Whales and Sydney Harbour

Our first full day in Sydney took an early and unexpected turn. We breakfasted courtesy of the RACA and their "continental breakfast" was easily the most impressive spread we've had so far, made all the better for the impressive harbour views.

Heading out, we wandered across the street through the botanical gardens and around the Opera House for some photos. On the quayside we got to discussing whale watching and eventually decided to sign up for an 11.15am departure from Darling Harbour. We wound our way across through the Sydney shops to get there - a mish mash of victorian-age buildings sitting in and along side modern skyscrapers, with little rhyme or reason.

Our rigid and very fast boat headed out through the harbour and into the open ocean. Almost immediately we were treated to a whale breaching (where 60%+ of the whale comes out of the water). We followed - at a reasonable distance - the pod north up the coastline for nearly an hour, watching them breach, dive and blow. A fantastic view!Read more