Sydney Whale Watching Cruises

Sydney whale watching cruises leave from Circular Quay and Darling Harbour between mid-May and early November, while humpback whales migrate past Sydney Heads between Antarctica and warmer northern waters. The choice comes down to where you board, how long you want to be out, and whether you'd rather have a big catamaran, a small group or a fast boat.

Whale watching cruises from Circular Quay

The Sydney Whale Watching Cruise from Circular Quay uses a spacious catamaran with a licensed bar, and reaches the open ocean in about 20 minutes. The Sydney Morning Whale Watching Cruise runs up to two and a half hours from Wharf 6 with indoor and outdoor viewing decks.

The Sydney 2 Hour Whale Watching Express Cruise is the shorter option, with a hydrophone on board and the landmarks of Sydney Harbour on the way out.

Whale watching cruises from Darling Harbour

The Sydney Whale Watching Cruise from Darling Harbour leaves King Street Wharf for about three hours, with tea, coffee and hot chocolate on the way back. Humpbacks are the main species, with the occasional southern right, minke and orca on the list.

For a smaller crowd, the Sydney Intimate Whale Watching Cruise takes a small group for around two and a half hours with a marine biologist and a photographer on board.

Fast boats for a quicker run to the whales

The Sydney Whale Watching Adventure Cruise reaches speeds of up to 80 km/h and is out in the ocean within 10 minutes, with a maximum of 27 passengers. The Sydney Whale Watching Speed Boat Tour also tops out at 80 km/h and boards at Campbell's Cove in The Rocks.

Whale watching with a meal or a zoo visit

Longer four-hour cruises from the Eastern Pontoon at Circular Quay add a meal, with the Sydney Whale Watching Cruise with Breakfast serving a hot breakfast and the Sydney Whale Watching Cruise with BBQ Lunch serving a buffet lunch on board.

The Whale Watching Cruise and Taronga Zoo Entry pairs a morning cruise with a day at the zoo and a return ferry to Circular Quay.

Frequently asked questions

When is whale watching season in Sydney?

Whale watching in Sydney runs from mid-May to early November, when humpback whales travel past Sydney on their annual migration.

Are whale sightings guaranteed on Sydney whale watching cruises?

Several Sydney whale watching cruises come with a sighting guarantee, usually a free return cruise if no whales are spotted, but the terms differ by operator, so check the product page.

What should I wear on a Sydney whale watching cruise?

Wear warm layers and flat, covered shoes, because it often feels colder at sea, and bring sunglasses and a camera. If you're prone to seasickness, eat lightly and ask a pharmacist about a remedy.

Can children go on Sydney whale watching cruises?

Yes. The Sydney Whale Watching Cruise from Darling Harbour is described as suitable for all ages. The fast boats have a minimum age of 12.

Local tip: Circular Quay cruises depart from different wharves and pontoons, so check which one your booking uses and arrive 30 minutes early.

Choose your wharf, your boat and your length of cruise above, and head out for the humpbacks. All good days are waiting.