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.

Snorkelling with Whales and Seals | Jervis Bay Sea Sports

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.