The perfect private charter option for school or university students studying marine life or traditional indigenous culture.
“Bay Connections 1” is one of Newcastle Harbour options for smaller groups that can navigate the Hunter River. This vessel is ideal for groups of 30 – 45 classroom size groups to explore the inner workings of the Newcastle Harbour, fragility and abundance of the Hunter River wetlands and rural scape or assist in the studies cultural and coastal aspects of the Newcastle and Hunter Region. And of course, we can’t forget about our whale watching options from May – Nov.
“The Princess”, vessel is has the capability to take larger groups of up to 100 students to discover the inner workings of the Newcastle Harbour. When hiring this vessel out for a private charter you are encouraged to bring a USB stick of photos or presentations to display on our large TV and we have a microphone onboard available for teachers and lecturers.
“Lady Mac” is ideal for classroom size groups of up to 70 that can be on the main deck or the top deck depending on the requirements of your curriculum or treasure hunt on Lake Macquarie.
We have three cruise options available for groups:
- Discover Lake Macquarie - On a lake twice the size of Sydney Harbour, there is a lot of history to uncover & places to discover including points of interest
- Newcastle Harbour City Sights and Sounds - See the changes taking place from urban decay to urban renewal on Newcastle’s foreshore incorporating the Honeysuckle Development precincts
- Whale Watching and Wildlife Cruises - Witness the amazing migration of Humpback whales passing Newcastle’s scenic coastline.
Cultural Waterways - Indigenous Educational Cruise
NOVA Cruises has also collaborated with Aunty Theresa Dargin and Spiritual Waterways for Circle Connections. This is a culturally grounded 8-week learning and wellbeing program designed for Primary and Secondary school students across the Hunter and Newcastle region. The program supports young people to build:
- Connection to Country and waterways
- Cultural understanding and respect
- Wellbeing, reflection and responsibility
- Awareness of water systems, place and care
Circle Connections is facilitated by Aunty Theresa Dargin, a Lore woman of Worimi Country, with cultural authority and responsibility to share knowledge, story and Gathang language, the language of Worimi Country. Language and cultural knowledge are shared in context, aligned with Lore, and embedded within story, reflection and lived experience rather than isolated teaching.
The program is delivered one day per week over eight weeks, with learning intentionally building toward an on-water cultural experience in Week 4 onboard Nova Cruises. For more information on pricing and outcomes, please contact Aunty Theresa at: spiritualwaterways@gmail.com
CRUISE OPTIONS
Newcastle Harbour City Sights & Sounds Cruise
1.25 hours
Field Study Experience From Years K-12
See the transformation of Newcastle’s foreshore from urban decay to vibrant urban renewal as you cruise past the Honeysuckle Development Precincts. Discover how this former industrial waterfront has evolved into a lively destination of restaurants, public spaces and waterfront promenades. Get up close to the “big ships” in the world’s largest coal exporting port, where massive bulk carriers navigate the busy harbour. Along the way, experience the fascinating contrast between the working industrial port and the natural serenity of the Ramsar-protected Kooragang Wetlands and the Lower Hunter River.
Bay Connections 1: $950
40 Guests (Maximum 47)
The Pincess: $1,450
75 Guests (Maximum 100)
*Extra Student - $25
Hunter River History & Geographical Cruise
Tailored to Specific Needs
Field Study Experience From Years K-12
Explore the rich natural and industrial heritage of the Hunter River on an engaging educational cruise with Nova Cruises. Students will discover the unique environments that shape the Lower Hunter, from the working harbour of Newcastle – the world’s largest coal exporting port – to the internationally recognised Ramsar-protected Kooragang Wetlands. Along the way, learn about local wildlife, wetland ecosystems, river systems, and the important role the Hunter River plays in the region’s history, industry and environment. This informative cruise offers a unique hands-on learning experience, combining geography, environmental studies and local history while enjoying the beauty of the Hunter River.
Please contact us for further infomration
Lake Macquarie Discovery Cruise
1.25 hours
Field Study Experience From Years K-12
Discover Lake Macquarie aboard the Lady Mac. Home to the largest permanent coastal saltwater lake in the Southern Hemisphere, with 30km of pristine coastline. On a lake twice the size of Sydney Harbour, there is a lot of history to uncover and places to discover, including points of interest as we cruise by Booragul, Marmong Point, Bolton Point, Toronto, Carey Bay, Valentine, Eleebana, Warners Bay and Speers Point.
Lady Mac: $950
40 Guests (Maximum 70)
*Extra studensts - $25
Whale Watching &
Wild Life Cruise
2-2.5 hours
May - November
Witness the amazing migration of Humpback whales passing Newcastle's scenic coastline. With an estimated 35,000 whales due to pass our shores, it's a great experience to see these unbelievable mammals up close. There is also a chance to see huge pods of playful dolphins, seabirds, seals, penguins, sharks & much more! Includes bonus harbour and beach cruise.
$40 Per Student
Minimum 35 / Maximum 47
Spritual Waterways &
Circle Connections Cruise
2 hours
The partnership between Spiritual Water Ways Indigenous Corporation and Nova Cruises brings together culture, education and water-based learning to create meaningful experiences for Primary and Secondary school students across the Newcastle and Hunter region. Nova Cruises plays a central role in Week 4 of the 8-week Circle Connections program, delivering a safe and professionally operated on-water learning environment that supports cultural storytelling, environmental awareness and student wellbeing.
Please contact us.