Newcastle Whale Watching Eco Cruise

Step aboard a premium custom-built vessel and experience the magic of humpback whale migration just off the coast of Newcastle.

Getting started

Your tour begins at the Honeysuckle Foreshore, where you’ll meet the friendly CoastXP crew. Receive a quick safety briefing and gear up with a premium weatherproof jacket before boarding the vessel designed for adventure and comfort.

What to expect

This 2-hour whale encounter tour offers a front-row seat to one of nature’s most awe-inspiring journeys. From May to November, thousands of humpback whales make their annual migration along Australia’s east coast — and Newcastle is right on their path.

Cruise along the scenic coastline as expert guides share fascinating facts about the whales’ 5,000 km trek from Antarctica. Along the way, keep your camera ready for unforgettable sights, from tail slaps to full breaches. You might also spot common dolphins, long-nosed fur seals, and marine birdlife, adding to the thrill of your ocean safari.

Features

• 360° open viewing deck: Enjoy panoramic, unobstructed views perfect for whale watching and photography

• Expert local guides: Learn about marine life and migration from passionate, knowledgeable crew

• Eco-certified vessel: Travel on a sustainable, safety-first boat designed for coastal wildlife tours

• Wildlife encounters: Look out for dolphins, seals, and seabirds in their natural habitat

• All-weather gear: Premium jackets provided to keep you warm and dry in changing conditions

Whether you’re chasing your first whale sighting or returning for another glimpse, this experience offers a close and respectful look at marine life in its natural habitat, just minutes from the heart of Newcastle.

Newcastle Whale Watching Eco Cruise

Discover Newcastle's marine wildlife on this 2-hour whale-watching eco cruise that includes expert commentary, free return cruises if no whales are sighted, and a custom-built boat designed for comfort and sustainability. Hop aboard Atmos, a state-of-the-art eco-adventure vessel, which is equipped with weatherproof jackets to keep you warm and dry as you explore the stunning coastline along Newcastle's shores from May to November when humpback whales migrate through these waters. The cruise offers front-row 360° views of these majestic creatures, dolphins, long-nosed fur seals, and seabirds. With a capacity for up to 50 passengers and high-backed seats designed for stability, this tour is perfect for all ages and abilities. The boat departs from the Newcastle Port, covering approximately 12 nautical miles during its journey. This eco-friendly adventure allows you to witness the wonders of nature while supporting marine conservation efforts.

Explore Humpback Whale Migration

Your tour stops at the peak migration period for humpback whales in Newcastle where visitors can observe these magnificent creatures as they travel along the coast from May to November. The humpback whale, measuring up to 16 meters long and weighing around 40 tons, is a true marvel of nature. This annual event has been attracting wildlife enthusiasts since 2005 when local tours first began offering dedicated whale-watching cruises. During your cruise, you will have the opportunity to see not only humpback whales but also other marine life like dolphins and seals. Guests can spend up to two hours on the water, marveling at these creatures from the comfort of Atmos' spacious deck. What sets this tour apart is its commitment to sustainability; it uses eco-friendly materials and practices that minimize environmental impact while maximizing your wildlife viewing experience.

Witness Marine Life Diversity

Atmos takes you through areas rich in marine biodiversity where guests can observe an array of species including dolphins, long-nosed fur seals, and various seabirds. Dolphins, which are frequently spotted during the cruise, range from 180 to 250 cm in length and weigh between 60 to 70 kg. Long-nosed fur seals, with their distinctive snouts and playful behavior, can be seen basking on rocks along the coast. These marine mammals have been a part of Newcastle's ecosystem for centuries, contributing significantly to its rich biodiversity. The cruise provides an up-close look at these animals in their natural habitat, offering insights into their behaviors and habits through informative commentary from local guides. This unique perspective makes the tour stand out among other whale-watching experiences by combining education with adventure.

Tour Highlights

• Hop aboard Atmos for a thrilling 2-hour cruise
• Front-row 360° views of humpback whales and dolphins
• Expert commentary from local marine biologists
• Free return cruises if no whales are sighted
• Weatherproof jackets provided to keep you warm and dry
• High-backed seats designed for comfort and stability
• Support marine conservation efforts with an eco-certified tour
• Discover diverse marine life including long-nosed fur seals

Perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and families, this 2-hour whale-watching cruise provides a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of Newcastle's coastal ecosystem. Guests can observe humpback whales during their migration period from May to November, learn about marine conservation efforts through expert commentary, and enjoy the comfort of Atmos' eco-friendly vessel. This tour allows you to connect with nature while supporting sustainable practices that protect our oceans for future generations.