Images and Video
2.5 hour Discovery Cruise
Highlights
- Embark from Darling Harbour and reach the open ocean in just 25 minutes for stunning whale sightings.
- Relax on the sun deck or in the climate-controlled cabin while enjoying breathtaking views of humpback whales.
- Discover expert insights and fascinating facts about whales from the knowledgeable crew during your cruise.
- Experience a family-friendly adventure that combines comfort and speed for an unforgettable day on the water.
Departing from Darling Harbour, jump on board the 2.5-hour Discovery Cruise on Fantasea Avalon.
Whale Watching Sydney’s 2.5-hour Discovery Cruise is designed to give you the best value cruise for your money, combining speed, comfort, and breathtaking views of humpback whales (and other sea creatures) in their natural habitat.
Departing from Darling Harbour, you’ll reach the open ocean in just 25 minutes to explore Fantasea Avalon. Watch whales in comfort from the seated sun deck, covered rear deck or climate-controlled cabin.
The expert crew and onboard guides will get you to the best spots to see whales, as well as commentate on their behaviour and give you insights and facts about these amazing creatures.
Itinerary highlights
Sydney Harbour
Tour details
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Available from 22 May 2026 to 1 November 2026
Features
Service facilities
Sevice Activity
Actively welcomes people with access needs.
General access
- Offers multiple options for booking – web, email, phone is available.
- Offers a range of contact methods for receiving complaints.
- Advise tour guides of the access needs of guests at the time of booking (includes pick up and drop off requirements)
- Assistance with booking arrangements (includes providing clear itineraries with written instructions on what to do at various destinations)
Physical – Mobility
Caters for people with sufficient mobility to climb a few steps but who would benefit from fixtures to aid balance. (This includes people using walking frames and mobility aids)
- Uses floors/coverings which are slip resistant, firm and smooth
- Uses non-slip tiles in the bathroom or slip resistant matting
- Grab rails in the bathroom
- Seating in common areas including reception area
Physical – Wheelchair
Caters for people who use a wheelchair.
- Step free outdoor pathways (includes picnic areas, barbecues and shelters)
- A step free main entrance to the building and/or reception area (includes ramps or slopes with a maximum gradient of 1:14, otherwise are too steep for wheelchairs)
- Doorways which are easy to open and have lever handles (doorways 850mm or wider when open and not heavy).
- An accessible public toilet which is unlocked.
- A wheelchair accessible toilet / shower and change room is available.
- Wheelchair access to amusements and activities including boats and bush trails (includes tour rides, skyways, trolley cars, flying fox, amusement rides and boating).
- Portable ramps.
Operation information
Whale Watching Sydney
Whale Watching Sydney offers one of the best whale watching experiences in Australia. Their passionate crew have over 30 years of experience aboard their fleet of custom-built whale watching vessels, which means you’ll be in good hands to see nature’s beauty with your very eyes.
Daily cruises depart from Darling Harbour and Circular Quay from mid-May to the end of November each year. They also offer a 99% percent success rate with whales guaranteed or a free return cruise.
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