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This is the list of Autumn cruises - please scroll down the page to see more information on each cruise and to book
Moonshadow TQC 1.5 hr Dolphin Discovery Cruises (daily)
Whale Reconnaissance & Outer Island Cruise Starts 16th May
Imagine 3hr Whale Watch Starts 19th May
Envision 1.5hr Whale Watch Express Starts 20th May
2.5hr Moonshadow Whale Watch Starts 23rd May
Moonshadow Splash n Slide Cruise Finish 19th April - Back 21st November
The Original Tea Gardens Ferry Cruise (daily)
1 hr Bay Cruises on the Y Knot Catamaran (daily) Not currently running
1.5 hr lunch time Bay Cruise on the Y Knot Catamaran (daily) Not currently running
Swim with Wild Dolphins (check for days) Finish 26th April - Back 2nd October
Imagine 1.5 hrDolphin Watch cruise (daily) Finish 30th April -Back 1st November
1 hr Dolphin Watch Express (daily) Finish 19th May - Back 2nd November
Moonshadow TQC Dolphin watch & Eco Adventure Finish 10th April -Back 19th December
Imagine Cruises Marine Discovery (most days - check) Finish 19th April - Back 14th December
Sunset on the Bay (Saturday Evenings Finish 4th April - Back 7th November
Moonshadow TQC Splash n Slide Finish 19th April - Back 21st November
Port Stephens 3.5 hr Snorkel Cruise Finish 19th April - Back 5th December
Broughton Island 6.5 hr day cruise Finish 5th April - Back 13th December
Imagine Sunset BBQ Dinner cruise (check for dates) Finish March - Still awaiting start date
Moonshadow TQC Dolphin Discovery Cruises (run daily)
Moonshadow TQC Dolphin Discovery Cruises (run daily)
26 metre (85’) catamaran
Licensed for 300 guests
3 decks with main deck, cocktail deck and sun deck
Stage and dance floor
State of the art underwater live video cameras
Boom net and twist and twirl slide
Cruise Inclusions
See our world-famous resident wild Bottlenose dolphins
Exciting boom net rides
Expansive open decks or covered all weather indoor viewing
Twist & Twirl Slide straight into the boomnet (Moonshadow V ONLY)
Live underwater cameras (Moonshadow V ONLY)
Licensed bar and snack food available
Live, informative, fun Captain’s commentary
A fully licensed bar is aboard and snack foods are available.
Adult $45 - Child $27 - Seniors/Students $5 discount. For families of two adults and two children $117 - a saving of $27 :))
**Port Stephens dolphins are totally wild, so 100% sighting success isn’t guaranteed. Refunds aren’t available if dolphins are not located, but we offer a non-transferable free return voucher (stand-by basis). Terms & Conditions apply**
Whale Reconnaissance & Outer Island Cruise (Starts 16th May 2026 - Finishes 22nd May 2026)
As the whales begin their northern migration along the Port Stephens coast line, join us in search for the first whales of the season.
What's included
What's included
2.5hr Whale Watching Cruise
Imagine 3hr Whale Watch Cruise (Starts 19th May 2026 - Finishes 1st November 2026)
Join us as we spend time with the incredible Humpback Whales, watching them swim and play!
* Whale Guarantee
* Friendly & Knowledgeable Crew
* Informative Commentary
* 360° Viewing
* Complimentary Tea & Coffee
* Licensed Bar
3 Hour duration - Daily from Mid May - Early November
* All cruises subject to sea conditions * Minimum numbers apply
Envision 1.5hr Whale Watch Express (Starts 20th May 2026 - Finishes 1st November 2026)
We get you up close & personal with the very best that Port Stephens has to offer.
We move quickly, but safely & smoothly through the water, allowing you to comfortably enjoy the beautiful Marine Park.
We'll also be on the lookout for pods of Oceanic Dolphins, you may have the chance to see penguins, sea birds, seals and much more.
Highlights
Highlights
Whale Guarantee - if you don't see whales, a 'Standby-by Free Return Voucher' will be issued. Valid for 12 months from date of issue
What to bring
What to bring
● Don't forget to bring your wind jacket
More Info
More Info
● This is an offshore cruise and is not suitable for children under 4 years
● If you or any member of your party experience or feel they may experience motion sickness, we highly recommend consulting your pharmacist regarding sea sickness medication
● This is an offshore excursion and is subject to weather and sea conditions
Moonshadow 2.5hr Whale Watch (Starts 23rd May 2026 - Finishes 8th November 2026)
Moonshadow 2.5hr Whale Watch (Starts 23rd May 2026 - Finishes 8th November 2026)
Get up close and personal with the Whales!
Get up close and personal with the Whales!
You will never forget seeing the awesome bulk of a Humpback whale, up to 18 metres long and weighing 40 tonnes! Being the most surface active of all the whales, it is possible that you will see spectacular displays - spy hops, pectoral slaps, body rolls and … the breathtaking breach.
Get up close and personal with the whales!
What's included
What's included
Enjoy entertaining and informative commentary and the cruise includes bonus dolphin and outer island cruising - two cruises for the price of one! With two vessels to choose from and great viewing decks (both inside and outside), you can be sure you are getting the best view of these friendly giants.
A fully licenced bar is available on board for beverages, and snacks.
Moonshadow Splash n Slide Cruise (Back 21st November 2026)
Port Stephens is home to over 160 resident bottlenose dolphins that is why we call ourselves the Dolphin Capital of Australia. With a high success rate in dolphin sightings, boom net rides & waterslide you can’t go past a Moonshadow – TQC 2hr Splash & Slide Dolphin Watch Cruise!
What's included
What's included
Time to swim
Cruise spectacular headlands and eastern harbour
See our resident wild Bottlenose dolphins
Ride, slide, splash on our awesome waterslide
Fun boom net
Twin level with walk-around decks
Licensed bar and snack food available
Live, informative, fun Captain’s commentary
High success sighting rate, free return cruise if no dolphins sighted (standby basis). Terms and conditions apply
Vessel: MV Spirit is a 60" fast Stable Catamaran, with 2 walk around all weather viewing decks. Licensed bar with snack food available for purchase. A large boom net, water slide.
The Original Tea Gardens Ferry Cruise
Tea Gardens Ferry Service operates a daily return ferry service between Nelson Bay and Tea Gardens. Crossing the bay is a must for visitors and locals to the Port Stephens and Myall Coast Blue Water Wonderland.
Our friendly knowledgeable crew will provide informative commentary while you take in the panoramic views of Port Stephens and The Myall River. Sit back and relax as we travel through Port Stephens Marine Park.
Keep an eye out for some of our locals …. Dingoes, Turtles, Seabirds and the bay resident dolphins enjoy putting on a display for our passengers regularly.Important
Please, remember to add a return trip by clicking on Add to cart and selecting date and time for your ticket.
Adults $42 return - Seniors and Concessions save $4 with a valid card.
Arvos on the Bay
Departing Nelson Bay at 3:30 PM, this sneaky little ferry ride starts innocently enough.
But on the 5:15 PM return trip, Mother Nature crashes the party with a jaw-dropping light show.
Think golden hour on steroids – we're talking a technicolor explosion of yellows, oranges, and pinks that would make even the most jaded Instagrammer swoon.
Don’t forget to bring your favourite beverage to toast the setting sun.
Adults $35 return - Children $20 return (if well behaved!) Otherwise.........
1hr Bay Cruises
Departing daily, enjoy a relaxing cruise of the bay. Grab a cup of tea or coffee, then sit back and relax. Bring your camera along, as we often get a chance to see dolphins, sea eagles and the occasional turtle or penguin plus spectacular views of Tomaree and Yacaaba Heads.
Multiple departure times.
Local knowledge from local crew
Spacious fore-deck
Uninterrupted views
No crowds
BYO food & alcohol
Check booking button for times
Private charters available Adults $40 Child $25 Infants $5
1.5hr Bay lunch Cruise
Departing daily, enjoy a relaxing cruise and enjoy your lunch out on the bay.
This cruise is BYO food & drinks and we encourage you to grab something yummy from one of our lovely food outlets around Nelson Bay and join us for a delightful and fun filled lunchtime trip.
Bring your camera along, as we often get a chance to see dolphins, sea eagles and the occasional turtle or penguin plus spectacular views of Tomaree and Yacaaba Heads.
Departs at 12.15pm daily (except Saturdays)
Local knowledge from local crew
Spacious fore-deck
Uninterrupted views
No crowds
BYO food & alcohol
Private charters available - Adults $49 - Children $30 - Infants $8
Swim with Wild Dolphins at Port Stephens (Finishes 26th April 2026 - Back 2nd October 2026)
Swim with Wild Dolphins at Port Stephens (Finishes 26th April 2026 - Back 2nd October 2026)
You will be fully immersed and gently pulled through the water, while safely harnessed at the front of our boat, between the two catamaran hulls. The dolphins love to play and choose to swim with you up close! It is the most interactive and safest way to swim with dolphins as they are constantly moving with us.
This is how we have long, magical experiences of being ‘part of the pod’.
Enjoy a champagne brunch on the way home
This cruise fills very quickly so don't delay - book now
Check booking button for days that they run
6.15am start ▶️ Swim with Wild Dolphins 4.5hr cruise (champagne brunch - video of the swim) Swim $359 Observe $109
Imagine Cruises (Finishes 30th April 2026 - Back 1st November 2026)
Imagine Cruises (Finishes 30th April 2026 - Back 1st November 2026)
Relax in the dry bow-net, hang on tight for a ride in the boom-net, or give yourself a ‘Titanic’ thrill at the end of the bow sprit. They’ll hoist the sails if conditions permit, while you relax and experience the best that the Bay has to offer.
Dolphins Guaranteed:
free return trip for no sightings360° viewing
Friendly & knowledgeable crew
Bring swimmers for a ride in the boom net.
11.30am & 1.30pm
▶️ Dolphin & Sailing 1.5hr cruise on Imagine (Can come back under sail)
Adults $50 - Seniors/Concessions $46 - Child (4-14yrs) $30 - Family $148 (two adults & two children - a saving of $12 :))
Dolphin Watch Express 1 hr cruise (Finishes 19th May 2026 - Back 3rd November 2026)
Dolphin Watch Express 1 hr cruise (Finishes 19th May 2026 - Back 3rd November 2026)
'Envision’ moves through the water quickly, but safely and smoothly – you’ll want your camera handy as we cruise along beautiful Shoal Bay, past our iconic Headlands and across to ‘Dolphin hot-spot Jimmy’s Beach.
'Envision’ moves through the water quickly, but safely and smoothly – you’ll want your camera handy as we cruise along beautiful Shoal Bay, past our iconic Headlands and across to ‘Dolphin hot-spot Jimmy’s Beach.
Relaxed – Personalised – Crowd-Free!
Relaxed – Personalised – Crowd-Free!
Chat with our Friendly & Knowledgeable Crew
Chat with our Friendly & Knowledgeable Crew
Enjoy 360° viewing
Enjoy 360° viewing
Hear some Interesting & Informative Commentary
Hear some Interesting & Informative Commentary
Baby prams, strollers are not permitted onboard the vessel
Baby prams, strollers are not permitted onboard the vessel
11.am & 2.00pm
11.am & 2.00pm
Adults $50 - Children $30 - Seniors/Concessions save $5 :)) with valid card
Marine Discovery with Imagine Cruises, Nelson Bay (Finishes 19th April 2026 - Back 14th November 2026)
Marine Discovery with Imagine Cruises, Nelson Bay (Finishes 19th April 2026 - Back 14th November 2026)
Qualified Dive-Master/Snorkel Guide
Hire of snorkel, fins & mask included
Complimentary Tea/Coffee/water
Sailing when conditions permit
Comfortable downstairs cabin
Licensed bar
Snack food available
Clean restrooms
Hot shower available on journey back home.
1.30pm start
Adults $100 - Children $61 - Concession $94 - Family (two adults and two children) $255 a saving of $67 :))
Moonshadow TQC - Sunset on the Bay (Back 7th November 2026)
Moonshadow TQC - Sunset on the Bay (Back 7th November 2026)
Current days are Saturdays 15th, 22nd & 29th Dec and 6th, 13th & 20th Jan 2026 plus on Wednesdays 3rd, 10th & 17th Jan 2026
Relax, unwind, and soak up the golden hues of a Port Stephens sunset like never before with our Sunset on the Bay Cruise. As the sun begins its descent, embark on a journey along the pristine waters of Port Stephens, renowned for its stunning coastal scenery and abundant marine life, whilst in awe of the setting sun. This Sunset on the Bay Cruise offers you a front-row seat onboard Moonshadow V.
Departing from Nelson Bay, this 2 hour cruise offers the perfect evening escape on the water. Sip on a chilled cocktail or a local wine from their fully licensed bar, feel the breeze on your face, and watch the sky transform into a masterpiece of colour as the sun sets over the bay.
Whether you’re winding down after a day of adventure or kicking off a special night out, this cruise is ideal for couples, groups, and anyone looking to enjoy Port Stephens at sunset from a different perspective.
Come for the views, stay for the atmosphere – a must-do dusk experience in Port Stephens!
Food and drinks are available to purchase onboard
Adults $45 - Children $30 - Seniors/Students $40 - Family (two adults + two children $135, a saving of $15 :))
Envision -Port Stephens 3.5hr Snorkel Cruise (Finishes 19th April 2026 - Back 5th December 2026)
Envision -Port Stephens 3.5hr Snorkel Cruise (Finishes 19th April 2026 - Back 5th December 2026)
The fast and comfortable 40ft power cat Envision will take you on a thrilling and fun ride on the water, with a small group of guests for a personalised and crowd-free experience. They will choose the best snorkel destination on the day, depending on the weather and sea conditions. (The decision may not be made until just prior to departure)
Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Port Stephens and have an ocean adventure of a lifetime. Book your Port Stephens snorkelling tour today and get ready for some unforgettable memories.
Qualified snorkel guide, with local knowledge
They can supply masks, fins & snorkels – or you are invited to bring your own. If required a full set of snorkel gear/wet suit is available to hire from Feet First Five, 97 Stockton St, Nelson Bay.
10.00am till 1.30pm on selective days
Adults $125 - Seniors/Students $120 - Children (10-14) $95.
Broughton Island 6.5hr Summer Cruise (Back 13th December 2026)
Broughton Island 6.5hr Summer Cruise (Back 13th December 2026)
Take in the spectacular island and coastal scenery as the boat makes its way to Broughton Island. After your picnic pack lunch, explore ashore on an island discovery guided walk to wildlife breeding areas, secluded coves and beaches or enjoy your time relaxing on the beach or in the water.
Bring your snorkelling equipment and explore the crystal clear waters of Broughton Island or enjoy swimming or just relaxing on the beach.
On the return journey (time permitting) enjoy boom net rides and bonus dolphin watching.
Highlights
Spectacular island and coastal scenery
Explore ashore on an island discovery walk to wildlife breeding areas, secluded coves and beaches
Opportunity to see oceanic dolphins, penguins, seals, turtles, whales (in season) and much more…
Snorkelling, swimming and island walks
Water slide, boom net rides
Picnic lunch packs included to enjoy on board or to take to Island
Licensed bar and snacks available
Numbers are limited so bookings are essential
10.00am start - Runs most Sundays
Adults $129 - Seniors/Students $119 - Children 4yrs-14yrs $69 - Family (two adults + two children) $350, (a saving of $46 :))
Imagine Sunset BBQ Dinner Cruise
Dates
No Current availability
''''Imagine' is a unique venue, perfect for any occasion...and when we hoist our sails, the atmosphere is truly special.
Whilst dinner is being prepared relax on the deck with a fine wine or a cold beer, get wet in the boom net or take a ride in the dry bow-net!
Once the boat has arrived at a sheltered cove or bay you will have the choice of dining in our downstairs cabin or on our large covered fore deck, alfresco style.
We use fresh, local produce to cook you a seasonal 2-course BBQ meal, dessert will be served as we depart the cove and sail back to the marina.
It is a sumptuous way to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of our bay.
3 hour cruise - boarding 15 minutes before departure time
Sunset sail inside the bay
Set 3-course adult & child menu (vegan/vegetarian option available) infants do not receive a meal.
Fully licensed bar with great selection of beers, wines & spirits
Complimentary tea and coffee
Opportunity to see the resident Bottlenose Dolphins
* Choose from BBQ seafood, steak, chicken (vegetarian or vegan option available). *Child meal is provided for all child (14 years and under) bookings.
*all cruises subject to weather/sea conditions * minimum numbers apply
FOOD ALLERGY POLICY
All cruises: Please note it is the client's responsibility to notify Imagine Cruises of any intolerances or allergies including but not limited to traces of nuts.
Whilst all dishes are prepared onboard, our quality produce is supplied by third parties and we therefore cannot guarantee there are no traces of allergens (e.g., nut-free, dairy-free).
We also cannot guarantee there will no cross-contamination of allergens during service and we explicitly accept no liability in this regard.
For serious food allergies you must make your own decisions on selecting meals. Our staff's comments are only to assist you in making an informed decision.
Adults $105, Concession $98, Children 4-14 $68, Infants 0-3 (no meal) $15
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