Frequently Asked Questions

We offer a range of tours along the stunning Hunter coastline.

For tours departing from Newcastle – click here.

For tours departing from Lake Macquarie – click here.

This is one of our top frequently asked questions. Each of our departure locations, along with parking suggestions, are listed on the getting here page of our website.

Boat Tours – Our boat tours are perfect for kids, we even offer discounts for children under 12. The minimum age for offshore experiences on our Newcastle vessel (Atmos) is 3 years old, and our Lake Macquarie vessel (Hydro) is 5 years old.

Guided Bushwalks – Our guided hikes are perfect for kids over 8 years old.

We operate in the natural environment, which can be subject to change. If the LIVE weather conditions are different to what is forecast, we may choose to postpone or cancel your tour. If this happens, bookings can be rescheduled (subject to availability) or refunded (excluding any PayPal transaction fees). If there is light rain on the day, the tour will still run.

We take payment at the time of booking, and it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance so that you don’t miss out, as sometimes our tours book out.

We understand that sometimes you need to change the date of your booking, for whatever reason. We require a minimum of 48 hours notice, prior to departure to be able to change or cancel a booking. Bookings canceled within 48 hours, or no attendance on the day, will not receive a refund.

You should dress for the conditions on the day. Make sure to wear enclosed shoes, and warm clothes (particularly in winter).

Boat Tours – Our crew will provide you with premium weatherproof jackets (should you need them), ensuring your tour is both enjoyable and comfortable.

Guided Bushwalks – Make sure you bring footwear appropriate for walking/hiking as well as sun-safe clothing including a hat and breathable clothing.

The level of seasickness or motion sickness someone feels differs from person to person. Our custom-built boat provides a fast, safe and smooth ride which often reduces a person’s level of seasickness. If you know you suffer from seasickness, or are considering taking seasickness precautions/medication, it is recommended you speak to a healthcare professional.

We operate two eco-tourism rigid inflatable boats (RIB), called ‘Hydro’ and ‘Atmos’. Our vessels provide a fast, safe and smooth ride. Hydro can accommodate up to 12 passengers, whereas Atmos can accommodate up to 20. Both boats operate coastal sightseeing and whale watching tours from Newcastle and Lake Macquarie. Our vessels are custom-built to the highest standards of safety and reliability, and both even have a marine toilet on board!

Each of our tours are unique, tours focus on the marine life which inhabit the coastline, local geology, Aboriginal heritage as well as unique destination landmarks including wrecks, cliffs, islands, sea caves and ships. The Newcastle and Lake Macquarie coastline is home to pods of resident dolphins, local sea-birds and in season whales (May – Nov).

Fortunately, guests aboard our tours are likely to see dolphins on almost every trip. In Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, common dolphins and bottlenose dolphins are two of the most regularly sighted cetaceans on our tours.

Learn more about dolphin watching in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.

Yes! We offer private charters or bespoke tours to suit almost any occasion. If you would like to know more information about our private charters, or what options are available, get in contact with us.

At CoastXP we are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone, including those from the LGBTQIA+ community, people with disabilities and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. We celebrate people who share a passion for nature and an eagerness to explore.

We value respect, empathy and understanding. Our team is dedicated to respecting the identity of every individual and providing a space where everyone feels safe and valued, so you can focus on what’s most important – connecting with nature and having fun!

While we are passionate about making nature accessible to everyone, some of our tours may have physical limitations. We strive to accommodate our guests’ diverse needs. If you have any concerns or special requirements, we encourage you to get in touch with us.

At CoastXP, we actively cater for a range of abilities. Being a local tourism operator, it’s critical that we provide as many opportunities to locals and visitors as possible to enjoy our experiences. If you or someone you’re travelling with has any special requirements, please do not hesitate to contact our team.

CoastXP’s full Accessibility Statement can be found – here.

Harbour Square Boat Dock is wheelchair and walker accessible, although there is a 40-50cm step down into and out of the boat. If you have special requirements with boarding or disembarking, please get in contact with us, and we would be more than happy to help.

Sustainability and responsible ecotourism are central to our values. In all areas of CoastXP, we aim to minimise our environmental impact, support local communities and promote conservation efforts.

CoastXP’s full Sustainability Statement can be found – here.

For CoastXP’s full terms and conditions – click here.

Gift cards are available on our website here. These are emailed to your nominated email address and can be printed at home.

Our gift cards are valid for 3 years from the date of purchase.

Our e-gift cards are delivered straight to your inbox. If you would like an additional physical gift card posted to you, simply add this to your order during checkout (domestic postage only).