Jervis Bay Whale Watching

Unforgettable and rarely accessible experiences which everyone can enjoy.

1 - The 2 hour early summer Whale Cruise gives you the unique opportunity to witness the majestic beauty of our migrating Humpback Whales. Imagine setting off on the immaculate Jervis Bay, on a clear day, and having these awe-inspiring Humpback Whales greet you on their journey. A truly life-changing experience set against rugged cliffs and ancient sea caves.

On the Northern migration we sight Whales within a mile or so off the dramatic sea cliffs on Jervis Bay’s peninsula, making it one of the most exciting Whale watching experiences on the East coast of Australia. During the Southern migration, we begin to get mothers and their newborn calves coming to rest in Jervis Bay. During this time viewing the Whales is in the sheltered waters of Jervis Bay, offering the most unique viewing of the season. A lasting, treasured memory.

2 - Outside of the migrating months, our famous dolphin cruise introduces you to our resident bottlenose dolphin colony, which numbers between 80 & 90 members throughout the year. You’ll see the dolphins leaping through the clear ocean waters and swimming right alongside our vessel. In addition to the dolphins, you’ll see other wildlife living, hunting, and playing in their natural habitat, and you will have the opportunity to see many stunning scenic areas of the bay. Nb: Whales are only here in winter.

3 - In the summer months, add some extra fun to your Dolphin Cruise – Enjoy the Boom-Netting experience!. Combined with the dolphin tour we cruise on the pristine waters of Jervis Bay and drop the boom net in the water to get you wildly wet. An experience like no other, it can only be described like a cruising spa bath that will make you laugh till you cry. Where else can you cruise along a sandy white beach while being gently pulled by the power of our flag ship Port Venture?!

Summer Boom-Netting is suitable for all ages and all swimming abilities, even those with any type of disability. It is popular with family groups, corporate days out and festive season celebrations. We are confident the enjoyment and adrenaline rush of boom netting will have you coming back for more!

You’ll be cruising on the Port Venture which has been specifically designed to suit people of all ages and mobility needs, including step-free access inside, accessible amenities on board and a wide, level access ramp for boarding.

Whale Watching at Jervis Bay Wild is to our knowledge the only place in Australia where you can experience whale watching easily if you have problems with mobility (but if you know any others, please do tell us). You will not have to stay on the shore, waving goodbye to everyone else going off to enjoy themselves. You can join in.

The migration comes to an end in mid-November. Until it resumes in mid May next year, our accessible vessel, the Port Venture is dedicated exclusively to dolphin cruises. These take approximately 90 minutes.

How much does it cost?

Whale Watching

Adult = AUD $69. Concession (AUS Pension) = AUD $65. Child (From 2 years up to and including 14 years) = AUD $32. Family (2A & 2C from 2 years up and including 14 years) = AUD $175. *Children under the age of 2 are free of charge.

All Year Dolphin Cruise

Adult = AUD $35. Concession (AUS Pension) = AUD $32. Child (From 2 years up to and including 14 years) = AUD $22. Family (2A & 2C from 2 years up and including 14 years) = AUD $95. *Children under the age of 2 are free of charge.

Summer Dolphin Cruise + Boom-Netting

Adult = AUD $50. Child (From 2 years up to and including 14 years) = AUD $32. Family (2A & 2C from 2 years up and including 14 years) = AUD $140. *Children under the age of 2 are free of charge.

What’s Included

Approximate 120 Minute Whale Watching Tour or 90 Minute Dolphin Cruise/..

Fully Licensed Bar onboard the Port Venture.

Free Tea and Coffee.

Historical Commentary on Jervis Bay Plus The Migration Patterns Of Humpback Whales And Their Calves during the tour.

What’s Excluded

Lunch And Drink

Sunscreen

Towels

Hotel Pickup And Drop-off

What to Expect

Arrive at the cruise terminal approximately 15 minutes before your tour is set to leave.

Board your accessible ship (no hanging around, waiting for special arrangements as a wheelchair user).

Witness the majestic beauty of the migrating whales from May through to November, as you journey along the “Humpback Highway”, seaward of Jervis Bay.

Stop by a natural lagoon called Honeymoon Bay on the way back.

Experience the whitest sand in the world, and the crystal blue waters, from the Portside Café and Docks.

Be mesmerised by the 100 metre towering cliffs of Point Perpendicular.

FAQs

Is the boat accessible?

Yes, but access is limited to the bottom level. The boat Port Venture includes accessible toilets, and a wide and gentle accessible boarding ramp.

On the ship, there is step-free access to the bow of the ship but it is a little steep. A ramp also leads to the back of the boat.

An accessible toilet is on board – it’s bigger than the other boat bathrooms but smaller than most standard accessible bathrooms.

There is also an accessible toilet available in the Portside café.

The ability to use Port Venture safely is dependent on the level of the tide, so ensure that you contact Jervis Bay Wild (02) 4441 7002 and let them know about your accessibility requirement before arriving. We also recommend that you contact them to ensure that facilities will meet your specific needs.

When do the cruises run?

All cruises run from Monday to Sunday, including public holidays. Departing twice daily at 10:30am and 1pm, you should be ready to go at the cruise terminal approximately 15 minutes before your tour is set to leave. Please collect your Boarding Pass 30 minutes prior to departure from the Service Desk inside the cruise terminal Portside Cafe.

Whale Watching cruises run between mid-May and mid-November. Dolphin Cruises run all year and the Boom-Netting add-on is only available in the summer months.

Where does the tour depart from?

Tours depart daily from Jervis Bay Wild’s Cruise Terminal (15 Field Street, Huskisson NSW 2540, Australia).

Is there any free transport to the terminal?

Unfortunately you are required to make your own way to the terminal 15 minutes before your tour is set to depart.

What should I bring?

Equipment will be provided for you, however it is suggested that you bring;

Camera/smartphone Bottled Water Sunscreen and hat A light jacket in summer and a warm jacket in winter Towel

When is the best time of year for whale watching?

Whale Watching occurs during the months of May through November, the cooler months in southeast Australia’s climate. During this period, Whales may be spotted at any time, but their migration patterns fluctuate naturally. Typically, October and November is prime time for a Whale cruise, as mother humpbacks nurse their young Whales in the waters of Honeymoon Bay.

How long does the cruise last?

Whale Watching approximately 120 minutes.

All Year Dolphin Cruise/Summer Dolphin Cruise + Boom-Netting approximately 90 minutes.

What should i expect to see on my whale watching trip?

The chances of seeing Whales swimming and breaching on your cruise are extremely high. In late winter/early spring, you are also likely to spot baby Whales keeping close to their mothers. You’ll enjoy the spectacular natural beauty of Jervis Bay