2.5hr Discovery Cruise

Departing Darling Harbour on Fantasea Avalon.

2.5hr Discovery Cruise

$91/ Adult

Adult Code: WHALES20	$93.00 $74.40
Child (4-15) Code: WHALES20	$69.00 $55.20
Concession Code: WHALES20	$83.00 $66.40
Family (2A+2C) Code: WHALES20	$266.00 $212.80

Please Read: Fuel Levy

The current conflict in the Middle East has resulted in a sharp increase in the price of fuel. To help offset these unexpected costs, a temporary fuel levy will apply per passenger to cruises operating from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027 (inclusive).

The applicable levy is based on the date your booking is made:

Bookings made up to and including 30 September 2026: $2 per passenger
Bookings made from 1 October 2026: $4 per passenger

Given current volatility, the levy will continue to be reviewed regularly and adjusted as required to reflect actual fuel cost movements. Our intention is to keep this charge as low as possible and only in place while fuel prices remain at elevated levels. Once prices return to more typical levels, the temporary fuel levy will be removed.

Prices mentioned on this page are inclusive of the applicable temporary fuel levy.

20% Off until Season End

There’s still time to experience Sydney’s incredible whale migration!

Use promo code WHALES20 and save 20% on whale watching cruises until the end of the season.

See More. Stay Longer. Whale watching at it’s best.

If you want more than a quick trip offshore, our Discovery Cruise is Sydney’s most immersive whale watching experience, giving you extra time, more sightings, and a deeper connection with these incredible animals.

With extended time on the water and expert guides onboard, this is the cruise for those who want to truly experience whale watching, not just tick it off the list.

Why Choose our Discovery Cruise

Extended 2.5 hour experience
Less rushed, more relaxed journey
Convenient Darling Harbour departure location
Expert commentary
Spacious vessel with indoor & outdoor viewing decks

This is our most complete whale watching experience in Sydney.

What Makes This Cruise Different

Unlike our Express Cruise, our Discovery Cruise is designed for guests who want:

More time offshore, where whales are most active
Greater chances to see breaching, tail slapping, and close passes
A slower, more comfortable pace
Space to move freely and enjoy unobstructed views

It’s the difference between a glimpse, and a genuine wildlife encounter.

What's Included?

What’s Included?

2.5-hour open ocean cruise
Scenic sightseeing as we pass through Sydney Harbour
Marine wildlife commentary on the open ocean
Multiple viewing decks
Comfortable indoor seating areas
Onboard amenities
+ Free Photos of the Day package

Departure Times & Location

Departure Times

Departs from Darling Harbour – Aquarium Wharf
9:45 Every Day	13:15 Every Day

Departure Location

What To Bring

A windbreaker or jacket to protect against ocean spray
Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat for sun protection
A camera or phone to capture whale sightings and spectacular Sydney coastline views
Motion sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness

To help avoid seasickness, we recommend eating lightly before departure and taking any motion sickness medication before boarding.

Our Whale Guarentee

We successfully sight whales on approximately 99% of our cruises. In the unlikely event that no whales are successfully sighted during your cruise, you’ll receive a free return whale watching cruise to use during the current season.

See how it works

FAQs

What whales can I see in Sydney?

Humpback whales are the most commonly sighted species during Sydney’s whale watching season. Guests may also occasionally encounter dolphins, seals and seabirds while cruising offshore.

What is the best month for whale watching in Sydney?

Whales can be seen from May to November, with excellent viewing opportunities throughout the season. June to August often provides spectacular sightings during the northern migration, while September to November can offer opportunities to see mothers travelling south with calves.

Is a 2.5-hour whale watching cruise long enough?

Yes. Our Discovery Cruise is specifically designed to maximise whale watching time while minimising travel time

Are whale sightings guaranteed?

We successfully sight whales on approximately 99% of cruises. In the unlikely event that no whales are successfully sighted, you’ll receive a free return whale watching cruise under our Whale Guarantee.

Will I get seasick?

Our vessels are designed for comfort and stability, however whale watching takes place in the open ocean where conditions can vary. Guests prone to motion sickness may wish to take preventative medication before departure and eat a light meal.