Whale-watching in Newcastle, Australia

Whale-watching season in Newcastle, Australia, is from June to mid-October. To see the whales, choose between the CoastXP adventure tour and more sedate Nova cruise.

Newcastle, NSW, isn’t generally regarded as one of the great whale-watching destinations in Australia. The likes of Hervey Bay, Eden, Head of Bight and Warrnambool tend to top the list when discussing places for top drawer whale watching.

However, come whale season, there’s a strong chance of seeing migrating humpbacks off the coast of New South Wales’ second-largest city.

9 cool Newcastle experiences you need to book in advance

An Adventure boat cruise along the Hunter coast – with thrills and scenery.
A mobile phone-based scavenger hunt – explore the city differently.
An architecture and street art walking tour – see all the best murals.
A whale-watching tour – get close to the migrating humpback whales.
A two hour city highlights tour by bus – get orientated when you first arrive.
A scenic helicopter flight – see the spectacular coastline from above.
A three hour craft beer and food-matching tour – get a taste of the drinking and dining scene.
A food, drink and history walking tour – hear stories and indulge at the same time.

Whale-watching season in Newcastle, Australia

From June to October, Nova Cruises runs two-and-a-half hour whale-watching cruises from Harbour Square Boat Dock. The cruises have been running for 16 years, and head out to the ocean to find the humpbacks on their migration route. There’s also a strong chance of seeing dolphins, seals and sea birds. And, if you don’t see whales, you can come back again another day for free.

These Newcastle whale-watching tours come with informative commentary and fact sheets, while those who think they might need it are given a sea-sickness tablet. You can choose whether to sit indoors or out on the deck.

These whale-watching cruises in Newcastle cost $75.

Whale-watching in Newcastle: Adventure boat tours

More adventurous Newcastle whale-watching tours are available through CoastXP. This tour operator uses a custom-built rigid inflatable boat. It’s smaller and more exposed to the elements, but nippier and more versatile. There are also 360 degree views.

The RIB has room for up to 20 passengers on board.

CoastXP’s whale-watching tours last around two hours and cost $99. These tours are bookable through Viator. Again, if you don’t see whales, there’s a free return trip.

Other things to do in Newcastle include swimming in the Merewether Ocean Baths, hopping between the Newcastle museums and spotting wildlife at the Blackbutt Reserve.