There may still be time to catch humpback whales on their southern migration down the East Coast from Queensland.
Shellharbour Wild is the Illawarra’s only cruise company operating marine life tours around Shellharbour. Their whale-watching cruises typically run from May to mid-November, but tourism manager Greta Lewis says that sightings have been so plentiful there is a possibility the season may be extended.
“Not wanting to jinx it but this year has been an extremely successful season for whale watching," Greta says. "We run cruises from Jervis Bay as well and this has been our most successful season to date.”
Their hour and a half Whale Cruise starts at Shell Cove Marina and cruises out around the islands, heading south into the ocean. It’s an awesome opportunity to see the whale pods, including mothers with their calves, as well as learn about the annual migration from the experienced tour guides. Be sure to have your camera ready too for the dolphins frolicking in the water along the way.
From mid-November to May, Shellharbour Wild also runs an Eco-Scenic Cruise, a unique way to see the southern Illawarra coastline.
For two hours, you’ll be mesmerised by the picturesque scenery as you cruise down to the world’s largest blowhole at Kiama, then head back north via the popular scuba-diving spot Bushrangers Bay, home to many grey nurse sharks. From there, the cruise heads north to the Five Islands Nature Reserve, home to local seal colonies, so you can see these beautiful mammals laze on the rocks in the sun.
A spot of bird watching is on the cards as you cruise past the pelican rookery at Five Islands. The females lay their eggs here, so look out for baby pelicans. The Nature Reserve is an important environment for seabird breeding. Watch for dolphins too on this cruise. Sit back and relax enjoying the marine life and learning about the history of the area. The view looking up to the escarpment from the water is magnificent and a special way to explore this region.
Cruises can be booked online, by phone or in person. Check-in for both cruises is at the service kiosk near Salty Squid in Shell Cove's Waterfront Precinct. Cruise times will be confirmed at time of booking.
Fast facts
Shellharbour Wild Whale Cruise and Eco-Scenic Cruise is at 9 Marina Drive, Shell Cove.
Phone: (02) 4203 2379
Website: www.shellharbourwild.com.au
