Whale Watching Cruise

WHALE SEASON IS ALMOST HERE!

Daily Whale Watching Cruises start May 22nd

Join Ballina and Byron Bay's most unique whale watching experience - voted as the #1 tour in the region and the only local tour guided by a qualified Marine Biologist.

Encounter astonishing Humpback Whales in their natural habitat as they migrate past the coastline between Ballina and Byron Bay. Departing from Ballina’s Richmond River, cruise along the stunning backdrop and enter the pristine waters of Cape Byron Marine Park. Enjoy breathtaking coastal scenery while listening to live Humpback Whale song using our specialised underwater hydrophone. Our friendly Marine Biologist will share in-depth knowledge of the area & jaw-dropping encounters we experience within Byron’s Marine Park.

Each year, between May and November, Southern Hemisphere Humpback Whales travel north from their Antarctic summer feeding grounds, past Cape Byron headland, and on to their breeding and birthing grounds in the sub-tropics. At more than 10,000kms round trip, this is considered one of the longest migrations in the animal kingdom. Witnessing this stunning spectacle is easy from Australia’s most easterly point. 

100% Whale Sighting Guarantee

We are so sure you’ll spot a whale that we offer a free trip in the rare event that you don’t see one on your first whale watching adventure with us!

Cruise Times

Any time is a great time for whale watching! We offer multiple daily departures for flexibility so the the time of your cruise simply comes down to personal preference.

Vessel 1: 7:30am, 10:00am, 12:30pm, 3:00pm 

Vessel 2: 7:31am, 10:01am, 12:31am, 3:01pm

Please arrive 20mins prior to your departure time for boarding. 

Departure times are subject to change depending on ocean and weather conditions to ensure the safest and most enjoyable experience. Please visit our vessels page for information on our vessels.

What if your desired time or session is booked out?

Please join our waitlist (online) if your desired date is booked out. We will call anyone on this list first if seats become available for your group size. 

The system will ask for your credit card details, but you will not get charged unless we call and confirm that seats are available for you to join us.

Attention Groups

Please book all in one order or add to your notes that you are with another group, so we can try our best to seat you together.

Restrictions

All children must be accompanied by an adult. Minimum age is 5yrs for any cruise on the ocean. Not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users or anyone with a neck, back or spine injury or condition.

Whale Watching Transfers From Byron to Ballina

Our Ballina boarding location is the closest option for guests staying in or visiting Byron Bay. Whale Watching Transfers are available for $35 return and can be booked online via Ballina Byron Airport Transfers website or by calling +61 481 553 08. 

Regular public transport is also available, wit the Route 640 public bus operating between Byron Bay and Ballina. Taxis and rideshare services are also readily accessible.