Whale watching season has returned to Shellharbour with cruises officially restarting. Photo: Shellharbour Wild.
Whale watching season is officially underway with an up-close experience returning to Shellharbour to give the community a chance to see one of the greatest mammal migrations just off our coastline.
From the Shellharbour Marina to the Humpback Highway, the Illawarra’s blue backyard and all the creatures that call it home will be on display as Shellharbour Wild launches its 2026 whale watching season.
Cruises have kicked off, with whale enthusiasts keeping a keen eye out as humpbacks migrate from the icy waters of Antarctica to warmer northern breeding grounds where they mate and give birth.
The Illawarra coastline is a prime location to catch the action.
“Throughout the season, guests may witness spectacular breaching displays, tail slaps and unforgettable encounters with humpback whales in their natural environment,” a Shellharbour Wild spokesperson said.
“During the southern migration, mothers and calves are often seen travelling closer to shore, with mothers teaching their calves important whale behaviours before the long journey back to Antarctica.”
“There is nothing quite like seeing humpback whales in the wild. Every cruise is different and every encounter is unique. Whale watching creates unforgettable memories while also connecting people with the importance of protecting our marine environment.”
The experience from Shellharbour Wild’s purpose-built two-storey power catamaran offers indoor and outdoor seating options, with the location boasting quick access to the ocean, no-fuss parking as well as the opportunity to enjoy the broader offerings of Shell Cove, including the scenery and wildlife that reside there year-round.
“Cruising from Shellharbour Marina also offers breathtaking views of Bass Point, Bushrangers Bay and the pristine waters surrounding Shellharbour,” the spokesperson said.
“Dolphins, seals and seabirds are regularly encountered during cruises, while migrating albatross from across the globe are also often spotted gliding effortlessly above the Pacific Ocean.”
While humpbacks are undoubtably a highlight, the experience of embarking on an adventure which has been run from Shellharbour for the past five years provides a unique opportunity to put your phone away and connect with creatures that are right on our doorstop even if the whales don’t put on a show.
“No-one has checked their phone once; we’ve all been too absorbed in the moment,” Region’s Zoe Cartwright said of her experience last year.
“We all disembark with hearty appetites, and, despite the lack of whales, we are still buzzing.
“It’s hard to be disappointed when you’ve spent the afternoon totally absorbed in the magic of our local environment.”
Cruises run from May to November with season passes also available.
For more information or to book, visit the Shellharbour Wild website.
