Top Newcastle Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises

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.

Hop aboard our mini-van and embark on an unforgettable journey through Newcastle. Our small group size and expertly curated itinerary promises an experience you won’t forget. What you’ll do: Explore Newcastle’s Iconic Sights: From breathtaking beaches to awe-inspiring churches, historic landmarks, & trendy hotspots, get ready to see the city in a way that only locals know. 5 Fascinating Stops with Guided Walks: We’ll make 5 stops where we get out of the van & explore the sites on foot. At each stop, your expert guide will take you through the stories and history that make these places so special. Local Flavors: Get a glimpse of the best eateries and vibrant spots that make Newcastle a foodie haven. Your guide will point out restaurants where you can return later. Discover Newcastle’s Fascinating History: As Australia’s second oldest city, Newcastle is rich in heritage. Our knowledgeable guides will share the stories behind the city’s iconic landmarks.

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.

Discover the vibrant flavors and creative spirit of Newcastle on a small-group Food & Street Art Tour. This guided walking journey through Newcastle East showcases local tastings while revealing stories about the city’s thriving food scene and artistic culture. Led by a passionate local guide, you’ll explore captivating street art and public sculptures that reflect Newcastle’s artistic community. Enjoy a thoughtfully curated selection of five local tastings, including a craft beer stop, as you stroll approximately 2.5 kilometers at an easy pace. Ideal for travelers seeking an authentic experience, this tour focuses on connection and storytelling, making Newcastle come alive. - Small-group experience covering 2.5 km at an easy pace - Five curated tastings highlighting local food and drinks - Explore Newcastle's vibrant street art and cultural landmarks - Ideal for food enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike

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

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!

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

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

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.

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.

We stay with you the entire time and enjoy the day with you, making sure you are being looked after and this makes it a more personalised experience. It is our aim to ensure that you have a relaxing day.

We’ve curated an unforgettable wine tasting journey through the best vineyards in the Hunter Valley, hand-selected to showcase the region’s finest flavors. -Three exclusive, seated wine tastings; each offering a unique and immersive experience. -An artisan vodka & gin tasting: discover the craft behind these award-winning spirits. -A local cheese or chocolate or small bites paired tasting: because no indulgent day is complete without a little extra treat. Experience how food changes the flavours of wine. For lunch, unwind at The Farm - 4 Pines, where you can enjoy a delicious à la carte meal (at your own cost) while soaking in the scenic vineyard views. Small-group luxury: With a maximum of 11 guests per tour, you'll enjoy a personalized and intimate experience. Engaging commentary throughout: We prioritize education, offering insightful commentary while in the van. Please note that venues chosen for each tour can vary.

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.

Experience sailing on our boutique Catamaran. We keep numbers to a minimum to ensure a wonderful experience. Our trained snorkel guides will be in the water with you to point out various Marine Life.

Embark on an unforgettable small-group day tour to Port Stephens, blending adventure, relaxation, and local flavour. Start your morning with a scenic guided hike up Mount Tomaree (2.2km return) for panoramic views of the coastline and offshore islands. Prefer a slower pace? A flat coastal walk is available too. Next, board a 1.5-hour dolphin-watching cruise through the bay, home to over 160 resident bottlenose dolphins. After your marine adventure, enjoy a relaxing lunch at a popular local eatery (at your own cost) with fresh fish and seafood options available. Then unwind on the golden sands of one of Port Stephens’ pristine beaches—swim, sunbathe or simply take in the view. Cap off the day with a visit to B Farm for a craft beer tasting and a glimpse into the region’s local brewing scene. Throughout the day, our expert guides share fascinating stories about the area’s wildlife, culture and history. Let us handle the details while you discover the very best of Port Stephens.

Soar through the skies over Newcastle with this spectacular helicopter flight. Departing out of Newcastle Harbour, you'll be treated to world-class views from the minute you take off. Cruise past famous foreshore attractions including Honeysuckle and Nobbys Head, before heading south. Enjoy uninterrupted views of ANZAC memorial walk, Bar Beach and Merewether Baths while marvelling at the picturesque coastline. Look back for a fantastic overall view of the city including McDonald Jones Stadium the home of the Newcastle Knights and Jets. Your knowledgeable pilot will make your experience all the more memorable with fascinating commentary along the way.

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.

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

Escape the city and explore Australia’s countryside on our immersive day tour from Newcastle. Discover the charm of historic towns like Morpeth and Dungog, where your expert guide shares fascinating stories of early Australian life. Taste local honey and fudge in Morpeth, birthplace of Arnotts Biscuits, then enjoy a refreshing craft beer in Dungog. Cool off with a swim in the serene Allyn River, a peaceful bush escape. Visit a third-generation cattle farm for an educational behind-the-scenes tour and insights into sustainable farming. Enjoy a classic Aussie BBQ lunch featuring fresh, local produce (dietary options available). Travel in comfort with round-trip transport from your Newcastle accommodation. With a relaxed pace and plenty of learning, this small-group tour blends history, nature, and local life. Our knowledgeable guides make every moment meaningful. For a true taste of regional Australia, this unforgettable countryside experience awaits!

Join us for the ultimate Port Stephens adventure—an unforgettable day packed with wildlife, stunning scenery, and coastal thrills. Departing from Newcastle, this small-group tour blends nature, fun, and Aussie charm. Cruise the bay on a 1.5-hour dolphin-watching boat ride with over 160 resident bottlenose dolphins. Stop at the Southern Hemisphere’s largest moving sand dunes for epic photo ops. Enjoy a private koala encounter at Oakvale Wildlife Park and learn about these iconic marsupials. Feed kangaroos, quokkas, emus and more with the provided animal feed—and bottle-feed baby goats! A delicious BBQ lunch is included (dietary needs catered for). With round-trip transport from your Newcastle accommodation, all the planning is done for you. Our expert guides share fun facts and local stories throughout the day, making this more than just a tour—it’s a true Aussie experience. Book now—seats are limited for this wildly fun day out!