Whales on the Humpback Highway 2026

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Moonshadow TQC Cruises

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As we can't be out there everyday ourselves, we like to bring you the best of what's happening out there via this page.

Please enjoy.

Posts courtesy of Moonshadow TQC &  Lee Matthews

16th May 2026

From Moonshadow- TQC

The 2026 whale season has officially begun for Moonshadow-TQC Cruises - and what an incredible start it was!

Passengers aboard the very first Whale Reconnaissance Cruise were treated to an unforgettable day on the water as excitement and anticipation filled the air from the moment the day began. Port Stephens awoke beneath a blanket of fog, creating a mysterious and magical atmosphere across the bay. As the morning progressed, the fog slowly lifted to reveal brilliant blue skies just as the MV Spirit of Port Stephens made her way beyond the headlands of Shoal Bay.

Crew members soon reported spotting multiple whale blows in every direction - a thrilling sign that the whales had truly arrived for the season. The ocean was alive with activity, and passengers eagerly scanned the horizon in anticipation of the next encounter.

Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for.

Near the iconic Fingal Head Lighthouse, a lone Humpback Whale launched itself clear from the water in an incredible breach, leaving passengers and crew in awe. What followed was an extraordinary 40-minute encounter as the whale repeatedly breached, splashed, and displayed playful behaviour around the vessel.

In a truly unforgettable moment, the whale approached close to the boat and even swam directly beneath the MV Spirit of Port Stephens, giving passengers a once-in-a-lifetime perspective of these magnificent marine giants.

Day one of the 2026 whale season has left both passengers and crew absolutely buzzing and full of excitement for what promises to be an incredible season ahead in Port Stephens.

27th October 2025

Today’s Whale Watch Cruise was one to remember! Halfway to Broughton Island, we encountered two magnificent Humpback Whales cruising along the coastline when suddenly, a massive pod of Bottlenose Dolphins joined in on the action — hundreds of them darting, diving and leaping around the whales. The energy on the water was incredible as another Humpback Whale soon joined the group, creating a spectacular three-whale encounter surrounded by playful dolphins.

On our way home, we stopped by Cabbage Tree Island, where three Australian Fur Seals were resting on the rocks, soaking up the sunshine.

It was a truly magical Port Stephens day — whales, dolphins and seals all in one unforgettable cruise!

Photo credit: Lee Matthews Photography

25th October 2025

Great to know that the whales are still around and were seen on this morning's dolphin swim.

What a fabulous bonus to an already awesome trip.

20th October 2025

What an incredible morning on the water! Our passengers aboard today’s Whale Watch Cruise were treated to a spectacular encounter with 8–9 Humpback Whales midway between Port Stephens and Broughton Island. The whales were cruising south on their migration, gracefully gliding through the water with the occasional tail slap adding to the excitement.

As the morning went on, we noticed their behaviour change — their downtime shortened from 8 minutes to just 4, giving everyone more chances to enjoy these magnificent animals as they surfaced and exhaled misty plumes across the ocean.

In a fascinating twist, a Australian Fur Seal decided to join the show! He followed us all the way from Cabbage Tree Island out to the whales — perhaps resuming his own migration south alongside the pod. These seals are only found at Cabbage Tree Island during the whale season before they too head back southward, so this was a real seasonal treat.

Rounding off the adventure, a large pod of playful dolphins joined us, surfing along the bow and leaping through the waves. To top it all off, we even spotted flying fish darting across the surface — the ocean was alive in every direction today!

It’s days like these that remind us how lucky we are to call Port Stephens home — where whales, dolphins, and seals all share the same incredible stage.

photo credit: Lee Matthews Photography

17th October 2025

What an incredible day on the water! Our passengers were treated to the full Port Stephens wildlife experience. We started the morning with our resident Bottlenose Dolphins cruising playfully around Yacaaba Headland, before heading to Cabbage Tree Island where the Australian Fur Seals were lounging on the rocks and enjoying the sunshine.

The real highlight of the day came just off Cabbage Tree Island, where a Humpback mother, her calf, and an escort were spotted in the shallows — a truly rare and special sighting! The trio stayed close to the boat, giving everyone an unforgettable encounter and a rare glimpse of these gentle giants in such shallow, crystal-clear waters.

The afternoon cruise brought relaxed yet memorable encounters out on the water. Several pods of Humpback Whales were spotted spending plenty of time on the surface, giving everyone onboard a great look at their graceful movements. The highlight came when an adult whale breached close to the vessel—an unforgettable moment for our passengers and crew alike!

As we cruised towards Fingal Lighthouse, a large and energetic pod of Common Dolphins joined us, darting playfully through the waves and riding the bow. Their speed and synchronised leaps were a fantastic way to round out another magical day on the Port Stephens Whale Highway.

It’s moments like these that remind us how magical the Port Stephens Marine Park really is.

13th October 2025

After a slow and relaxed morning out on the water, the afternoon cruise delivered a complete turnaround — and what an incredible one it was!

Three separate pods of Humpback Whales kept everyone captivated for more than an hour with spectacular breaching displays. The energy out there was electric — tail lobs, pec slaps, and a curious calf that even treated us to a quick mugging right beside the boat!

Adding to the thrill, a huge pod of Offshore Common Dolphins, well over a hundred strong, joined the fun — darting around the vessel, surfing the bow wave, and showing off with acrobatic leaps and flips in every direction.

To top off the afternoon, we cruised past Cabbage Tree Island, where a number of seals were soaking up the sunshine on the rocks — the perfect finale to an unforgettable cruise.

It just goes to show, every cruise is different, and nature always finds a way to surprise us here in Port Stephens.

Photo credit: Lee Matthews Photography

7 October.  

The southern migration continues with this mum and calf hugging the coast before heading into Fingal Bay for a rest stop

Onboard Aquamarine Adventures

Photo credit: Lee Matthews Photography 

4th October 2025

It was a fantastic day out on the Humpback Highway with so much marine life putting on a show for our passengers.

As MV Osprey departed the d’Albora Marina local Photographer, Lee Matthews has spotted an Osprey soar above.  With the power of a telescopic lens,  Lee has captured the most amazing eyeball to eyeball photo. Check out the spectacular talons on this gorgeous bird.

We began the cruise with an incredible sight inside the harbour – a huge pod of Bottlenose Dolphins leaping and playing around the vessel. Just as spirits were high, we were met at Tomaree Headland by a beautiful Humpback mother, her calf, and an escort. For a moment it looked like they were heading into the harbour, but instead they turned gracefully and continued their journey south.

Next stop was Cabbage Tree Island, where our ever-entertaining colony of fur seals were basking on the rocks. Among them, we also spotted a few lazy whales cruising nearby, surfacing slowly and enjoying the calm waters.

The real highlight came as we tracked back south and reunited with the mother, calf, and escort. This time the pair put on an explosive display of tail slapping, with the calf mimicking mum’s powerful moves – a thrilling reminder of just how playful and energetic these young whales can be.

To top it all off, the horizon was dotted with whales in every direction, a spectacular sight that showcases just how alive the waters of Port Stephens are at this time of year.

Another unforgettable day on the water with Moonshadow-TQC Cruises!

Photo credit: Lee Matthews Photography

1st October 2025

Spring school holidays in Port Stephens have truly turned into a whale lover’s paradise! The waters are alive with energy as pods of Humpback Whales continue their migration, putting on an unforgettable display for our guests aboard Moonshadow-TQC Cruises.

This afternoon aboard MV Osprey was nothing short of spectacular. It was a “whale rush” as approximately eight whales decided to flip the script—turning the tables on us by engaging in their own people watching. Our passengers were treated to heart-stopping close encounters as the whales came right alongside the vessel, rolling, breaching, and showing off their sheer size and power.

Adding to the magic of the day were the many pods scattered throughout the area. Everywhere you looked, there were whales breaching, flukes slapping, and playful calves practicing their moves under the guidance of their mothers. The abundance of babies this season has been a highlight, bringing a whole new level of excitement and cuteness to the migration.

With calm spring weather and non-stop action, there couldn’t be a better way to spend the school holidays than on the water with us. If you’ve been thinking about joining a cruise, now is the time—the whales are everywhere, and every day is delivering new moments that leave passengers and crew alike absolutely buzzing.

Photo credit: Lee Matthews Photography

24th September 2025

Picture this: a perfect spring day at Port Stephens. Light sea breezes, a brilliant blue sky, and glorious sunshine set the scene for an unforgettable morning aboard MV Osprey on our Whale Watch Cruise.

Our journey began by cruising towards Fingal Island, where we encountered our first Humpback Whale of the day. While this lone traveler gave us a brief glimpse before slipping beneath the surface, our keen-eyed passengers and crew knew there were plenty more pods in the vicinity.

Continuing northbound, our Captain guided us to another solitary Humpback Whale. This one proved a little elusive, taking a sounding dive and vanishing beneath the waves without resurfacing nearby—a reminder of the wild and unpredictable nature of whale watching.

Fortunately, our adventure had another highlight waiting. As we turned towards Cabbage Tree Island, we were greeted by its charismatic residents—the Australian Fur Seals. Basking on the rocks and splashing in the shallows, they provided front-row entertainment for our passengers, who delighted in their playful antics.

It was a morning of contrasts—tranquil seas, a touch of mystery from our elusive whales, and the lively showmanship of the seals. That’s the beauty of exploring the Port Stephens Marine Park—every cruise is unique, and no two days are ever the same.

Join us aboard soon and see what surprises the ocean has in store!

Photo credit: Lee Matthews Photography

22nd September 2025

Today’s cruise brought plenty of excitement – though the whales certainly made us work for it! Out to sea, an impressive six to eight pods of Humpback Whales were moving through the area. True to the term “elusive giants,” many of these pods were diving for long stretches at a time, testing the patience of our crew and passengers before resurfacing for brief but rewarding encounters.

The highlight of the day was found in the sheltered waters off Fingal Island, where we were able to spend quality time with a mother Humpback Whale and her calf. The calmer seas around the island provided the perfect backdrop for observing this tender pair. Guests enjoyed watching the calf rise alongside its mother, each surfacing a reminder of the intimate bond between the two.

Though the whales kept us guessing with their long down times, the combination of offshore pods and a peaceful mother-and-calf encounter ensured another memorable day on the Port Stephens Whale Highway.

20th September 2025

This morning brought unforgettable encounters as the whales made their way into the bay to greet our vessels. Two pods of Humpback Whales were sighted, each made up of a mother, her calf, and an escort. While one trio eventually travelled back out through the headland, the other remained in the calm, sheltered waters of Shoal Bay.

Passengers aboard MV Osprey were treated to an extended encounter, spending around 30 minutes with the pod in the harbour before venturing offshore. Out near the Fingal Island Lighthouse, the action continued with two Humpbacks tail slapping dramatically across the surface of the water.

Our beloved resident Port Stephens Bottlenose Dolphins also joined the show. As Osprey cruised back past Yacaaba Headland, a pod was spotted fishing and catching their lunch, much to the delight of everyone onboard. Meanwhile, those on our Dolphin Discovery Cruise received an incredible bonus—close encounters with Humpbacks as well! A lively calf stole the spotlight, delighting passengers with a series of repeated breaches.

The excitement didn’t end there. The 1:30pm Whale Watch Cruise mirrored the morning experience, with Humpback mums and calves sighted once again. This time, the calves kicked off the show with playful breaches before their mothers joined in, creating a spectacular afternoon display.

It’s days like this that highlight the magic of the Port Stephens Whale Highway—where every cruise is different, and every encounter is unforgettable.

Credit: Lisa Skelton Photography

16th September 2025

Today’s cruise delivered spectacular encounters across multiple pods of Humpback Whales along the Port Stephens Whale Highway.

We spent time travelling with a pod of three whales all the way to Broughton Island, the pod spent time on the surface, allowing everyone plenty of opportunities to watch their tail slaps and relaxed movements. As also encountered four different pods throughout the cruise, each giving passengers wonderful surface time and classic displays of tail flukes breaking through the water.

Close to Little Island, a highlight was spotting a mother and her playful calf. The young whale put on quite the show, breaching repeatedly while staying close to mum’s side—a memory our passengers won’t forget.

Adding to the wildlife spectacle, there was an abundance of Australian Fur Seals basking on the rocks and slipping in and out of the water, much to the delight of photographers onboard.

It was a morning filled with energy, variety, and unforgettable wildlife encounters—another reminder of why Port Stephens is one of the best places to experience the annual whale migration

15th September 2025

There were no “back to work Monday blues” for our crew today – just endless sunshine, glassy seas, and light breezes that made for picture-perfect whale watching conditions in Port Stephens.

Passengers aboard MV Osprey enjoyed a relaxed encounter with a pod of three Humpback Whales near Little Island. The whales spent plenty of time on the surface, moving calmly southbound and offering wonderful opportunities to watch their steady, unhurried journey.

Meanwhile, our Envision 90-minute Whale Watch Express guests had a truly special sighting. A Humpback mum and her calf hugged the base of Mt Tomaree, before quietly making their way into the bay. Local photographer Lee Matthews captured beautiful images of the pair with Jimmys Beach as a stunning backdrop.

The afternoon departure on Envision delivered what can only be described as incredible. Guests spent time with a large pod of six to seven adult Humpbacks, who weren’t in any rush – simply cruising, surfacing regularly, and putting on a show. Highlights included head lunges, rolling displays, and the unforgettable sight of their striking pectoral fins and gleaming white tail flukes.

A Day to Remember. From calm encounters with relaxed pods to the spectacular energy of larger groups, today’s cruises showcased just how magical this migration season can be. With such perfect conditions and breathtaking sightings, it was a day that will stay with our passengers for years to come.

1st September 2025

As winter drew to a close, our 10am Whale Watch Cruise offered a memorable mix of sightings across the Port Stephens Marine Park.

We encountered two Humpback Whales traveling in opposite directions—one steadily heading north, the other moving south. While not overly active, both whales treated us to steady viewing with sounding dives lasting around seven minutes, a reminder of the patience and rhythm of whale watching during their migration.

Wildlife was in abundance around Cabbage Tree Island, where large groups of Australian Fur Seals were soaking up the sunshine. Passengers enjoyed seeing dozens gathered on the northern side of the island, while another half-dozen relaxed along the western rocks. On the return through the headland, we were delighted to find a nursery pod of Bottlenose Dolphins at Yacaaba, rounding out the cruise with playful and heartwarming encounters.

Our afternoon Whale Watch Cruise proved more challenging, with the whales proving elusive. However, spirits remained high as we cruised under clear blue skies. For the final day of winter, it was the perfect afternoon to enjoy the beauty of Port Stephens from the water, reminding us that every cruise is about the journey as much as the wildlife.

With spring now upon us, we look forward to more breathtaking encounters as the Humpback Highway comes alive with activity.

Photo credit: Lee Matthews Photography

29th August 2025

Port Stephens delivered an unforgettable day on the water, with both morning and afternoon whale watching cruises showcasing the true unpredictability and magic of the Humpback Highway.

Our morning departure encountered a pod of four energetic whales engaged in a heat run, powering northbound as part of their migration. Guests were treated to the thrill of seeing these giants compete in close company, before the excitement shifted to a lone Humpback Whale tail slapping in the distance. Interestingly, this whale was traveling southbound—a reminder of how dynamic the migration season can be, with individuals making unexpected detours and movements.

The afternoon cruise called for patience and perseverance, as the whales kept us waiting. But the reward was worth every moment—a breaching Humpback near Cabbage Tree Island suddenly stole the show. This spectacular whale treated passengers to repeated breaches and head lunges, filling the afternoon with cheers, camera clicks, and awe-struck faces.

Days like this perfectly capture the wonder of whale season in Port Stephens—powerful, unpredictable, and always memorable. Whether you’re witnessing competitive pods racing north or a single whale putting on a solo acrobatic performance, no two cruises are ever the same.

Photo credit: Lee Matthews Photography

23rd August

After being land-locked for several days due to weather and sea conditions, Moonshadow-TQC Cruises was finally back out on the water today—and what a rewarding return it was!

Not far from Little Island, we encountered a pair of humpback whales making their way north. Unlike the competitive and energetic displays we often see during migration, this duo was cruising leisurely, offering passengers a peaceful and graceful view of these majestic giants moving through Port Stephens waters.

Before heading back to port, we made a stop at Cabbage Tree Island, where the ever-entertaining Australian Fur Seals were hauled out on the rocks, soaking up the sunshine. Their playful nature and curious glances never fail to delight.

The cruise finished perfectly at Bagnalls Beach, where a pod of our local Port Stephens Bottlenose Dolphins joined the cruise. Gliding effortlessly through the clear waters, they provided an uplifting finale to a wonderful day back on the water.

After days of waiting, today reminded us why Port Stephens is such a world-class marine destination—whales, seals, and dolphins all in one cruise. It’s good to be back!

16th August

There’s something special about being out on the water, especially during whale season here in Port Stephens.

This morning, our crew was greeted by two northbound Humpback Whales who spent a generous amount of time on the surface, offering a calm and memorable sight. Just 500 meters away, another pod was spotted, though these whales were a little more elusive—diving deep for up to 12 minutes at a time.

The afternoon cruise brought more beautiful conditions. The sea was smooth, the air light, and spirits were high. We followed a lone northbound whale for a while, observing its steady dives, around 6–8 minutes apart. On our way back toward Fingal Island, we were lucky enough to meet a friendly pod of three Humpback Whales. They lingered for a while, giving our passengers a relaxed, close-up experience.

No rush —just slow moments with these giants of the sea. Another good day on the Humpback Highway.

12th August

It was a lovely Day out on the water this morning, Sun was out and the whales were present. We had two amazing migrating whales Traveling North towards Cabbage Tree Island.

They had great surface time giving our passengers a good look at their beauty and size. There were other pods spotted further out but to far for us to travel to.

On our way past Cabbage Tree Island we stopped in to see our Australian Fur seal friends sunbaking on the rocks. A few must have been out fishing as we could only see 6.

We were Welcomed back into the Harbor by our local Bottle nose Dolphins

30th July

While it was a drizzly day out on the water and what us humans would describe as ‘cold and miserable’, apparently the whales didn’t mind the rain. Our legendary skipper put in the hard yards with his search and came up trumps, with our first mugging of the season! Hiding under “cover” at the back of the boat, our local resident photographer Lee was in the right position to capture this surprise breach.

These two humpbacks became super curious, circling the boat, trumpeting loudly, with lazy headstands showing everyone their beautiful flukes, and one extremely close tail lob! We also spotted an albatross taking some time out to have a rest and groom itself. Definitely worth the dodging the rain shower today we’d say! 

24 - 27th July

Humpback Whales are known to communicate from one pod to another by a variety enthralling behaviours that we as passengers take much delight in being able to view during our whale watch cruise. Luckily Humpback Whales are very curious and love to know what is happening in their environment, and quite often swim nice and close to our boat to do a bit of people watching – while we are watching them they are also watching our crew and passengers.

Our passengers have been witness to a number of behaviours over the past weekend from breaching, tail slapping, pec slaps, beautiful tail diving, close passes to the boat, breaching and much more. During one cruise we also sighted a heat run, this occurs when the males within the pod become very vocal and aggressive to one another as they try and compete for the attention of the female in the pod, you quite often see a whale throw its tail creating a big white water splash and showing off their powerful force.

It has not just been the whales, the other stars seen was a beautifully large sea turtle, local Bottlnose Dolphins and seals at Cabbage Tree Island

23th July

The early morning showers have disappeared just in time for the 10am Whale Watch Cruise aboard the Hinchinbrook Explorer to depart. There is great anticipation onboard of what today may bring. We have not had to wait too long as just outside the heads on the Yaccaba side of the entrance to the Bay with the crew spotting three different pods, the skipper has cruised along side at the same pace of the whales to give everyone a good view of the whales. As we were about to leave the pods to continue their journey there has been startled white water splashing with the whales launching into a display of tail lobbing and slapping.

20th July

What a stunning sunny winters day for the Human Whale Event at Fingal Bay! Hundreds of ocean lovers took part in forming a giant 100 meter long Whale shape on the  gorgeous beachfront in Fingal Bay this morning – all to be captured from above in one epic drone shot!

For our passengers on the 10am whale watch cruise aboard the Hinchinbrook Explorer we have cruised along through the bay taking in the view of Shoal Bay and Mt Tomaree before heading towards the off shore island, close to Little Island we have located a pod of Humpback Whales. All whales spent a good amount of time on the surface of the water with relativity short sounding dive times. There is nothing better than being in the beautiful winter sunshine and watching whales in their natural environment. We can’t forget the seals, so we have headed over to Cabbage Tree Island to look at how many are enjoying the prime position on the rocks at the base of the shore line.

18th July

Today’s 10am Whale Watching cruise had us locate numerous pods of Humpback’s all casually & peacefully migrating north with the odd tail slap here and there. Even when they are not displaying their active behaviors like we are sometimes so privileged to witness, it’s still such a thrill to experience whales like you can’t from the shore.

9th July

Conditions off shore for our whale watch cruise could not get any better today, with what can only be described as glassed out seas, nice and calm with just a gentle roll of swell, brilliant blue skies and warm winter sunshine! The whale highway is busy again this morning with numerous pods seen, one whale even surprise everyone aboard the Hinchinbrook Explorer as it dove under the boat and popped up on the bow. We also had a pod of Short Beaked Common Dolphins interacting with a pod of Humpback Whales. The seals on Cabbage Tree Island are loving all the warm sunshine as they bask on their favourite rocks at the base of the island, while a few seals were in the water swimming.

For the keen twitchers or bird watchers, we have seen Sea Eagle soaring above on the thermal as it conserved its energy while searching for food.

5th July

The winter school holidays at Port Stephens are the perfect reason to book the family on a whale watch cruise, rug up the kids with jackets, scarves and hat to keep warm and jump on one of the whale watch cruises to experience the thrill of seeing and hearing the mighty Humpback Whale just meters from the boat.

The Hinchinbrook Explorer was the first vessel to head off shore and we have been successful in locating a number of pods of Humpback Whales around the Boondelbah and Little Island. We have spent time viewing the whales in their natural habitat as they made their way north bound, all whales were content and happy swimming along with a few beautiful tail dives displaying the underside of the whales fluke as they dove beneath the surface of the water. We cannot forget about the seals on Cabbage Tree Island who as expected have been basking the warm sunshine on the rocks at the base of the island.

MV Osprey has departed from the d’Albora Marina at 11am and cruised in the direct of Fingal Island, the crew have reported the sightings of multiple pods of whales in the vacinity. The highlight of this cruise has been a couple of surprise breaching whales quite close to the boat catching everyone unaware, and the dominate display of head lunging that almost appears as a lazy breach when the whale doesn’t quite have the energy to launch itself completely out of the water. Cruising back toward Nelson Bay on the return to the dock we have traversed along Jimmy’s Beach to watch a pod of the local Port Stephens Bottlenose Dolphins.

30th June

The phrase ‘Whale Soup’ is being whispered frequently at the moment – we seem to be coming into the peak of the northern migration of the whales traveling along the Port Stephens coastline. Our crew are reporting numerous pods within sight of the boat, one pod of whales that was of high interest was a pod of whales showing off with double breaches during the 10am whale watch cruise. But there are just so many whales that we appear to being floating within a massive bowl of whales.

The afternoon cruise has began with a few showers about, but the clouds have quickly disappeared and the blue sky & sunshine has reappeared. The ‘Whale Soup’ from our morning cruise has continued with large numbers of pods of Humpback Whales. We have stayed with one lone active whale near to the Fingal Island Lighthouse, the Humpback Whale has been tail slapping and peduncle throwing non stop, creating alot of white water splashing.

23rd June

We had encounterd numerous pods of beautiful Humpback Whales over the past few days, and today has been no different. There are whales in every direction we look and they are very active showing off their sheer size and strength, especially as they breach themselves fully out of the water. What can only be described as a breach-a-thon of Humpback Whales repetitively breaching, launching out of the water and creating a massive white wash of splashing landing back on the surface of the water – the sound catches you too.

22nd June

We could not of asked for a better day, there is hardly a breath of air movement and the sun shine is sparkling on the surface of the nice calm sea conditions. Our first pods of Humpback Whales have been located close to Fingal Island, we have cruised along with three pods as they have traveled towards Broughton Island. All whales spent a good amount of time on the surface of the water and one pod coming in nice and close to the Hinchinbrook Explorer. The close pod of three Humpback Whales have then become quite relaxed and playful with displays of breaching, tail slap, fin slaps, tail lobs and rolling about on the surface of the water. Before heading back to the d’Albora Marina we have cruised past Cabbage Tree Island and the seals, the usual gang were resting on their rocks, but also a couple swimming in the shallows of the water.

Have you ever seen a pod of whales in a Mexican Wave, no, well neither had we until this afternoon. In what could only be described as a Mexican Wave of Humpback Whales breaching one after another – it was quite the sight to see! They were super active, spy hopping, pec slaps, head lunges and rolling showing their beautiful white bellies. But the afternoon continued with numerous sighting of additional four pods within close proximity of the vessel.

Not to be forgotten in the midst of all the whales, the dolphins too have made several appearances on the way past Mt Tomaree there has been a pod of local Port Stephens Bottlenose Dolphins and then again a pod of approximately 20 dolphins near the seals on Cabbage Tree Island.

21st June

What a fantastic winters day to be out on the Port Stephens Humpback Highway! 

We had blue sky, sunshine and great sea conditions off shore making for the perfect whale viewing. Even before cruising out through the headland at Shoal Bay the crew had seen blows quite near to Fingal Island, so we knew at this point we are in for a great day aboard the Hinchinbrook Explorer. Sure enough as we reached closer to the Island we were greeted by approximately 10 pods of Humpback Whales within close vicinity. They had heated up quite a bit for 3 or 4 of these pods with very active heat runs occurring; a heat run is described as a pod of whales generally consisting of majority males who are chasing and becoming very competitive towards a female within the pod. The males try to dominate the situation making themselves appear like the bigger male and often there is a lot of grunting or head lunging as they try and impress the female. If this wasn’t enough excitement, the passengers were treated to a magnificent display of playful whales breaching, double breaching tail slapping and more!

Not to be outdone, we also sighted a pod of Bottlenose Dolphins off shore and an impressive Hammer Head Shark.

Our afternoon cruise spotted a pod of five Humpback Whales, with the pod appearing to be resting and logging on the surface of the water. We also viewed other pods of quiet whales, we think they were also enjoying the Port Stephens sunshine and glassy seas conditions. As we moved on towards Cabbage Tree Island, we looked back and were surprised and amazed to see the pod of five whales again and to see there was a very new born calf with them. At this point the calf had become very playful and breaching its tiny body out of the water. Such a beautiful creature to see so early in the season. 

20th June

What an incredible morning we’ve had offshore this morning on our daily whale watch cruise! As soon as we ventured past our two headlands (Tomaree and Yacaaba) we could already see an abundance of whale spouts each direction we looked. As we headed out further we came across around 3-4 pods of humpbacks totaling around 10 whales in total. These pods were all coming in nice and close to our boat along our port, starboard and bow. We had a wonderful display of breaches, head lunges, spy hopping, tail lobs, fin slaps, and even one was showing it’s underside and tail slapping for us. A large pod of oceanic dolphins didn’t want to miss out on all the fun so they joined us for some bow surfing! Venturing home we saw around 10 lazy fur seals napping at Cabbage Tree Island and then a nice pod of local bottle nose dolphins coming in past Yacaaba Headland.

Passengers aboard our afternoon Whale Watch Cruise have been treated with beautiful sunny winters afternoon on the water with glassed out conditions with little to no swell. The crew report whales in abundance with at least 4-5 pods of Humpback Whales sighted close to Fingal Island Lighthouse. A number of whales took quite an interest in MV Osprey and swimming very close to the vessel – perhaps a bit of people watching! So special when it appears as the whales are eyeing you standing on the deck of the boat. Such an entertaining and special way to spend an afternoon, even our crew were totally enjoying themselves and also in awe of the close encounter. The cruise did not end with our time with the whales, we have then cruised towards Cabbage Tree Island where there have been a number of seals basking in the sunshine on the rocks, there has also been one seal swimming in the water and he was receiving cheers and encouragement from our passenger as its launched itself out of the water to climb onto one of the rocks.

19th June

The warm sunshine and clear skies, along with the cool sea air and smooth sea conditions provided for a perfect day to get out on the water to visit our giant friends of the sea. On both our morning and afternoon cruises onboard our newest member of the fleet MV Osprey, we located several pods of humpback whales just off Fingal Lighthouse with a few pods amidst heat runs. This gave our passengers and crew some light entertainment watching these magnificent creatures in action. While cruising past Cabbage Tree Island on the way back into Nelson Bay, we spotted some Australian Fur seals lazing on the rocks also enjoying the warmth of the sun. With the next few days looking brilliant from a weather and cruise conditions perspective, and with some good numbers of whales beginning to come through, it’s a great time to get out amongst the action!

18th June

Catch phrase of the day from our Cruise Director, Michele on MV Osprey “Damn Amazing Whales Today” even our crew become star stuck with the experience of viewing the mighty Humpback Whale. Every day is different, but for today we have been blessed with wonderful sea conditions, lots of sun shine and light sea breezes.

Our morning cruises has found the first whales of the day before reaching Fingal Island, and our sign that they were not far ahead was a breaching whale! 

Moving closer we can see two pods of Humpback Whales with the pods mingling with the other pod, and then separating again. They were quite social with one another making interesting viewing for all onboard.

This afternoon was absolutely perfect for a Humpback Whale watching cruise – calm waters and beautiful weather. We were surrounded by so many pods of Humpback whales! While most of them weren’t super active, just having them all around our boat was amazing. At one point, we even got to see some breaching – it was incredible! Definitely no shortage of whales out there.

Saturday 7th June

Well, the Humpback Highway appeared to have it's own long weekend traffic, with morning head lunges and close passes and afternoon breaches. I'm excited to get out on the water today and see what's in store for us!

Friday 6th June

In the lead-up to the long weekend, there were definitely more whales making their way up the highway today, with whales migrating in the morning and a pod of three in the afternoon who looked to be chasing down a couple of breachers off in the distance.  The long weekend is looking good!!

Monday, 2 June

Thanks to the determination and dedication of our skipper and crew this afternoon, we spotted three humpbacks heading north at Boat Harbour.  They disappeared at one point, surprising everyone by coming up right alongside and spraying a delicate waft of "eau de whale-snot parfum" as they surfaced . Who knows what today's cruises will bring!!  Also, some super cute fur seals basking on their favourite comfy rocks.

31st May

What appeared at first glance to be the rare "stick dolphin", on editing  I discovered we had sighted a "petrified whale" in the Bay yesterday afternoon

27th May

Challenging conditions out on the water this morning, with the wind making it difficult to spot blows. But our skipper, Mat, spotted a mother and calf as they hurtled north.  They were quite easy to track as they left continuous footprints, staying close to the surface and coming in close a few times to check us out.

14th May 2025

Our first Minke for the season

It was a magnificent day on the water today - with a variety of wildlife spotted and beautiful conditions.