Sydney Whale Watching Inflatable Boat Cruise

Strap in for Sydney’s most adrenaline-pumping whale watching adventure aboard a high-speed, military-grade RIB (rigid inflatable boat). With small-group departures from Circular Quay or Manly, Ocean Extreme’s 1.5 to 2-hour cruise offers a thrilling, personal, and unforgettable journey into the heart of humpback territory. Get ready for an intimate ocean experience like no other — with whales guaranteed to make an appearance!

Getting started

Choose your departure point — Circular Quay or Manly Wharf — depending on the option selected when booking. Your expert skipper will welcome you aboard either Extreme, their original purpose-built military spec vessel, or Orca, the newest and fastest in the fleet, offering an even more boutique experience with a maximum of 12 guests.

After a safety briefing and gear check, you'll suit up, hold tight, and prepare to launch from the harbour past Sydney’s iconic skyline. Both vessels depart daily from May to November during whale migration season. Please note: all passengers must be at least 12 years old.

What to expect

Hold on as your skipper powers out through Sydney Heads and into the vast Tasman Sea. These high-performance RIBs are built for speed and stability, punching quickly through the swell to where the whales are.

Once out in open water, your skipper, constantly in radio contact with other boats, will guide the vessel to the most active and friendly whale pods nearby. Expect to see spectacular breaching, curious approaches, and tail slaps from these magnificent creatures of the deep.

This is Sydney’s most personal whale watching tour, with a maximum of 12 to 21 passengers depending on the vessel, ensuring unobstructed views and a deeply immersive experience. And with a whale sighting guarantee, you'll get a free return trip during the season if no whales are spotted.

Features

• 1.5 to 2-hour high-speed whale watching cruise: A thrilling offshore journey aboard a military-spec inflatable boat designed for speed, comfort, and adventure.
• Departures from Circular Quay or Manly Wharf: Flexibility to suit your itinerary and location.
• Small group experience: Maximum of 12 passengers on Orca or 21 on Extreme for a personal, boutique-style encounter.
• Expert skippers & guides: Decades of experience with whale behavior and familiar with the best local viewing spots.
• Guaranteed whale sightings: Didn’t spot whales? You can ride again for free within the same season.
• Purpose-built, high-performance vessels: Fast, safe, and stable boats that get you closer to the action quickly.
• Unmatched views & intimacy: No crowds, no obstructions — just you, the whales, and the open ocean.
• Minimum age requirement: Suitable for adventure-seekers aged 12 and up.

Whether you're a thrill-seeker or wildlife enthusiast, this action-packed cruise offers breathtaking adventure, up-close encounters, and memories to last a lifetime — all set against Sydney’s unforgettable coastline.

Sydney Whale Watching Inflatable Boat Cruise

Discover Sydney's most thrilling whale watching adventure on a 1.5 to 2-hour high-speed cruise aboard a custom-built, military-grade inflatable boat. Departing daily from Circular Quay or Manly Wharf, you'll head through Sydney Harbour and blast into the Tasman Sea in search of migrating humpback whales. With small group capacities—just 12 passengers on Orca and up to 21 on Extreme—you’ll enjoy a more personal and up-close experience with expert commentary from your skipper throughout the journey. Whale sightings are guaranteed during the season (May to November)—if you don’t spot any, you can rebook for free. Ages 12 and up are welcome on this action-packed ride, perfect for adventurers looking to witness whales in their natural environment with speed, excitement, and amazing ocean views. This tour includes round-trip transportation from Circular Quay or Manly Wharf, a high-speed inflatable boat cruise, expert commentary, whale sightings (guaranteed during May to November), rebooking option if no whales are sighted, and age restrictions for participants aged 12 and up.

Explore Sydney Harbour

Your tour stops at Sydney Harbour where you can admire the stunning views of iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Built in 1973, the Sydney Opera House covers an area of approximately 40 acres with a height of about 22 meters. The bridge itself was completed in 1932 and spans 1,149 meters. Visitors can spend around 30 minutes at these landmarks, taking photos and enjoying panoramic views of the harbor. This tour is unique compared to other whale watching experiences as it combines marine wildlife viewing with spectacular city sights.

Witness Humpback Whales in the Tasman Sea

Your tour takes you into the Tasman Sea where you can witness humpback whales migrating from May to November. These majestic creatures are known for their acrobatic displays and complex songs, making this a truly unforgettable experience. The inflatable boat cruises at high speeds, covering distances of up to 15 kilometers per hour in search of these magnificent animals. Whale sightings are guaranteed during the season, offering you an unparalleled chance to observe humpback whales close-up. This tour provides a unique opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Tour Highlights

• High-speed inflatable boat cruise
• 1.5-2 hour duration with expert commentary
• Round-trip transportation from Circular Quay or Manly Wharf
• Whale sightings guaranteed during May to November
• Rebooking option if no whales are sighted in season
• Small group capacity of 12 on Orca and up to 21 on Extreme
• Expert commentary throughout the journey by experienced skippers

Perfect for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and wildlife lovers, this high-speed inflatable boat cruise provides an exciting opportunity to witness humpback whales in their natural habitat. The tour allows you to explore Sydney Harbour, admire iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, and venture into the Tasman Sea for close-up whale sightings. This unique experience combines marine wildlife viewing with stunning city views, making it a must-do adventure during your visit to Sydney.