Whales In The Whitsundays
Here is everything you need to know about whales in the Whitsundays, including when to see them and which boats to choose. The Whitsundays are a Whale Heritage Site, and a beautiful part of Australia. If you're looking for a winter holiday that combines natural beauty and adventure with wildlife, head to the Whitsundays in winter for some epic whale watching!
What time of year are whales in the Whitsundays in 2024?
Whales begin to migrate to Australia in May, coming from all over the world to mate, have their babies and socialise in the warm waters of Australia. The Whitsundays' Whale Season begins in winter, with whales turning up in June 2024 and staying until September 2024. They flood into the Whitsunday waters, often putting on beautiful aerobatic shows and showing off to their audiences who come from all over the country in hopes of seeing them.
Where can I see whales in the Whitsundays?
The Whitsundays, also known as the Humpback Highway, sees up to 20,000 humpback whales every year, as well as many other migratory species such as the dwarf minke whale. Whale watching is an increasing practice in Australia, with its balmy weather and crystal clear waters making it a top tourist must-do.
During whale season, it's highly likely that on any boat tour out to the Whitsunday Islands, you will almost always be able to spot a whale or two! Although it's not guaranteed, it's a great opportunity to hit two birds with one stone... exploring the gorgeous islands AND whale watching!
Best boat tours for whale watching in the Whitsundays
To see whales in the Whitsundays, your best option is an overnight boat tour. You can easily spot whales on a day tour as well, but wildlife sightings are always unpredictable and more time at sea means more chances to spot whales. So opt for a longer tour and you may be more likely to see whales in the ocean.
Small group overnight tours like catamarans are perfect for whale watching! With a smaller group and a flexible itinerary, you can chat with the skipper and let them know you're interested in spotting whales. Catamarans are also speedy and efficient, so they offer some of the best overnight tours in the Whitsundays.
Best private charters for whale watching in the Whitsundays
An even better way to see whales in the Whitsundays is on a private charter! Because private charters are totally flexible, you can help influence the itinerary for the day. If spotting whales is a high priority, the captain will take that into consideration. There is also no obligation to cater to other passengers. It's just you, your group, the crew, and the ocean! Again, a longer charter gives you more time to spot whales than a day charter, but day charters are a great option as well.
These private charters are perfect for spotting whales in the Whitsundays!
Protecting the whales in the Whitsundays
As one of our most coveted and special visitors, whales deserve to be treated with respect and given space as they move around the Whitsundays. The Great Barrier Marine Park Authority has set out rules when interacting with whales in their natural environment. All rules must be obeyed in order to make sure the whales are able to express their natural behaviours, especially when it comes to raising their babies and mating.
- Boats must stay at least 100 metres from whales in the Marine Park and 300 metres in the Whitsunday Whale Protection Area
- Always stay 300 metres from a whale calf - disrupting them may cause a calf to leave its mother, which can be dangerous.
- Jetskis must stay 300 metres away from whales
- Do not get in the water if you see a whale! This may be tempting but it can be dangerous. If you are already in the water when you see them, do not chase it or block its path. Get back in your boat as soon as possible and avoid disturbing it as much as possible
- You must not restrict their path or get in their way
- You must not attempt to feed a whale or dolphin - they are not pets, they are wild animals!
- Planes or drones must not operate below 1000 feet with a 300 metre radius, and helicopters must not go below 1650 feet and a 500 metre radius
- Any incidents must be reported, ie. accidental collision
For a full list of rules, please visit the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority's rules and regulations.
It is extremely important that we always respect these beautiful animals as they visit the marine park. Failing to do so can affect the way they live their lives as well as the lives of their offspring.
