Sail into the pristine waters of Port Stephens — home to a resident population of 90+ bottlenose dolphins — aboard a premium vessel for guaranteed close encounters and, in season, humpback whale sightings.
What to expect
Your vessel eases out of Nelson Bay Marina and within minutes the bow wave attracts the bay's resident dolphins, who ride and leap alongside in spectacular fashion. The naturalist guide narrates behaviour, family pods, and the ecology of Tomaree National Park fringing the bay. In winter and spring, humpback whales migrate past in extraordinary numbers. Light refreshments are served on the sundeck as you drift in glassy, protected waters.
Good to know
Port Stephens is approx. 45 min from the port. Morning departures (09:00–11:00) offer the calmest water. Dolphin encounters are near-guaranteed year-round; whale watching runs May–November. Book directly with Moonshadow-TQC. Combine with the Mount Tomaree hike for a full Port Stephens day — both are achievable before all-aboard.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at HUNTER RIVER — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.