Queensland, Hervey Bay
Explore the calm protected waters of Hervey Bay within the Great Sandy Marine Park, recognised as one of the world’s premier whale watching destinations in Australia. Each year, thousands of humpback whales pause here during their migration between Antarctica and the tropics, creating one of Australia’s most reliable and intimate whale encounters.
Join the team from Pacific Foundation on their Ultimate Whale Watch in Australia’s premier whale watch destination and the world’s first Whale Heritage Site Hervey Bay – and become an ocean advocate too! Hervey Bay’s Ultimate Whale Watch is a three-hour, small group, eco tour guided by marine scientists offering expert commentary about whale behaviours and cutting-edge PWFA research. Guests cruise in comfort on the Ocean Defender, a 12m RIB vessel, purpose-built for whale watching offering water-level views. Whale behaviours which may be observed include breaching, tail slapping, peduncle throws, head lunges, spy-hopping, mugging, competition pods and logging. The sheltered waters of Hervey Bay also offer a haven for mothers and calves as the calves feed, learn and build their strength for their migration south. Proceeds support research, education and conservation projects.
From playful juvenile whales and curious mothers with calves to powerful breaches and close-up surface interactions, every tour delivers unforgettable wildlife encounters in a relaxed and sheltered marine environment. With more than 30% of Australia’s east coast humpback population visiting Hervey Bay between July and November, sightings are frequent and often extraordinary.
Suited To: Families with older children, Couples, Young adults, Active travellers
Humpback whales follow a seasonal migration pattern that brings them to Hervey Bay in the Australian winter (July–October), peaking in August/September. Hervey Bay’s Ultimate Whale Watch runs from the beginning of July to late October, with guaranteed whale sightings on every trip between July 15 through October 9.
Regulations and Pacific Whale Foundation’s own Be Whale Aware guidelines prohibit the vessel from approaching within 100 metres of a whale. Whales can approach us, however, and often come right up to the vessel. We call these encounters “whale muggings” and it’s a great time to take a selfie.
Departure Point: 8.00am or 12.00pm Ocean Store, Shop 1, Great Sandy Straits Marina Tourist Terminal, Buccaneer Drive, Urangan, QLD, 4655
Departure Time: Please ensure to arrives 30 minutes prior to tour departure time for check in.
Customer will be returned back to the departure point.
(All images are supplied and copyright ownership of Pacific Whale Foundation-Hervey Bay)
2 Departures Daily
Check-in
Ocean Store, Shop 1, Great Sandy Straits Marina Boarding 30 minutes prior to departure time
Vessel – Ocean Defender
Maximum – 38 Passengers
Facilities: Full-size walk-in toilet
Seating: Water level, forward facing, covered seating with panoramic views
Departing from the Great Sandy Straits Marina cruise into the beautiful bay between K’gari Fraser Island and the mainland where the onboard Marine Scientist will provide expert commentary on the majestic Humpback Whales and other marine life spotted during the course of the tour. Customers will be offered the opportunity to have a complimentary small snack and cold drink during the tour.
Departs: 3.30pm Hervey Bay – Great Sandy Straits Marina
Departing from the Great Sandy Straits Marina cruise into the beautiful bay between K’gari Fraser Island and the mainland where the onboard Marine Scientist will provide expert commentary on the majestic Humpback Whales and other marine life spotted during the course of the tour. As the day fades, take in the unforgettable beauty of sunset over the Great Sandy Strait, where golden light shimmers across the water, and the peaceful evening sky provides the perfect finale to your whale watch experience.
Inclusions:
Guided by marine scientists – Underwater hydrophone to listen to live whale songs – Jr. Naturalist Whale – Watching Guide activity booklet for children – Small-group ecotour with water-level views – GoPro and photo-friendly – Full-size toilet facilities
onboard – Small snack and cold drink – Whale Sightings guaranteed from 15th Jul- 9 Oct – BYO permitted (max 3 std drinks p/p, no glass, soft colers only)
Departure Point: Ocean Store, Shop 1, Great Sandy Straits Marina Tourist Terminal, Buccaneer Drive, Urangan, QLD, 4655 Departure Time: Please ensure customer arrives 30 minutes prior to tour departure time for check in. Duration time will vary due to sunset times. Customer will be returned back to the departure point.
First trip – 1st July 2026
Last trip – 31st October 2026
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