SAPPHIRECOAST - SPRING 2024 - EDEN 5 Now’s the time to take a breathtaking whale-watching tour While it's possible to see migrating whales from the shore right along the Sapphire Coast, the best way to see the whales upclose is on a whale-watching cruise with a longstanding and highly regarded local operator, such as Sapphire Coastal Adventures. Family owned and operated since 2008, Sapphire Coastal Adventures runs regular whale-watching tours during spring, with a fleet of large, safe and purpose-built vessels departing daily from Eden, Merimbula and Bermagui. Incredible Owners, Simon and Jess Millar, and their expert crew members, are passionate about sharing their knowledge of the local waters, wildlife, and – of course – the magnificent whales that abound along the Sapphire Coast at this time of year. "We love whales, and sharing our passion with our passengers," Jess said. "Our mission is to ensure people safely enjoy every minute of their journey, connect with the ocean, and see our beautiful coastline and marine life from the best possible perspective. "When you encounter whales in the wild, you're likely to be amazed at their size and just how incredible these creatures are. "In late September to late November, mothers and their young calves provide hours of entertainment as baby whales learn how to breach, tail slap and dive." Breathtaking scenery and wildlife Jess said that Sapphire Coastal Adventures' Eden whale-watching tours depart from Eden Wharf, on the edge of Twofold Bay, the third-deepest natural harbour in the southern hemisphere, and one of the world's most significant whale-watching locations. "Twofold Bay is surrounded by spectacular Beowa National Park to both the north and south, and is dotted by historic landmarks," she explained. "Depending on where the best whale action is, we may travel north to Lennards Island and the Pinnacles, or head south past Boyd’s Tower to the waters off beautiful Mowarry Point. "The entire Eden coastline is breathtaking and a treat for photographers, and passengers will also have the chance to see many other sea creatures, including common and bottlenose dolphins, Australian fur seals, penguins, flying fish, sunfish, turtles and many species of seabirds." Comfort, stability and speed Sapphire Coastal Adventures' Eden whale-watching tours are run aboard the company's 23.5-metre powered catamaran, 'Bubbles', which can hold up to 100 passengers and, according to Jess, is built for "comfort, stability and speed". "She has plenty of outdoor viewing areas, comfortable indoor seating, two toilets with hand basins, and an onboard galley with tea and coffee facilities – all making her a fantastic whale-watching vessel," Jess said. If you're lucky, you might even be joined onboard by Jess and Simon's whale-spotting kelpie, Roger, who is often first to alert the crew of whales. Whale-sighting guarantee If you purchase your whale-watching tickets directly from Sapphire Coastal Adventures, you'll be eligible for the company's 'whale-watching guarantee', which promises that if whales are not sighted on your tour, you will be offered a free whale-watching cruise during the current or following season. Find out more Sapphire Coastal Adventures (Eden) is located at Eden Wharf, Weecoon Street, Eden. To book or find out more about Sapphire Coastal Adventures' whale-watching tours – departing daily from Eden, Merimbula and Bermagui – call (02) 6495 1686 or go to sapphirecoastaladventures.com.au A humpback whale breaching off the Eden Coast. Photo: Sapphire Coastal Adventures A humpback raises a massive fin while passing by Eden’s historic Boyd’s Tower. Photo: Sapphire Coastal Adventures Jess and Simon Millar with their whalewatching kelpie, Roger. Photo: Sapphire Coastal Adventures/David Rogers
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy OTU5ODU=