Whale Watching Cruise (May-Nov)

Here’s your chance to see whales in the wild on an exhilarating cruise from Sydney Harbour. Reaching speeds of up to 20 knots, the luxury Fantasea vessel is in open water within minutes, ready to slow down and pause to watch as humpback whales put on a show on their annual migration from Antarctica to the warmer climes of the Great Barrier Reef.

Humpbacks are by far the most common whale here, but you might get even luckier: passengers have been known to spot the occasional orca, blue whale or sperm whale, and bottlenose dolphins are also a fairly common sight. Watching these majestic creatures as they breach the surface is one of nature’s great theatrical displays and – as long as they’re playing ball – you’re all but guaranteed a whale of a time!

There are plenty of viewing areas on the boat – a seated sundeck, a covered rear deck and large windows along the internal saloon – and expert guides are on hand to point out signs of whales lurking beneath the water’s surface. There’s a bar for snacks and refreshments and, in the unlikely event you don’t see a single whale on your cruise, you’ll get a free pass for another day.

You have two harbours to choose from for your departure:

Departing from Darling Harbour – after a short cruise through Sydney Harbour, you’ll reach the open ocean aboard Fantasea Avalon. Enjoy comfortable whale watching from the seated sun deck, covered rear deck, or climate-controlled cabin.

Departing from Circular Quay – after a short cruise through Sydney Harbour, you’ll reach the open ocean aboard Ocean Dreaming II, one of Sydney’s top whale watching vessels. With three viewing decks and plenty of indoor and outdoor space, you’ll have excellent views of the water throughout the journey.