Whale Watching Jervis Bay: Everything You Need to Know
Whale watching in Jervis Bay is something you don’t want to miss, especially if you’re on the New South Wales coast. Whales migrate to this area every year, so it’s the perfect spot to see them up close. Watching them flip, splash, and play in the open water is truly magical.
What better way to enjoy this experience if not embarking on a whale watching cruise in Jervis Bay? These tours are usually around two hours long and take you just outside the bay, where the whales love to show off. Along the way, you might even spot dolphins and other marine animals, too.
If you’re currently considering this cruise, perhaps with friends or family, keep reading our guide on whale watching Jervis Bay. You’ll learn everything you need to know, like the best time to go, the types of whales you might see, and how to choose the right cruise. Make sure you read to the end. Let’s go!
Why Choose Jervis Bay for Whale Watching?
Jervis Bay sits right along the famous “Humpback Highway,” which marks the halfway point of the whales' 5,000km journey between Antarctica and the warm northern waters. Since the water at the Jervis Bay Marine Park is calm and sheltered, whales easily stop here to rest, play, and care for their newborn calves.
However, what makes Jervis Bay whale watching so special is the mix of beautiful scenery and rich marine life. Aside from the humpback and southern right whales, the Bay also attracts dolphins, seals, turtles, and more.
The whale watch Jervis Bay is seasonal as well and runs from May to November. So there’s a long window to catch these magical moments.
Types of Whales You Can Spot in Jervis Bay
During the Jervis Bay whale watching season, different whale species pass through the calm waters of the marine park. Here are some of the most common ones you might see:
Humpback Whales: These are the most-seen whales at the bay. They are known for their incredible breaching and playful behaviour. You’ll most likely see them between May and November.
Southern Right Whales: This species of whale moves slowly and is often seen close to shore. You’ll easily recognize them with their wide backs and lack of a dorsal fin.
Minke Whales: These ones are smaller, sleek, and shy. They move quickly and can be spotted feeding in groups.
Pilot Whales: This type of whale travels in pods because of their social and curious nature. They are also medium-sized and have rounded heads and dark bodies.
False Killer Whales: These are rare but possible to see. They are large and are known for their speed and hunting skills. They sometimes travel in large, energetic pods.
What Whale Watching Cruises in Jervis Bay Can You Choose?
When it comes to whale watching tours Jervis Bay, the season you visit determines the species of whales you’ll see. Each time of year offers something unique, but here are the best cruises to go for:
Whale Watch Cruise: This is best had between May to November. It’s the best time for an up-close encounter with humpback whales because they make their migration through Jervis Bay. While on this cruise, you’ll see them breaching, tail-slapping, and blowing water through their spouts.
Dolphin Watch Cruise: This one happens all year round. It’s the best experience for those curious about dolphins. There are over 70 resident bottlenose dolphins, and you’ll watch them race alongside the boat or play in the surf.
Jervis Bay Passage Cruise: It’s also available all year round. Here, you’ll cruise past some of the whitest beaches in the world and get a chance to see a colony of Australian fur seals.
Summer Boom Netting: One of the favourite tours because it takes place during warmer months, from November to May. It combines the beauty of Jervis Bay with the thrill of being towed in a net behind the boat. Such a perfect cruise to cool off and laugh with family and friends.
Tips for a Successful Whale Watching Experience
To have the best whale watching experience in Jervis Bay, pay attention to these tips:
1. Book With a Reputable Company
First, choose a trusted operator for your whale watching tour in Jervis Bay. Read reviews, ask about safety measures, and check if they offer rebooking guarantees in case of no sightings.
2. Check the Weather and Marine Forecast
Before you head out, check the forecast for wind and wave conditions. Calmer days are better for smoother sailings, and you can easily spot a whale too.
3. Pack the right Clothing
Wear layered clothing to handle changing temperatures, and bring a waterproof jacket and rubber-soled shoes for grip and comfort on a moving boat. Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential.
4. Know What to Look For
When a whale dives, don’t stare at the same spot; rather, track the direction it was heading. Also, watch for signs like a sudden arching of the back and the whale’s tail rising. That’s your cue for the perfect shot.
5. Avoid Seasickness
The last thing you want is to get sick while on a cruise. To be on the safe side, take motion sickness medication at least 30–60 minutes before boarding. It’s best to choose non-drowsy formulas to stay alert and enjoy every moment of your trip.
6. Bring Food and Water
Most tours allow snacks and drinks, but no alcohol or glass bottles. It’s best to pack your lunch, especially if you’re with kids.
7. Bring the power
You’ll definitely be taking lots of pictures and videos, so come with a good camera with zoom, binoculars, and a spare memory card. Your smartphone, too, can capture great moments. To ensure these devices stay powered throughout your cruise, carry a portable power station. You can use it to recharge on the go.
Pair it with the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Portable Power Station for reliable, on-the-move charging: 245Wh capacity and 300 W continuous output (600W surge via X-Boost) keep cameras, phones, and drones running cruise-long. UPS mode switches over in under 10ms to protect against momentary power dips, while six AC, DC, USB-A, and USB-C ports power multiple devices at once. IP54-rated durability and whisper-quiet operation under 30dB make it ideal for the peaceful setting of a whale-watching boat.
EcoFlow RIVER 3 Portable Power Station
8. Power Your Boat with Reliable Batteries
If you’re heading out on a private or rental boat, using high-quality lithium boat batteries ensures steady performance. Compared to lead-acid types, lithium models are lighter, last longer, and provide consistent output.
The EcoFlow 12V 100Ah Lithium Trolling Motor Battery is well-suited for trolling motors from 13.6 to 31.8 kg. It offers a 1280Wh capacity, 1280W continuous output, and 300A burst current. With EV-grade LFP cells, over 6000 life cycles, IP65 waterproofing, and an advanced BMS, it's built for safe, long-lasting power in marine environments.
Conclusion
Wrapping it up, whale watching Jervis Bay is truly one of the most memorable experiences to have with friends and family - getting to sight humpbacks showing off their acrobatics, and dolphins playing in the waves. But to get the best from this adventure, go with the right planning, clothing, and equipment. Power solutions like EcoFlow RIVER 3 will keep devices like your smartphone, binoculars, and other gear powered up and strong even in remote locations.
FAQs
When can you see whales in Jervis Bay?
You can see whales in Jervis Bay from May to November. The best time is June and July, when whales are heading north, and September to October, when mothers and calves rest in the calm waters of the bay.
What is the best month to see whales in Jervis Bay?
The best month to see whales in Jervis Bay depends on what kind of experience you want. If you want to see whales jumping and splashing in the open ocean, go between May and October. But if you want a calm and close-up view of whales inside the bay, the best time is October to November.