Unique Family Excursions: Hervey Bay Whale Watching Season

Hervey Bay is not only the whale-watching capital of Australia, but it is also the world’s first Whale Heritage Site. This area is renowned for being a safe haven for migrating humpback whales, as they stop here to rest and play before continuing their journey. During Hervey Bay whale watching season, imagine the excitement on your children’s faces as they spot a humpback whale leaping out of the water or witness a mother and her calf gracefully swimming alongside your boat.

This magical experience will leave a lasting impression on their young minds and ignite a lifelong passion for marine conservation. So grab your binoculars, camera, and, most importantly, your sense of wonder as you embark on the best Hervey Bay whale watching season excursion!

Things to Know about Humpback Whales

Photo: Thomas Kelley

Know before you go! Humpback whales are one of the most fascinating marine creatures in the world. Here are a few things to know about them:

Massive size

Humpbacks reach lengths of up to 60 feet and weigh around 40 tons.

Acrobatic displays

These whales are known for breaching and slapping the water with their long fins. It’s like the whales are playing!

Distinctive fins

Humpbacks have distinctive long pectoral fins, which can grow up to one-third of their body length.

Whalesong

Humpback whales use complex and beautiful songs, which can travel long distances and are considered a form of communication.

Migratory animals

Humpback whales travel thousands of miles yearly between their feeding and breeding grounds.

Bubble net feeding

A group of whales blows bubbles around a school of fish to trap them and make it easier to catch their prey.

Overall, humpback whales are majestic creatures that continue to captivate and awe us with their behaviors and traits. This is why whale watching is such an amazing experience for the whole family!

Best Season to Go Whale Watching in Hervey Bay

Photo: Davide Cantelli

Hervey Bay whale watching season runs between July and November. During these months, whales migrate from Antarctica to the warmer waters of the Great Barrier Reef to mate and give birth. Hervey Bay is a popular feeding and resting spot for the whales, making it an ideal location to observe them. The peak whale season for sightings is generally from August to October when the population of whales is at its highest. During this time, visitors have the best chance of seeing pods of whales with their calves and witnessing their spectacular behaviors, such as breaching and tail slapping.

The weather is also more favorable during this period, with mild temperatures and clear skies, making it a comfortable and enjoyable experience for whale watchers. However, it is recommended to book all tours in advance, as they can quickly fill up during the peak season.

Hervey Bay Whale Watching Tours

When it comes to whale-watching tours in Hervey Bay, there are several tour options to choose from. One of the most popular tours, especially for families with children, is the half-day tour, which allows visitors to head out on a comfortable boat and spend a few hours observing these creatures in their natural habitat. These tours often provide informative commentary from experienced guides who share interesting facts about the whales and their behaviors.

For those with older children who are looking for a more immersive experience, there are also full-day tours available. These tours not only include the chance to watch the whales but also offer additional activities such as snorkeling or kayaking.

Blue Dolphin Marine Tours

Photo: bluedophintours.com.au

Blue Dolphin Marine Tours is a thrilling adventure that allows you to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of whales up close. Departing from the picturesque coastal town, the cruise takes you on a journey through the deep blue waters, where you can spot various species of whales in their natural habitat. The highly knowledgeable and experienced crew members provide insightful commentary throughout the excursion, enhancing your understanding of these incredible marine mammals.

The spacious and comfortable whale watching vessel provides ample viewing areas, ensuring everyone can glimpse these magnificent creatures as they breach, blow water, and play in the ocean. Blue Dolphin tours are suitable for children of all ages, although they recommend that only children aged 8 and older partake in full day tours.

Spirit of Hervey Bay Half-Day Whale Watching

Photo: spiritofherveybay.redzi.com

Departing from Hervey Bay, this tour allows visitors to get an intimate experience with whales up close in their natural habitat. Knowledgeable and friendly crew members provide informative commentary throughout the tour, sharing interesting facts about the whales and their behaviors. Guests can also enjoy a delicious morning tea on board while taking in the stunning scenery of the Fraser Coast.

The Spirit of Hervey Bay has modern amenities, including restrooms, a licensed bar, and complimentary Wi-Fi. With a focus on conservation and education, this tour is not only an exciting adventure but also an opportunity to learn about the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures and their marine environment.

Tasman Venture Half-Day Whale Tours

Photo: queensland.com

Set sail on a comfortable catamaran and get ready to witness the majestic whales in their natural habitat. With experienced and knowledgeable guides on board, you will learn about the behavior and biology of these incredible creatures. The tour also includes an underwater viewing room, allowing you to see the whales up close and personal without getting wet.

Keep your cameras ready as these gentle giants breach and play in the crystal-clear waters. Tasman Venture offers a guarantee of whale sightings so that you can be confident in the success of your adventure. You may even get to view dolphins, turtles, and sea birds.

Visiting Fraser Island with Kids

Photo: fraser-tours.com

Located off the coast of Queensland, Australia, Fraser Island, also known as K’gari, is the world’s largest sand island and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The island offers a range of activities that cater to both children and adults. Kids can explore the island’s unique ecosystem and learn about its diverse plant and animal life. They can also enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear lakes and streams or even try snorkeling or kayaking.

One of the highlights of visiting Fraser Island with kids is seeing the iconic wild dingoes that call the island home. Whether playing in the sand dunes, searching for shells on the beach, or watching the sunset over the ocean, visiting Fraser Island with kids is a memorable and enriching experience for the whole family.

Conclusion

Whether aiming for a half day or a full day at sea, you can’t pass up this once-in-a-lifetime experience to book a Hervey Bay whale watching season trip. You may even have the opportunity to hear their haunting songs through an underwater microphone, further adding to the wonder of the experience. It’s an opportunity to leave you and your family in awe of the natural world and create memories that will last a lifetime. Prepare to plan your whale watching Hervey Bay trip; there’s no better marine tour than these!