Port Stephens is home to a resident pod of approximately 160 Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins — one of the largest resident pods on the east coast of Australia. Unlike seasonal whale sightings, these dolphins live here year-round.
Can you see dolphins year-round in Port Stephens?
Yes — and not just occasionally. The Port Stephens resident pod is split into two completely separate social groups that don't interact with each other or with any pods outside the bay. Both groups live here permanently, and operators consistently report dolphin sightings on more than 90% of all departures throughout the year, including winter.
What time do dolphin cruises depart?
Moonshadow TQC runs multiple dolphin cruise departures daily — typically morning and afternoon sessions. Imagine Cruises and AquaMarine Adventures run departures morning to early afternoon. Exact times change seasonally, so check the live departure board on this site for today's schedule before you book.
Where do dolphin cruises depart from in Nelson Bay?
Moonshadow TQC departs from d'Albora Marina — either Dock C or Wharf One, just outside the booking office at 40a Victoria Parade, Nelson Bay. Imagine Cruises and AquaMarine Adventures depart from Nelson Bay Marina, a short walk further along the waterfront. Your booking confirmation will specify the exact dock — always double-check, as the two marinas are separate.
How long do dolphin cruises last?
Standard dolphin watching cruises run between 1.5 and 2 hours. Once out on the water, the captain uses local knowledge and live lookouts to track where the pod is feeding or resting — time spent with the dolphins varies but the pod is usually encountered within the first 20–30 minutes of departure.
Which companies run dolphin cruises from Nelson Bay?
Three licensed operators depart from Nelson Bay. Moonshadow TQC is the largest — they run dolphin cruises year-round and whale watching cruises from May to November on a fully equipped vessel with an onboard café. Imagine Cruises offers a smaller, more intimate experience on a dedicated dolphin cruise vessel. AquaMarine Adventures is the fast, high-energy option — operated by the Moonshadow TQC crew on a smaller vessel. All three are on the live departure board, and some will only appear after the whale season has finished running from May to November.
When is whale watching season at Port Stephens?
Whale watching season at Port Stephens generally runs May through November. The final whale-watch cruise for the 2026 season is on 4 November, with whale cruises returning in May 2027. Nelson Bay sits directly on the east Australian humpback migration corridor — sometimes called the Humpback Highway — with over 40,000 whales passing each year, up from just 12,000 two decades ago. The northbound migration (June–August) tends to feature more active surface behaviour including breaching; the southbound return (September–November) often includes mothers with calves. Peak sighting months are July to October.
What types of whales can you see at Port Stephens?
Humpback whales make up the overwhelming majority of sightings during the migration — they're known for dramatic breaching, tail slapping, and spy-hopping right alongside the vessels. Southern right whales are spotted less frequently but occasionally rest in the sheltered bay. Orca (killer whale) sightings happen a handful of times each season and are always memorable. Outside of whale season the 160-strong resident bottlenose dolphin pod is the star attraction year-round.
Are whale sightings guaranteed?
No wildlife encounter can be guaranteed, but the odds at Port Stephens during peak season are very high — Nelson Bay is one of the closest whale watching locations to Sydney that sits right on the migration path rather than just near it. Moonshadow TQC offers a complimentary return cruise if no whales are sighted. Check each operator's policy when booking.
Do I need to book whale watching in advance?
Yes, and as early as you can. July and August departures — particularly weekend mornings and NSW school holiday periods — sell out days or weeks ahead. Moonshadow TQC books via FareHarbor; Imagine Cruises via Rezdy; AquaMarine via FareHarbor. All three are linked from the live departure board on this site.
How much does the Tea Gardens Ferry cost?
Fares effective 1 July 2026 (one way / return):
• Adults (15+): $24.50 / $49.00 rtn
• Children (Ages 4–14): $14.50 / $29.00 rtn
• Seniors (with valid Concession Card): $22.50 / $45.00 rtn
• Infants (Ages 0–3): $5.00 / $10.00 rtn
• Companion/Carer (with valid Support Card): $20.00 / $40.00 rtn
• Bicycles: $5.00 / $10.00 rtn
• Golf Bags: Free both ways
Online booking fees apply. Book online via FareHarbor — a link is available on the live departures board.
Is there a ferry from Nelson Bay to Tea Gardens?
Yes. Tea Gardens Ferry runs a scheduled passenger service connecting Nelson Bay and Tea Gardens. The crossing takes approximately 1 hour each way and is a relaxing scenic alternative to driving.
How long does the ferry crossing take?
The crossing is approximately 1 hour in each direction.
Where does the ferry depart from in Nelson Bay?
Nelson Bay departures leave from the public wharf at 40a Victoria Parade, Nelson Bay — right outside our booking office, which is where you can buy your Tea Gardens Ferry tickets from 9.00am, 7 days a week.
Where does the ferry depart from in Tea Gardens?
Tea Gardens departures leave from the public wharf at 93 Marine Drive, Tea Gardens — opposite the Tea Gardens Hotel.
Where can I park at Nelson Bay for the ferry?
The wharf carpark on Victoria Parade has 9-hour metered parking and roadside parking nearby is metered at 4 hours. Free parking is also available in Nash Lane — approximately a 5-minute walk from the booking office. Disabled parking is available right next to the office.
Where can I park at Tea Gardens for the ferry?
Parking in Tea Gardens is free. Street parking is widely available near the wharf.
Is the ferry wheelchair accessible?
Yes — MV Tea Gardens is wheelchair friendly and is the only wheelchair-accessible vessel in Port Stephens. Please enquire at our office to find out what size ferry is running.
Can I bring my bike or golf clubs on the ferry?
Yes — both are welcome. Golf clubs travel free. Bikes are A$5.00 each way. Please advise the team before departure so they can accommodate them.
Are dogs allowed on the ferry?
Yes — well-behaved dogs are welcome on a lead. Please don't allow them on the seating.
Can I bring food and drinks on the ferry?
Yes — you're welcome to bring your own food and drinks on board, including BYO. Please no large eskies and be mindful of other passengers.
Is there a toilet on board?
Yes — MV Tea Gardens has a standard flush toilet, MV Wallamba has a marine toilet, and MV Jesse has a camp-style toilet.
Does the ferry operate every day?
Yes — Tea Gardens Ferry runs every day during summer, weather permitting. The winter timetable is subject to change, and services may not run on some Mondays during the winter months. The last departure from Tea Gardens can change from 5.15pm to 4.30pm. The service does not operate on Christmas Day, New Year's Day, or Good Friday. On Anzac Day only the Nelson Bay 11:30am departure runs.
Can I reserve a specific seat?
Pre-booking is recommended but you cannot request a specific seat — for example, the back deck cannot be reserved.
Why is there a charge for infants?
Everyone aboard — regardless of age — counts toward the vessel's capacity head count. Tea Gardens Ferry appreciate your understanding on this.
What do I need to bring for the ferry?
Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure. If you have pre-booked, bring your booking confirmation. Let the team know in advance if you're bringing bikes or golf clubs.
Where do Moonshadow cruises depart from?
Cruises depart from either side of D'Albora Marina, Nelson Bay — check your ticket for the exact location. Some departures leave from Dock C on the main marina; others leave from Wharf One, which is just outside our booking office, Dolphin and Whale Watch Booking Agency, at 40a Victoria Parade, Nelson Bay NSW 2315.
What time should I arrive?
Boarding opens 15 minutes before the scheduled departure. The timetable is strictly followed — arriving late and missing the vessel can result in the full loss of your fare. Allow extra time for parking during peak periods such as Easter, Christmas, and school holidays.
Do I need to pre-book?
Yes — pre-booking is strongly recommended. Availability on the day cannot be guaranteed, particularly on popular departures and during school holidays.
What is the cancellation policy?
Standard cruises: full cancellation charge within 24 hours of departure; travel voucher or refund with more than 24 hours notice. Pre-booked catered cruises: 50% charge within 48 hours; voucher or refund with more than 48 hours notice. Amendments incur a $10 administration fee.
What if Moonshadow cancels my cruise?
If Moonshadow TQC cancels your cruise for any reason, you will be offered a full refund or a transfer to another available day of your choice.
What payment methods are accepted?
VISA and Mastercard (no surcharge), AMEX (3% surcharge), EFTPOS, and cash. Full payment is required at the time of booking.
What ages are child and infant fares?
Child fare: 4–14 years. Infant: 0–3 years.
What counts as a family ticket?
Two adults and two children aged 0–14.
What is classed as concession?
Australian Seniors Card holders, full-time students aged 15–25 with valid Australian ID, YHA and Nomads card holders, and Companion Card holders with their carers. Relevant ID must be shown at the time of request.
Do you sell gift vouchers?
Yes — gift vouchers are available at a monetary value so the recipient can choose their own cruise. Vouchers are valid for 3 years from the date of purchase.
Can children use the boomnet or slide?
Children 1.1m tall and above may use the nets and slide unattended. Shorter children are welcome on the net but must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Can I BYO alcohol?
No — all Moonshadow TQC vessels are fully licensed. Alcohol is available for purchase on board but cannot be removed from the vessel.
Is smoking allowed on board?
No — smoking and e-cigarettes are prohibited on all vessels at all times under NSW law.
Are there toilets on board?
Yes — all vessels have male and female toilets. On some vessels access is via a stairway.
Is there wheelchair access?
The vessels are not easily suited for wheelchair access. If a guest can board without the chair, the chair may be brought on to the main deck level. Crew are unable to physically assist wheelchair-bound guests on or off the vessel due to safety requirements, and all toilet facilities are accessed via stairs. Contact the booking office for advice before travelling.
Is there WiFi on board?
No — there is no WiFi available on the vessels.
Do you operate every day?
Yes, every day of the year except Christmas Day. Departure times can vary between summer and winter schedules — check the specific cruise when booking.
Where are the sand dunes near Nelson Bay?
The Stockton Bight Sand Dunes are located near Anna Bay, about 10 minutes from Nelson Bay. They are the largest moving coastal sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, stretching over 32 kilometres along the coast.
Do I need experience to do a quad bike tour?
No prior experience is needed. Sand Dune Adventures provides a full safety briefing and practice session before every tour. All equipment including helmets and goggles is supplied.
What is the minimum age for quad bike tours?
Riders must be at least 16 years old. Younger guests may ride as passengers with an adult.
How long do quad bike tours last?
The standard tour runs for 1 hour. Check the departure board for current session times.
What should I wear on the quad bike tour?
Closed-toe shoes are required. Long pants are recommended to protect your legs. Helmets and goggles are provided by Sand Dune Adventures.
Do I need to book cruises in advance?
Yes — and don't leave it too late. Moonshadow TQC morning departures during whale season and NSW school holidays fill up days to weeks in advance. The Tea Gardens Ferry also books out on summer weekends. The live departure board on this site links directly to each operator's booking page so you can check real-time availability and lock in your spot.
What happens if it rains?
Port Stephens is one of the most sheltered harbours on the NSW coast, so most cruises run comfortably even in light rain. Moonshadow TQC vessels have fully covered undercover decks so passengers stay dry. Quad bike sand dune tours at Anna Bay also run in light rain — the dunes are best tackled in dry conditions but remain passable. In genuine severe weather, operators cancel and offer a refund or reschedule.
Are children welcome on the cruises?
Yes — all three cruise operators welcome families. On Moonshadow TQC, ages 4–14 are charged at the child rate, and the vessel has a boomnet and waterslide that kids love. Imagine Cruises and AquaMarine Adventures also cater to families — check each booking page for current child pricing.
Is food available on board?
Moonshadow TQC is the only operator with a fully licensed onboard café serving hot food, snacks, and alcohol. Their vessels also have proper male and female toilets. Imagine Cruises and AquaMarine Adventures are smaller vessels — BYO snacks are generally fine but check when booking. The Tea Gardens Ferry allows BYO food and drinks including alcohol (no large eskies).
Where is Nelson Bay?
Nelson Bay is the main hub of Port Stephens, sitting on the southern shore of the bay about 210 km north of Sydney — approximately 2 hours 15 minutes by car via the M1 Pacific Motorway and Raymond Terrace bypass, or about 45 minutes from Newcastle. Port Stephens itself is one of the largest natural deepwater harbours in the Southern Hemisphere, which is why the marine wildlife — dolphins and migrating whales — is so accessible right from the marina.
What should I bring on a cruise?
Port Stephens harbour is well sheltered, so rough seas are rare — but it's still worth being prepared. Bring sunscreen (UV is strong on the water even on overcast days), a light layer or jacket for the sea breeze, non-slip shoes, and a camera with a good zoom for whale and dolphin shots. If you're prone to motion sickness, take medication before boarding — once underway there's no going back. Seasickness patches or wristbands work well for sensitive passengers.
What is the best time of year to visit Port Stephens?
It depends what you're after. July–October is peak whale watching — humpbacks are extremely active and the weather is usually mild and clear. December–February brings warm water, busy beaches, and the full range of summer activities including kayaking and sandboarding. The shoulder seasons (April–May and September–November) are a sweet spot: fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures, and dolphins year-round regardless of season. There's genuinely no bad time — the resident pod means marine wildlife is always on offer.