12 Best Whale Watching Tours In Sydney

Whale watching in Sydney delivers reliable encounters with migrating humpbacks from May through November. The city’s prime harbor location makes it an ideal launch point, with most tours lasting 2-3 hours.

For the best experience, we recommend two standout operators: Whale Watching Sydney and Go Whale Watching. Both companies employ marine biologists as guides and guarantee sightings during peak season. The former offers a more intimate experience on their 25-person vessel, while the latter provides a stable, larger boat with excellent viewing decks.

Budget travelers should consider the morning tours, which typically cost 20-30% less than afternoon departures. For families, the Ocean Dreams cruise includes kid-friendly activities and educational programs.

Check out our tested and approved whale watching tours below.

Key Points

• Highly-rated whale watching tours in Sydney that offer a variety of experiences, including adventure cruises, speed boat tours, and breakfast/lunch cruises.
• Wide range of tour durations from 2 to 4 hours, catering to different schedules and budgets, with options for private or group tours.
• Knowledgeable guides provide informative commentary on whale behavior, migration patterns, and local marine ecosystems during the tours.
• Tours offer excellent opportunities to spot humpback whales, southern right whales, orcas, and dolphins during the April to November migration season.
• Accessible and family-friendly tours with modern vessels, comfortable amenities, and safety features, ensuring a memorable and responsible wildlife viewing experience.

Whale Watching Boat Trip in Sydney

A popular option for whale watching in Sydney is the Whale Watching Boat Trip.

It’s a highly-rated tour, recommended by 97% of travelers, with an overall 5-star rating based on 394 reviews.

The best time to go is from April to November when you have a great chance of spotting humpback whales, including mothers and their calves.

The tour departs from the Whale Tales Whale Watching Sydney meeting point, with a maximum of 30 travelers per trip.

You’ll enjoy informative commentary from the knowledgeable crew and have excellent photo opportunities.

While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly.

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Sydney: 2.5 Hour Adventure Whale Watching Cruise

Set out on a thrilling 2.5-hour adventure as you set sail on a whale watching cruise in the stunning waters of Sydney.

Rated 4.8 stars, this small-group tour provides the perfect opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat.

With pickup available, you’ll enjoy a comfortable journey, accompanied by expert guides who’ll share fascinating insights about these magnificent creatures.

Priced at $114.42 per person, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Don’t miss the chance to witness the breathtaking display of these gentle giants, as they breach and frolic in the waves off the Sydney coast.

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Sydney Whale-Watching by Speed Boat

For those seeking a more exhilarating whale-watching experience, the Sydney Whale-Watching by Speed Boat tour offers an adrenaline-fueled alternative.

Departing from Campbell’s Cove Pontoon, this 298-review rated activity promises an up-close encounter with the majestic mammals for just $83.91 per person.

Aboard a speedboat accommodating up to 21 travelers, you’ll don wind and waterproof jackets as you zip across the waves, optimizing your chances of spotting whales breaching and tail slapping.

With a knowledgeable guide providing valuable insights, this 99% recommended tour offers a thrilling yet safe way to witness Sydney’s incredible wildlife.

Just be sure to arrive 15 minutes early and prepare for an unforgettable experience.

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Sydney: Whale Watching Express Cruise

On Sydney’s picturesque harbor, the Whale Watching Express Cruise offers an exceptional opportunity to witness the majestic migration of these marine giants.

This 2-hour tour departs from Circular Quay, providing you with unobstructed views of the whales in their natural habitat. With an experienced crew and expert commentary, you’ll learn about the whales’ behavior and the local marine ecosystem.

The cruise is designed for optimal whale spotting, with a spacious outdoor viewing deck and comfortable indoor seating. At Kč 2,110 per person, this is an affordable way to tick off whale watching from your Sydney bucket list.

Don’t miss your chance to see these magnificent creatures up close.

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Sydney Whale Watching Cruise With Breakfast or Lunch

Aboard the Sydney Whale Watching Cruise, you’ll have the chance to witness the awe-inspiring migration of these marine giants during their seasonal journey.

For $66.48 per person, you’ll embark on a 4-hour excursion with the option of either a breakfast or BBQ lunch. Departing from Circular Quay, you’ll enjoy sightseeing in the harbor and live commentary as you search for breaching whales, tail slaps, and fluke dives.

The spacious boat offers ample room, an English audio guide, and wheelchair accessibility. Just remember to bring seasickness tablets and dress appropriately, as trips may be canceled due to poor weather.

With over 30,000 whales expected during the migration season, this cruise promises an unforgettable whale-watching experience.

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Whales of Sydney Sea Safari

Embark on an exhilarating 2.5-hour private whale watching expedition aboard a high-speed sports cruiser as you explore Sydney’s stunning coastline.

The Whales of Sydney Sea Safari takes you up to 8 passengers to spot whales, dolphins, and seals against the backdrop of iconic Sydney Harbour sights.

Hop aboard the 600hp twin-engine boat and keep an eye out for the estimated 40,000 to 50,000 whales expected along the coast this season.

The tour includes a guided cruise, wildlife viewing, and panoramic views of Sydney’s dramatic Pacific cliffs.

With a free cancellation policy and reserve now pay later option, this high-speed adventure is an ideal way to witness the wonders of Sydney’s marine life.

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Sydney: Whale Watching Cruise

Sydney’s whale watching cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales during their annual migration along the coast.

Priced at $50.50 per person, this 2.5-hour tour departs from Circular Quay Wharf 6 and guarantees a 95% chance of sighting whales, with a free second cruise if none are seen.

Onboard, you’ll enjoy expert commentary from a live tour guide and encounter various marine life, including southern right whales, orcas, and dolphins.

The comfortable all-weather lounge and outdoor viewing areas provide breathtaking views of Sydney’s coastline.

With a reserve now and pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this whale watching experience is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Sydney.

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Sydney: Ocean Whale Watching Experience

Venturing out on Sydney’s acclaimed ocean whale watching experience, you’ll be treated to an up-close encounter with the majestic humpback whales as they migrate along the coastline.

These 3.5-hour tours, which depart from Circular Quay, offer the chance to spot these giants of the sea in their natural habitat. Equipped with expert guides and state-of-the-art vessels, you’ll navigate the open waters, keeping an eye out for the whales’ distinctive blows and breaching movements.

With a maximum of 100 passengers, these small-group tours provide an intimate and unforgettable wildlife experience. Prices start from $114.42, making it an affordable way to witness the wonders of Sydney’s marine life.

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Sydney: 3-Hour Whale Watching Tour by Catamaran

For an unparalleled whale watching experience in Sydney, join a 3-hour tour aboard a state-of-the-art catamaran.

This small-group adventure departs from Circular Quay and takes you through Sydney’s stunning harbor, providing ample opportunities to spot majestic humpback and southern right whales as they migrate along the coast.

The catamaran’s stability and speed ensure optimal viewing conditions, while the knowledgeable crew shares fascinating insights about the whales’ behavior and ecology.

With a maximum of 14 passengers, you’ll enjoy an intimate and personalized experience.

At just £89.88 per person, this tour offers exceptional value and an unforgettable encounter with the marine giants that call Sydney’s waters home.

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Sydney: Whale Watching Explorer Cruise

Set out on a captivating 2.5-hour whale watching cruise that showcases Sydney’s stunning harbor and the majestic humpback whales that visit its waters.

Priced at $76.06 per person, this cruise guarantees sightings of the gentle giants as they migrate along the coast.

Enjoy live commentary in English and the flexibility of a hop-on, hop-off cruise, allowing you to explore up to 6 popular harbor precincts.

With a whale guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is an ideal way to witness nature’s wonders.

Don’t miss the spectacular whale behavior during the peak season of August.

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Sydney: Sydney Harbour Tall Ship Whale Watching & Sailing

Aboard a traditional tall ship, you’ll experience a unique whale watching adventure on Sydney Harbour. Glide across the waves as you scan the horizon for migrating humpback and southern right whales.

The vessel’s masts and sails offer unobstructed views, allowing you to spot these majestic creatures as they breach, breach, and slap their tails. The informative crew provides commentary on the whales’ behaviors and the area’s rich maritime history.

Complementing the whale watching, you’ll also enjoy the thrill of sailing on a historic tall ship. This tour combines the best of Sydney’s iconic harbor and the wonder of whale watching for an unforgettable experience.

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Sydney: 2-hour Express Whale Watching Cruise

Seeking a quicker whale watching experience? Look no further than the 2-hour Express Whale Watching Cruise in Sydney.

This tour offers an efficient and exciting way to spot these majestic creatures. Departing from Circular Quay, you’ll set sail on a modern vessel designed for optimal viewing.

With a knowledgeable crew on board, you’ll learn about the whales’ behavior and migration patterns as you scan the horizon for their telltale splashes.

The tour’s compact duration makes it an ideal choice for those with limited time. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local seeking a fresh perspective, this express cruise provides a thrilling and convenient whale watching opportunity in the heart of Sydney.

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The Sum Up

When looking to enjoy whale watching in Sydney, you’ll find a wide range of tours to choose from. Whether you prefer a shorter express cruise or a longer adventure, there’s an option to suit your preferences. With knowledgeable guides and the chance to spot these magnificent creatures up close, a Sydney whale watching tour is a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting the city.