Shellharbour City Council is excited to welcome the return of whale watching season, officially commencing on Friday, 16 May, along the breathtaking Illawarra coastline.
An estimated 45,000 humpback whales will pass along the NSW coastline, part of the greatest marine mammal migration on the planet. Shellharbour becomes one of the best vantage points in the country to witness the annual migration of the magnificent humpback whales. These awe-inspiring marine giants make their way along the east coast of Australia, offering locals and visitors alike an unforgettable natural experience.
Caption: Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer on the first tours to open Shellharbour's Whale Watching season for 2025. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council
Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer said, "This is one of Shellharbour's most iconic and treasured and seasoned events. We invite everyone to come and witness the incredible beauty of these creatures right here in our own backyard."
Shellharbour is thriving as a year-round destination, now welcoming over 200,000 visitors each month and generating nearly $470 million annually for our local economy. Tourism is not only bringing in dollars, it's creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and building our reputation as a must-visit destination. Even during the cooler months, Shellharbour has a strong appeal for visitors, including exciting Winter events including Enchanted Forest at Blackbutt Forest, Eats and Beats Street Festival in Albion Park, and Winter Solstice celebration at the Waterfront, Shell Cove.
"I encourage locals to explore the wonders in your own backyard. We are so lucky to live in such an incredible part of the world, " said Mayor Homer.
Caption: Shellharbour Wild's Sonia Tooley with Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer beside the new Whale Watching Cruise 'Cat Balou' at Shellharbour Marina. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council
SEE THE WHALES FROM SHELLHARBOUR
Shellharbour offers a variety of opportunities to experience whale watching, including tours with Shellharbour Wild, aboard a new purpose-built 70-seat catamaran vessel, Cat Balou, designed for an intimate and immersive encounter with humpback whales as they glide through the ocean just metres away.
"We're not just offering a cruise, we're offering connection," says Sonia Tooley of Shellharbour Wild. "It's about educating our community, inspiring future marine scientists, and creating unforgettable moments that encourage stewardship of our oceans."
Officially opening on Friday 16 May, Shellharbour Wild offer Whale Watching Cruises from May to November out of the Shellharbour Marina. Seasonal passes are also available (until the end of May), allowing customer to cruise as often as they like during the season. If you're travelling with your pooch, they are also welcome on board. Ensuring they are leashed, well natured and happy to cruise, Shellharbour Wild welcome your dogs too. Please mention at the time of your booking.
Book your whale watching cruise with Shellharbour Wild Cruises today by visiting their website shellharbourwild.com.au.
Caption: Whale season in Shellharbour is officially underway. Image courtesy of Shellharbour Wild
