Join us for a Sunrise Whale Watch - There’s no better way to start the day than alongside Humpback Whales at dawn.

Bundle up and experience the magic of sunrise from the water as these majestic creatures make their annual migration.

The early morning light makes for stunning photo opportunities.

Experience the Magic of the Humpback Whale Migration in Port Macquarie

Every year, the majestic Humpback whales migrate along Australia’s East Coast—and there’s no better place to witness this awe-inspiring event than from Port Macquarie. With the whales passing so close to shore, you're just a short boat ride away from unforgettable sightings. Our experienced spotter on the headland works in real time with the skipper to guide the vessel to the best vantage points.

Your cruise will be aboard one of our three state-of-the-art vessels, specially designed for whale watching. These boats offer the smoothest ride, and each features a roof for sun and rain protection, while still allowing for incredible up-close encounters with these gentle giants. You might even hear their calls or catch a whiff as they surface nearby. On lucky days, a splash might come close enough to give you a taste of the experience—so keep your camera ready!

All our vessels are equipped with marine toilets, comfortable seating, and plenty of room to move around once we reach the whales, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

We operate daily throughout the season, offering multiple tours from morning until late—only bad weather keeps us ashore.

Join us for an unforgettable encounter with nature at its most magnificent.

? Begin Your Day with the Humpbacks

Embark on a serene morning journey as the first light of dawn illuminates the ocean, setting the stage for breathtaking encounters with migrating Humpback whales. Our Sunrise Whale Watch Cruise offers unparalleled photographic opportunities and a tranquil perspective on these majestic creatures—from the water, at daybreak.

Port Macquarie stands as one of Australia's premier vantage points for whale watching, thanks to its close proximity to the migration path. With assistance from our skilled spotter on the hill, our experienced skipper will guide you directly to the action—swiftly and safely.

Port Macquarie is one of Australia’s premier vantage points for whale watching, thanks to its close proximity to the migration path. With help from our skilled spotter on the hill, our skipper will take you right to the action—quickly and safely.

? About the Cruise

• Duration: Approx. 1.5 hours

• Vessel: State-of-the-art, purpose-built whale-watching boats

  • Smooth-riding hulls for a pleasant experience

  • Covered seating areas to protect you from sun and rain

  • Open-air views for close-up sightings

  • Onboard marine toilet

  • Ample room to move about during whale encounters

  • Professional photographer on most tours

• Departure: Daily from Port Macquarie CBD (Short Street)

✅ What You Need to Know Before Riding With Us

⏰ Arrival Time

• Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.

• Boats depart on time. Late arrivals will not be refunded.

Health & Medical Conditions

• Bring all necessary medications (e.g., asthma inhalers, EpiPens).

• Consult your GP if you have any recent medical conditions or hospital visits.

• This cruise is not suitable for:

  • Pregnant passengers

  • Those with back or neck injuries

Children Onboard

• Minimum age is 4 years.

• All children must be supervised at all times.

• In rough seas, the skipper has final say on whether young children may board.

What to Bring

• A warm jacket (it can get cold, especially in winter)

• Closed-toe, non-slip shoes for safety

• Camera, spare batteries, and memory cards

Onboard Facilities

• Marine toilet available

• Photographer onboard most cruises—photos available for purchase

? Sea Sickness

We apologize, but there are no refunds for sea sickness.

Some people never get sea sick (the lucky ones!), however others need to be prepared. We advise you to take some preventative if unsure; don’t let sea sickness spoil your trip!

Visit the pharmacy prior to the day of your cruise for motion sickness tablets to ensure you make the most of your cruise.

We strongly recommend you abstain from large milky drinks (i.e., coffee!) and eat mindfully before your cruise.

❌ Cancellations & Refunds

Although we would love to be out on the water every day, sometimes Mother Nature does not play along. Our passengers' comfort and safety are our priority. If we cancel due to weather or unsafe conditions:

• You will be moved to the next suitable day. If we cancel the ride and you are unable to cruise another day, you will be refunded.

If you cancel:

• Less than 24 hours before departure = 100% cancellation fee

• No-shows = no refund

? Weather & Schedule Changes

Port Jet Cruises reserves the right to change or cancel departure times due to bad weather and/or ocean conditions, or passenger numbers.

Please make sure to read your confirmation and reminder emails/text messages to confirm any departure time changes that may have occurred.

We try to do so with as much notice as possible; however, sometimes conditions outside and on the bar can change quite quickly, meaning in some cases, unfortunately, the call can only be made on the morning of the cruise.

Remember…. Check your confirmation and reminder emails/texts for any last-minute changes.

? How Close Do We Get to the Whales?

We must stand off 100 meters from the adults and 300 meters from the cows and their young. However, they can come right up to the boat if they want—and they often do!

They can often come so close that you can smell and hear them, or even get a little wet!

Whilst all efforts will be made to ensure that your whale experience is an enjoyable one, it is important to remember that these whales are wild animals—they do not perform on cue!

All encounters are conducted in accordance with the Australian National Guidelines for Whale and Dolphin Watching (2005) as well as our own strict Code of Practice.

✅ Ready to Book?

Secure your seat on the Sunset Whale Watch Cruise today and enjoy one of nature’s most beautiful displays—backlit by an Australian coastal sunset.