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Sydney Whale Watching Cruises

Experience the wonder of Sydney's humpback whales on our curated collection of Whale Watching Cruises. Join them for an exhilarating journey, complete with informative commentary and prime viewing spots for an unforgettable adventure.
Sydney Whale Watching Cruises
Humpback whale breaching during Sydney Whale Watching Adventure Cruise.
Whale tail emerging from the ocean during Sydney Whale Watching Adventure Cruise.
Cruise ship on Sydney Harbour with city skyline and Harbour Bridge in the background.
Interior of a boat with seating and tables, part of the Sydney Whale Watching Adventure Cruise.
Cruise ship on Sydney Whale Watching Adventure in open ocean.
Humpback whale underwater during Sydney Whale Watching Adventure Cruise.
NEW
Sightseeing Cruises
2 hr 45 min
  • Set off from Circular Quay on a 2-hour and 45-minute whale watching cruise into the Pacific Ocean, guided by a marine biologist who brings the magic of these magnificent creatures to life through live, expert commentary.

  • Cruise aboard a stable, comfortable vessel with both indoor lounges and open-air decks, offering the perfect vantage points for every guest, rain or shine.

  • Witness the awe-inspiring sight of humpback whales breaching, tail-slapping, and playing in their natural habitat during their annual migration.

  • With binoculars in hand and your guide providing fascinating insights into whale behavior, you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for these ocean giants and the marine world.

  • Ideal for families, curious minds, and wildlife lovers—plus, enjoy peace of mind with a whale sighting guarantee or come back again for free within the same season.

More details

  • Set off from Circular Quay on a 2-hour and 45-minute whale watching cruise into the Pacific Ocean, guided by a marine biologist who brings the magic of these magnificent creatures to life through live, expert commentary.

  • Cruise aboard a stable, comfortable vessel with both indoor lounges and open-air decks, offering the perfect vantage points for every guest, rain or shine.

  • Witness the awe-inspiring sight of humpback whales breaching, tail-slapping, and playing in their natural habitat during their annual migration.

  • With binoculars in hand and your guide providing fascinating insights into whale behavior, you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for these ocean giants and the marine world.

  • Ideal for families, curious minds, and wildlife lovers—plus, enjoy peace of mind with a whale sighting guarantee or come back again for free within the same season.

from
AU$67.50
Whale breaching near cliffs off Sydney coast.
Couple pointing at whales during a Sydney whale watching cruise.
Whale breaching in Sydney Harbour with city skyline and bridge in background.
Whale tail breaching near Sydney skyline during a whale watching cruise.
Two whales swimming in the ocean during a Sydney whale watching cruise.
Guests enjoying a buffet on a Sydney Whale Watching Cruise.
Man grilling sausages on a boat with Sydney Opera House in the background during a whale watching cruise.
Buffet spread on Sydney Whale Watching Cruise with salads and hot dishes.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
4 hr
1 more
  • Set sail on a 4-hour whale watching cruise aboard the spacious Jerry Bailey, limited to just 95 guests for optimal viewing from multiple outdoor decks.

  • Enjoy a hot breakfast (on weekends only) or a buffet lunch on board, with tea, coffee, and water included. Vegetarian and special dietary needs are catered for with advance notice.

  • Learn more from fully qualified crew members providing live expert commentary throughout the journey.

  • Relax in the comfortable indoor lounge or enjoy panoramic ocean views from expansive outdoor areas; a licensed bar is also available for additional beverage purchases.

  • Benefit from a whale sighting guarantee—if no whales are spotted on your tour, you can rebook another cruise for free within 3 years.

  • Perfect for those seeking a longer, more relaxed whale-watching experience with excellent onboard food, expert guidance, and top-rated service.

More details

  • Set sail on a 4-hour whale watching cruise aboard the spacious Jerry Bailey, limited to just 95 guests for optimal viewing from multiple outdoor decks.

  • Enjoy a hot breakfast (on weekends only) or a buffet lunch on board, with tea, coffee, and water included. Vegetarian and special dietary needs are catered for with advance notice.

  • Learn more from fully qualified crew members providing live expert commentary throughout the journey.

  • Relax in the comfortable indoor lounge or enjoy panoramic ocean views from expansive outdoor areas; a licensed bar is also available for additional beverage purchases.

  • Benefit from a whale sighting guarantee—if no whales are spotted on your tour, you can rebook another cruise for free within 3 years.

  • Perfect for those seeking a longer, more relaxed whale-watching experience with excellent onboard food, expert guidance, and top-rated service.

from
AU$104
Breaching whale near a cruise ship during a whale watching tour in Sydney.
Women enjoying a cruise on Sydney Harbour with city skyline in the background.
Whale breaching in the ocean near Sydney.
Women smiling on a boat with Sydney Opera House in the background, Sydney Harbour.
Couple enjoying a whale watching tour on Sydney Harbour with city skyline in the background.
Couple enjoying whale watching tour on a boat in Sydney.
Giraffes at Taronga Zoo with Sydney Harbour Bridge in the background.
Cruise ship near Sydney Opera House on Hop-On-Hop-Off Sydney Harbour Cruise.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
  • Cruise from Circular Quay on a 2.5-hour whale watching adventure, featuring expert commentary and stunning views of Sydney’s Opera House and Harbour Bridge, all from a modern catamaran with spacious decks and accessible amenities.

  • Benefit from a whale sighting guarantee. Rebook for free within the same season if no whales are spotted.

  • Personalize your experience: Add general admission to Taronga Zoo and return rocket ferry transfers for a seamless wildlife day out, or choose a 2-day hop-on hop-off ferry pass to explore six iconic Sydney Harbour stops, including Manly, Watsons Bay, and Shark Island, at your own pace.

  • Enjoy the trusted service and high whale sighting success rate of Captain Cook Cruises, making this the ideal way to experience Sydney’s marine life and harbour highlights in one easy booking.

More details

  • Cruise from Circular Quay on a 2.5-hour whale watching adventure, featuring expert commentary and stunning views of Sydney’s Opera House and Harbour Bridge, all from a modern catamaran with spacious decks and accessible amenities.

  • Benefit from a whale sighting guarantee. Rebook for free within the same season if no whales are spotted.

  • Personalize your experience: Add general admission to Taronga Zoo and return rocket ferry transfers for a seamless wildlife day out, or choose a 2-day hop-on hop-off ferry pass to explore six iconic Sydney Harbour stops, including Manly, Watsons Bay, and Shark Island, at your own pace.

  • Enjoy the trusted service and high whale sighting success rate of Captain Cook Cruises, making this the ideal way to experience Sydney’s marine life and harbour highlights in one easy booking.

from AU$95
AU$85.50

10% off

Whale tail splashing near whale watching boat in ocean.
Whale watching boat with passengers in Sydney harbor.
Whale breaching near a boat during an ocean whale watching experience.
Whale breaching during ocean whale watching experience.
People on a boat watching a whale tail in the ocean during a whale watching tour.
Person on boat watching ocean during whale tour.
Whale tail emerging from ocean during whale watching experience.
Tourists on a boat during an ocean whale watching experience.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
2 hr 30 min
  • This 2.5-hour whale watching adventure cruises past Sydney icons like the Harbour Bridge and Opera House before heading into open waters.

  • Enjoy an intimate experience aboard a custom-built vessel designed for stability, comfort, and incredible water-level views—limited to just 30 guests.

  • Led by an expert, passionate crew with decades of whale-watching experience, you’ll gain deep insight into the majestic humpback whales and their migratory journey.

  • Experience a respectful, close encounter with whales in their natural habitat, enhanced by lively commentary and opportunities to ask questions throughout the cruise.

  • Whale sighting guarantee: enjoy a free rebooking within the season if no whales are spotted, though their 97% success rate speaks for itself.

  • Ideal for families and nature-lovers of all ages—create lasting memories with Australia’s most awe-inspiring ocean giants aboard a safe, small-group vessel.

More details

  • This 2.5-hour whale watching adventure cruises past Sydney icons like the Harbour Bridge and Opera House before heading into open waters.

  • Enjoy an intimate experience aboard a custom-built vessel designed for stability, comfort, and incredible water-level views—limited to just 30 guests.

  • Led by an expert, passionate crew with decades of whale-watching experience, you’ll gain deep insight into the majestic humpback whales and their migratory journey.

  • Experience a respectful, close encounter with whales in their natural habitat, enhanced by lively commentary and opportunities to ask questions throughout the cruise.

  • Whale sighting guarantee: enjoy a free rebooking within the season if no whales are spotted, though their 97% success rate speaks for itself.

  • Ideal for families and nature-lovers of all ages—create lasting memories with Australia’s most awe-inspiring ocean giants aboard a safe, small-group vessel.

from
AU$139
Whale breaching near a tour boat in Sydney Harbour.
Catamaran cruising near Sydney Opera House on a whale watching tour.
Entrance to Taronga Zoo in Sydney, featuring historic architecture and arched doorway.
Giraffes at Taronga Zoo with Sydney Harbour Bridge in the background.
Tourists on a whale watching cruise near Sydney Harbour.
Whale breaching near a cruise boat with Sydney skyline in the background.
Whale breaching near catamaran on Sydney Whale Watching Cruise.
Tiger walking through grass at Taronga Zoo, Sydney.
Koala in eucalyptus tree at Taronga Zoo, Sydney.
Elephants near a water feature at Taronga Zoo, Sydney.
Wallaby on rocky terrain at Taronga Zoo, Sydney.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
7 hr
  • Enjoy a 2.5-hour whale watching cruise with expert commentary, panoramic views of Sydney Harbour, and guaranteed whale sightings—or cruise again for free!

  • Includes direct entry to Taronga Zoo via ferry, skipping the main entrance queues and avoiding crowded bus transfers.

  • Access the zoo from the lower wharf entrance, allowing a more leisurely uphill exploration—ideal for families, seniors, and visitors seeking a more relaxed experience.

  • Discover over 4,000 animals at your own pace, then return to Circular Quay on a flexible rocket ferry schedule.

  • Comfortable, family-friendly catamarans offer indoor/outdoor seating and wheelchair-accessible facilities for a smooth, scenic adventure.

More details

  • Enjoy a 2.5-hour whale watching cruise with expert commentary, panoramic views of Sydney Harbour, and guaranteed whale sightings—or cruise again for free!

  • Includes direct entry to Taronga Zoo via ferry, skipping the main entrance queues and avoiding crowded bus transfers.

  • Access the zoo from the lower wharf entrance, allowing a more leisurely uphill exploration—ideal for families, seniors, and visitors seeking a more relaxed experience.

  • Discover over 4,000 animals at your own pace, then return to Circular Quay on a flexible rocket ferry schedule.

  • Comfortable, family-friendly catamarans offer indoor/outdoor seating and wheelchair-accessible facilities for a smooth, scenic adventure.

from AU$129
AU$123.84

4% off

Whale breaching near inflatable boat with tourists, Sydney skyline in background.
Whale breaching near Sydney Harbour Bridge during adventure cruise.
Whale surfaces near inflatable boat during Sydney adventure cruise.
Man photographing whale surfacing near inflatable boat on Sydney adventure cruise.
Whale tail emerging from water with Sydney skyline in the background.
People observing a humpback whale surfacing near a boat in the ocean.
Whale breaching near inflatable boat during Sydney adventure cruise.
Whale breaching near rocky cliffs during Sydney inflatable boat adventure.
Passengers on an inflatable boat watching whales near Sydney coast.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
2 hr
1 more
  • Experience Sydney’s most thrilling whale watching adventure on a 1.5 to 2-hour high-speed cruise aboard a custom-built, military-grade inflatable boat.

  • Departing daily from Circular Quay or Manly Wharf (depending on your booking), you'll head through Sydney Harbour and blast into the Tasman Sea in search of migrating humpback whales.

  • With small group capacities—just 12 passengers on Orca and up to 21 on Extreme—you’ll enjoy a more personal and up-close experience with expert commentary from your skipper throughout the journey.

  • Whale sightings are guaranteed during the season (May to November)—if you don’t spot any, you can rebook for free.

  • Ages 12 and up are welcome on this action-packed ride, perfect for adventurers looking to witness whales in their natural environment with speed, excitement, and amazing ocean views.

More details

  • Experience Sydney’s most thrilling whale watching adventure on a 1.5 to 2-hour high-speed cruise aboard a custom-built, military-grade inflatable boat.

  • Departing daily from Circular Quay or Manly Wharf (depending on your booking), you'll head through Sydney Harbour and blast into the Tasman Sea in search of migrating humpback whales.

  • With small group capacities—just 12 passengers on Orca and up to 21 on Extreme—you’ll enjoy a more personal and up-close experience with expert commentary from your skipper throughout the journey.

  • Whale sightings are guaranteed during the season (May to November)—if you don’t spot any, you can rebook for free.

  • Ages 12 and up are welcome on this action-packed ride, perfect for adventurers looking to witness whales in their natural environment with speed, excitement, and amazing ocean views.

from
AU$139
Whale breaching near a tour boat in Sydney Harbour.
Whale breaching near a tour boat during a whale watching cruise.
Cruise ship passing under Sydney Harbour Bridge with Opera House in view.
Tourists on a whale watching cruise near Sydney Harbour.
Couple with Captain Cook Sydney Harbour Cruise staff on deck with Sydney skyline.
Cruise ship near Sydney Opera House on Hop-On-Hop-Off Sydney Harbour Cruise.
Whale breaching near cliffs off Sydney coast.
Whale breaching near Sydney skyline during a whale watching cruise.
Cruise ship docked at Circular Quay with Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge in view.
Entrance to Taronga Zoo in Sydney, featuring historic architecture and arched doorway.
Cliffs and ocean view at Watsons Bay with Sydney skyline in the background.
Shark Island with Sydney skyline and Harbour Bridge in the background during Captain Cook cruise.
Boats docked at Darling Harbour with Sydney skyline in the background.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
  • Enjoy a 2-day Sydney Harbour Hop-On Hop-Off Pass with unlimited ferry rides to six iconic stops, including Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay, Manly, and more.

  • Discover hidden gems like Shark Island—only accessible through this cruise service, not served by public ferries.

  • Includes a 2.5-hour morning whale watching cruise with expert commentary, indoor/outdoor seating, and a whale sighting guarantee (rebook for free if no whales are spotted).

  • Maximize your savings—this combo offers $10 off compared to booking separately.

  • Onboard smartphone commentary, printed maps, and flexible schedules let you explore Sydney at your own pace.

  • One easy booking covers both experiences, simplifying your planning and ensuring a seamless day out.

More details

  • Enjoy a 2-day Sydney Harbour Hop-On Hop-Off Pass with unlimited ferry rides to six iconic stops, including Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay, Manly, and more.

  • Discover hidden gems like Shark Island—only accessible through this cruise service, not served by public ferries.

  • Includes a 2.5-hour morning whale watching cruise with expert commentary, indoor/outdoor seating, and a whale sighting guarantee (rebook for free if no whales are spotted).

  • Maximize your savings—this combo offers $10 off compared to booking separately.

  • Onboard smartphone commentary, printed maps, and flexible schedules let you explore Sydney at your own pace.

  • One easy booking covers both experiences, simplifying your planning and ensuring a seamless day out.

from
AU$119

Millions love heading out with us

Trixia Jayne Bongalos Abarabar
AU

Trixia

Australia
Jun 2025
5/5
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review-image
We had so much fun seeing the whales up close. It was a memorable experience because we saw a mum and its calf. The whales are everywhere. The crew were also amazing, plus the buffet was great.
Cecilia Tatoy
AU

Cecilia

Australia
Jun 2025
5/5
review-image
review-image
The access we had to viewing everything and the host was very good and informative throughout the trip. And I was interviewed with the 7 news while we're on whale watching
Gaman Laura
RO

Gaman

Romania
Nov 2024
5/5
it was a very pleasant experience. although we could not see the whales very well, because it was the end of the migration period, the captain did his best to enjoy some wonderful moments in the company of the whales, even so far from them. the important thing was that I could feel the beauty and majesty of the ocean and the joy of letting the wind pass through you. thanks again to the captain and his help for making this mini-excursion absolutely wonderful
Miss Ella Rose Davies
GB

Miss

United Kingdom
Nov 2024
5/5
We are on the last week of the season and we're lucky enough to see 4 male whales. They came close to the boat and said hello. Could not believe it! But beware they say it's likely you will get sea sick - we never usually do but did and few others did too. Make sure to take tablets, bring tissues and water in case but still absolutely worth it! Priceless!!
Luvambu Pedro
AU

Luvambu

Australia
Jul 2025
5/5
An absolutely unforgettable experience! The small boat made the whale watching feel personal and up close – we saw several whales, including one breaching right in front of us! It was magical. The crew was knowledgeable, friendly, and clearly passionate about marine life. They made us feel safe and well-informed the whole time. If you’re in Sydney and want something special, this is a must-do. Perfect for nature lovers and anyone looking for a unique, awe-inspiring moment. Highly, highly recommended!
Suman Limbu
AU

Suman

Australia
Jul 2025
5/5
Had an amazing time whale watching with the best crew ever! 🐳👍 Friendly, knowledgeable, and made the experience even more special. Spotted some incredible marine life too! 🐋🌊"
Shiree FAITHFULL
AU

Shiree

Australia
Jun 2025
5/5
The boat is perfect for whale watching. It goes at a steady pace, nice & comfortable. I sat in the stern & could see everything. Our marine biologist was easy to understand while she explained everything we were seeing. She explained how the whale numbers have improved & also how whales are so important to the ecology of our oceans. The crew were friendly, inspired confidence & were clear when they needed us to do something. The captain was easy to understand. I enjoyed our boat, the pace it travelled at & the freedom it gave me move around or just sit & take it all in. Thank you 😊
Joe Hirschegger
CA

Joe

Canada
Nov 2024
5/5
We had a great excursion. Within minutes of arriving to the area, we saw a cow and her young one. The on board guides were very good at explaining what we saw.
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