Whale Watching Cruises

Whale Watching Sydney 17 May - 02 November 2025

Sydney is the envy of Australia with a whale watching season that lasts over five months of the year. Over 20,000 Humpback whales make the 3,500km journey from sub-Antarctic waters to the Great Barrier Reef every year. Whale numbers peak off Sydney in June-July for the Northern migration to give birth, and September-October for the return Southern migration. In August, whale behaviour is often more spectacular with younger males showing off with amazing breaches.

• Start your cruise from Circular Quay

• Experience the wonder of the Humpback Whale migration

• Expert commentator providing fun and educational insights into whale behaviour

• See dolphins, seals and birds as you cruise past the Opera House and Harbour Bridge

• Option to visit Australia's most famous zoo - Taronga Zoo after your cruise

• Option to make the most of your time in Sydney with a 2-day Whale Explorer pass

• Family friendly indoor and outdoor leisure decks

• Whale Sighting guaranteed or cruise again for free

Every cruise comes with a whale guarantee

Captain Cook Cruises Whale Watching tours operate on family-friendly catamarans, with indoor and outdoor seating over multi-levels. Passenger numbers are strictly limited to ensure everyone has great views of all the action while the onboard Marine Naturalist provides expert commentary and insights into the whale behaviour. We have over 95% whale sighting success rate, but in the unlikely event we don’t spot whales, your whale guarantee ensures you can cruise again for free.

Whale Watching Cruises

Circular Quay Wharf 6

• Departs 9:30am - Returns 12:00pm

• Departs 1:30pm - Returns 4:00pm

Wharf Check-in Offices

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