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Your Guide to Queensland's Whale Watching Season

Chyna Hayden
May 12, 2023
whale watching tour

Whale watching in Queensland is a truly unforgettable experience that should be on everyone's bucket list. With its stunning coastline and warm waters, Queensland offers some of the best whale-watching opportunities in Australia. From Hervey Bay to the Gold Coast, there are a variety of locations to choose from, each offering its own, unique whale-watching experience.

If you're wondering about the best time to go whale watching in Queensland, the season begins in May and runs through to November. The peak season, however, is between July and September, when humpback whales migrate north from Antarctica to breed and nurse their young. This is when you'll have the best chance of witnessing the majestic acrobatics of these amazing creatures, such as breaching and tail slapping.

Hervey Bay is a top destination for whale watching in Queensland, and is even regarded as the 'whale-watching capital of the world'. Here, visitors can choose from a range of tours, including eco-tours such as the Hervey Bay Ultimate Whale Watch. For those looking for whale watching near Brisbane, there are also several tour operators offering half-day tours departing from the city. This includes tours that range from a base package to a VIP luxury whale-watching tour.

The different types of whales that can be spotted in Queensland waters are varied and impressive. Humpback whales are the most common, known for their incredible acrobatic displays, but visitors may also be lucky enough to spot other species such as minke whales, orcas, blue whales and southern right whales.

To ensure the best possible experience, it's important to choose a reputable tour operator with experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the area and the whales. When choosing a tour, consider the size of the vessel - smaller boats can offer a more intimate experience while larger boats may offer more amenities and comfort. Adventure Rafting offers an up-close-and-personal experience on the Sunshine Coast, on a boat with a maximum of 20 people. Spirit Whale Watching runs tours from the Gold Coast and they offer a more comfortable experience, with complimentary tea and biscuits. They also offer 100% chance of a whale sighting or your money back!

Whale watching in Queensland is an incredible experience that you won't want to miss. Remember, the whale watching season in Queensland runs from May to November, so book your tour now to avoid missing out!

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Chyna Hayden

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