G’day whale lovers, The last of the southbound humpbacks are passing Sydney Heads, the mothers and calves are well on their way to Antarctica, and our crew is tying up for the summer. Before we do, we wanted to say thank you. 2026 was our biggest season ever, and that is because of every one of you who climbed aboard at King Street Wharf, pulled on a jacket and came out through the Heads with us. This month we are looking back on the season, and on the simple question we get asked more than any other on the boat. Why is Sydney so good for whales?
G’day whale lovers, Every spring we watch humpback mothers travel south past Sydney with their calves tucked in close beside them. It is the sight our guests ask about more than any other, and it is easy to see why. What is less obvious from the deck is just how extraordinary the journey to that moment has been. Behind every calf is nearly a year of pregnancy, a birth in open water, and a feeding routine that would put most animals on Earth to shame. So here is what is actually going on beneath the surface, and what to look for when you next head out on the water.
G’day whale lovers, Spring has arrived in Sydney and, just beyond the beaches, one of the most fascinating wildlife events on any urban coastline is getting underway. The humpback whales are heading south. After travelling north earlier in the year to the warmer waters where they breed and give birth, they are now beginning the long trip back towards their feeding grounds in Antarctica. The southbound migration generally runs from around August through to November, with increasing numbers of whales passing Sydney as spring progresses. For anyone heading out on a whale watching cruise this season, it is an exciting time to be on the ocean. Once you know a little more about what you are seeing, an encounter with a humpback becomes even more remarkable. So as the southern migration gets underway, here are a few things to look for on your next trip.
No rain today 🙌 But it was sure windy 🌬️
On our midday cruise today we spotted a breaching whale about two miles off North Head. We then came across a very active pair of whales who treated all on board to an incredible variety of whale behaviours including countless breaches, head lunges, amazing tail action and pec slapping. A fantastic trip 🐋💙
We would love to take you whale watching. Book online at https://gowhalewatchingsydney.com.au/ or ring the office direct: 02 6495 1686
Another wet day in Sydney today, this afternoon we caught up with two humpbacks a couple of miles off South Head. We followed them south and saw more whales in the distance as well as an unexpected breach.
We would love to take you whale watching. Book online at https://gowhalewatchingsydney.com.au/ or ring the office direct: 02 6495 1686
A wet day off Sydney today - thankfully the whales don’t mind the rain 😉
On our morning trip we came across two humpback whales off Diamond Bay who were making their way south. These whales put on a great display doing multiple head lunges and some breaches too. 🙌🐋😊
On our afternoon trip we headed back to Diamond Bay and spotted our first whales of the afternoon. We then followed a few pods of whales cruising south towards Bondi Beach.
We would love to take you whale watching. Book online at https://gowhalewatchingsydney.com.au/ or ring the office direct: 02 6495 1686