Sightseeing Cruises

Sydney Whale Watching 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.

Duration

2 hr 45 min

4.5/5

(60)

Fay

Oct 2025

Verified booking

4/5

Being out on the harbour on such a good weather day and the excitement of looking for whales. Unfortunately, none of the whales were close to us, but we did see half a dozen so I think most onboard were satisfied. The vessel rocked around a lot so I definitely appreciated the cushions and back cushions. When the vessel motor was on as we went along, it wasn't easy to hear the information given but once we stopped it was good. We were sitting downstairs at the back. I liked the organisation of passengers to line up, rather than scramble onboard as often happens!

Shiree

Jun 2025

Verified booking

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 😊

Michele

Sep 2025

Verified booking

5/5

The crew were great. Informative. Really worked hard to find us whales and it didn't disappoint. We had a great experience and would highly recommend.

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.

2-hour & 45-minute whale watching cruise

Marine biologist

Live informative commentary

Indoor & outdoor seating

Onboard toilets

Whale sighting guarantee: free rebooking within 1 year if no whales spotted

Snacks & drinks (available for purchase onboard)

TOTAL DURATION2 hours 45 minutes - 3 hours
FREQUENCYday, at 10am, 12:45pm & 3:30pm
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
FIRST DEPARTUREHumpback Whale
LAST DEPARTUREHumpback Whale
1 Boarding point
Circular Quay
Get direction
Sights covered
Humpback Whale
Bottlenose Dolphin
Australian Fur Seal
Albatross
Sydney Opera House
Sydney Harbour Bridge

These tickets can't be cancelled. However, they can be rescheduled up to 72 hours before the experience begins.

4.5
60 reviews
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
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Guests from India, United Kingdom, Canada and over 8 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Fay
Oct 2025
Verified booking
4/5
Being out on the harbour on such a good weather day and the excitement of looking for whales. Unfortunately, none of the whales were close to us, but we did see half a dozen so I think most onboard were satisfied. The vessel rocked around a lot so I definitely appreciated the cushions and back cushions. When the vessel motor was on as we went along, it wasn't easy to hear the information given but once we stopped it was good. We were sitting downstairs at the back. I liked the organisation of passengers to line up, rather than scramble onboard as often happens!
Michele
Sep 2025
Verified booking
5/5
The crew were great. Informative. Really worked hard to find us whales and it didn't disappoint. We had a great experience and would highly recommend.
Siraj
Sep 2025
Verified booking
5/5
It was awesome day with your team. Thanks for the nice memories
Abdelaal
Aug 2025
Verified booking
5/5
Easy booking Good customer service Experienced staff were able to find whales for us to watch
Shiree
Jun 2025
Verified booking
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 😊

Journey into the deep blue on a 2-hour 45-minute whale watching cruise led by a marine biologist. Aboard a comfortable, purpose-built vessel, you’ll witness the awe-inspiring beauty of humpback whales in their natural habitat, with live expert commentary enriching every moment. This family-friendly tour blends discovery, education, and unforgettable marine encounters — perfect for nature lovers and curious minds of all ages.

Getting started

Your whale watching adventure begins at Circular Quay, where you’ll board a spacious sightseeing vessel equipped with both indoor and outdoor seating. After a prompt check-in, you’ll be welcomed aboard by a fully trained marine crew, including a marine biologist who will accompany you throughout the journey. Settle in as the boat cruises out through Sydney Harbour and into the open waters of the Pacific Ocean.

What to expect

As the city skyline fades behind you, anticipate the thrill of spotting humpback whales during their annual migration. With binoculars in hand and the wind in your hair, enjoy the chance to see these majestic creatures breach, play, and glide alongside the vessel. The onboard marine biologist provides live, engaging commentary filled with fascinating insights into whale behavior, migration patterns, and the ocean’s ecosystem.

This cruise offers a well-paced and immersive experience, ideal for families, students, and lifelong learners. Indoor areas keep you warm and dry on cooler days, while outdoor decks provide prime viewing opportunities and a closer connection to nature. And with the whale sighting guarantee, you’ll have the opportunity to rebook at no extra cost if no whales are spotted on the day of your tour.

Features

2-hour 45-minute whale watching cruise: Ample time to reach whale hot spots and enjoy extended viewing sessions.

Live educational commentary: Led by a qualified marine biologist, offering interactive and informative narration throughout the journey.

Indoor & outdoor seating: Comfortable and flexible viewing options suitable for all weather conditions.

Whale sighting guarantee: No whales spotted? Enjoy a complimentary return cruise within the same season.

Family-friendly experience: Safe, enriching, and designed for guests of all ages.

Well-equipped vessel: Spacious, stable boat with indoor lounge, outdoor decks, and accessible seating.

Photography-friendly moments: Capture breaching whales, tail slaps, and pod interactions against stunning ocean backdrops.

Whether it’s your first time whale watching or you’re a seasoned ocean adventurer, this cruise offers a perfect balance of comfort, discovery, and breathtaking wildlife encounters.

What's not allowed

Boarding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not permitted.

Large bags or oversized luggage cannot be accommodated on this experience.

Accessibility

If you have pre-existing medical conditions (e.g., heart disease, asthma) or are pregnant, please consult your doctor before booking.

Wheelchair users and guests with limited mobility should contact us in advance to discuss vessel accessibility.

Additional information

The weather here tends to bring unexpected twists. Dress in warm layers and flat enclosed shoes for adaptable comfort.

Passengers must arrive 30 minutes before departure. Late arrivals will not receive a refund, as seats may be resold.

As an open-water cruise, you may experience wave motion. If you are prone to seasickness, we recommend taking over-the-counter remedies for a more comfortable experience. Follow instructions and consult a healthcare professional if needed.

Whale sightings are guaranteed. If no whales are spotted, you’ll receive a complimentary return trip within 12 months, subject to availability. Contact the provider for details.

The tour operates in all weather conditions, including rain. To reschedule due to weather, contact the provider at least 24 hours in advance.

Facilities: Onboard bar

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

Please arrive at the meeting point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.

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

Meeting point

Meet your guide at Eastern Pontoon Circular Quay.

Address: 7 Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000.

Landmark: The meeting point is located halfway between Ferry Wharf No.2 and the Sydney Opera House.

Get directions to the meeting point