Whale Sightings 2025
Explore recent whale sightings in Sydney Harbour with Captain Cook Cruises. View expert reports, sighting rates, and seasonal highlights during the annual humpback migration. Plan your whale watching cruise with confidence.
Date | Details |
| 22 June | What an incredible day on the water! The morning began with over 8 humpbacks showing playful, positive behavior—mighty peduncle throws, tail-up dives, and thunderous blows filled the air. The afternoon brought even more joy with 6 whales putting on a graceful display of deep dives and surface action. The energy was high, the ocean alive, and every moment filled with wonder. A truly uplifting and unforgettable experience! |
| 21
June | Massive Breaches! We were surrounded by six humpback whales, all putting on an unforgettable show! With powerful blows and graceful dives, the ocean came alive with energy. These gentle giants had the vessel buzzing with excitement as each acrobatic leap left us in absolute awe. A truly breathtaking day, full of whale magic from every angle! |
| 19 June | Nature at its Finest! Multiple pods surrounded the vessel today, putting on a spectacular show! Over four humpback whales thrilled us with arched backs, tail-up dives, jaw-dropping breaches, and powerful peduncle throws. The action was non-stop, with each blow and slap drawing cheers from everyone on board. The highlight? One curious whale swam right under the boat, giving us a moment we’ll never forget! |
| 17 June | An explosion of energy lit up the sea today! We spotted 6–8 lively pods, each bursting with action. The whales treated us to powerful breaches, misty blows, playful pectoral slaps, and even a few cheeky chin slaps that had everyone smiling. Their joyful energy was contagious, creating an unforgettable atmosphere around the vessel. A day full of excitement and pure magic on the water! |
| 16 June | Heat Run Magic! What a stunning start to the week! In perfect winter sunshine, 15 humpback whales surrounded the vessel, putting on an unforgettable show. Arched backs, misty blows, tail-up dives, playful pectoral slaps, and thrilling peduncle throws - every moment was pure ocean magic. These gentle giants showcased their beauty and power with every move. It was a breathtaking reminder of nature’s beauty and the wonder of whale season. Truly, a dream day on the water! |
| 15 June | We had another beautiful day with approximately 7 humpbacks! It was thrilling to witness these sea giants in action, showcasing incredible movements like powerful blows, graceful arched backs, tail-up dives, and impressive peduncle throws. Between these amazing uptimes, we were delighted to spot playful seals nearby, adding even more charm to the adventure. They never cease to impress! |
| 14 June | In the morning, we were enchanted by a pod of two whales—a female and her playful calf—who delighted us with pectoral slaps, gentle waves, and a close swim beneath the boat. Their powerful blows, arched backs, and tail-up dives set a magical tone for the day. In the afternoon, we encountered another pair—a female and juvenile—gracing us with elegant blows and arched backs under the warm sunlight. Both cruises offered unforgettable moments, filled with the beauty and grace of these magnificent marine giants, making it a truly heartwarming and exhilarating day on the water. |
| 12 June | Mugged! The majestic marine giants circled our vessel, keeping us in their spell. We were mugged for over an hour, completely surrounded and enchanted by their presence, as they treated us to a spectacular show of graceful blows, arched backs, tail-up dives, breaches, pectoral slaps, and a thrilling peduncle throw. What an absolutely unforgettable and truly amazing experience! |
| 08 June | On this beautiful morning, our whale-watching expedition was filled with remarkable sightings. We encountered multiple pods, with 10–12 humpback whales putting on an unforgettable show. They treated us to powerful blows, gracefully arched backs, exhilarating tail-up dives, playful chin slaps, and impressive peduncle throws. It was a breathtaking display of natural beauty and behavior that left us truly in awe. |
06 June | We had a spectacular start to the day that seamlessly flowed into a magical afternoon on the water. 3–4 pods of humpbacks graced us with their presence, showing off their beautiful blows, elegant arched backs, and classic tail-up dives. A breathtaking breach south of the vessel stole the show, leaving us all in awe. What a perfect way to bask in the sunshine, surrounded by the wonder and grace of these gentle ocean giants. |
| 01 June | What a wonderful start to the month! Excited whale watchers were treated to the full show, filled with majestic, powerful blows, arched backs, tail-up dives, multiple boat breaches, pectoral slaps, peduncle throws, and chin slaps. The whales' incredible behaviour left everyone feeling truly happy and fulfilled. |
| 31 May | Today brought unforgettable moments on the water! In the morning, we enjoyed watching a solo humpback with several graceful up times. Later, a pod of two whales captivated us with multiple surfacing and a stunning long tail-up dive in the afternoon light. Passengers were thrilled by the mighty blows and elegantly arched backs we witnessed. We were in awe of the variety and beauty of these gentle giants! |
| 30 May | Whale activity at its finest today! We encountered three energetic pods of humpback whales, featuring a spectacular breach from an adult and a lively juvenile showing off with its own breach and playful chin slapping. One whale rounded out the display with a smooth arch and tail dive, all beneath the silent glide of a nearby albatross. |
26
May | We kicked off the day with exceptional uptime. Two humpback whales delighted us with consistent appearances every four minutes, showcasing impressive blows, graceful dives, and stunning arches. Their mesmerising behaviours and close presence made for a truly breathtaking and unforgettable experience, inspiring everyone on board. |
24 May | We started the day spotting two adult humpbacks and a juvenile, setting a fantastic tone. The whales surfaced repeatedly throughout the tour, showcasing powerful blows and graceful arches. Their presence created a breathtaking, unforgettable experience, leaving everyone inspired by the beauty and majesty of these magnificent marine giants. |
17 May | The whale season kicked off with incredible wildlife encounters amid lively, rolling seas. We were lucky to see a baby humpback whale, offering a special glimpse into its migratory journey. Playful dolphins leapt and spun alongside the boat, while curious seals made charming appearances nearby. These vibrant ocean moments created a sense of adventure and wonder, making it an unforgettable and magical start to the winter season for everyone on board. |
Some of our recent reviews
Carolyn Hamilton - 5 Star
Darren Kim - 5 Star