Top Newcastle Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises

NOVA Cruises pioneered whale watching from Newcastle back in 2006. Join Newcastle's longest running most experienced operator for an unforgettable 2.5-3 Hour ocean voyage and witness the amazing migration of over 25,000 Humpback whales passing Newcastle's scenic coastline. TOUR: Chance to see huge pods of playful dolphins, sea birds, seals, penguins, sharks, & much more. Includes bonus harbour and outer beach tour. Complimentary morning & afternoon tea. Informative commentary & free fact sheets. Licensed bar & snack food available onboard. Fully heated and air-conditioned Indoor & Outdoor viewing areas Best value whale watching in the Hunter!

Between May and November, take to the water to see migrating humpback whales off the coast of Port Stephens. Find a comfortable spot on board your cruise vessel, grab a drink (own expense), listen to the live commentary, and look out for breaching, slapping, or rolling humpbacks. Also, keep an eye out for dolphins, which can often be seen in the same area.

The coast off Port Stephens often sees whales and dolphins pass by, although they can be challenging to spot from the land. Get closer to the action by setting out onto the open ocean with this wildlife-watching cruise. Learn about whales and dolphins from commentary aboard the catamaran and benefit from their experienced eyes to better spot any nearby creatures.

Discover the dark side of Newcastle’s past—one that most visitors never experience—on this walking tour. With a guide to show you the city’s spookiest sights, uncover tales of true crimes that you might never hear otherwise. Hear about the Tomahawk Murderer, view locations such as the Convict Lumberyard and Old Jail; and absorb the creepy atmosphere as your guide reveals stories of killings, hauntings, fraud, and more.

Newcastle’s lookouts and historic highlights are scattered over a surprisingly large area. See more than you could on foot without the hassle of itinerary planning or research on this convenient tour, the perfect introduction to the city for first-time visitors. From coastal views and hand-dug swimming pools to the cathedral, the fort, and the city’s best eating streets, discover it in just half a day.

Enjoy all the sights Newcastle Harbour has to offer as we cruise the working port and picturesque foreshore. See the harbours coal loading facilities, tug boats and big ships up-close. Indulge in our freshly prepared buffet lunch consisting of seasoned roasted chicken, double smoked leg ham hand carved off the bone, fresh local prawns, and a selection of salads to compliment. Enjoy a selection of petit fours for dessert with complimentary tea & coffee or select from a full range of drinks available from our fully licensed bar.

Prebook to save time and see humpback whales in their natural habitat on this whale-spotting cruise from Newcastle. Board an eco-tourism boat and hit the open waters to observe humpbacks in the wild, learning about their natural behaviors via the commentary as the boat maintains a respectful distance. Plus, watch for dolphins and seals, and admire the coastal scenery as you hear details on local landmarks, culture, and history.

Experience the beauty of the Hunter Valley and enjoy some of the region’s best wineries without having to worry about organizing your own transport with this full-day group tour from Newcastle. A guaranteed great day out, this tour includes visits to three different wineries and a distillery, where you’ll have the chance to sample an array of local produce including chocolate, cheese, and gin. You’ll also enjoy a delicious laid-back lunch.

Embark on an exhilarating half-day escapade into the heart of the Hunter Valley, where each moment promises a fusion of award-winning wines, breathtaking vineyard landscapes, and a delectable light lunch! Your adventure unfolds, picture yourself immersed in the rich tapestry of the Hunter Valley, Pokolbin, and Lovedale, as you indulge in tastings that dance on your palate like a symphony of flavours. But that’s not all – the climax of your journey takes place in the heart of a working boutique vineyard. Here, a locally sourced light lunch awaits, elevating your culinary experience amidst the vines. Not all dietary requirements, can be catered for with this light lunch. Your travels don’t finish there. Its off to a local distillery outlet for samples of vodkas and gins. Followed by a visit to the Hunter famous ‘Smelly Deli’ for a local cheese and chocolate shops, try not to fill yourself with all the yummy things to buy before we return you back to your accommodation.

Taste your way through Newcastle East on a small-group walking tour that pairs five local food and drink stops with the city's best street art and sculptures. Your local guide shares the stories behind both: the makers, the murals, and the food scene reshaping this old harbour city. Over an easy 2.5 km stroll, you'll sample a curated selection of five tastings, including a craft beer stop, while discovering hidden laneway artworks and public sculptures most visitors walk right past. It's a relaxed, sociable couple of hours built around connection and storytelling, ideal for food lovers, art fans, and anyone wanting to see the real Newcastle beyond the obvious. Small groups mean you'll never feel rushed, and there's always time for questions, photos, and a chat with your guide.

Discover the delicious wines and food of the Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine-producing region, during a full-day tour from Pokolbin, Cessnock, or Rothbury. After a handy pickup, your wine tour includes relaxed wine tastings at boutique wineries, plus a delicious restaurant lunch. Sample local cheeses and chocolate during stops at local shops. Learn more about the region from your driver–guide during this entertaining and informative tour.

The Hunter River Discovery Cruise offers a unique exploration of the magnificent Hunter River, transitioning from the vibrant Port of Newcastle to the serene Kooragang Wetlands. Enjoy informative commentary from the captain while sipping on unlimited tea and coffee, complemented by a delightful Devonshire Tea served en route. Lunch, featuring popular pub favorites, is served at the Junction Inn Hotel, followed by dessert onboard. This 5.5-hour cruise is perfect for families and anyone looking to unwind on the water. - 5.5-hour cruise including morning tea and lunch - Explore the Hunter River and Kooragang Wetlands - Enjoy unlimited tea, coffee, and a Devonshire Tea - Depart from Harbour Square Boat Dock, Newcastle

Celebrate the festive spirit in July on this delightful 3-hour Christmas in July Cruise. Indulge in a Christmas-themed buffet lunch featuring hot smoked ham, succulent turkey breast, and delicious desserts, all while enjoying live music and festive trivia. Dress up in your holiday best for a chance to win prizes, and enjoy Bon Bons as part of the merriment. Perfect for families and friends looking for a unique celebration, this cruise provides a memorable way to enjoy Christmas cheer any time of the year. - 3-hour Christmas-themed cruise with buffet lunch and dessert - Enjoy live entertainment and Christmas trivia with prizes - Festive atmosphere with Bon Bons and best-dressed competition - Departure from Lee Wharf, Newcastle, with a welcoming vibe for all ages

Book ahead for front-row views of the Hunter Coast and its marine life on this cruise from Newcastle. Save time and avoid missing out by prebooking, and absorb the panoramas as you cruise along the coast. Watch for dolphins, seabirds, and turtles; sail by coastal forts, cliffs, and beaches; and cruise up-close to the caves at Caves Beach, all as a guide shares background. Photos of your trip are included.

Taste your way through the Hunter Valley, Australia's oldest wine region, on this small-group day tour from Newcastle. We've hand-picked a mix of iconic Australian labels and family-run cellar doors so every stop brings something new, with door-to-door transport so all you have to do is relax and enjoy. What's included: -Three exclusive seated wine tastings, each a relaxed and immersive cellar door experience -An artisan vodka and gin tasting, discovering the craft behind these award-winning spirits -A paired tasting of local cheese, chocolate or small bites, showing how food changes the flavours of wine -Lunch at 4 Pines at The Farm, with an à la carte meal (at your own cost) overlooking the vines -A small group of no more than 11 guests, for a personal and relaxed day -Engaging commentary from your guide on the region's history, winemaking and local culture -Pick up and drop off at your Newcastle address Please note the venues featured on each tour can vary.

Enjoy a fun afternoon sailing offshore from Nelson Bay without having to charter an expensive private vessel. Join this group catamaran cruise to experience the highlights. Look out for bottlenose dolphins in the bay, on the way out to an offshore island where fantastic snorkeling opportunities await. Snorkeling gear is provided so you don’t need to bring your own. Guides get in the water with you to keep you safe.

You don't have to worry about missing out on seeing dolphins while in Port Stephens with this sailing tour. Board your boat and start spotting the bottlenose dolphins that call this bay home. You can choose to relax in the dry bow-net or take a dip in the wet boom-net. If conditions allow, your guides may even hoist the sails and take you gliding through the water.

Explore the historic charm of Morpeth on this relaxing 3-hour scenic cruise from Newcastle. Sail along the picturesque Hunter River while enjoying Devonshire Tea served onboard. Once you arrive in Morpeth, you have 2 hours of free time to wander through delightful cafes, boutique shops, and local attractions before your comfortable coach transfer back to Newcastle. This tour perfectly combines sightseeing, relaxation, and leisure, making it an ideal day out for families and groups alike. - 3-hour scenic cruise along the beautiful Hunter River - Enjoy Devonshire Tea onboard for a delightful experience - 2 hours free time in Morpeth to explore shops and cafes - Coach return transfer included for convenience

"Dive into adventure, your go-to for the ultimate app-led adventure hunts! Step into a world where every landmark and hidden gem is waiting to be discovered. Challenge yourself with trivia, tackle brain-teasing puzzles, and embark on an epic journey of exploration! Whether you’re collaborating with your crew or turning up the competition, Adventure Hunts guarantee a blast for all. Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a spontaneous outing, a wild bachelorette bash, a festive birthday celebration, or a team-building extravaganza. Each player gets to dive into an interactive role, ensuring every challenge is as thrilling and unique as the next. So, gather your squad, choose your adventure, and let the good times roll! Every outing becomes a treasure trove of memories and excitement. Are you ready to conquer the city and create unforgettable experiences? Let’s make every day an adventure!"

Journey through history on the Historic Morpeth Cruise, showcasing the picturesque scenery of the Hunter River. Departing from Newcastle Harbour, this 8-hour cruise offers a unique glimpse into Morpeth, once a bustling trade port. Enjoy morning tea, savor local produce, and indulge in a delightful tasting of wine, cheese, and crackers. Spend 1 to 1.5 hours exploring Morpeth’s charming shops and eateries before returning to the boat for a relaxing ride back. With air conditioning and a licensed bar on board, comfort is guaranteed throughout your journey. - 8-hour cruise departing from Newcastle Harbour - Morning tea and local produce tasting included - Explore historic Morpeth for 1-1.5 hours - Enjoy onboard licensed bar and air-conditioned comfort

Set sail on Newcastle Harbour for a delightful 3-hour Bingo Afloat Cruise, where fun and socializing take center stage. Enjoy a leisurely morning tea and a plated lunch while engaging in trivia and bingo games, all narrated by the Captain who shares fascinating sights along the way. With prizes for lucky winners, this cruise is perfect for groups looking to enjoy a unique and entertaining day out on the water. - 3-hour cruise filled with trivia and bingo games - Includes morning tea, a plated lunch, and dessert - Prizes for participants and a lively atmosphere - Group bookings available on demand

Celebrate the festive season with a delightful Christmas lunch cruise on Newcastle Harbour. Enjoy a 3-hour journey filled with a buffet Christmas-themed meal featuring hot smoked ham, succulent turkey breast, and delicious desserts. Engage in live music, trivia, and festive fun, making it a perfect gathering for friends and family. Dress up and participate in the best-dressed contest or trivia for a chance to win prizes while soaking in the scenic views of the lake. Ideal for all ages, this cruise promises a joyful holiday atmosphere. - 3-hour cruise with a buffet Christmas-themed lunch and dessert - Live music, trivia, and festive activities onboard - Suitable for all ages, including children aged 3-14 - Departing from Lee Wharf, Newcastle, with great views of the lake

Discover the sights and tastes of Australia's renowned Hunter Valley wine country on this private and personalized tour. With no set itinerary, the whole experience can be tailored to your own preferences or you can leave the planning up to your guide (who lives in the valley and has been part of the wine scene for decades). Either way, your guide will take you to the most spectacular locations and introduce you to the most wonderful wines.