Explore why the Sapphire Coast is one of NSW’s best whale watching regions, with cruises from Eden, Merimbula and Bermagui.
G’day whale lovers,
There are whale watching destinations, and then there is the Sapphire Coast! Stretching along the far south coast of NSW, this region offers a front-row seat to one of the great natural journeys of the year: the humpback whale migration. From May to November, whales travel along our coastline as they move between Antarctic feeding grounds and warmer northern breeding waters.
With whale watching cruises from Eden, Merimbula and Bermagui, Sapphire Coastal Adventures gives visitors the chance to experience the migration from three uniquely different parts of the coast. Each departure point has its own feel, but all are shaped by the same pristine ocean, rugged headlands and deep cultural and historical connection to whale season.
Sheltered bays, open water, national parks and dramatic headlands!
What makes the Sapphire Coast so special is its location and geography. This coastline is carved by sheltered bays, open water, national parks and dramatic headlands, creating the perfect backdrop for whale watching.
It is not just a place whales pass by, they stop and rest, feed their young and socialise. It is a place where the migration feels closely woven into the landscape. Eden is especially tied to whale history. Sitting beside Twofold Bay, it has long been one of Australia’s most recognised whale watching towns. The area was once known for its shore-based whaling industry, but today its connection to whales is very different. Instead of hunting them, visitors now come to watch, learn and celebrate these incredible animals.
Twofold Bay, the home of Old Tom
Eden’s whale story is also one of the most unusual in Australia. The town is famous for the “Killers of Eden”, a group of orcas that were known to work with local whalers in Twofold Bay between the 1840s and 1930s. The best known of these orcas was Old Tom, whose skeleton is now on display at the Eden Killer Whale Museum. The museum preserves much of the region’s whaling history, including the story of Old Tom and the working relationship between the orcas and whalers. Older still is the connection between whales and the local Aboriginal people, whose culture and rich history with whales is unlike any other.
During the season, whales can pass through the area on both their northern and southern journeys. On their northern migration whales are often wider offshore, which makes our large, purpose-built vessel Bubbles, the ideal option for getting you up close to the energy and excitement. Bubbles operates from Eden during the northern migration meaning you can experience the history and magic of a whale watching cruise in comfort.
Whale watching adventures
The later season is especially loved by whale watchers, as mothers and calves may travel more slowly and closer to shore. Merimbula offers a different kind of whale watching experience. Sapphire Coastal Adventures’ Merimbula Whale Watching Adventure operates on selected days during the northern migration from May to July and the southern migration from August to early November. It is described as an adventure-style cruise, so guests are encouraged to bring a wet weather jacket and a sense of fun.
Spoiled for choice
Bermagui adds another layer to the Sapphire Coast story. Known for its striking coastal scenery, clear water and rich marine life, it is a beautiful departure point for people who want their whale watching experience to feel connected to a smaller coastal town. From here, the ocean feels close, open and full of possibility.
While humpbacks are the headline act, they are not the only marine life seen in these waters. Depending on the day, guests may also spot dolphins, seals, seabirds and other ocean wildlife. Sapphire Coastal Adventures also notes that sightings may include southern right whales, minke whales, Bryde’s whales, blue whales, orca, Australian fur seals, penguins, flying fish, sunfish, turtles and seabirds. That variety is what makes the Sapphire Coast so exciting. A whale watching trip here is not just about scanning the horizon for a tail. It is about stepping into a living marine environment where anything can happen.
If you're planning a trip in 2026, this season is going to offer plenty of opportunity. Come early for the northbound migration, come later for the southern return, or plan a coastal escape around Eden, Merimbula or Bermagui and make whale watching the hero of the journey. On the Sapphire Coast, the migration does not feel distant. It feels like part of the place, carried through the coastline, the town histories and the deep sapphire water just offshore.
Book your Sapphire Coast whale watching cruise with us today, and come share the magic of the humpback whale migration with us.
From the deck,
Captain Simon
