Experience the magic of Ballina’s humpback whale season on an unforgettable ocean adventure. Join Ballina Byron Marine Adventures for a first-class whale watching experience on our new fast, comfortable vessel, purpose-built for an exciting and safe journey. Witness humpback whales in their natural environment, often breaching, tail slapping, spy-hopping, and playing as they migrate along the stunning Ballina Byron coastline. 🐋

Our whale watching tours operate 7 days a week throughout the whale season (June – November), weather and ocean conditions permitting.

With a small group-to-vessel ratio, excellent viewing space, and a personalised touch, this is whale watching at its absolute best. 🌊

Unforgettable Tour Highlights

• 2-hour guided whale watching experience departing Ballina
• Incredible close-up encounters with migrating humpback whales
• Opportunity to see dolphins, sea turtles, and other incredible marine wildlife
• Live hydrophone listening to hear humpback whale songs beneath the surface 🎶
• Guided by Ballina’s most experienced local skipper, passionate local guides, and qualified marine biologists
• Professional PA sound system providing clear and engaging commentary throughout the tour
• Purpose-built, high-class catamaran with spacious panoramic viewing areas
• Comfortable seating, wheelchair accessibility, and onboard toilet
• Professional photos captured throughout the experience
• Suitable for families, photographers, visitors, and locals alike

Departure Information and Times

We depart from the RSL Club Ballina Floating Pontoon, conveniently located directly in front of the RSL Club Boardwalk.

Guests can enjoy free parking at the RSL Club before boarding, making your whale watching adventure easy and hassle-free from the moment you arrive.

Planned departure times are 05:30am, 8:00am, 10:30am, 1:00pm, and 3:30pm, with each tour running for approximately 2 hours.

Please arrive 20 minutes before scheduled departure time for check-in, briefing, and boarding.

Due to our tight operating schedule and departure time requirements, we are unable to delay departures for late arrivals. Out of respect for all guests and to ensure tours run on time, the vessel will depart as scheduled.

We carefully assess forecasts, swell, wind, and sea conditions before confirming departures to help provide the safest and most enjoyable experience possible for all guests. With up to four trips per day during peak periods, our schedule is designed to make the most of favourable weather windows while delivering a relaxed, professional, and memorable whale watching experience.

Whale Sighting Guarantee

WHALE SIGHTING GUARANTEE! In the rare event our whales are feeling a little sleepy with no sightings, all passengers will receive a complimentary return cruise to use at their convenience.

About Ballina Byron Marine Adventures

Ballina Byron Marine Adventures is a family-owned and locally operated business, proudly founded by Ballina & Lennox Head locals Angus and Cori Steeles. Born and raised on the Northern Rivers coast, our family has a deep connection to the ocean, local waterways, and the incredible wildlife that calls this region home.

As a small local operator, we are passionate about sharing authentic experiences on the water while supporting our community and showcasing the natural beauty of the Ballina and Byron Bay region. Every trip is guided by experienced local crew who genuinely care about providing a safe, personal, and memorable adventure for every guest.

When you travel with Ballina Byron Marine Adventures, you are supporting a local family business dedicated to delivering exceptional wildlife experiences and creating lasting memories on our beautiful coastline.

Transport and Getting Here

Travelling to Ballina is easy with regular public transport servicing the region. The Route 640 bus service is the main connection between Byron Bay, Lennox Head, and Ballina, making it a convenient and affordable option for guests visiting us.

View the bus timetable here: 640.pdf

The route also services Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, making airport transfers simple for travellers arriving by air.

For guests requiring private transport, airport shuttles, taxis, and rideshare services are also available through Steve’s Transport | Airport Transfers, Weddings & Charters.