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Whale watching begins 16th May
Whales in Sydney
Each year, an estimated 30,000 to 40,000 humpback whales migrate along Australia’s east coast, with many of them passing close to Sydney during the migration season.
Whale watching season in Sydney runs from May to November, with the most active months typically between June and August. During this period, thousands of humpback whales migrate along the New South Wales coastline, travelling north to breed before returning south later in the year.
From May to July, whales are mostly heading north. Between September and November, they return south with their calves, often swimming closer to shore. This makes Sydney one of the most consistent locations for whale sightings throughout both parts of the migration.
The majority of whale sightings in Sydney are humpback whales. They are known for their size, long flippers, and active surface behaviour, such as breaching and lifting their pectoral fins. These whales follow a predictable migration route that brings them close to Sydney’s coastline, often within reach of our tours. Just some of the wildlife you may see during your Sydney whale watching tour include:
Humpback whales are the most frequently sighted species on Sydney whale tours. They migrate past the coast from June to November and are often seen breaching or surfacing near North Head. These whales are known for their size and active surface behaviour, making them the highlight of the whale watching season.
These dolphins are commonly seen during whale watching cruises from Circular Quay, especially near Watsons Bay and Manly. Travelling in pods, they often swim close to the vessel and are well known for their social and playful behaviour.
Australasian gannets are often seen diving near North Head, especially where whales are feeding. Juveniles have dark mottled plumage that lightens as they mature. Short-tailed shearwaters are common in cooler months, while black-browed albatrosses are occasionally seen further offshore during winter and spring.
Southern right whales are rare visitors on Sydney whale watching tours, but they do appear at times during the migration season. They are slow-moving, travel close to shore, and are easy to identify by their broad backs and absence of a dorsal fin.
Minke whales are small, fast, and elusive, surfacing quickly and typically avoiding boats. While not regularly seen, they have been spotted beyond North Head during the migration period on some of our Sydney whale tours.
Although less common than whales or dolphins, Australian fur seals may occasionally be seen resting near rocky outcrops or swimming just beyond Sydney Harbour. Sightings are more likely during colder months along the Sydney coastline.
Our tours depart from Darling Harbour and travel past Sydney Harbour’s landmarks before reaching the open ocean. The migration path runs just beyond the harbour entrance, making it possible to see whales within a short distance of the city.
Along the way, guests enjoy views of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay and Hornby Lighthouse at South Head. Once beyond the heads, we begin scanning for humpback whales and other marine wildlife. Sightings often include tail slaps, fin waves, and breaches — with whales sometimes passing remarkably close to the vessel.
