Shellharbour Wild

Living locally, I realised that we tend to go 'away' to do exciting things... However, right in our own backyard (for those in Illawarra), there's a wonderful opportunity to go whale watching right from the new harbour at Shell Cove!!! The trip was 1.5 hours and it was one of the best things I've done in years!!! Captain Joel and seaman Carmen were our crew and great fun to share this experience with... they have at least 3 tours a day and whale season is just starting!!! The boat was really comfortable and covered so we were protected from sun. Able to get up and move around to take great photos! We saw seals on the small island just outside the harbour and spouts of whales, who decided to stay underwater once spotted! (clever whales). Still, I actually didn't care whether we saw them or not, the trip itself was wonderful, undulating waves, white yachts, a diving boat, lots of waves and excitement!. They offer windproof jackets if you need them and sick bags for the unfortunate few (not needed on this trip)!. They are a new business and one well worth supporting!!! It really was an experience of a lifetime. The whales are a coming.... think of Shellharbour Wild next time you are wondering what to do on a lovely sunny day in the Illawarra!

Excellent day, enjoyed the friendly crew and care taken with safety and comfort. Close encounters with dolfuns, seals and pod's of playful whales. Not a great photo but, there they were. Magic and many thanks.

Enjoyable trip today. We saw whales and lots of dolphins. The Captain was ever knowledge and very competent . And his decky was very pleasant and helpful. We had a wonderful trip

Great way to see coastline and Mark and Eliza are fabulous crew.

Today we went on the 10.30am Whale Watching cruise and had a great time. There were whales not far away, on the move. It was so refreshing to be out on the water. The boat is clean and safe and easy to get on and off from the public wharf. It's breezy when the boat is at speed. Comfy spray jackets are loaned to each passenger. You're welcome to bring your own food and drinks on board. Customer service is exceptional. The whole trip was a fun friendly informative experience and even my teenage daughters enjoyed themselves. We will go back for the eco-tour in the new year.

We have often seen whales off Minnamurra headland, but it’s so much better seeing them up close from the boat. We saw several mothers with their calves and the highlight was a full breach. Spectacular! The crew are friendly and they have spray jackets if needed. It can get cold out there, so best to have warm clothes and a parker. Highly recommended!

Went on their Ecocruise this afternoon. Great two hour cruise with loads of info on the way. We saw lots of Seals. We sat at the front which the captain warned us would be bumpy- it was but our 6 and 4 year old girls loved it. Will definitely be back for Whale season.On the new Marina too so a great day out, with nice cafes and walks etc.

Did the eco tour on Australia Day . . . what a fantastic 2.5 hours out.Peter the skip who did the commentary was terrific and Carmen was a delight and very knowledgeable too.I thoroughly recommend this cruise, well worth your time, you will not be disappointed!

Amazing trip this morning! We saw whales!!Joel and Carmen were absolutely fantastic, so funny and enjoyable. Elisha handled our booking and welcomed us at check in, such friendly and kind staff. We had a ball will be back, thank you so much!