Jervis Bay, located on the south coast of New South Wales, Australia, is known for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and diverse marine life. It’s no wonder that whale watching tours have become a popular activity for visitors to the area. With so many options available, it can be difficult to decide which tour to choose. In this post, we’ll explore the best whale watching tours in Jervis Bay, as well as what makes them stand out from the rest. Whether you’re an avid whale watcher or just looking for a unique experience, this guide will help you find the perfect tour for your trip to Jervis Bay.
The 2 Best Whale Watching in Jervis Bay
The 2 Best Whale Watching in Jervis Bay
1. Jervis Bay Whale Watching Cruise
Witness one of nature’s most fascinating phenomenon, the annual humpback whale migration, on this whale-watching cruise in Jervis Bay. Board a specially designed catamaran and sail to the Jervis Bay Marine Park, where you’ll have the chance to see the gentle giants up close. Keep an eye out for other marine wildlife like bottlenose dolphins, penguins, seals, and albatross. This tour is perfect for families and offers excellent value for money. The cruise is wheelchair accessible and includes hotel pickup and drop-off. Choose between a morning or afternoon departure and check-in 30 minutes before departure at the private cruise terminal, Portside Cafe, located on the left side of Huskisson Public Wharf on Currambene Street. Enjoy a two-hour cruise with food and drinks provided. Don’t miss out on one of the best whale watching experiences in Jervis Bay.
2. Jervis Bay Dolphin Eco Cruise
Enjoy a thrilling 1.5-hour encounter with dolphins in their natural habitat on this family-friendly and fully narrated Jervis Bay Dolphin Eco Cruise. With a specially designed catamaran that has five viewing levels, you will have plenty of chances to watch the magnificent sea creatures swimming, jumping, and playing around the boat. This tour is wheelchair accessible, and multiple departures are offered throughout the day. During the cruise, you will explore the Jervis Bay Marine Park, enjoy dramatic views along the New South Wales coast, and see native wildlife in their natural environment. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, food and drinks, and a restroom on board (subject to the type of vessel used on the day). Check-in 30 minutes before departure at the private cruise terminal, Portside Cafe, located on the left side of Huskisson Public Wharf. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience one of the best dolphin encounters in Jervis Bay.
Frequently Asked Questions About Whale Watching in Jervis Bay
Jervis Bay is a popular destination for whale watching enthusiasts, with its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life and stunning scenery. If you’re planning a whale watching trip to Jervis Bay, it’s important to be prepared and know what to expect. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about whale watching in Jervis Bay:1. What time of year is best for whale watching in Jervis Bay?
The best time to see whales in Jervis Bay is from May to November, during the annual migration of humpback whales along the east coast of Australia. During this time, you can often see whales breaching, tail slapping and playing in the waters of Jervis Bay. It’s important to note that whale watching can be seasonal and always depending on the different species.2. How long does a typical whale watching tour last?
A typical whale watching tour in Jervis Bay lasts around 2 to 3 hours, although some tours may last longer or shorter. The length of the tour will depend on the operator, the weather and the conditions on the day.3. What kind of whales can be seen in Jervis Bay?
The most commonly sighted whale species in Jervis Bay are humpback whales, but southern right whales and minke whales can also be spotted occasionally. The best time to see each species can vary, so it’s always worth checking with your tour operator before booking.4. Is it safe to get close to the whales?
Whale watching operators in Jervis Bay are highly regulated and are required to follow strict guidelines to ensure the safety of both the whales and the passengers. These guidelines require operators to maintain a safe distance from the whales (at least 100 metres), avoid sudden movements and keep a low speed in whale watching zones.5. What should I wear for a whale watching tour?
It’s important to dress for the weather and wear comfortable, warm clothing, as it can be colder out on the water. Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses are also recommended, as well as footwear with good grip, as the deck can be slippery.6. What happens if we don’t see any whales on the tour?
Most whale watching tour operators in Jervis Bay offer a ‘whale guarantee’ – if you don’t see any whales on your tour, you can usually go on another tour for free. However, it’s important to understand that whale sightings are not guaranteed, as whales are wild animals and can be unpredictable in their movements.7. Can I bring food and drink on the tour?
Most whale watching tour operators in Jervis Bay allow you to bring food and drink on the tour, although it’s important to check with the operator before booking. It’s worth noting that some operators do provide light refreshments on board.8. Is it suitable for children?
Whale watching tours in Jervis Bay are generally suitable for children, although some operators may have age and weight restrictions. It’s important to check with the operator before booking, and to ensure that children are supervised at all times on the boat.9. What kind of boats are used for whale watching tours?
Whale watching tours in Jervis Bay use a variety of different vessels, ranging from small inflatable boats to larger, purpose-built whale watching boats. The type of boat used will depend on the operator and the tour.10. How much does a whale watching tour in Jervis Bay cost?
Whale watching tour prices in Jervis Bay can vary depending on the operator and the type of tour. Generally, prices start at around $65 AUD per person for a 2-3 hour tour, although some longer or private tours may be more expensive.In conclusion, whale watching in Jervis Bay can be an unforgettable experience, but it’s important to be prepared and know what to expect. With the right information and a bit of luck, you can witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat and make memories that will last a lifetime.How to do Whale Watching in Jervis Bay: The Ultimate Guide
If you are an animal lover and you’re planning a trip to Australia, Jervis Bay is the perfect location for whale watching. Jervis Bay is one of the best places in the world to see whales in their natural habitat, and it offers some of the most spectacular views of whales breaching and splashing in the waters.In this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about whale watching in Jervis Bay, including who to go with, when to go, what to bring, and what to expect.1. Choose a reliable whale watching tour operator
The first thing you need to do is choose a reliable whale watching tour operator that will take you out to sea. There are several tour operators in Jervis Bay that offer whale watching tours, but not all of them are reliable. Check online reviews and ratings, and choose a tour operator that has a good reputation for providing a great whale watching experience.2. Decide on the best time to go whale watching
The best time to go whale watching in Jervis Bay is between May and November, which is the migration period for humpback whales. During this time, thousands of humpback whales make their way up the east coast of Australia to warmer waters in Queensland. September is particularly a great month to catch humpback whales as they tend to linger around the area.3. Bring the right gear
When going on a whale watching tour, it’s important to have the right gear with you. Here’s what you should bring:- Layered clothing: The temperature can change quickly out at sea, so it’s important to bring layers that you can add or remove as needed.
- Sunscreen: The sun can be strong out at sea, so make sure to bring sunscreen with a high SPF.
- Sunglasses and a hat: Bring sunglasses and a hat to protect your eyes and face from the sun.
- A camera: You’ll want to capture the amazing views, so bring your camera or phone to take pictures.
- Binoculars: Some tour boats might provide you with binoculars, but it’s best to bring your own.
- Sea sickness medication: If you are prone to sea sickness, make sure to bring your medication with you.
4. Understand what to expect during the tour
A typical whale watching tour lasts for around 2-3 hours, but it can vary depending on the tour operator and weather conditions. Here’s what you can expect during the tour:- A briefing: Before the tour, the captain will give you a briefing on safety procedures and what to expect during the tour.
- Spotting the whales: The tour will take you out to sea where you can spot the whales in their natural habitat.
- Getting close to the whales: If you’re lucky, the tour boat may get close to the whales so you can get a better look. However, it is important to remember that whales are wild animals and the boats will always keep a safe distance from them.
- Other wildlife: As well as whales, you may also spot dolphins, seals, and other marine life during the tour.
- Returning to shore: Once the tour is over, the boat will return to shore.
5. Be responsible while whale watching
When whale watching, it’s important to be respectful of the whales and their environment. Here are some tips to keep in mind:- Don’t approach the whales: Whale watching boats are required to keep a safe distance from the whales, so it’s important not to approach them.
- Don’t litter: Take all rubbish with you when you leave the boat to keep the ocean clean.
- Listen to the captain: The captain of the whale watching tour will give you instructions on what to do to ensure your safety and the safety of the whales. Make sure to follow their instructions carefully.
- Don’t use drones or other gadgets: Using drones, or making noise or splashing near the whales can cause stress and discomfort to the animals. It is best to refrain from doing this.
Book Your Tour Now
Whale watching in Jervis Bay is an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss. With the right tour operator, gear, and knowledge, you can make the most of your trip. Remember to respect these beautiful creatures and their habitat and enjoy the incredible views.Table of Contents
