‘Magic’: Footage captures moment ferry passengers greeted by rare minke whale in Sydney waters

Footage has captured the “magic” moment a rare type of whale known to frequent icier waters swam by a Sydney ferry over the public holiday.

Footage has captured the “magic” moment a whale known to frequent icier waters swam by passengers on a Sydney ferry to say hello.

The minke whale was spotted near Bundeena Wharf on Monday afternoon.

People could be heard marvelling in the video as the whale swam past and blew water from its spout, the special moment shared to social media by Cronulla & National Park Ferry Cruises.

“A beautiful minke whale was spotted near Bundeena Wharf today, giving passengers on the Cronulla Ferries an unforgettable experience,” the post read.

“These majestic creatures are such a special sight in the area, and we’re lucky to witness such a close encounter with nature.

“If you’re planning a trip on the ferry, keep your eyes peeled — you never know what wonders might appear!”

A minke whale spotted near Bundeena Wharf in Sydney. Picture: Facebook/Cronulla & National Park Ferry Cruises.

The whale was spotted by people on a ferry boat. Picture: Facebook/Cronulla & National Park Ferry Cruises.

Many flocked to the comments to express their awe.

“Beautiful, we were in the water under the wharf and saw it, magic,” one commented.

“That is magic,” another wrote.

“So special to be able to see this would make my day,” added another.

Minke whales are known for being curious, according to the Australian Museum.

“This whale has an inquisitive nature, and often approaches boats and people in the water,” the museum’s website stated.

An Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia (ORRCA) spokesman said the sighting wasn’t normal but “not necessarily troubling”.

“What a fun day for this to happen — it’s great news to see a healthy whale just doing its normal thing,” the spokesman said.
“We had members down there keeping an eye out.

“(The whale) probably either likely took a wrong turn or came in for a rest and …(headed) back out head back to sea.”

Minke whales have been described as ‘inquisitive’. Picture: Facebook/Cronulla & National Park Ferry Cruises.

The spokesman said he’d been with the organisation about six years but hadn’t heard of a minke whale making its way into the Bundeena Wharf.

“But if a healthy whale, regardless where it’s from, comes into the harbour … that’s normal whale behaviour,” he said.

“The most important thing is that it was an interesting day, and we want to hear from people when this stuff happens.”

The spokesman urged people to contact the ORRCA hotline on 9415 3333 if they spot a whale close to the shore.

Originally published as ‘Magic’: Footage captures moment ferry passengers greeted by rare minke whale in Sydney waters