Whale Watching Cruises on Sydney Harbour – 95% Sighting Guarantee!

Season 2025: Prices 17 May - 2 November 2025

Prices are valid to 02-Nov-2025. All prices are per person. Specials subject to change.

Season 2025

Whale Watching & Taronga Zoo:

• 9:30am Whale Watching Cruise from Circular Quay disembarking at Taronga Zoo approx. 11:55am
• Enter and exit the Zoo from the Lower Entrance or catch the bus to or from the top ( own expense)
• Make your own way back to Circular Quay or Darling Harbour at your leisure via our rocket ferry service
• A ferry timetable will be issued at check-in
  

Whale Watching Explorer:

• 9:30am Whale Watching Cruise from Circular Quay disembarking at Circular Quay approx. 12:00pm
  
• Jump on the Hop-on Hop-off Harbour Explorer from the same wharf
• The 2-Day pass is valid on the same day as the Whale Watching cruise and the following day
• A timetable will be issued at check-in, however if you wish to plan in advance, you can view the timetable here

🐋 Whale Watching Frequently Asked Questions

What types of whales will I see?

The most commonly spotted whales are Humpback Whales, seen in large numbers during the annual migration. You may also spot Southern Right Whales, Minke Whales, and occasionally Blue Whales. Keep your eyes open for dolphins, seals, penguins, and sea birds along the way!

How close do we get to the whales?

There are strict Australian guidelines for whale approach distances to protect both whales and passengers. Distances usually range between 100 to 300 metres, depending on pod composition (such as mothers with calves) and vessel traffic in the area. That said, whales are curious — and sometimes they come to us! Captain Cook Cruises always operates with whale welfare and passenger safety as the top priority.

What should I bring on a whale watching cruise?

Dress in layers, as it’s often cooler at sea. We recommend bringing:

• A warm jacket

• Sunscreen and sunglasses

• A hat that won’t blow off

• Your camera or smartphone for unforgettable photos

Is expert commentary included?

Yes! All cruises include live expert commentary from passionate marine naturalists, many of whom are among the most experienced in Sydney.

Will I get seasick?

This is an open-water cruise, so you may feel some sea motion. To minimise discomfort:

• Eat a light meal beforehand

• Take motion sickness tablets 30 minutes before departure

• Focus your eyes on the horizon

• Avoid reading or screen time during the cruise
  View Sydney’s 7-day Wind & Wave Forecast

Do you guarantee whale sightings?

Yes! We have a 95%+ sighting success rate. If you don’t see a whale, your next cruise is free of charge, valid for the same season.

When is the best time to see whales in Sydney?

• June–July: Peak for northern migration (whales heading to breeding grounds)

• August: Often the most spectacular, with young males breaching

• September–October: Great for southern migration, as whales return to Antarctic waters

Is morning or afternoon better for whale watching?

We offer more morning departures due to typically calmer sea conditions, making for a smoother, more enjoyable cruise. Always check the latest wind and weather forecast before booking.

What happens if my cruise is cancelled?

If we cancel due to weather or operational reasons, you can:

1. Rebook another Whale Watching Cruise in the same season

2. Request a refund from your place of purchase

3. Request a credit valid for 12 months with Captain Cook Cruises
   If booked through a travel agent, please refer to their terms and conditions.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Yes! You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks. We also sell light snacks, water, and soft drinks onboard.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?

Yes. Our whale watching vessels are wheelchair accessible, including bathroom facilities. View Accessibility Info

Are there bathrooms onboard?

Yes. All vessels include fully accessible bathrooms for guest convenience.

Are seats assigned?

No assigned seating. All vessels feature open-plan indoor and outdoor seating. The starboard side (right-hand side) is closest to the shoreline, while the port side faces out to the sea.

Are cruises suitable for children?

Yes! Children are welcome and often love the experience. Please note:

• Children must be supervised by an adult

• Cruises run for up to 3 hours

• Infants under 4 are free of charge but not recommended on open water cruises

🐳 Typical Whale Behaviours

During your cruise, you might witness several spectacular behaviours:

• Breaching: The whale launches out of the water and crashes back down. This may be a form of communication, play, or parasite removal.

• Tail Slapping: Repeatedly slapping their tail on the surface may serve as a warning or attention signal.

• Spy Hopping: The whale lifts its head vertically above the water to observe its surroundings.

• Social Interaction: Whales may nuzzle, bump, or swim close together—especially during mating season.

🎥 Want to learn more? Watch Dr. Vanessa Pirotta, leading marine scientist and author of The Humpback Highway, explain these behaviours in our onboard expert video series.

🐬 Whale Species Spotted in Sydney

🐋 Humpback Whales

Most commonly seen species. Famous for their acrobatic breaches and long migratory path between Antarctica and the Great Barrier Reef.

🐋 Southern Right Whales

Occasionally spotted. Recognised by their callosities and curved mouthline. More common in colder months.

🐋 Orcas (Killer Whales)

Rare but exciting visitors. Known for their intelligence and hunting skill, orcas sometimes pass by Sydney’s coast.

📍 Want to spot them from land too?
Check out Five of the Best Whale Watching Spots near Sydney for great land-based viewing.

Save on City Parking

Captain Cook Cruises' guests receive special rates at selected parking stations when you pre-book your car park online with Wilson Parking.

Remember to check with local authorities for special event road closures.

Circular Quay Check-in Office

• Circular Quay Wharf 6 - Click here for Google Maps directions