Sydney Whale Watching Cruises

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.