Watching a humpback breach from the deck of a boat is something you never forget. Swimming with whales in Jervis Bay takes it one step closer. You are in the water, the boat is behind you, and a humpback is gliding past in the blue.
It is the kind of experience worth building a whole weekend around. Here’s what the swim involves, how to choose the right package, and where to stay so the rest of the trip is just as easy.
Who runs Swim with Whales in Jervis Bay
Swim with Whales is run by our sister business, Jervis Bay Wild, based in Huskisson.
Their crew heads out in search of humpback whales migrating along the South Coast. Once they find whales behaving in a way that suits a swim, and the conditions are right, guests may get the chance to slip into the water and watch them from a respectful distance.
The swim is never guaranteed, and that is the point
These are wild whales in open water, not a show. The crew only puts people in the water when the whales’ behaviour and the sea allow it, so some trips will be spent watching from the boat instead.
Go in with that expectation and the day is a win either way. The bay is busy with life, and you may also spot dolphins, seals and plenty of other marine life while you are out there.
Choosing your Swim with Whales package
There are three ways to join, which makes it easy to bring along someone who is keen on the whales but not on the water. And if nobody in your group wants to get wet, Jervis Bay Wild’s Whale Cruise watches the same humpbacks from the deck. Our guide to whale watching in Jervis Bay covers that side of things, including the best spots to look from land.
- Own Gear Swim. Bring your own mask, snorkel, fins and full-length wetsuit.
- Gear Supplied Swim. The mask, snorkel, fins and full-length wetsuit are all provided.
- Not entering the water. Stay on board for the whole trip, no gear needed.
Make a weekend of swimming with whales in Jervis Bay
A whale swim is a big experience. Give yourself room on either side of it rather than squeezing it into a day trip from Sydney or Canberra.
Arrive the night before so you are rested and not watching the clock on the drive down. Afterwards, you will want somewhere warm to land, a slow meal in Huskisson and a quiet evening to talk it all over.
Then use the rest of the weekend for the easy stuff. Pick a beach from our guide to the best beaches in Jervis Bay, grab a coffee on the waterfront, or take a gentle coastal walk through the national park. Jervis Bay is just as good from dry land.
Weather and sea conditions decide whether a swim goes ahead, so staying a couple of nights also gives you breathing space if plans shift. Check dates and availability on Jervis Bay Wild’s booking page before you lock in your accommodation, then choose a home that suits your group.
Where to stay for a whale swim weekend
Staying in Huskisson puts you close to Jervis Bay Wild and a short walk from the cafes and the waterfront. Every home is self-contained, so you can rinse the salt off, make a proper breakfast and settle in at your own pace.
- Couples or a small group: Heart of Husky sleeps four in central Huskisson, so you can wander back from lunch and put your feet up.
- Families or friends travelling together: Daffodil on Owen sleeps eight in the heart of town.
- A group that wants a little luxury after the swim: Bluebell in Huskisson sleeps eight and has a pool, a sauna and a cabana.
- Calm water and quiet mornings: Erowal Bay Cottage sleeps six and Killarney at Old Erowal Bay sleeps eight, both on the peaceful side of the bay with Huskisson a short drive away.
Book the swim, then book your stay
Swimming with whales in Jervis Bay is one of those trips you talk about for years. Lock in your package with Swim with Whales, then browse our five holiday homes and book the one that suits your group on Airbnb.
