Whale watching cruises
Every day, 9:30am to 4pm Saturday 16 May to Sunday 1 November
Experience one of Sydney’s most unforgettable natural wonders with Captain Cook Cruises Whale Watching for an unforgettable open-ocean adventure during the 2026 Sydney whale watching season.
Departing from Circular Quay, cruise past the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge before heading out to the open ocean. With expert commentary, spacious indoor and outdoor viewing areas and a Whale Sighting Guarantee, Captain Cook Cruises offers three whale watching experiences to choose from:
Whale Watching Cruise (2.5 hours) - our classic whale watching adventure, departing daily from Circular Quay at 9:30 am and 1:30 pm. Enjoy harbour views, open-ocean whale watching and expert commentary, perfect for all ages.
Whale Explorer (Whale Watching + 2-Day Sydney Explorer Pass) - start with the 9:30 am Whale Watching Cruise, then enjoy two days of Hop On Hop Off Sydney Explorer ferry travel, including stops such as Darling Harbour, Manly, Watsons Bay and Shark Island.
Whale Watching + Taronga Zoo - the ultimate wildlife day out. Begin with the 9:30 am Whale Watching Cruise, then disembark at Taronga Zoo at approximately 11:55 am and return to Circular Quay by ferry at your leisure.
Captain Cook Cruises also offers a Whale Sighting Guarantee. In the unlikely event that whales are not sighted on your cruise, you can cruise again for free in the same season.
Know before you book: IMPORTANT: 20Jul - 28Aug 2026, the cruise departs from Commissioner's Steps (not wheelchair accessible), due to NSW Maritime wharf upgrades.