WHALE WATCHING TOURS IN SYDNEY
This is the shortlist you would send a friend: 15 whale watching tours in Sydney worth the money, each with its price, its traveller verdict and the one thing to know before you commit.
Watch humpback whales off Sydney’s coast on a 165-minute catamaran cruise with expert commentary, harbour views, hot drinks, and a sighting guarantee.
“Lovely trip on the water Smooth and easy motion on the water Great views and fab whale watching”
Cruise Sydney Harbour, enjoy breakfast or a BBQ lunch, and search for humpback whales on a four-hour Pacific Ocean trip.
“Luggage storage nearby was $8AU per bag, but convenient. Double decker boat didn’t feel crowded, and lunch was great. Commentary was pleasant and informative. We saw so many breaches that the boat lingered longer than usual. I’ve heard from others that the morning tour is a bit underwhelming and today was no exception according to the crew, so afternoon is a must!”
Sydney whale watching from Circular Quay reaches the open ocean in 20 minutes, with a whale sighting guarantee and wide viewing areas.
“Perfect, the whales where around us all the time, beautiful spectacle, 100% recommended, only advice is to go with very warm clothes because is freezing outside the boat”
Watch humpback whales beyond Sydney Heads on a small-group cruise with expert commentary, harbour views, free return guarantee, and dolphin sightings.
“Rex and Mette gave us a wonderful tour in search of whales. Amazing we saw three humpback whales together and one separated a few minutes later Rex was keeping in touch with other skippers in the area locating them. Worked well for us. Mette provided an expert explanation of the humpback whales during the trip, as well as all other species. She took pictures if you wanted and then downloaded them to your phone. No cost cost A great morning excursion. Thanks both of you”
Review of Sydney’s 150-minute Fantasea whale watching cruise, with fast ocean access, spacious decks, wildlife sightings, and practical tips.
“Was amazing seen a lot of whales and the transport and guides where super nice”
Cruise from Circular Quay into the Tasman Sea for humpback whales, Sydney Harbour views, live commentary, and a breakfast or BBQ lunch.
“Had a lovely day, managed to spot a couple of Whales, Dolphins and Seals”
Sydney whale watching cruise with Barefoot Whale Watching, scenic harbour views, expert commentary, a spacious catamaran, and whales guaranteed.
“It was great, we saw dolphins, whales and took an extra route to see seals. The tourguide told us some interesting facts about the wildlife around Sydney. Absolutely worth it.”
Race from Sydney Harbour into the Tasman Sea for a 2-hour whale-watching trip with expert guides, waterproof jackets, and a real chance of sightings.
“Absolutely amazing experience! We went on the 8am tour and almost immediately came up on a pod of whales! The whole tour we followed a few different groups of whales and while we didn't get to see a breach up close, seeing the whales up close was am incredible experience! Super friendly and knowledgeable guide as well. Would do it again!”
Search for humpback whales off Sydney on a 150-minute Captain Cook cruise with expert commentary, harbour views, and a 95% whale-sighting guarantee.
“very knowledgeable commenter and the boat was well maintain and equipped. overall good fun !”
Cruise from Darling Harbour into Sydney’s open ocean for a small-group humpback whale watch with expert guides and a whale sighting guarantee.
“Our tour was unforgettable, largely thanks to the staff. The guide was incredibly knowledgeable and her passion expressed for the sea was genuine, inspiring everyone on the trip. The crew demonstrated an impressive ability to spot whales while maintaining a deep respect for nature. It was a fantastic experience!”
See humpback whales, dolphins, and Sydney Harbour from a catamaran on this seasonal 2.5-hour cruise from Circular Quay.
“This was an excellent boat tour. We had 3 sightings of whales flapping their tails at great proximity. Not sure why I was expecting humpback whales jumping out of the water 😂 but what we saw was still great. The boat ride was a thrill in itself if you don’t get sea sick. Multiple ppl were sea sick and bag were provided ahead of time so there were no accidents 🥴. The view leaving the city, or the landscape while looking for seals and back to the city was excellent. Saw Sydney Opera house from different view that on land. I mostly took videos.”
Combine Sydney whale watching, Taronga Zoo, and return ferry travel in one full-day outing, with coastal views and a whale sighting guarantee.
“I always appreciate safety and observing the rules of how to behave in nature and wild environments - and that was well taken care of. I know wild animals are not on cue and no one really knows what may or may not happen. However, running from one side of the boat to the other, and trying to catch a glimse of sth really wasn't what I imagined.”
Review the Sydney Whale Watching Adventure Cruise, with harbour icons, humpback sightings, practical tips, costs, sea conditions, and value advice.
“It was a wonderful experience, my family loved it. The weather when we’re there was sunny and perfect for whale watching. We saw some whales though it was far away so we can barely see it. The staff was warm and welcoming. Overall, it was nice and unforgettable experience. It is one of our highlights visiting in Sydney. Definitely a must.”
Sail from Rose Bay into the Tasman Sea for intimate whale watching, Sydney Harbour views, and a small group of no more than 12 people.
“What an amazing experience - Captain Douglas and First Mate Gavin got us right to the whales outside The Heads! We were saw 20-30 whales and 2 breaching!! Douglas was respectful of keeping our distance from the whales and ensured Read more”
Sydney whale watching at speeds up to 80 km/h, with an open deck, close humpback encounters, and a free return cruise if whales stay away.
“The views of Sydney were nice and we got to see a few whales in the distance but unfortunately we got seasick 🤢 would have gone for the regular ferry instead, anyway puke bags were readily available on the boat”
Pick a stretch of water, a cliff line or a cellar door.
