Welcome to whale season 2023

Whales migrate North from April to November

Each year between April and November, Australia’s eastern coastline is a scene of spectacular acrobatic displays of humpback whales After a summer of feeding on krill in Southern Antarctic waters, these charismatic animals migrate north to sub-tropical waters where they mate and give birth. The majority of humpbacks in Australian waters migrate north from June to August, and back towards the Southern Ocean from September to November during their annual migration of up to 10 000 kilometres.

The exact timing of the migration period can vary from year to year depending on water temperature, sea ice, predation risk, prey abundance and the location of their feeding ground

At a maximum length of 16 metres, the humpback is not the largest whale found in Australian waters This species was once only valued dead — mainly for its oil and baleen, or ‘whalebone’

Beginning in Australia shortly after European colonisation, whaling and the export of whale products became Australia’s first primary industry Early Australian whalers once hunted from small boats, towing their catch back for processing at shore stations, which one was believed to be at Urangan on the shore at Dayman Park

The development of harpoon guns, explosive harpoons and steam-driven boats made commercial whaling so efficient that many whale species came very close to extinction When southern right whales and blue whales became scarce, Australian whalers began to target humpback whales, until the International Whaling Commission banned humpback whaling in the Southern Hemisphere in 1963 It is estimated that the east coast population of humpbacks was sadly little over 100 individuals

Probable feeding areas

Breeding areas

HALF DAY WHALE WATCH CRUISES:

AM Cruise 8.30am – 1.00pm - Includes morning tea

PM Cruise 1.30pm – 5.30pm - Includes afternoon tea

Adult fare from $130, Kids (4-14yrs) $70 Family tickets available too

• Join TEAM SPIRIT for an exciting whale adventure

Underwater hydrophone to listen to the whales song

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• 6 spacious levels with most viewing areas, no crowding

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Waterline platform for those extra close encounters

Fast for maximum time spent with whales

Fully licenced with souvenir / snack kiosk

Guaranteed sightings or free return trip

• Free transfer from tourist accommodation

• • Free parking at Whale Bay Marina

• Kids activities