Snorkelling with Whales and Seals | Jervis Bay Sea Sports

Boat Tour · Huskisson

Snorkelling with Whales and Seals

Join Jervis Bay Sea Sports for a rare chance to snorkel with humpback whales and playful fur seals in the clear waters of Jervis Bay Marine Park. This regulated, immersive trip offers a deep connection with marine giants along the Australian coast.

View experience
Duration4–6 hours
LocationHuskisson, New South Wales
OperatorJervis Bay Sea Sports
Price shownCheck dates

Adventure brief

Snorkelling with Whales and Seals

Join Jervis Bay Sea Sports for a rare chance to snorkel with humpback whales and playful fur seals in the clear waters of Jervis Bay Marine Park. This regulated, immersive trip offers a deep connection with marine giants along the Australian coast.

Jervis Bay, located on the southeastern coast of New South Wales, Australia, is a marine sanctuary known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife. Jervis Bay Sea Sports offers an unparalleled adventure: snorkelling alongside humpback whales and New Zealand fur seals within the pristine Jervis Bay Marine Park. This experience invites thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts to spend 4 to 6 hours on the water, drifting through what local mariners call the "Humpback Highway," where migrating whales pass en route to breeding grounds.

The day begins on a specialized dive boat, equipped for comfort and safety, as it speeds out from Huskisson harbor. The voyage finds its rhythm in the open ocean, where visibility can reach over 20 meters on a clear day, revealing vibrant reefs and kelp forests that form a rich undersea environment. Humpbacks, renowned for their curiosity and gentle curiosity, may approach snorkelers in the water, making this a rare chance to witness these giants from below the surface.

After time spent tracking whales—always with strict adherence to regulatory guidelines preserving these animals’ welfare—the journey continues to seal haulouts. Here, playful New Zealand fur seals romp and investigate divers, their agile underwater acrobatics captivating all who witness them. Jervis Bay Sea Sports distinguishes itself not only through its expert guides and stringent conservation compliance but through its respectful, participant-focused approach.

Safety protocols ensure snorkelers stay within regulated proximity, while educating guests on marine ecology and legal wildlife interaction practices. With trip durations spanning five hours and a minimum swimming proficiency required, this adventure suits those comfortable in open water and eager to engage responsibly with some of Australia’s most iconic marine animals. Huskisson, the gateway town, supports this trip with a welcoming community and easy access to accommodations and local eateries.

This journey isn’t simply a boat tour—it’s a deliberate opportunity to connect with wildlife in an untouched environment, defined by its transparency and life beneath the waves. For those seeking an active ocean experience beyond the typical beach day, Jervis Bay Sea Sports delivers an authentic, regulated immersion into Australia’s remarkable marine story.

Adventure tips

Plan your experience.

Curated tips for an optimal adventure.

  1. 01
    Confident Swimming Required

    You must be able to swim at least 200 meters in open water and stay positively buoyant to participate safely.

    essential
  2. 02
    Follow Guide Instructions

    Always remain within the designated drop zone and obey the dive master’s safety guidelines to protect both yourself and marine life.

    essential
  3. 03
    Respect Wildlife Distance

    Do not attempt to touch or chase whales or seals; they approach on their own terms or not at all.

    warning
  4. 04
    Prepare for Ocean Conditions

    Expect deep water and variable currents; dressing appropriately and securing gear before entering the water is crucial.

    info
DifficultyModerate
Duration4–6 hours
FitnessParticipants should be in good physical shape with endurance for open water swimming and the ability to remain calm in ocean conditions.
Technical skillsBasic snorkelling skills, Comfortable in open ocean swimming

Recommended gear

What to bring.

01

Wetsuit

Keeps you warm and protected from cold water during cooler months.

fall|winterEssential
02

Mask and Snorkel

Essential for underwater visibility and comfortable breathing while snorkelling.

Essential
03

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protects your skin while minimizing environmental impact on marine ecosystems.

spring|summer|fallEssential
04

Waterproof Camera

Great for capturing unforgettable moments with whales and seals during your swim.

Local insights

Context for the journey.

Hidden gems

Nearby secrets

Greenfield Beach for quiet shoreline walks, Governor Head Lookout for panoramic marine views

Wildlife

Local fauna

Humpback whales, New Zealand fur seals

History

Historic heritage

Jervis Bay was historically significant to the local Dharawal people and has evolved into a key marine conservation area since the establishment of the Marine Park in 1998.

Conservation

Mindful exploration

The tours strictly adhere to NSW Biodiversity Conservation Regulations to minimize human impact on marine mammals, promoting sustainable wildlife tourism.

Photography tips

Capture the moments

Viewpoints
Onboard the dive boat deck, Seal haulout sites, Jervis Bay shoreline
Subjects
Humpback whales breaching, Underwater seal interactions, Marine park seascapes
Best times
Golden hour, Mid-morning, Late afternoon

Frequently asked questions

Before you go.

Do the whales always come close enough to snorkel with?

Whale encounters depend on their natural behavior; while nearly half the trips see whales underwater, there is no guarantee they will approach closely.

What is the minimum age to join the tour?

Participants must be at least 8 years old and capable swimmers to ensure safety in open water.

How far from the whales do snorkelers swim?

Snorkelers stay 20–50 meters from whales, and boats keep at least 100 meters distance to avoid disturbance.

Is prior snorkelling experience necessary?

Basic snorkelling skills and comfort in open water are required due to ocean conditions and the length of the swim.

What happens if weather conditions are poor?

Trips are weather dependent and may be rescheduled to ensure participant safety and favorable wildlife encounters.

Are seals guaranteed on the trip?

Almost all trips visit seal haulouts where encounters with fur seals underwater are highly likely but never guaranteed.

Jervis Bay Sea Sports

Snorkelling with Whales and Seals | Jervis Bay Sea Sports