Sydney Whale Watching Cruise with 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Ferry Pass

Make the most of your time in Sydney with this great-value combo that includes a 2-day Sydney Harbour Hop-On Hop-Off ferry pass and an unforgettable whale watching cruise. Perfect for flexible sightseeing and ocean adventure, this experience lets you explore iconic destinations around the harbour — and witness the magnificent humpback whales breaching just beyond it.

Getting started

Begin your Sydney adventure by boarding the comfortable sightseeing ferry from any of the six included stops: Circular Quay, Darling Harbour, Taronga Zoo, Manly, Watsons Bay, or Shark Island. With ferries running all day, you’re free to explore at your own pace. You’ll also receive a printed map to help plan your route and highlights, plus onboard smartphone commentary throughout your journey.

On the day of your whale watching cruise, board the vessel at Circular Quay for a 9:30am departure. Sit back and relax in indoor or outdoor seating as expert guides brief you on the fascinating world of whale migration along Australia’s east coast.

What to expect

This combo offers the perfect blend of flexibility and nature. Over two consecutive days, you can hop on and off ferries to explore Sydney’s most beloved harbour destinations — from the sandy shores of Manly to the scenic lookout at Watsons Bay, and the unique wildlife at Taronga Zoo. Many of these stops are not served by regular public ferries, giving you convenient access to lesser-seen sights like Shark Island.

Your morning whale watching cruise takes you out past Sydney Heads for 2.5 hours of ocean exploration, where humpback whales and other marine life are commonly seen. Don’t worry if you miss the action—your whale sighting guarantee offers a free rebooking within the season.

Features

• 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Sydney Harbour Ferry Pass: Unlimited ferry travel to six key harbour destinations over two days, with the freedom to hop on and off at your own pace.
• Whale watching cruise: A thrilling 2.5-hour morning cruise guided by marine experts, with indoor and outdoor seating and panoramic views.
• Whale sighting guarantee: In the unlikely event you don't spot whales, you’ll receive a free re-cruise valid during the same season.
• Smartphone commentary & maps: Enhance your experience with informative onboard commentary and a printed map featuring route highlights.
• Free Wi-Fi onboard: Stay connected and share your journey in real time from the comfort of the ferry.
• Accessible & comfortable: Catamarans feature accessible facilities, outdoor decks, and spacious seating options.
• Great value: Save $10 compared to booking the two experiences separately — one easy booking covers both.

This experience is ideal for visitors who want to explore Sydney's scenic harbour and marine life without the hassle of planning multiple trips. Discover more, travel freely, and make memories on land and sea.

Know before you go

What to bring

Whale-watching cruise

• Pack your seasickness meds – better to be prepared, just in case they’re not available onsite.

What's not allowed

• Smoking is not permitted on this experience.

Accessibility

Whale-watching cruise

• This experience is accessible by wheelchairs.
• All vessels are fitted with wheelchair-accessible bathrooms.
• Your guide dogs are welcome on this experience.

Sydney Harbour HOHO pass

• The entrance level deck of rocket ferries is wheelchair accessible with wheelchair-accessible bathrooms.
• Your guide dogs are welcome on this experience.

Additional information

• Please complete this form prior to arrival to ensure a smooth check-in and boarding process.
• Dress snug in warm layers; the ocean is known to have a chilly twist in the weather.

Whale-watching cruise

• The Whale Guarantee applies when a whale is not sighted during your cruise. Cruise again in the same season for free on a standby basis confirmed 24 hours prior, subject to availability.
• The cruise is subject to weather conditions.
• All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Sydney Harbour HOHO pass

• The HOHO pass is valid for two days and commences from the date of the whale-watching cruise.