The Encounter Tour is a nature-based CoastXP immersion experience. The tour focuses closely on the annual Humpback Whale ( Megaptera Novaeangliae ) migration between the months of June and November each year.
Humpback Whale numbers have been increasing at a rate of over 10% each year, with more than 35,000 individuals passing the coast in 2018. Adult Humpback Whales grow to 14 – 18 metres in length and can weigh up to 50 tonnes. While Humpback calves are born at 2 tonnes - now that's a big baby!
Humpback Whales are some of the most inquisitive and interactive species out of all marine mammals. These spectacular whales make exceptionally long journeys from the Antarctic to the warm safe waters south of the equator each year. At CoastXP, we pride ourselves on providing you with the best experience possible. Premier whale watching experience Highlights of Newcastle and the Hunter Coast Unobstructed 360° views Safe and comfortable eco-tourism vessel New wet weather jackets provided Complimentary high-quality digital images of your trip
Come and witness these amazing animals up close on our adventure boat, Atmos!
Tours depart from Harbour Square Boat Dock, along the Honeysuckle Foreshore.
Our whale watching practices have been designed in line with the Australian National Guidelines for Whale and Dolphin Watching 2017 and the Biodiversity Conservation Regulation 2017.

Step aboard CoastXP’s custom-built adventure boat for an all-inclusive lake cruise and guided nature walk overlooking the largest permanent saltwater lake in the southern hemisphere. The experience involves an adventure boat tour of Lake Mac, a 2km guided bushwalking tour and a catered lunch.
Begin at Belmont Foreshore before you pass the idyllic bays, beaches and islands of Lake Mac on CoastXP’s adventure boat before alighting at Wangi Peninsula for a guided bushwalk through the Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area. Following the walk, relax on the shores of Lake Macquarie at Dobell Park to enjoy a premium individual grazing box with a view of Pulbah Island Nature Reserve before returning to Pelican Foreshore by boat.
Highlights: Unobstructed 360° views Guided ecotourism experience Safe and comfortable eco-tourism vessel Licensed National Parks Eco Pass operator Accredited quality and sustainable tourism business Commentary surrounding local Aboriginal heritage and Maritime history