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Activity Newcastle, Australia

Newcastle to Port Stephens: Whale Watching, Hike & Dunes

5.0 (3 reviews) 8–9 hours Free cancellation
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Newcastle to Port Stephens: Whale Watching, Hike & Dunes

About this activity

See the humpback whale migration up close on this full day tour from Newcastle to Port Stephens, with hotel pick up and drop off included and a local guide for the day.

What you'll do:

-Hike Mount Tomaree (2.2 km) for panoramic views of Port Stephens, or take the flatter coastal walk.

-Cruise for 2.5 hours during the humpback migration, when over 40,000 whales pass the NSW coast. Watch for dolphins, seals and seabirds too.

-Enjoy a seafood lunch with ocean views, with vegetarian and kid-friendly options (own cost).

-Finish at a lookout over the Southern Hemisphere's largest moving sand dunes.

-Return transport from your Newcastle accommodation is included.

Whale cruises run in season, roughly May to November.

Nature and Wildlife Tours Full-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Ports of Call Tours Shore Excursions Small Group Involves Animals

At a glance

Duration
8–9 hours
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Up to 11 people
People per booking
1–7
Guide
English
Operated by
Newy Tour Co.

Ages: Youth (7–13 years) · Adults (14–110 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: In-vehicle air conditioning: Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Included: Whale Boat Cruise
  • Included: Pick up & Drop off to your door

Not included

  • Not included: Lunch

Itinerary

  1. Stop 1

    1 h 30 min

    Take a short but exhilarating walk to the summit of Mount Tomaree, towering 161m above the entrance of Port Stephens. Be prepared to be mesmerized by unparalleled views of the stunning coastline.

    From the summit, feast your eyes on the vistas of Yacaaba Head, Cabbage Tree, Boondelbah, and Broughton Islands from the north platform. As you absorb scenery, marvel at the fact that these nature reserves are the exclusive nesting grounds for the endangered Gould's petrel.

    Switching to the south platform, be astounded by the majestic views of Zenith, Wreck, and Box Beaches, along with the iconic Fingal Island and Point Stephens Lighthouse. These sights are sure to leave a lasting impression on your journey.

    The Tomaree Head Summit walk not only offers a rewarding and challenging hike, but also presents you with picturesque ocean views that stretch across Port Stephens and beyond.

    Please note this hike can be a little challenging, there is an alternate flatter option available.

  2. Stop 2

    one hour

    Join us on our tour for a chance to treat your taste buds to a scrumptious lunch at the Newcastle & Port Stephens Game Fish Club (cost not included). With a delightful range of seafood options including calamari, prawns, squid, and a variety of fish, there is something for every palate. Opt for vegetarian or children's menu if you prefer. If you're not a fan of seafood, they offer classic options such as chicken and beef as well. Take pleasure in savoring delectable delicacies amidst the picturesque Bay views.

  3. Stop 3

    3 hours Admission included

    Embark on an unforgettable 2.5-3 hour Whale Watching cruise with Moonshadow TQC and witness the incredible northern Whale migration from May to November. Hop aboard the Hinchinbrook Explorer or the MV Osprey for exceptional viewing opportunities of our magnificent whales. Watch in awe as humpback whales, weighing up to 40 tons and measuring 18 meters long, engage in fascinating displays like spy hops, pectoral slaps, body rolls, and breathtaking breaches. Enjoy captivating commentary from your Captain and keep an eye out for Australian Fur Seals, Common & Bottlenose dolphins, and stunning outer islands. With spacious viewing decks, both indoor and outdoor, you'll have the best vantage point to observe these majestic creatures. Quench your thirst with a selection of beverages from the fully licensed bar and grab a delicious snack as you sail along.

  4. Stockton Sand Dunes

    15 min

    During our tour, we make a stop at a truly unique viewpoint that unveils the awe-inspiring sight of the largest moving coastal dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. This mesmerizing natural wonder is a sight to behold, as the shifting dunes create a constantly changing landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see. You'll be captivated by the sheer size and magnitude of these dunes, and the breathtaking views they offer. It's a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and appreciate the remarkable forces that shape our world.

Meeting point and pickup

The operator picks every participant up from their accommodation or the points below.

Pickup points

  • The Grand Hotel Newcastle
  • Junction Hotel
  • Terminus Apartment Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel
  • Holiday Inn Express Newcastle By IHG
  • Noah's On The Beach
  • Hotel Delany
  • The Gateway Inn Newcastle
  • Little National Hotel Newcastle
  • Jesmond Executive Villas
  • Merewether Motel
  • ibis Newcastle

and 25 more pickup points

We pick you up and drop you back to your specified Newcastle address - hotel, airbnb, private residence. Pick up areas accepted are: Newcastle East/ West, Merewether, Cooks Hill, The Hill, Bar Beach, Adamstown, Hamilton, Kotara, Charlestown, Highfields, Lambton, New Lambton, Mayfield, Waratah, Shortland, Fern Bay, Stockton & Fullerton Cove. For other Newcastle locations please contact us prior to booking.

Using your ticket

Please let me know your pick up address. You can text it to 0432 044 160 or email [email protected]

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%
  • The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
  • The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

  • The drive time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from Newcastle to Port Stephens (and similar on return)

Traveller ratings

5.0 out of 5 · 3 reviews
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Newcastle to Port Stephens: Whale Watching, Hike & Dunes

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