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Sightseeing Cruises

Sydney Whale Watching Speedboat Cruise

Whale breaching near a tour boat during a whale watching cruise.
Women enjoying a whale watching cruise with Sydney Opera House in the background.
Couple pointing at whales during a Sydney whale watching cruise.
Couple enjoying a whale watching cruise with Sydney skyline in the background.

Explore at your pace

Choose your entry time, stay as long as you like

Experience the thrill of spotting humpback whales on a 2-hour express cruise from Sydney Harbour, with guaranteed sightings and insightful commentary.

    • Set out on a 2.5-hour whale watching cruise from Circular Quay, with expert commentary and guaranteed whale sightings or a free return trip.

    • Cruise past Sydney’s iconic Opera House and landmarks before heading out to spot migrating humpback whales in open waters.

    • Learn facts about whale migration, behaviour, and conservation efforts from your knowledgeable crew.

    • The vessel is limited to 46 guests for optimal viewing, with a covered roof for comfort in all weather. And, if you don’t spot whales, your ticket lets you join another cruise for free—valid for 3 years.

    • Did you know? Over 40,000 humpback whales are expected to pass Sydney’s coastline during the annual migration season.

    • 2.5-hour whale-watching cruise from Sydney Harbour
    • Expert commentary on whale facts and statistics
    • Vessel Explorer with covered roof
    • Whale sighting guarantee: free rebooking within 3 years if no whales spotted
  • TOTAL DURATION2 hours
    MODE OF TRANSFERSpeedboat

    1 Boarding point

    Eastern Pontoon, Circular Quay

    Get direction

    Sights covered

    Sydney Opera House

    Sydney Opera House

    Sydney Harbour Bridge

    Sydney Harbour Bridge

    South Head

    South Head

    North Head

    North Head

    The Gap

    The Gap

  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

  • Spot humpback whales up close on a 2.5-hour express cruise from Sydney Harbour, with expert commentary and guaranteed sightings.

    Getting started

    Begin your adventure at the Eastern Pontoon, Circular Quay, where you’ll check in and receive a safety briefing from the crew. After boarding, the vessel departs promptly, cruising past the Sydney Opera House and iconic city landmarks as you head towards the open ocean.

    What to expect

    Experience one of the world’s largest whale migrations as over 40,000 humpback whales pass Sydney’s coastline each year. The cruise reaches the “humpback highway” outside Sydney Heads in about 20 minutes, offering a fast and comfortable journey to prime whale-watching waters.

    Features

    • Expert-led whale watching: The crew provides live commentary on whale behaviour, migration patterns, and conservation efforts, enhancing your understanding of these remarkable marine mammals.
    • Prime viewing vessel: The Explorer is limited to 46 guests (from a 64-person capacity), ensuring everyone enjoys unobstructed views and a covered roof for weather protection.
    • Guaranteed sightings: If you don’t spot whales, you’ll receive a free return cruise valid for three years, so you never miss out on the action.
    • Diverse whale activity: Depending on the day, you may witness breaching, fluke dives, pec slapping, competition pods, or playful calves, especially during the southern migration from September to November.
  • What's not allowed

    • Keep in mind food & beverages and alcohol are not allowed on this experience. Pack wisely!
    • Safety is a priority. So, this experience is restricted for guests under the height of 120 cm and under the age of 5 years.

    Accessibility

    • Choose safety and comfort: This experience is not suitable for pregnant people and those with back, neck, or limb issues.

    Additional information

    • The option for a free cruise, in case no whales are spotted during the original cruise, remains valid for up to 3 years.
    • Wear wind and rain jackets to protect yourself from the sea spray.
    • Guests are recommend to consult a pharmacist or doctor for some readily available over the counter remedies to prevent seasickness.
    • Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

    • Please arrive at the boarding point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your visit 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 Eastern Pontoon Circular Quay.

    • Address: 7 Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia.

    Get directions to the boarding point

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