioned Sydney 2000 super-cruiser for an evening dinner experience with your selected menu and seating option. Enjoy live music on weekends and special event dates while dining as the illuminated harbour skyline drifts past your table.
Sights covered: Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, waterfront skyline, and illuminated harbour neighbourhoods viewed from Sydney Harbour.
Why choose this: Choose the cruise length, course count, menu style, and seating option that best suits your evening plans, whether you want a casual dinner cruise or a more premium dining experience on the water.
Upgrades: Upgrade to guaranteed window seating, 4-course or chef’s menu dining, or select 2.5-hour premium cruise options with sparkling wine, tea and coffee, 360-degree harbour views, licensed bar access, and live music on weekend event sailings.

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Free cancellation

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2 hrs

Meals included

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Lunch Cruises

Sydney Harbour Multi-Course Lunch Cruise

Unwind on a 2-hour harbour sailing with multi-course dishes, bubbles, and city skyline views.

Starting point: Darling Harbour, Sydney
Everything you get: Settle into a 2-hour harbour sailing as you enjoy a 2-course menu built around regional produce. Savour the mains and dessert, followed by tea and coffee while windows frame the bridge, Opera House, and harbour.
Sights covered: Sail past Sydney Harbour’s most iconic landmarks, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay, Fort Denison, Garden Island, and the scenic eastern foreshore lined with waterfront mansions, secluded bays, and marina views.
Why choose this: Enjoy a relaxed harbour dining experience that combines a multi-course menu, skyline views, and flexible upgrade options, all without planning a separate lunch venue in the city.
Upgrades: Upgrade to a 3-course menu or guaranteed window table, or pick a lunch cruise aboard the AC super-cruiser Sydney 2000.

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1 hr 30 mins - 4 hrs

Meals included

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Sightseeing Cruises

Sydney Whale Watching Cruise with Marine Biologist Commentary

Educational whale watching cruise with a marine biologist onboard.

Starting point: Circular Quay
Everything you get: A 2-hour 45-minute cruise aboard a spacious sightseeing vessel with indoor and outdoor seating, live expert commentary from a marine biologist, and a whale sighting guarantee offering free rebooking within 1 year if no whales are spotted.
Why choose this: A comfortable, family-friendly experience that combines whale watching with educational insights from marine experts, helping you understand whale behaviour in context while enjoying a relaxed time on the water.
Sights: Scenic views of Sydney Harbour and the Pacific Ocean, with frequent sightings of humpback whales breaching and playing—plus occasional encounters with dolphins, seabirds, and other marine life.
Upgrades: Choose from 2h45, 3-hour, 4-hour, a 2-day hop-on hop-off ferry pass, or whale watching + Taronga Zoo cruises with deck or lounge layouts, plus options for meals, drinks, extended harbour views, a zoo visit, and a longer whale sighting rebooking window for more time on the water and increased whale spotting opportunities.

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2 hrs 45 mins

Meals included

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Sightseeing Cruises

[Exclusive Promo] Sydney Harbour Whale Watching Cruise by Captain Cook

What to bring

Whale watching cruise

Pack your seasickness meds – better to be prepared, just in case they’re not available onsite.

What's not allowed

Whale watching cruise

Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the cruise.

Taronga Zoo

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.

Accessibility

Whale watching cruise

This experience is accessible by wheelchairs.
All vessels are fitted with wheelchair-accessible bathrooms.
Your guide dogs are welcome on this experience.

Sydney Harbour HOHO pass

The entrance level deck of rocket ferries is wheelchair accessible with wheelchair-accessible bathrooms.
Your guide dogs are welcome on this experience.

Additional information

Please complete this form prior to arrival to ensure a smooth check-in and boarding process.
Dress snug in warm layers; the ocean is known to have a chilly twist in the weather.

Whale watching cruise

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.
The cruise is subject to weather conditions.
All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Sydney Harbour HOHO pass

The HOHO pass is valid for two days and commences from the date of the whale-watching cruise.

Taronga Zoo

You can download the Taronga Zoo map from here.

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Free cancellation

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Explore at your pace

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Hop-on Hop-off Tours Sydney

Big Bus: Sydney Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour with Optional Hop-on Hop-off Harbour Cruise

For the hop-on hop-off tour and cruise, you can join a tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket. For the night tour, hop-on hop-off service is not available.

Hop-on Hop-off Tour - Red Route The Red (City Tour) route loops through downtown, and you'll encounter a mix of historical landmarks, grand civic buildings, leafy parks, and vibrant shopping districts. Featured highlights include Macquarie Place Park, a peaceful heritage oasis beside historic Bridge Street, and the elegant façade of St Mary’s Cathedral, located near the Hyde Park Barracks Museum. Popular stops: Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Rocks & Botanical Gardens

Hop-on Hop-off Tour - Blue Route The Blue (Bondi Tour) features scenic coastal vistas, trendy neighborhoods, and the vibrant buzz of Sydney’s beach culture, illuminating the city’s outdoor lifestyle and sun-soaked charm. You'll pass by the Intersection on Oxford Street, renowned for fashion boutiques and stylish cafes, before the route heads towards the golden sands and surf at Bondi Beach itself. Popular stops: Bondi Beach, Rose Bay & Double Bay

Hop-on Hop-off Cruise Tour

First cruise: 7:35am from Circular Quay - Wharf 6 (9:15am during weekends & public holidays)
Last cruise: 6:40pm from Circular Quay - Wharf 6 (5:05pm during weekends & public holidays)
Frequency: every 15-60 mins
Popular stops: Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, Shark Island

Night Tour

Departure: 7pm & 7:30pm from Stop #1 (Phillip Street, Circular Quay)
Frequency: Twice every evening
Duration: 1.5 hours

Click here to see the night tour map.

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Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

Explore at your pace

Guided tour

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Encounter majestic humpback whales on a Sydney whale-watching cruise

Experience the awe-inspiring magnificence of the ocean's giants on a Sydney whale-watching cruise. Each year, thousands of humpback whales migrate to the North along Australia's east coast, attracting large crowds to witness their spectacular breaching and playful antics. A must-try activity for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike, read on to get more information on what’s included in a whale-watching tour, your cruise options and how to pick the cruise that best suits you.

Jump to the answers you're looking for

What's included in a whale-watching cruise?
Our customer reviews
Guide to picking the right cruise
Boat types available
Boarding points
Plan your cruise
Humpback whale facts
Frequently asked questions

What a Sydney whale-watching cruise has in store for you

1/5

An expert guide on every cruise

With a whale expert included in every single cruise, you’re guaranteed live educational commentaries while spotting whales. Get fascinating insights about whale behaviors, their migration patterns and how these magnificent creatures contribute to our ecosystem.

Customize with boat options

Tailor your whale-watching experience to suit your comfort and style with a variety of boat options. Get a comfortable cruiser with both indoor and outdoor seating or the small but stable catamaran that can withstand rough seas with relative ease. You can even choose a specialized whale-watching vessel that produces less noise or even a small inflatable boat to enjoy an intimate experience with just you, your friends and the whales.

Chance to spot marvelous breaching displays

With some of the biggest brains in the animal kingdom, whales are complex creatures that use a variety of breaching techniques for different purposes like communication, establishing territories or simply getting a better view of the surface. Keep your eyes peeled for their different breaching behaviors like spouting, flunking dives, flipper slapping and more.

Enjoy an Australian meal too

Pair your whale-watching adventure with a delicious meal aboard the vessel. You can choose to extend the duration of your cruise with buffet lunch and breakfast options. As whale-watching cruises last about 2 hours or longer, snacks and beverages are usually available aboard non-meal cruises as well.

Discover marine diversity

Besides humpback whales, you’re likely to get a chance to spot a variety of other marine life. With opportunities to spot Southern right whales, orcas, dolphins and playful seals, every trip is a rich, multi-species experience.

Guide to picking the right Sydney whale-watching cruise for you

Based on your budget, requirements and itinerary, you can choose between 3 types of whale-watching cruises: sightseeing, sightseeing with meals and combo cruises.

Simply whale-watching cruises are priced slightly lower (AU$59 to AU$92) compared to meal cruises and have relatively short durations whereas meal-included cruises are pricier (AU$104), last longer and include a delicious Australian meal for you to savor while watching the whales. Combo cruises allow you to combine your whale-watching experience with another, like visiting the Taronga Zoo or getting a 24-hour unlimited HOHO pass.

The meal-included whale-watching cruises usually offer breakfast or lunch in a buffet spread. However, as whale-watching cruises tend to last more than 2 hours, most other cruises also serve snacks and beverages onboard.

Whale-watching cruises generally last up to 2 hours. If you’ve picked a meal included option, then it’s likely that the tour will last up to 4 hours. If you're picking a specialized boat like an inflatable or a catamaran, the duration extends up to 2 hours 30 minutes for any additional preparations.

Whale-watching cruises usually set sail from Eastern Pontoon or Circular Quay. Refer to your voucher to get the exact wharf number to approach on the day of your cruise.

You can choose the boat type for your whale-watching cruise as well. You can pick a small but stable catamaran, an intimate and adventurous inflatable boat, a comfortable cruiser with indoor-outdoor seating or even a fast speedboat based on how close you’d like to get to the whales and the duration of your cruise.

Find the whale-watching cruise that best suits your needs

Experience	Timings	Boarding point	Inclusions	Customizations	Boat Type	Book tickets
[Limited Offer: 40% Off] Sydney Whale Watching Express Cruise on Speedboat	11:15am, 1:30pm, 3:45pm, 6pm Duration: 2 hours	Eastern Pontoon	Small group (46 guests)		Speed boat	From AU$53.40
[Limited Offer: 30% Off] Sydney Whale Watching Cruise	10am, 12:45pm, 3:30pm Duration: 2 hr 45 mins	Eastern Pontoon	Marine biologist, indoor-outdoor seating	Snacks & drinks available to purchase onboard	Cruiser	From AU$59
Sydney Whale Watching Cruise with Onboard Buffet	8:15am, 12:15pm Duration: 4 hours	Eastern Pontoon	Breakfast or buffet lunch, beverages	Alcoholic beverages available to purchase onboard	Cruiser	From AU$104
Sydney Whale Watching Cruise on Catamaran by Captain Cook	9:30am, 1:30pm Duration: 2 hr 30 mins	Circular Quay	Indoor-outdoor seating	Entry to Taronga Zoo with return rocket ferry back to Circular Quay or 2-day hop-on-hop-off pass and printed map with highlights	Catamaran	From AU$79
Combo: Whale Watching Cruise + Taronga Zoo Tickets	9:30am to 4:30pm Duration: 7 hours	Bradley's Head	Entry to Taronga Zoo, return rocket ferry to Circular Quay		Catamaran	From AU$125
Sydney Intimate Whale Watching Cruise on Small Boat	9am, 12pm, 3pm Duration: 2 hr 30 mins	Barangaroo Avenue	Small group (30 guests), expert crew, safety briefing		Whale-watching small boat	From AU$119
Sydney Whale Watching Adventurous Cruise on Inflatable Boat	8am, 11am, 2pm Duration: 2 hours	Campbell's Cove or Manly Wharf	Expert skipper, small group	Option of Manly Wharf cruise at 8:15am or 11:15am	Inflatable speed boat	From AU$129
Combo: Whale Watching Cruise + 2-Day Sydney Harbour Hop-On Hop-Off Pass	9:30am to 12pm Duration: 2 hr 30 mins	Circular Quay	Indoor-outdoor seating; 2-day Sydney hop-on-hop-off pass with smartphone commentary and printed map with highlights		Catamaran	From AU$115

Your boat options for a Sydney whale-watching cruise

Cruiser

Ideal for: Any traveler, wheelchair access

The cruiser is the most commonly used boat type that is versatile enough to be used for any type of cruising experience. They come in various sizes along with indoor and outdoor seating to cater to all types of customers.

Recommended experience:

Sydney Whale Watching Cruise with Onboard Buffet

Catamaran

Ideal for: Any traveler, prone to seasickness

A Catamaran has two large hulls that are parallel to each other underneath the deck or the stronghold. This allows to keep the boat stable and prevent too much rocking or overturning. It’s the perfect option if you’re prone to getting seasick easily.

Recommended experience:

Sydney Whale Watching Cruise on Catamaran by Captain Cook

Custom whale-watching vessel

Ideal for: Traveling with children, up-close viewing

This is a specially designed boat that usually has an open viewing deck or large windows to spot the whales. The engine is specifically designed to minimize noise that affects the whales. This means that the whales will stick around longer next to your boat.

Recommended experience:

Sydney Intimate Whale Watching Cruise on Small Boat

Speedboat

Ideal for: Short durations, small groups

Fitted with an internal combustion engine at the back, these boats can travel up to 120 km/h. They’re usually small-sized with a capacity of 12 people, which is a great pick for when you’re traveling with friends or family.

Recommended experience:

Sydney Whale Watching Express Cruise on Speedboat

Inflatable boat

Ideal for: Adventure enthusiasts

Although also fitted with an engine at the back like a speedboat, the bow and hull of an inflatable boat are made of flexible tubes that are filled with pressurized gas. They have a capacity of 8 people and add a bit of thrill to your cruise with its open-air top.

Recommended experience:

Sydney Whale Watching Adventurous Cruise on Inflatable Boat

Rocket ferry

Ideal for: Hop on hop off, commuting between ports

These ferries have a large capacity of up to 148 people and are usually used as transport vessels along the Sydney Harbour. Shaped like catamarans, they’re stable boats that offer comfortable indoor seating while you sail from one wharf to another.

Recommended experience:

Combo: Whale Watching Cruise + 2-Day Sydney Harbour Hop-On Hop-Off Pass

For more information about boat types and what are they best suited for, check out our guide to Sydney Harbour Cruise boats.

Where to board your Sydney whale-watching cruise?

There are six different boarding points you can choose from based on your convenience. Take your pick below!

Plan your Sydney whale-watching experience

Whale-watching cruises are conducted during the day when you can see and interact with the whales easily.

Breakfast cruise: 8:15am to 12:15pm
Lunch cruise: 12:15pm to 4:15pm
Sightseeing whale-watching cruises: From 9:30am to 8pm; Duration: 2 hrs to 2.5 hrs
Itinerary: Each type of whale-watching cruise has its own itinerary so make sure that you refer to your voucher for the exact timings for your cruise.
Boarding time: Boarding usually starts about 15 minutes before departure, but some cruises expect you to arrive 30 minutes prior. Check your voucher for accurate boarding times.

Whale-watching cruise schedules

Whale migration occurs twice in a year, once when the whales travel north to give birth to their young ones and the other time when the whales travel back south with their offspring to food-rich seas.

Winter migration: During the winter, usually from April to August, pregnant whales travel north. This migration usually peaks in June and July.

Spring migration: Once mama whales have given birth to their young ones, they migrate back south to Antarctica. This movement starts in mid-August and goes on till November. The spring migration is actually more spectacular as mother whales are tending to their young ones, teaching them to breach and hunt for food. Young males are usually quite eager to jump out of the waters at this time as well! So, if you're unable to go whale watching in the winter, you can come between August and November instead for an incredible display.

The best time to spot whales in a day is usually between 11am and 3pm when the sun is right on top granting spectacular visibility.

Sun protection is essential: Get a pair of sunglasses and a sun hat and wear sunscreen to keep yourself protected from the harsh rays of the sun, especially from October to December.
Be prepared for seasickness: If you’re prone to get seasick, carry the necessary medication to keep yourself comfortable.
Get an additional warm layer: No matter the season, it can get quite cold on the waters. We suggest you keep an extra scarf or jacket to keep yourself warm.
Wear flat and comfortable shoes: Your best pick is to wear sneakers to keep yourself comfortable when standing on the deck.
Prepare for the rain: Sudden showers are common in Australia, especially on the seas. Keep a waterproof jacket or an umbrella with you to protect yourself from the rain.

Wheelchair accessibility: Some whale-watching cruises are wheelchair accessible and are equipped with ramps and designated seating for those with mobility issues. These boats also usually have wheelchair accessible bathrooms as well. However, check the tickets for accurate accessibility information while booking.
Service animals: Accessible cruises also may allow you to bring your guide dog aboard the boat.
Pram and stroller access: Much like wheelchair accessibility, some cruises are also pram and stroller accessible. Check the tickets for accurate pram and stroller accessibility while making your bookings.

Plan your cruise

Expert guide on every cruise: As whale-watching is a unique experience, every whale-watching cruise comes with an expert guide to give you live commentaries onboard.
Snacks and beverages: As whale-watching cruises tend to last at least 2 hours, there are usually some snacks and beverages available for purchase onboard.
Vegetarian and vegan food: Along with non-vegetarian options, there are also vegetarian and vegan options available on your meal-included cruises.
Onboard toilets

Watch out for obstructions: The viewing deck may have dangerous equipment and obstructions. Watch your step and keep a close eye on children.
Keep your child seated: Keep your child seated next to you while the boat is moving.
Heed to your guide’s instructions: If you’ve picked an adventurous cruise like a small or inflatable boat, make sure to listen to your guide’s instructions carefully for your safety.
Avoid noises and sudden movements: Sudden movements and loud noises can startle the whales. Encourage your children to remain calm while whale watching.
Don’t feed the whales: It’s strictly forbidden to try and approach or feed the whales. Keep a safe distance between the boat and the whales to avoid unnecessary confrontations.
Move away if they approach: If a whale starts to approach your boat, stop immediately and move away. Don’t attempt to chase or circle the whale.

Remain patient: It may take some time for you to find and spot whales.
Get binoculars: Binoculars will help you spot whales that are farther away.
Carry some snacks: The cruise may be long so carry some snacks and a bottle of water. You can also check for onboard snack and beverage services.
Pick an afternoon slot: Whales are generally more active after mid-morning. While you can still spot whales in the mornings, they’re more likely to be active in the afternoons.
Keep your back to the sun: Keeping the sun behind you can help reduce the glare while whale watching.

Humpback whales: The majestic giants of the ocean

Known for their distinctive knobby heads, Humpback whales are immense baleen whales that can grow up to 16 m or 52 ft. Despite their massive weights of about 36,000kgs, Humpback whales are notoriously acrobatic swimmers. Massive crowds of whale enthusiasts gather to witness their spectacular breaching patterns that include ejecting water from their blowholes, fin or tail slapping, or sometimes even full-body breaches like jumping out of the water.

Baleen whales are usually massive whales characterized by the presence of baleen plates instead of teeth for feeding. They feed on small fish, krill and plankton that they filter out through their baleen plates after taking massive gulps of water in their mouths.

1. Spectacular singers: With unique tunes for each group of whales, Humpback whales communicate with each other through intricate songs that last up to 20 minutes repeated over hours.

2. One of the longest migrators: Humpbacks undertake one of the longest migrations of any mammal, traveling up to 25,000km in a year between their feeding and breeding grounds.

3. Unique tail flukes: Each humpback whale has a distinct pattern on its tail fluke, similar to a human fingerprint.

4. Acrobatic performers: Humpbacks are known for their incredible acrobatic displays like leaping out of the water and tail slapping. These behaviors aren’t just for play but also communication.

5. Intelligent feeding techniques: Humpbacks use complex feeding techniques like bubble net feeding to trap schools of fish or krill and scoop them up in their mouths.

Whale breaching is a spectacular sight where a whale propels itself out of the water, often launching a significant portion of its body into the air before crashing back down. These techniques don’t just facilitate better visibility and communication but also help get rid of parasites.

Spouting: A telltale way to spot whales, spouting is when a whale surfaces just enough to expel water out of its blowhole.
Tail slap: The whale raises its tail fluke out of the water and slaps it forcefully against the surface.
Pectoral fin slap: Also known as "pec slapping", this involves the whale rolling onto its side and slapping one or both of its long pectoral fins against the water.
Fluking dives: When taking a dive, the whale’s tail rises slightly or high above the water surface, depending on how deep the whale is diving.
Partial breach/Spyhopping: The whale lifts its head vertically out of the water, often up to its pectoral fins, to look around.
Full breach: The whale launches its entire body out of the water and often twists in the air before slamming back down onto the surface.

Beyond humpbacks, Sydney’s waters are home to orcas, minke whales, and playful dolphins. Seals are also common sightings, making each cruise an opportunity to encounter a diverse array of marine life.

Frequently asked questions about Sydney whale-watching cruises

The prices for whale watching cruises in Sydney vary based on the type of cruise, duration, and inclusions like meals or drinks and start from AU$59 for a 2-hour whale-watching cruise. Premium options with added amenities range from AU$100 and 200 with a luxury small-group whale watching cruise priced at AU$549.