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We highly recommended that you book in advance, especially during peak seasons such as school holidays, long weekends and summer. Cruises can sell out. Booking ahead will secure your place and avoid disappointment. If you do not pre-book, we cannot guarantee that you will get on your preferred cruise. Visit our office 7 days a week at 40a Victoria Parade Nelson Bay NSW 2135 for the best advice or call us on +61423333570
Moonshadow-TQC's Terms and Conditions are on the tickets when we email them out to you. Generally, they cover aspects like cancellation policies, rescheduling, and what happens in case of unsuitable weather. For specific details, it's always best to check at the time of booking.
Yes. Our agency offer's discounted fares for Seniors and Australian Pensioners on all Moonshadow-TQC boats. Please lets us know when you select this option when booking if. You will need to present your seniors or pensioners card at check-in.
Yes. Our office offers family passes which provide a discount for families. A family pass typically includes two adults and two children. The definition of a child (for age limits - 4 to 14 years old) and is usually specified at the time of booking.
Child ages for ticketing purposes are generally between 4 to 14 years. Infants are typically considered to be 3 years and under. Please check the specific age ranges when making your booking, as these can sometimes vary.
Our vessels are designed to be as accessible as possible. Many are wheelchair and pram friendly, offering easy boarding and spacious viewing decks. However, accessibility can vary slightly between vessels in the fleet. It's a good idea to mention any accessibility needs when booking so we can advise you on the most suitable vessel and provide assistance if required. Prams are not allowed on any of Moonshadow's vessels due to health and safety reasons (they can block passageways in an emergency)
Yes, all our vessels are equipped with male and female toilets for your convenience during the cruise.
Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not permitted on board any of our vessels to ensure the comfort and safety of all passengers.
It's advisable to dress in layers as conditions on the water can be different from on land – often cooler and windier. Bring a warm jacket, especially for whale watching cruises which go further offshore. In summer, sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is essential. Flat, comfortable, non-slip shoes are highly recommended.
Besides appropriate clothing, consider bringing your camera to capture the amazing sights, binoculars for closer views of wildlife, and any personal medication you might need (like seasickness remedies, if you are prone). Sunscreen is a must.
Yes, Eftpos facilities are available for purchases made at our check-in counters and often for any onboard purchases where applicable.
Seasickness varies greatly from person to person. Our dolphin cruises in the calm bay waters rarely cause seasickness. Whale watching cruises venture into the open ocean where there can be more movement. If you are prone to motion sickness, it is advisable to take preventative measures before boarding. Special wrist bands can be purchased from our office and they have a 95% success rate. They are washable and re usable.
Cruises generally operate in most weather conditions, including rain, as our vessels have indoor covered areas. If the weather is deemed unsafe (e.g., very strong winds or large swells), the cruise may be cancelled by the Captain and you would typically be offered a reschedule or refund.
Check-in locations are usually at the main wharf or marina from where the cruises depart in Nelson Bay. Specific instructions for your check-in point will be provided on your booking confirmation. Please arrive at least 20-30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
There is public parking available around the Nelson Bay marina area, including street parking and dedicated car parks. Some areas may have time limits or parking fees. It's advisable to arrive early to find suitable parking, especially during busy periods. Specific advice for larger vehicles like buses or caravans may require checking local council parking information.
It is essential to arrive for check-in at least 20-30 minutes before your scheduled cruise departure time. This allows ample time for the check-in process, boarding, and to ensure the cruise can depart on schedule.
If you miss your scheduled cruise, unfortunately, it is often treated as a "no-show," and tickets may be non-refundable and non-transferable. Cruises operate on a strict schedule. Please allow plenty of time to arrive and check in. If you anticipate being late, contact us as soon as possible, but be aware that rebooking options may be limited or not available.
Yes, our vessels are fully licensed. This means they often have a bar on board where you can purchase drinks and sometimes light snacks. You are typically not permitted to bring your own alcohol on board.
You can usually bring your own light snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. However, as our vessels are licensed, bringing your own alcohol is generally not permitted. Some cruises may offer food and drinks for sale on board.
All operators in Nelson Bay adhere to responsible wildlife viewing guidelines and regulations. This means maintaining a minimum approach distance to ensure the animals are not disturbed. For dolphins, this is often around 50 metres, and for whales, it's typically 100 metres (or more for mothers with calves). Dolphins are naturally curious and may choose to approach the vessel closer on their own.
While Port Stephens has a high success rate for dolphin sightings due to the large resident population, and whale sightings are very common during their migration season (May to November), wildlife is unpredictable. Many operators offer a guarantee for whale watching, meaning if whales are not sighted on your whale watch cruise, you may be offered a free return trip (conditions apply). Dolphin sightings are very consistent but check if a similar guarantee applies.
Whale season in Nelson Bay is typically from mid-May to mid-November. This is when Humpback Whales undertake their annual migration along the coast. The peak of the northern migration (seeing them head towards warmer waters) is usually June/July, and the southern migration (returning with calves) is September/October.
The most common whales sighted are Humpback Whales. Occasionally, other species such as Southern Right Whales, Minke Whales, and even Orcas (though rare) might be spotted.
Port Stephens is home to a significant resident population of Bottlenose Dolphins, estimated to be around 140-160 individuals. This is why it's considered one of the best places in Australia to see dolphins.