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Sightseeing Cruises

Newcastle Whale Watching Eco Cruise

Whale watching tour boat in Newcastle, Australia, with passengers observing whales.
People on a boat whale watching off the coast of Newcastle, Australia.
Whale watching tour boat with guide in Newcastle, Australia.
Whale breaching off the coast of Newcastle, Australia, showcasing a stunning marine wildlife experience.

Duration

2 hrs

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the start of your experience

Guided tour

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

    • Hop aboard Atmos, a custom-built eco-adventure boat, for a thrilling 2-hour whale-watching cruise along Newcastle’s stunning coastline.

    • Experience the magic of the humpback whale migration (May to November) with front-row 360° views and expert commentary from local guides.

    • Spot more than just whales–keep an eye out for dolphins, long-nosed fur seals, and seabirds as you cruise the open waters.

    • Stay warm and dry in premium weatherproof jackets, and enjoy the ride in high-backed seats designed for comfort and stability.

    • No whales? No worries. You'll get a return cruise free of charge if no whales are sighted on your tour.

    • Ride with confidence on an award-winning, eco-certified tour that puts sustainability and marine conservation at its heart.

    • 2-hour whale-watching eco-cruise aboard Atmos from Newcastle

    • English-speaking guide

    • Expert marine biologist commentary

    • Small-group tour of up to 20 people

    • Drinking water and weather-proof jackets

    • Safety briefing

    • Access to vessel amenities

  • You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

  • Step aboard a premium custom-built vessel and experience the magic of humpback whale migration just off the coast of Newcastle.

    Getting started

    Your tour begins at the Honeysuckle Foreshore, where you’ll meet the friendly CoastXP crew. Receive a quick safety briefing and gear up with a premium weatherproof jacket before boarding the vessel designed for adventure and comfort.

    What to expect

    This 2-hour whale encounter tour offers a front-row seat to one of nature’s most awe-inspiring journeys. From May to November, thousands of humpback whales make their annual migration along Australia’s east coast — and Newcastle is right on their path.

    Cruise along the scenic coastline as expert guides share fascinating facts about the whales’ 5,000 km trek from Antarctica. Along the way, keep your camera ready for unforgettable sights, from tail slaps to full breaches. You might also spot common dolphins, long-nosed fur seals, and marine birdlife, adding to the thrill of your ocean safari.

    Features

    • 360° open viewing deck: Enjoy panoramic, unobstructed views perfect for whale watching and photography

    • Expert local guides: Learn about marine life and migration from passionate, knowledgeable crew

    • Eco-certified vessel: Travel on a sustainable, safety-first boat designed for coastal wildlife tours

    • Wildlife encounters: Look out for dolphins, seals, and seabirds in their natural habitat

    • All-weather gear: Premium jackets provided to keep you warm and dry in changing conditions

    Whether you’re chasing your first whale sighting or returning for another glimpse, this experience offers a close and respectful look at marine life in its natural habitat, just minutes from the heart of Newcastle.

  • What to bring

    • Wear a light fleece under your waterproof jacket (provided) so you can peel off layers once the sun’s up.

    • Wear non-slip, closed-toe shoes for on-deck stability.

    • Bring your sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), camera/binoculars, seasickness tablets, light snacks, and a valid photo ID.

    What's not allowed

    • Children under 3 years old are not permitted to participate in this experience.

    • This experience is restricted to a maximum of 20 guests.

    • Smoking is not permitted on the vessel.

    Accessibility

    • This experience is not wheelchair accessible. For guests who can board and disembark with assistance, wheelchair and walker storage are available in Newcastle.

    • This experience is not recommended for guests with a medical condition, injury, or potential health risk, or for those who are pregnant.

    Additional information

    • If no whales are spotted during your scheduled whale watching tour, you’ll receive a free return trip.

    • Tours may be postponed or canceled due to unsuitable weather. Bookings can be rescheduled (subject to availability) or refunded. Light rain won’t affect departures.

    • Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

    • Please arrive at the boarding point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your cruise to avoid any delays.

    • Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding point.

    Boarding point

    • Board your cruise at CoastXP.

    • Address: Near Rydges Hotel, Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle NSW 2300, Australia.

    Get directions to the boarding point

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