Ultimate Whale Encounters in Australia’s Whale Watching Capital

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Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruises

Few destinations in Australia can rival the sheer quality and number of whale encounters in Hervey Bay. Recognised as the whale watching capital of Australia and the world’s first Whale-Heritage Site, the best time to go whale watching in Hervey Bay is during July till early November.

Hervey Bay whale watching tours offer an incredible opportunity to get up close and personal with the migrating Humpback Whales. The growing population of the whales make the nutrient-rich waters of Hervey Bay a resting point during their annual trek from Antarctica. This is the best time to join a cruise and head out for some whale watching fun!

The cruises navigate the protected waters of the Great Sandy National Park, where the whales play and frolic. From mothers and their offsprings to the juvenile younger ones and adult males, Hervey Bay whales include all groups! Watch them breach, blow, sing and play, all within metres of the boat. The whales are used to the cruises, and quite often, a curious whale swims close to you for inspection!

Most whale cruises in Hervey Bay are led by knowledgeable (and witty!) Captain and crew who will share fascinating insights into whales behaviours. Plus, some cruises offer extras like hydrophones and snorkelling opportunities

Book a Hervey Bay whale cruise today!

6Hr Freedom Hervey Bay Premium Whale Watch Tour

Hervey Bay’s eco-certified whale watching cruise with 360° viewing to see the Humpback Whales in Platypus Bay (July-Oct). Tropical lunch & tea incl.

Duration 6hr

From $180

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9Hr Remote K’Gari & Whale Watching Cruise

Visit the UNESCO-listed K’gari & explore up to 3 remote locations. Swim, snorkel, kayak, amphibious rides & bushwalk. See whales & other wildlife.

Duration 9hr

From $259

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4Hr Humpback Whale Watching Encounter

Head to the world's whale-watching capital to see Humpback Whales on a purpose-built catamaran with water-level viewing platform & underwater windows.

Duration 4hr

From $159

7hr Whale Watching Cruise & K’Gari Lunch

Full day tour combining a morning whale watching cruise and a resort lunch at K’Gari. Access to pool, spa, showers etc. Optional kayaking, SUP & more.

Duration 8hr

From $169

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6Hr Freedom Hervey Bay Premium Whale Watch Tour

Hervey Bay’s eco-certified whale watching cruise with 360° viewing to see the Humpback Whales in Platypus Bay (July-Oct). Tropical lunch & tea incl.

Hervey Bay Morning Whale Watch Cruise

Morning departure cruise along the Great Sandy Straits & Platypus Bay to watch the whales at play – hydrophone to listen to whales sing, commentary etc.

Duration 6hr

From $129

Hervey Bay Afternoon Whale Watch Cruise

Enjoy a magical evening on the Fraser Coast with this whale watching cruise and experience a close-up encounter with the Humpbacks. Tea, commentary, included.

Duration 4hr

From $119

5.5Hr Whale Swim & Watch Tour

The only dedicated swim-with-whales tour in the region – join a professional PADI dive team to swim with the migrating Humpback Whales in Hervey Bay.

Duration 6hr

From $225

4Hr Hervey Bay Whales & Beaches Tour

Ride on an 18-seater RIB, the only boat that offers whale watching, swim with whales (if conditions permit) and beachtime, all in a half-day tour.

Duration 4hr

From $165

2Hr Hervey Bay Nature Cruise

Cruise the stunning waters of Great Sandy Strait to see diverse marine life – from adorable dolphins to birds of prey. Commentary by marine biologists.

Duration 2hr

From $75

3Hr Hervey Bay Ultimate Whale Watch Tour

Join experts at Pacific Whale Foundation for a fun whale watching tour complete with all the whale facts, songs and acrobatics – a Tourism Australia signature experience.

Duration 3hr

From $109

Blogs & Articles

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A First-Timer’s Guide To Whale Watching in Hervey Bay

Hervey Bay isn’t just another whale watching spot on the Australian map. This coastal gem in Queensland holds the prestigious titles of Australia's whale watching capital and the world's first Whale-Heritage site.

Posted on Jun 12, 2024

4 Reasons Why Hervey Bay Is The Whale Capital Of Australia

With its pristine waters and abundant marine life, Hervey Bay attracts thousands of Humpback Whales each year during their migration season. It is celebrated as the prime destination for whale watching in Australia, drawing visitors from all around the globe.

Posted on Mar 13, 2024