Sydney: Sydney Harbour Tall Ship Whale Watching & Sailing

If you’re looking for a blend of adventure, authenticity, and fantastic wildlife viewing, the Sydney Harbour Tall Ship Whale Watching & Sailing tour offers a unique way to experience the city’s waters. This 4-hour cruise immerses you in the thrill of genuine tall ship sailing while giving you a front-row seat to the annual Great Whale Migration.

What we love about this experience is its combination of sailing on an historic vessel, close encounters with whales, and the opportunity to take part in sailing activities. Plus, the onboard warm, hearty lunch makes the trip even more memorable. That said, a potential consideration is that this tour isn’t suited for those with mobility challenges or large luggage, due to its open deck and sailing nature.

Overall, it’s perfect for curious travelers eager to see whales in a natural setting, lovers of sailing, and those wanting a more authentic, less commercialized experience than typical motor boat tours.

Key Points

• Authentic Tall Ship Experience: Sail aboard a historic square rigger with over 20,000 square feet of canvas.
• Whale Watching in Style: Use the ship’s high vantage points, like the crow’s nest, for prime whale spotting.
• Participation Opportunities: Climb the mast, help with setting sails, and get involved in sailing maneuvers.
• Inclusive & Practical: A 4-hour cruise with a hearty onboard lunch, limited to small groups for a personal experience.
• Best for Enthusiasts: Perfect for sailing lovers, wildlife watchers, and those seeking an authentic adventure.
• Considerations: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with large bags, and no transfers are included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Setting and Itinerary

The tour begins at a conveniently located meeting point between the Park Hyatt Hotel and the Overseas Passenger Terminal. From here, you’ll board the Coral Trekker, one of Sydney Harbour’s historic tall ships, renowned for its tall masts and classic square-rig design. The vessel’s impressive size, with over 20,000 square feet of canvas, immediately sets the scene for an authentic sailing adventure.

Over the four hours, your journey involves more than just sightseeing. The cruise is timed to coincide with the Great Whale Migration, which brings thousands of Humpback and Southern Right whales close to Sydney’s coastline. The captain, experienced in whale spotting, will navigate the vessel to best vantage points, but your own eyes and the ship’s high mast are your best tools for spotting whales early and close-up.

Why a Tall Ship Offers a Superior Perspective

Compared to motorized vessels, sailing on a tall ship offers quieter, less disruptive whale watching. The quiet nature of the vessel minimizes disturbance to the whales, which is a significant advantage for wildlife enthusiasts. Plus, the vantage point from the crows nest is unmatched for spotting distant whales, giving you spectacular panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and beyond.

The Sailing and Activity Component

One of the tour’s highlights is the opportunity to actively participate in sailing the vessel. Whether you help set the sails, learn about the ropes, or climb the mast with safety harnesses, you’ll gain a genuine sense of what it’s like to operate a tall ship. Reviewers have praised the crew’s friendly, knowledgeable guidance—some mentioned that the crew, especially the captain, was “super helpful and quick to share sailing tips.”

Climbing the mast is a definite “must-do” for many visitors, with instructions provided, and a real sense of achievement afterward. It’s not only a chance to enjoy unbeatable views but also an engaging highlight that many tour-goers remember fondly.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Whale Watching

During the cruise, you’ll be on the lookout for humpbacks, often seen breaching or tail-slapping, and Southern Right whales, known for their gentle nature. The captain’s high vantage point and the open deck make it easier to spot whales in the distance, especially since the ship’s quiet approach minimizes risk of scaring them away.

Multiple reviews mention how close the whales come, with one noting, “We saw multiple whales breaching right next to the ship, it was incredible.” The timing during the migration season means whale sightings are highly probable, and the knowledgeable crew is always on the lookout.

Food and Comfort

A delightful feature of this tour is the warm, hearty lunch served onboard. While specific menu details aren’t provided, the emphasis on “warm and hearty” suggests comfort food perfect after a morning of sailing and whale watching. This makes the cruise not only an adventure but also a cozy social experience.

The limited group size—restricted to 10 participants—ensures everyone gets a good view and personal interaction, which is often appreciated in reviews. There’s also the option to purchase drinks and to upgrade the mast climb, though these are extra costs.

Practicalities and Booking

The tour operates primarily in the morning, lasting four hours, with the option for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Meeting 15 minutes before departure, you’ll need to bring essentials like ID, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, and comfortable shoes. As the voyage takes place in all weather conditions (except in extreme weather), dressing appropriately is key.

Since no hotel transfers are included, you’ll need to plan your transportation to the meeting point. The tour’s small size makes it ideal for those who prefer more intimate experiences, with a friendly, relaxed atmosphere emphasized by the crew.

The Value of the Experience

At $98 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded package combining sailing, wildlife viewing, and good food. The authentic tall ship experience, combined with the chance to actively sail, makes it more than just a whale-watching trip—it’s a hands-on adventure. The absence of large crowds and the small-group setting give it a more personal feel, which many reviewers found particularly rewarding.

While the price might seem steep compared to motorized whale cruises, the value lies in the unique sailing experience and the closer, quieter whale encounters. Plus, the optional mast climb and crew-led sailing activities add a sense of participation and achievement that’s often missing from typical boat tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for sailing enthusiasts eager to operate a historic ship, wildlife lovers wanting closer whale sightings, and adventure seekers wanting a authentic, hands-on outing. If you’re after a more relaxed, personal, and educational adventure, this cruise ticks those boxes.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more passive viewing experience or need mobility assistance, you might find this tour less suitable. Also, those with large luggage or seeking hotel transfers should consider alternative options.

Final Thoughts

The Sydney Harbour Tall Ship Whale Watching & Sailing tour offers a rare chance to combine sailing history, wildlife observation, and active participation in a single experience. It’s a chance to see Sydney from a different perspective—high above the water and close to nature—while enjoying a warm meal and a hearty dose of adventure.

This trip is about more than just whale watching; it’s about feeling connected to the sea, learning new skills, and making lasting memories. For anyone interested in authentic sailing, wildlife, and scenic beauty, this adventure is worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4-14 are welcome if accompanied by a paying adult. Children 3 and younger are not allowed.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts 4 hours, usually in the morning, giving ample time for whale spotting and sailing activities.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personal and engaging experience.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the 4-hour tall ship cruise, a warm, hearty lunch, and a free mast climb experience.

Can I participate in sailing activities?
Yes, you can help set sails, learn about the ropes, and climb the mast with safety harnesses—though participation is optional.

Is there a dress code?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. The tour runs in all weather except extreme conditions.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are available for purchase on board.

What are the main benefits of sailing on a tall ship?
Quiet operation and high vantage points allow for better whale sightings and a less intrusive experience for marine life.

Are transfers included?
No, you need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

Is this experience suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it isn’t recommended for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges due to open decks and sailing activities.

To sum it up, the Sydney Harbour Tall Ship Whale Watching & Sailing tour offers an enriching mix of history, adventure, and wildlife. Whether you’re a sailing enthusiast or just looking to see whales in a natural setting, this cruise provides a memorable, authentic experience that stands out from typical boat tours. It’s well-suited for those who value participation, intimacy, and a unique perspective on Sydney’s stunning waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: