The 9 Best Sydney Whale Watching Tours

1.Whale Watching Adventure Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.2 · 1,790 reviews · 2h 45m · from $63Our pick

Join Sydney Harbour Attractions at Circular Quay for a 165-minute whale-watching cruise along the coast. A live English-speaking guide explains whale behavior as you search from spacious decks and comfortable seats. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, toilets, and a licensed bar are onboard. Bring warm layers and seasickness tablets.

“We enjoyed our excursion. The naturalist was very interesting and we learned a few things we didn't know about humpback whales. The beautiful weather and scenery made it a lovely outing on its own, but seeing whales, including a mother and offspring, was wonderful.”

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2.Sydney Whale-Watching Cruise Including Lunch or Breakfast

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 878 reviews · from $74

Cruise from Sydney Harbour past the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Manly Beach, Watsons Bay, and The Gap before searching for humpback whales in the Pacific. Choose breakfast or a BBQ lunch, listen to live commentary, and keep motion-sickness medicine close. The cruise runs May to November and returns to the starting point.

“Had a wonderful boat trip from Sydney harbour in November. Very well organised and for all ages. Staff so helpful and informative. I knew the migration season was ending but was still hopeful of seeing some and this trip didn’t disappoint.”

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3.2-hour Express Whale Watching Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.2 · 756 reviews · 2 hours · from $63

From Circular Quay, Fantasea Crystal reaches the open ocean in about 20 minutes, leaving roughly 90 minutes to look for humpback whales, dolphins, and seals. Choose the open sun deck, covered rear deck, or air-conditioned cabin. Guides such as Josh, Wayde, and Kate have added lively commentary on some departures. No whale sighting means a free return cruise.

“Great afternoon out got to see some whales and dolphins.”

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4.Whale Watching Boat Trip in Sydney

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 571 reviews · from $99Top rated

Meet Whale Tales at King Street Wharf for a 2.5-hour cruise under the Harbour Bridge and past the Opera House, then out beyond Sydney Heads with a small crew. Guides such as Rex, Mette, Alex, and Isaac share whale facts, help spot dolphins and humpbacks, and may send complimentary photos after the trip.

“It was awesome, ans i decommend it yku tontry it! All.the staffs were helpful and they even semt ua some pics after.”

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5.Discovery Whale Watching Tour by Catamaran

★★★★★★★★★★4.2 · 402 reviews · 2h 30m · from $63

Depart Darling Harbour on Fantasea Avalon, a purpose-built catamaran that reaches Sydney’s open ocean in about 30 minutes. You’ll search for humpback whales from air-conditioned cabins, panoramic windows, and outdoor decks while the crew tracks sightings. Tea, coffee, and water are included, and an onboard photographer captures key moments for purchase.

“Great whale watching experience - lots of active whales to be seen!”

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6.Sydney Whale Watching Cruise with Breakfast or Lunch

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 · 340 reviews · 4 hours · from $70

Cruise from Circular Quay through Sydney Heads and into the Tasman Sea for about four hours, tracking migrating humpback whales with live English commentary. Choose a hot breakfast on selected weekends or a daily lunch buffet. Guides such as Judy and Biggles have been praised for sharp spotting and lively explanations, but sightings and sea conditions vary.

“Incredible experience, the crew were all so lovely and helpful. The lunch provided was of great quality with plenty of options to choose from. Would recommend this trip to anyone considering it!”

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7.Scenic Whale Watching Cruise – Whales Guaranteed

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 318 reviews · 3 hours · from $45Best value

Cruise from Circular Quay with Captain Dean and the Barefoot crew, passing Sydney Harbour icons before heading through the Heads to find migrating humpback whales. The three-hour catamaran trip offers open-water views, live English commentary, onboard toilets, and a capped passenger count. Dolphins and seals may appear too, and whale sightings are guaranteed.

“Great value for money tour! Shortly after being on open waters we could see several whales for the full time. Excellent guides and captain.”

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8.Sydney Whale-Watching by Speed Boat

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 314 reviews · from $92

Join Ocean Extreme at Campbell’s Cove for a two-hour speedboat trip from Circular Quay into the Tasman Sea. You’ll pass the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, search for migrating humpback whales with guides such as Blake, Sean, or Marcus, and receive a windproof jacket. Sightings are not guaranteed, but the fast ride and small group make the outing special.

“This was a fantastic experience!! The ride to the ocean was so fast and smooth. The guide was able to spot a pod of whales almost right away and gave us loads of great information. It was incredible! The guide had a great camera and took shots of the sightings that then got emailed to us, so you don’t have to be super preoccupied with taking shots and can be present to enjoy the experience. Overall, I highly recommend it!”

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9.Whale Watching & Wildlife Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.3 · 300 reviews · 2h 30m · from $67

Cruise from Circular Quay with Captain Cook Cruises for 150 minutes of whale watching outside Sydney Harbour. Guides such as Paul pair lively commentary with sharp whale spotting, while the boat offers indoor shelter and outdoor viewing. Expect humpbacks from May to November, possible dolphins and seals, and lively open-ocean conditions.

“Loved our trip. Our guide was excellent, easy to see the whales from the ship. Would love to do it again ☺️”

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