Jervis Bay Cruises

Jervis Bay cruises are about wildlife. Dolphin cruises and whale watching trips leave from Huskisson on the NSW South Coast, a 2.5-hour drive from Sydney, and head out across clear bay water to find bottlenose dolphins, fur seals and, from mid-May to mid-November, migrating humpback whales.

Dolphin cruises in Jervis Bay

The Jervis Bay Dolphin Watching Cruise is a 90-minute trip with history commentary, unspoilt white beaches and crystal-clear water, and a good chance of seeing bottlenose dolphins feeding in pods over the local reefs or racing alongside the boat. Fur seals and sea turtles also turn up. Spray jackets are provided, since it can be cool on the water.

The Jervis Bay Boom Net Dolphin Cruise is the same length but puts you on a boom net extended from the vessel, so you sit just above the surface as dolphins pass. Marine experts talk you through what you are seeing and a tea or coffee is included. Swimmers and a change of clothes are on the bring list.

The standard dolphin cruise suits a relaxed morning on deck with the commentary. The boom net cruise suits anyone who wants to be closer to the water and does not mind the extra gear.

Whale watching cruises from mid-May to mid-November

Humpback whales pass Jervis Bay between May and November, heading north through winter and returning south in spring. The Whale Watching Jervis Bay cruise covers that window, running seven days a week including public holidays at 10am and 1pm. It is a 2-hour trip with underwater viewing windows and viewing areas built for watching whales, and dolphins and other marine life are part of the trip too.

In winter, the whale season and the dolphin cruises overlap, so a weekend here can include one of each. The Jervis Bay whale watching page has more on the season and how the cruise works.

Where Jervis Bay cruises depart and when

Cruises meet at 15 Field Street in Huskisson, on the public wharf near Fishermen's Wharf Restaurant. The boom net cruise runs daily at 10.30am or 1pm. Dolphin watching sessions run through the morning and early afternoon, but the exact times move with the season and tide, so call the operator after booking to confirm.

Check-in is half an hour before departure for the whale and boom net cruises, and boarding starts a quarter of an hour before. No transfers are included, so you drive yourself to Huskisson. Jervis Bay is less than a 3-hour drive from both Sydney and Canberra.

Wildlife you can expect around Jervis Bay

The Jervis Bay Marine Park is home to bottlenose dolphins, fur seals, little penguins and sea dragons. Dolphins, fur seals and seabirds are the likeliest sightings on a cruise, with humpback whales added during the migration season. Bring a camera and something warm, since it can be cool on the water.

Frequently asked questions

How long are Jervis Bay dolphin cruises?

The Jervis Bay Dolphin Watching Cruise and the Jervis Bay Boom Net Dolphin Cruise are both 90-minute trips, with boarding starting a quarter of an hour before departure.

When is whale watching season in Jervis Bay?

Whale watching cruises from Huskisson run from mid-May to mid-November. The Whale Watching Jervis Bay cruise is a 2-hour trip departing at 10am and 1pm.

Where do Jervis Bay cruises depart from?

The Jervis Bay dolphin, boom net and whale watching cruises all meet at 15 Field Street, Huskisson, near the public wharf and Fishermen's Wharf Restaurant.

What should I bring on a Jervis Bay cruise?

Bring a camera, water and something warm. Spray jackets are provided on the Jervis Bay Dolphin Watching Cruise, and the Jervis Bay Boom Net Dolphin Cruise also asks for swimmers and a change of clothes.

Are Jervis Bay dolphin cruises wheelchair friendly?

The Jervis Bay Dolphin Watching Cruise vessel is set up for wheelchair access, but it is tide-dependent, so contact the operator before booking if you need it.

Pick a dolphin cruise for an easy 90-minute trip around the bay, or check the season dates and go whale watching from Huskisson. See you on the water.